Minutes - Public Works Committee - 07/18/2023

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Acting Chairperson Musgrove asked staff to address the responsibility of the City within the right- of-way. City Engineer/Public Works Director Westby provided background noting that this development was built prior to incorporation of the City of Ramsey. He explained how these concerns are addressed when they arise. He stated that the cases are brought forward to this committee for input and direction. He stated that if they were doing a street improvement project, they reach out to homeowners to solicit drainage concernsthat could be addressed to the extent possible as part of the street project. He stated that there are situations such as this across the city. He commented that there are miles of streets within the City where ditches hold water for two or three days after a storm event. He stated that the City tries to prevent water from running off city streets onto private property, but in this case, there is no culvertin the west driveway and the ditches are not well defined. Councilmember Woestehoff commented that he believes the opinion of legal counsel would be that the City does not have an obligation in this instance. He commented that this is an uncomfortable situation and noted that there are miles and miles of similar situations. He noted the cost for this project and stated that could potentially be multiplied by 100 houses. He stated that he would not mind taking on these types of projects when it is efficient for the City to do it. He commented that the City completing this as one project is probably more efficient than having the homeowner contract with multiple contractors but stated that he also does not believe the City would be solely responsible for the cost. He stated that the driveway would seem to be a natural break in terms of the cost split. Councilmember Howell stated that she does feel for the homeowners but also recognizes that there is no obligation of the City. She stated that she would support a cost-share if that could be developed and works for both parties. Mr. Mytko asked for details on the 23 percent indirect costs. City Engineer/Public Works Director Westby replied that for City improvement projects the City adds 23 percent indirect costs for required administrative, engineering, finance and legal fees. Councilmember Woestehoff stated that the $32,000 is for the work the contractor would do while the $7,400 would be for the work of staff. Mr. Mytko commented that they are disappointed with how this is going as there are different members involved tonight than have been involved in the past. He stated that last month he felt they had some hope but noted that in honesty they cannot afford any more funds as they are spending between $15,000 and $20,000 to repair their home from the damage incurred. He stated that if the ditch held the water, he would not get water up to his house. He stated that it sounds like even though the City feels it has an obligation to move the water, but because the driveway is there, he would have to participate in the cost. Councilmember Woestehoff explained that his thinking was that the driveway would be a good cutoff in determining the cost-share. He commented that it would be fair for the homeowner to Public Works Committee / July 18, 2023 Page 3 of 7