Minutes - Council - 03/22/2005 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

below the estimate. The agreement identifies that $523,017 would be paid out in cash and then thc Railroad would do the improvements. Councilmcmber Elvig asked about the "whistle free zone." Assistant Public Works Director Olson stated staff has looked into that issue because there was some concern from residents. The quiet zone allows the train engineer the option as to whether he has to blow the horn. The City's design for this intersection allows for a quiet zone but the agreement does not suggest that a quiet zone be implemented. He stated staff could bring that issue back to the railroad if so directed. Mayor Gamec asked about the distance between the delineators. Assistant Public Works Director Olson stated it is a distance of every seven feet and recommended the Council consider the design for the quiet zone but not request implementation. Assistant Public Works Director Olson advised that staff feels the Grade Crossing Signal Installation Agreement meets the intent of regional roadway improvements that are necessary for the mitigation of the transportation impacts created from the Ramsey Town Center. Motion by Councilmember Elvig, seconded by Councilmember Cook, to authorize the signing of the Grade Crossing Signal Installation Agreement with Anoka County and Burlington Northern Same Fe Railroad with the inclusion of a strong request for a whistle free zone. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Gamec, Councilmembers Elvig, Cook, Jeffrey, Pearson, and Strommen. Voting No: None. Absent: Councilmember Olson. Case #10: Acquisition of Lot 1, Block 1, River's Bend Plaza 2nd Addition Former Amoco Station (Highway 47) Mayor Gamec stated many residents have complained about the site that contained a gas station that is now closed and has been vandalized. City Attorney Goodrich reviewed that the EDA and City Council had directed staff to facilitate development and redevelopment activity and to acquire properties in the City Development District No. 1 as willing sellers put their properties on the market. In 2004, Staff began negotiations with an agent for the Amoco gas station located at 5195 142nd Avenue NW on Highway #47. Staff has negotiated a sales price of $230,000 for acquisition of the buildings and property. This price is $20,000 less than the County assessed value. The acquisition of this property would be funded entirely through Tax Increment Financing District No. 1. Staff feels that the acquisition of this property is consistent with the development program of Development District No. 1 and it will promote quality development on the site. City Attorney Goodrich advised that some of the issues contained in the purchase agreement are objectional so further research is being done. He recommended that the City Council authorize ente~'ing into a purchase agreement for the purchase of Lot 1, Block 1, River's Bend Plaza 2nd Addition from the City Council / March 22, 2005 Page 33 of 38