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Information Technology Manager Fredrickson reviewed the staff report. He noted that he has <br /> begun to research the dead spots within the City Hall and confirmed that there are funds <br /> available through QCTV to address the problem. <br /> 2.03: Update on Past Legislative Session and Other Transportation Related Legislative <br /> Activity <br /> Elwyn Tinklenberg, The Tinklenberg Group, provided an update on recent legislative action. He <br /> stated that the work that has gone on within the community from staff and the Council has made <br /> a huge difference to make people understand why these rail crossing projects are so important. <br /> He stated that they were not able to get in the House or Senate bonding bill for the crossings. He <br /> commended Senator Abeler for his efforts and his willingness to assist but noted that both <br /> Senator Abeler and Representative Whelan had other priority items that they were working on as <br /> well. He provided additional details on the process that was followed to get language added <br /> specifying that any excess funding from the Hanson Boulevard crossing would be used for <br /> another priority project, which would be Ramsey. He stated that was done within the last two <br /> hours and the only reason that happens is because of the work the community has done. He <br /> stated that $1,500,000 was included in the Hanson Boulevard crossing for Ramsey and it is <br /> equally important that the funds be made available to Ramsey rather than waiting for the Hanson <br /> crossing to be completed before releasing the remaining funds for Ramsey. <br /> Mayor Strommen asked at what point the County can specify the portion of the funds that <br /> Hanson Boulevard will use and declare the remainder surplus that can be used for Ramsey. <br /> Mr. Tinklenberg stated that Hanson Boulevard has already received additional funds and he <br /> believes that the County can move forward and determine funds that will be surplus and can be <br /> used for Ramsey. He also advised of additional funds that may be available for work near the <br /> Armstrong interchange. He stated that Representative Hortman would also like a list of projects <br /> that can be available for the next legislative session, which is good for the projects along <br /> Highway 10. He stated that it was an interesting session that opens the door for what can be <br /> done in the future. <br /> Councilmember Riley asked what the Council needs to do. <br /> Mr. Tinklenberg stated that the discussion tomorrow will be important as there were a lot of <br /> people that were not in the room when the last-minute legislative discussions were occurring. He <br /> stated that it will be important for the elected officials to be a part of the discussion with the <br /> County. <br /> City Administrator Ulrich stated that tomorrow the meeting is for the Highway 10 Working <br /> Group. He stated that they have a clear agenda and talking points set. <br /> Mayor Strommen stated that it is important for all of the folks at the meeting tomorrow to get <br /> into the loop on what the funds are meant for and noted that the discussion on timing and when <br /> Ramsey can have access to the funds will most likely occur in a separate meeting with the <br /> County. She thanked Mr. Tinklenberg for his continued efforts. <br /> City Council Work Session/June 27,2017 <br /> Page 4 of 7 <br />