Agenda - Public Works Committee - 07/17/2007

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There was considerable discussion of the purpose for the ordinance and concerns in relation to the restrictions placed on the property owners with the ordinance. Chairperson Elvig indicated he is inclined to forgo this ordinance and has a concern taking more property from the residents. Councilmember Olson suggested including information in the Ramsey Resident in the spring to outline the vision triangle requirements and what types of landscaping are appropriate for those spaces. Councilmember Dehen questioned how this ordinance will strengthen the City's position when there is already an ordinance in place. Chairperson Elvig asked if there is a sense among the crew that there is not support from the CoUIicil with the existing ordinance. Public Works Director Olson replied he does not think so. He explained this ordinance strengthens staff's position because it gives a property owner a visual indication that there is protection on that comer. When they buy their lot and 'look at the lot survey they will specifically see that area is to be protected. The current ordinance is in place, but there was significant discussion during that ordinance creation that there will be this issue with the existing residents that are technically grandfathered in. because they had their land before the ordinance was created. The current ordinance is a good ordinance and strengthens. the City's position, but it does not solve it. Councilmember Olson asked if this proposed ordinance would ,give staff the ability to remove what is necessary from the right-of-way. Public Works Director Olson replied it would provide that ability with all new subdivisions. Councilmember Dehen questioned how a tree that is set back beyond the right-of-way is causing a problem with sight lines. Public Works Director Olson explained if there is not a stop position and a driver is rolling up to an intersection at 30 mph, more than just the right-of-way is needed to see someone coming at 30 mph in the other direction. The vision triangle is a lot further than the edge of the curb to the right-of-way line. He indicated staff is fine with the current ordinance if the Committee chooses they do not want to move forward with the proposed ordinance. Chairperson Elvig stated he would like to move this to the full Council for discussion. Motion by Chairperson Elvig, seconded by Councilmember Dehen, to recommend to City Council that the attached ordinance requiring dedication of the vision triangle in City right-of- way be reviewed by the City Attorney and that a public hearing on this ordinance be scheduled. Public Works Committee / June 19,2007 Page 10 of 12