Laserfiche WebLink
crossing in their Comprehensive Plan for at least 15 years. Ramsey and Dayton have finally <br />come to a compromise on its location, and we have the opportunity to bring the taxpayers of this <br />city the much-needed route across the river they've been waiting for. We all know it's needed, <br />and we've all been stuck in the congestion between Champlin and Anoka, and have all wished <br />for a way to get home to our families faster. Do not jeopardize that opportunity for the citizens <br />of this city. We've been waiting long enough. We're trusting you to step up to the plate and do <br />what is right for all the citizens of this city, which is what you've been elected at large to do. <br />Thank you for your time and I trust you'll do the right thing." <br /> <br />Councilmember Zimmerman asked if a public hearing had been advertised for tonight. <br /> <br />Mayor Gamec stated it has not but this is not a public hearing, it is an opportunity to take <br />comments from the audience. <br /> <br />Councilmember Zimmerman stated he feels this is a public hearing. <br /> <br />John Enstrom, 8702 - 181st Avenue NW, Ramsey, expressed his desire for signature of the <br />Comprehensive Plan. He stated that over two years ago he was selected to work on the <br />Comprehensive Plan and attended every session which lasted for several months. He stated they <br />spent a lot of time on that Comprehensive Plan and the City spent $80,000 for a grant with an <br />engineering firm. He stated the wishes were laid out and all agreed with the need for better <br />transportation, a river crossing, more areas for shopping, businesses, more higher paying jobs, <br />lower taxes, needs of children and senior citizens. Mr. Enstrom encouraged thinking about all <br />the residents of the City and not just self concerns. He stated the residents have been waiting for <br />two years for the Comprehensive Plan to be completed. He noted the deadline is tomorrow and <br />if that is lost, it will be the loss of a lot of money. He noted the funding for this center and river <br />crossing will be lost. Mr. Enstrom stated the Ramsey taxpayer's money should be spent here <br />instead of somewhere else. He stated he would like the needs of young children and young <br />adults addressed. He stated he has to drive his daughter to catch a bus to attend the University of <br />Minnesota. Another need is transportation or a bus depot for senior citizens so they can attend <br />events or get to the doctor. Mr. Enstrom stated there is a need for more roads and transportation <br />as well as retail shopping. He noted the areas of Coon Rapids and Elk River have attracted larger <br />retail projects but Ramsey needs retail business too so Ramsey residents can spend their money <br />in Ramsey. Mr. Enstrom stated the City does not need more places for truck or heavy equipment <br />storage but it does need business parks to attract a major corporate sponsor with quality jobs. He <br />encouraged the Council to sign the Comprehensive Plan and get these projects going. <br /> <br />Dick Kruger, 7640 - 150th Lane NW, Ramsey, stated the Council made a commitment when the <br />Fire Department was located on Armstrong Boulevard. He asked what is holding up the two <br />Councilmembers and stated his support to get it done. <br /> <br />Jan Pieper, 16320 Marble Street NW, Ramsey,. addressed Councilmember Zimmerman. She <br />stated she has been his chair for the past elections but in the past five to six months believes <br />Councilmember Hendriksen has been allowed to speak for Councilmember Zimmerman, <br /> <br />City Council/March 13, 2001 <br /> Page 23 of 31 <br /> <br /> <br />