Minutes - Public Works Committee - 03/15/2005

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Acting Chairperson Cook noted this neighborhood consists of three houses on one side, with the other side butted right up to Highway 47. His thought would be to accept this feasibility study and lock these prices for the residents, making them aware of the chance of sewer and water coming to this area. His concern would be to work on the language regarding forced hook up to sewer and water. Assistant Public Works Director Olson noted one problem with this particular project is that these residents have been waiting for a couple of years for this project. Mayor Gamec commented he does not think the neighborhood will agree to assessments at this price. He noted this area is a unique situation with the location next to Highway 47. He inquired about the possibility of extending the street through. Assistant Public Works Director Olson replied it would be possible to extend the street. Public Works Director Kapler indicated there is currently a policy of a 50 percent City contribution to work with. As far as this area being a unique situation, there are other areas with issues as well and deviating from the 50 percent contribution could set a precedent. Acting Chairperson Cook commented that locking in on the price would be a benefit to the residents, as the cost will only get higher. The City has charged for curb and gutter outside of the assessment separately from sewer and water in the past. Mayor Gamec suggested staff meet with the residents and explain the situation. City Engineer Jankowski indicated after the Council ratifies the Committee's recommendation he will send out a notice and invite the residents to come in and ask questions. Public Works Director Kapler asked if the Committee would like staff to initiate a conversation with the residents, rather than waiting for them to come in. Mayor Gamec responded in the affirmative. He noted the project could likely move faster than the normal time schedule if all three residents were to sign the petition and agree to proceed. Assistant Public Works Director Olson indicated staff will set the date and proceed as if the public hearing will be held. In the meantime staff will contact the residents after Council ratification of this action. Motion by Mayor Gamec, seconded by Councilmember Olson, to recommend that the City Council accept the feasibility study for St. Francis Blvd Frontage Road Improvement Project 05- 24 and set a date for the public hearing, and to offer a lock on the cost of the assessments to the residents. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Acting Chairperson Cook, Mayor Gamec and Councilmember Olson. Voting No: None. Absent: Chairperson Elvig. Public Works Committee/March 15, 2005 Page 3 of 11