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City Engineer Westby explained that the bids were significantly over the estimate well before <br /> construction began. He stated that the final cost is based on the contractor's bid and highlighted <br /> the bid items that were higher than the estimated amounts. He confirmed that there was not a <br /> second neighborhood meeting after the bid was received. <br /> Ms. Klucking stated that although they would have been in agreement with $3,900, the residents <br /> would have objected to the project with the higher assessment amount. <br /> Councilmember Heinrich asked if there was a mention of the assessment not exceeding $4,500. <br /> City Engineer Westby replied that nothing was provided to property owners in the amount of <br /> $4,500. He noted that it was mentioned that this project was similar to Jarvis Street, which had <br /> an assessment of$4,500. <br /> City Administrator Ulrich stated that he spoke with the Finance Director whom stated that the <br /> County does not allow partial payment on assessments so full payment needs to be made in order <br /> to avoid interest charges. <br /> Councilmember Musgrove referenced the initial notice sent to residents with the preliminary <br /> assessment amount and asked if that indicates a timeframe when residents should expect to find <br /> out the actual cost. <br /> City Engineer Westby explained that the preliminary assessment notice stated that the final <br /> assessment hearing would be held on October 8th. He stated that the same process has been <br /> followed for the past five years. <br /> Councilmember Menth asked for clarification on when the final assessment notices are sent. <br /> City Engineer Westby replied that the final notices are sent once the project is substantially <br /> complete and the final costs are generally well known. <br /> Councilmember Kuzma asked the anticipated improvement to the property values for the project <br /> area. <br /> City Engineer Westby deferred back to the special benefit consultation report that was completed <br /> for the Jarvis Street project which estimated an increase of $7,500 to $8,500 in value to the <br /> properties. <br /> Lisa Monserud, 5725 180th Lane NW, asked if the possibility of a franchise fee still exists. She <br /> asked if the assessment is paid, would then residents in this area then not have to pay franchise <br /> fees. <br /> Councilmember Riley stated that the Council is still discussing the option of franchise fees, <br /> noting that there is an option to rebate the franchise fee during the 10-year period for properties <br /> paying assessments. <br /> City Council/October 8,2019 <br /> Page 7 of 15 <br />