Minutes - Public Works Committee - 06/15/2021

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Jeff Sailor commented that times are tougher financially than they were in the past, and he would not think all the residents would support an assessment. Chairperson Riley commented that he does not believe anyone would disagree that they would like to continue to eliminate gravel roads. He commented that they have eliminated the assessment policy for the road reconstruction and overlay program as that has been replaced by another program. He stated that this program still remains, but it has been suggested that perhaps the money proposed to purchase a new road grader in the near future could be used for this purpose. He noted that the number of gravel roads are being reduced as adjacent parcels develop and the roads are paved to support the development. He asked for details on the funds that could be available if the City wanted to take a stronger role in this purpose. City Engineer Westby asked if it would be helpful for the Committee for staff to gather estimates on the costs to pave the remaining gravel roads, splitting those into those that have future development potential and those that do not. Chairperson Riley agreed that would be helpful. Jeff Sailor commented that perhaps a comparison could be done showing the annual maintenance costs and paving cost. City Engineer Westby replied that it is known there are some soils issues in different areas and therefore borings would be taken prior to paving to ensure the full scope of costs would be known. He stated that staff can gather the additional details as requested and bring that back to the Committee to review and discuss. Public Works Superintendent Riemer highlighted some of the remaining gravel roads, the number of homes or business along the road, and whether there would be additional challenges. Councilmember Musgrove asked and received confirmation that the gravel roads are City owned. She asked if there would be a process for public input. She stated that a funding source is mentioned in the case that splits the cost between the City and assessment to residents. She stated that she would explore reviewing alternative funding sources. She asked if it would be possible to use another city's road grader if Ramsey were to sell its grader. Public Works Superintendent Riemer confirmed that Nowthen has a grader that could potentially be used if needed. Councilmember Musgrove noted that even if a road is paved there would be ongoing maintenance costs. Councilmember Woestehoff asked whether a gravel road would be easier to pave because there is already a gravel base. Public Works Committee/June 15, 2021 Page 3 of 7