Minutes - Council Work Session - 12/21/2006

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Mayor Gamec asked if there was another way to work with Anoka County and possibly even Congressman Oberstar. City Administrator Norman replied that Mr. Boike is quite persistent. Mayor Gamec stated that sometimes it is difficult to do, but Mr. Boike needs to understand that City Staff needs to rely on City Council direction Ms. Ruehle stated that The Tinklenberg Group can be flexible to preserve the corridor with whoever owns the property. Councilmember Pearson stated that he has had several realtors inquiring about his own property. He stated there is definite interest in the Boike property and realtors have indicated a value anywhere from $96,000 to $110,000 per acre. Mr. Pearson stated he thought the land should be hung onto because the City couldn't lose. Mayor Gamec indicated his concern because it is a regional project. He expressed an interest in pursuing Federal funding or working with the Metropolitan Council for some other funding resource. He noted that the Landfill money is still taxpayer money. City Administrator Norman stated the City doesn't have an exact value of the property because there is a land use that shows the property can't be used for anything other than for highway use since it lacks access. Councilmember Elvig indicated that if the Metropolitan Council could be persuaded to help out, it may buy time. He stated that if Mr. Boike starts reverse condemnation, the price may go up. He questioned what time would be the best to lock in. Councilmember Elvig stated he would be willing to look at making some arrangement to put some dollars toward the project to keep it; however, it is the cash up front and the timing that concerns him. Councilmember Jeffrey inquired if the City would have to purchase the property with reverse condemnation. City Administrator Norman replied that would only be necessary when a land use can be shown. Mayor Gamec asked if there were some agreement available to give them a minimal amount of dollars to hold the project while the financing can be reviewed. Ms. Ruehle replied that what the Mayor indicated is basically what The Tinklenberg Group is also suggesting. She stated if the quarterly amount were to be split with Anoka County, the City's half would only be $2500 per month. Councilmember Elvig asked if it released the pressure on behalf of the State to step in. Ms. Ruehle stated that isn't a lot of money in her experience for this type of purchase. City Council Work Session / December 21,2006 Page 4 of6