1994 CAFR - Laserfiche WebLink

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NIAKNR 1TNTITIIATT(VITS (Continued) Community Development and Engineering (continued) The average value of new construction housing building permits was $95,871 in 1994, down slightly from $101,432 in 1993. This results in a home with an average lot value of approximately $140,000. Currently, just over 30 percent of Ramsey's homes are valued by Anoka County above $100,000, with another 45 percent between $80,000 and $100,000. It is anticipated that there will be approximately 180 new homes constructed during 1995 , down slightly from 1994 primarily due to the volatility in mortgage interest rates. In 1994, the City Council approved several new residential subdivisions totalling 149 new lots. Other plats are in the process and are expected to be approved in 1995. Activity is expected to continue at lower levels than the 774 new lots created in 1992 and 1993 (the 419 created in 1992 was the greatest single year number in Ramsey's history). The City, as part of the Water Systems study completed in 1994, has forecasted the infrastructure needs over the next ten year period in the urbanizing area of Ramsey. Included will be wells, water towers and water mains. These improvements can be delayed by buying excess water capacity from the City of Anoka. Therefore, in June, the Council awarded bids to provide a connection to Anoka's water system in emergency situations such as high water usage or a major fire. Plannin g Throughout 1994, the City has been working on several planning needs. The Planning Commission as well as the Economic Development Commission has been deliberating over revisions to the existing land use and transportation plans. A public hearing is expected early in 1995 prior to Council consideration of Commission recommendations. The City also provided a portion of the necessary funding in 1994 to update the Anoka County Transportation Plan. Further, in 1994 the City contracted for an aerial topographical survey of the southeastern part of the community. Budgeted for 1995 is a storm water drainage study using the 1994 data. As part of the annual capital improvement process, the City completed purchase agreements on property for future industrial development. In 1994, developers completed expansions of the Anoka - Ramsey Sports Center and Anoka Self Storage buildings. Also completed were improvements at the Federal Shooting Sports Center, Game Time Sports, and the Health Quest Athletic Club (aka Ramsey Athletic Club). At the closed regional landfill, Kaltec started a pilot alternative fuel generation operation. Listul Industries received permission for temporary office space precedent to construction of a new facility proposed for 1995. The City also completed an agreement with Anoka County Community Action Agency which resulted in the construction of a single family home for a moderate income household on land previously owned by the City for that purpose. This was the first involvement by the City towards provisions of public assisted housing opportunities. The home is complete and is a positive addition to the neighborhood. iv