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Councilmember Menth stated that Otsego does not have a trail fee, which would be a difference <br />of $1,500. <br />Community Development Director Gladhill stated that communities address trails in some <br />manner. He reviewed the four major ways in which cities construct trails and fund that <br />construction. He confirmed that not every community has a direct trail development fee. <br />Councilmember Menth stated that if you add that trail dedication fee to the Otsego figures, that <br />would make it very comparable to Ramsey. <br />Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood explained that trail funding is a <br />complicated issue that is not an apples -to -apples comparison as each community tends to fund <br />that amenity differently. He stated that the Park and Recreation Commission reviewed the park <br />dedication and trail fees and recommended no increase for 2020. <br />Councilmember Heinrich asked for clarification on the trail dedication fee. <br />Community Development Director Gladhill confirmed that fee to be $1,000 per residential lot. <br />Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that development is <br />occurring in all areas of Ramsey. He stated that those developers are choosing Ramsey because <br />of the quality of life in this community. He noted that real estate ads typically mention whether <br />the property is close to schools, parks and trails as those features are important to home buyers. <br />Community Development Director Gladhill noted that there is a density bonus where lower rates <br />are charged for higher density developments because those developments typically include their <br />own amenities. <br />Councilmember Musgrove commented that there was a recent case in which a landowner <br />subdivided his lot into three lots. She noted that resident was charged a higher fee rather than a <br />developer. She noted that perhaps a lower fee be looked at for smaller developments. She <br />referenced surety and asked for additional details. <br />Community Development Director Gladhill explained that 125 percent is the standard rate, <br />noting that change was made to provide consistency. He noted that project applicants are <br />coached by planning staff throughout the planning process. <br />Councilmember Musgrove referenced the stormwater management fee and asked if that fee <br />comes from the City or another agency. <br />Community Development Director Gladhill replied that is a City fee. <br />Councilmember Musgrove stated that she would like additional understanding on the stormwater <br />management fee of $400 compared to the park and trail dedication fees totaling $4,500. <br />City Council Work Session / October 22, 2019 <br />Page 5 of 8 <br />