Minutes - Council Work Session - 10/02/2007

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there would be no noise concerns, the land is nice and flat and is already nicely landscaped. He stated that he feels that the Public Works Campus belongs where it can be hidden. Councilmember Dehen stated that he also feels purchasing this property would be a good idea, although he is not sure the Public Works Campus belongs on this site. He stated that perhaps this land could be used for more businesses. He asked whether the avenue with the MPCA to use the land near the landfill had been exhausted. Public Works Director Olson stated that it had not been exhausted, 'but discussions have not been very positive. He stated that as the City accumulates equipment and continues to grow, it is looking at 2011 and 2012 for a new facility. He stated that is the point where the City will need to have the site location nailed down. He stated that the City can continue negotiations with the MPCA and noted that it looks like whatever the City decides to do, some non-taxable land will be converted back to taxable land. Councilmember Look asked whether Mr. Bury wanted $2,000,000 down on the purchase price with the rest paid over time. Public Works Director Olson stated that he is unsure because he does not currently have the authorization to negotiate with Mr. Bury. He stated that he wanted to see what the interest level was of the City Council and feels an appraisal of the land, without the equipment, should be pursued. He stated that this could also show the City what kind of rent it could expect on a piece of property this large. He stated that his feeling is that Mr. Bury would be willing to get a lesser amount for the land if he could continue to operate out of the facility: Councilmember Elvig stated that a purchase price of $4,000,000 is quite high and if the City has the opportunity to get a lower price and let Mr. Bury continue to use the land he feels the City should pursue. He stated that the City would then have control of the land and likened it to investing money in a CD. He stated that he would like to see the City continue working with the MPCA on the landfill land in addition to the Bury Carlson land. Councilmember Dehen asked if there were any pollution issues on the site. Public Works Director Olson stated that he did not think so, but suggested that a Phase I environmental study be completed. Fire Chief Kapler stated that there is no record of any spills on the site. City Administrator Ulrich stated that the City should do our due diligence and have a Phase I environmental study completed along with the land appraisal. There was a consensus of the City Council to direct Public Works Director Olson to continue the possible purchase of the MPCA property. Councilmember Strommen stated that there is an oak savannah on this property, so a portion of that will be off the table for purchase. City Council Work Session / October 2, 2007 Page 5 of9