07/13/1970 - 00018676���
TFIE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL PIIBLIC HEARING AND WORKSHOP MEETING OF JULY 13, 1970
Mayor Kirkham called the Special Public Hear�ng and Workshop Meeting of July
13, 1970 to order at 7:40 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Kirkham lead the Council and the audience in saying the Pledge o�
Allegiance to the Flag.
ROLL CALL-
MEMBERS PRESENT: Breider, Kirkham, Liebl, Harris
MEMBERS ABSENT: Sheridan
ADOPTION OF AGENDA:
Mayor Kirkham said that there was one item to add as follows: Petition No.
9-1970: Requesting Council to Take Any and Al1 Actions that Will Result in
the Improvement and General Living Conditions on the Property and Buildings
at 6025 3rd Street N.E. He added that some of the items could be taken
before the public hearing as it is scheduled for 8:00 P.M.
MOTION by Councilman Liebl to adopt the Agenda as amended. Seconded by
Councilman Breider. Upon a vmce vote, all voting aye, Mayor Kirkham
declared the motion carried.
DISCUSSION REGARDING STATUS OF PROJECT #93
Mr. Comstock of Comstock and Davis, Inc., Consulting Engineers, handed out
copies of a letter to the Council under date of July 13, 1970. He said that
he had met with the consulting advisor of the bonding company and it appears
dif£icult to arrive at a total estimate of funds to complete the work until
the existing sanitary sewer work is checked. He felt that it should be
examined by televising so as to be able to estimate the cost of repairs to
bring the pro7ect up to the specifications. He said that in the discussions
with the consultant there are three ways to get the pro7ect completed. One
would be to have Noyes complete the work, the second would be for the
bonding company to take it over and complete and the third would be for the
City crews to complate the work. He felt that by televising the sanitary
sewer lines the City would be in a better position to state an estimate to
complete the work.
Councilman Harris asked i£ this would be a commitment of additional funds
from the retainage. Mr. Comstock said that this could be a point of argument
after the fact. The bonding company could say that the cost of televising
was a needless expense, and that the facility could be tested by normal
means. Even so, he felt that this would be the best way to proceed.
Councilman Liebl asked how much of the total contract has been paid. Mr.
Comstock said that about $116,000 has been paid of a total contract of
about $235,000. Councilman Liebl asked if SOo of the work has been completed.
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SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING MEETING OF JULY 13, 1970
PAGE 2
� Mr. Comstock said no, about 8�0 of the pipe is in the ground but some of it
is not satisfactory. He added that there is about 540D' of the pipe to be
televised. Councilman Harris said that it seems that this is the only way
to proceed, the course of action for the City is rather limited. The
City Attorney said that they feel that they cannot proceed until it is
known what shape the pipes are in. He said that the bonding company has
shown qurte a bit of interest in this job, and have shown a real intent to
work with the City and pay their share. He agreed that there may be an
argument about the televising later, but he did not want the City to
accept workmanship that they would have trouble with later. Councilman
Breider asked when the cleaning could start. Nlr. Comstock said that the
work could be started in the morning and the television people have been
alerted that if the Council approved this action, they are to start
Wednesday morning.
MOTION by Councilman Liebl to authorize proceeding according to the
recommendations of the Consulting Engineer. Seconded by Councilman Breider.
Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Kirkham declared the motion carried.
Councilman Liebl asked if they could expect the project to be completed by
the lst of September. Mr. Comstock said that this is a big question mark
and once the televising and cleaning is done an estimate of time could be
given. He said that he should be able to give an estimate of the amount
of time left on the pro7ect in two weeks. He added that perhaps the industries
� that are waiting for the facilities, could hook onto the water line, rather
than waiting for the completion of the project. There does not seem to
be any trouble with the water line. If they hooked on, it would be sub�ect
to the City Administration inspection and approval.
DISCUSSION REGARDING RETAINING TAX FORFEIT LOTS:
The City Engineer said that at the last meeting a map was shown the Council
showing some lots that could be retained from the tax forfeit sale for
dumping street sweepings and material from construction. There are two
lots along Alden Way that Councilman Breider had said that he would check
out. He said that he talked to the Parks and Recreation Director and the
Park ➢epartment would be very much interested in these lots if the price is
right. �
Councilman Breider said that he had talked to some of the property owners
and they would like to have the lots filled but not necessarily with street
sweepings. These two lots are considered unbuildable, but they would give
the Park Department access to Alden Way. The people did not feel that
dumping street sweepings would be desirable. Mayor Kirkham said that rt
sounds more objectionable than it really is. It would be fine sand and
good clean fill. Councilman Breider wondered if this would not mean that
the sand would be blowing about. The City Engineer pointed out that the
City has material that rt must get nd of. No matter where it is put,
� someone would be unhappy. He said that a snow fence could be put in to
try to keep the sand from blowing. Councilman I3arris said that the lots
are too low to benefit the Park Department without the fill. It would seem
- silly to purchase tax forfeit lots and also have to buy more fill, when the
City needs a place to dump clean fill anyhow. The City Assessor said that
the lots would not be appraised very high since they are considered
unbuildable.
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SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING MEETING OF JULY 13, 1970 PAGE 3
Councilman Breider said that he would not have too much ob�ection so �
long as the dumping was kept in an orderly manner and there were no big
piles allowed to remain. The City Engineer said that there would be some
problem, but the lots have to be fillecl to use.
The City Engineer questioned retaining Lot 10, Block 22 in Donnays Addition.
This is a stretch of property that could be used for entrance onto 7th
5treet. Now service is only from T.H. #65 at Moore Lake. This could be
retained as public right of way for future development for access onto
7th Street. He asked how much this would cost. The City Assessor said
about $6000 to $7000. Councilman Harris pointed out that this would not
be a drive-in theater forever. He said that there would be more and more
traffic generated. Wou1d this be a way to avoid channelling all the traffic
back onto T.H. '�65? Councilman Liebl said that this is a long narrow stretch
of land that the City could use as right of way. It could be a sound
investment �o hold in abeyance. The City Engineer said that it would have
to be part of a total plan involving the whole parcel. Whoever develops it
would have to provide access onto 7th Street. The City could be spending
$6000 for public right of way that is not necessary. It would be up to
the developer to develop the property. Councilman Harris said that he hated
to see a piece of property remain dormant and continue to be a maintenance
problem. He suggested alerting the property owner to the south with the
suggestion that it be purchased and added to the parcel. The City Assessor
said that the property owner to the south ss interested in the land, but he
did not know to what extent. Councilman Liebl said that the only one who �
would benefit is the man owning the drive-in theater and he is the one that
properly should pick up the land. The City Assessor said that this lot has
already been released. Councilman Harris asked that if the lot is not
picked up at the auction, that the Council be apprised so that they may
reconsider acquiring it. The City Assessor said that he would make it a
special point to call the County the next day after the sale to see if the
lot was acquired by somebody.
The City Engineer said that regardinq the lots on Pierce Street, Councilman
Sheridan had said that he would look at the lots. He said that he did not
seem to favor the idea as this is a nice residential neighborhood and there
a.s a very steep bank. Unless Councilman Sheridan told any of the Council
differently, he would recommend that these lots be released.
MOTION by Councilman Harris to retain those lots on Alden Way and south of
69th Avenue as outlined on the map submitted by the City Engineer, and
release those on Pierce Street. Seconded by Councilman Breider. Upon a
voice vote, a11 voting aye, Mayor Kirkham declared the motion carried.
Mayor Kirkham brought up the question of what to do with unbuildable 40'
tas delinquent lots_ He wondered if there has ever been any cases where
the assessments were forgiven, so that the lots could be picked up by the
ad�oining property owners who could not afford to pay the old assessments.
In this way they could be gotton onto the tax rolls. The City Engineer said
that the assessments could be re-spread, but to his knowledge they have �
never been forgiven. He said that the Administration could research this
more and report back. Mayor Kirkham said that he knew of cases where the
ad�oining property owner would like to pick up a tax delinquent lot but
cannot afPord the assessments.
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SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING MEETING OF JULY 13� 1970
PUBLIC HEARING Olv STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT ST. 1971-1 AND ST. 1971-2
PAGE 4
Mayor Kirkham read the public hearing notice aloud for the benefit of the
audience, and said that these streets are part of the City's 10 year street
improvement program. Councilman'Harris added that these streets would be
constructed in the construction year of 1971 with the assessment going on
the 1972 rolls. He added that any street could be accelerated into an
earlier construction year if the people so desired as the cost of con-
struction is going higher every year. It could be to their advantage to
do them sooner than scheduled, rather than waiting for the scheduled year.
Street: 410 feet West of East River Road to East River Road
Street. 100 feet East of Broad Avenue to East River Road
Dover Street, 100 feet East of Broad Avenue to 45D feet to the East and
300 feet North to Elv Street
Altura Road: 53rd Avenue to Horizon Drive
Mr. Michael Lewkowicz, 5407 Altura Road N.E., asked why the estimated cost
is $14.95 when a few years ago it was many dollars less. The sewer is
already in. Mayor Kirkham said that this is only an estimated price and
there has not been an actual bid as yet. The Engineering Department anti-
cipates the cost. If the actual cost is less, that is the amount that the
people will be assessed. Mr. Lewkowicz asked about the City park. Mayor
Kirkham said that the City park is assessed to the City of Fridley.
Councilman Liebl said that the estimated cost for Altura Road is $14.05. The
City Manager added that the bids have gone up about 25%. Mr. Lewkowicz said
that their land is in the same condition as any other street, so why is it
more, Mayor Kirkham said that this is all done by open bid. Mr Lewkowicz
said that he thought that the price was way out of line. He asked why some
streets are higher than others. The City Engineer said that it depends on
the soil condita.ons and the lay of the land. This is also a curved street
and is assessed somewhat differently. The proposal is to add some catch
basins to catah the water so it does not run so far. These things all
affect the total cost of the street. Whatever the total cost of the street
is, after it is bid, will be the amount assessed to each property owner.
Hopefully this estimate is high. He said that they try to keep the estimates
high so the people will not be misled and upset when the bids come in. The
cost of construction has been going up at a fantastic rate. Mr. Lewkowicz
said that maybe it should be let go for another five years, the costs are
bound to level off sometime. Councilman Harris said that as the Mayor
indicated this is an improvement hearing not an assessment hearing. He
pointed out that when a project is laid out, streets are grouped together in
the same general area to try to keep the costs to the contractor down.
This saving is passed on to the property owners_ He added that there wi11
probably be about 20 invitations to bid sent out. Mr. Lewkowa.cz asked if
that estimate includes the cost of the storm sewer work and the City
Engineer said that it did.
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SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING MEETING OF JULY 13� 1970
A11ey between University & 4th Street: 53rd Avenue to 54th Avenue
4th Street: 53rd Avenue to Outerdrive of Interstate #694
PAGE 5
Al1ey between 4th Street & 5th Street: 54th Avenue to Interstate #694
Outerdrive
Mr. Glenn Mostoller, 5�20 5th Street N.E. asked what was proposed for the alley.
The City Engineer said that the work proposed is to put down a gravel base
underneath, then blacktop it. Mr, Mostoller said that his trouhle in the
past has been to get the City to snowplow the alley. He got a tag last year
from the Health Officer because the garbage was not picked up, but the
garbage haulers could not get down the alley. Councilman Harris said that
the City does not maintain alleys that are not improved. Mr. Mostoller
said that he would be assessed both in the back and the front and his
assessment would be quite high. He could not see what he got for his tax
dollar. Councilman Harris informed him that 11C of every dollar is taxes to
the Crty and for that he gets police protection, fire protection, parks, etc.
This would be an assessment, not a tax. Mr. Mostoller said that last winter
the City Police Department would not allow cars to park on the street, but
they could not get into the alley because it was not plowed. Councilman
Harris said that this would correct the situation, as improved alleys are
maintained. He pointed out that if the plows tried to plow unimproved alleys,
they would damage their equipment. Mr. Mostoller said that his llt should
buy something. Mayor Kirkham said that street and alley improvements are
assessable and they do not come from general t� money. With the black-
topping, the alley will qualify for snowplowing. Mr. Mostoller asked if
there was any storm sewer work. The City Engineer said that the storm
sewer was already in. Councilman Harris pointed out that in the public
heairng notice rt specifies all the necessary improvements, as a standard
form is used and some streets need some additional work, such as storm
sewer or sanrtary sewer.
Sth Street 53rd Avenue to 54th Avenue
Mr. Richard Byexs, 5300 Sth Street N.E.� asked the cost o£ the improvement
and he was told that the estimated cost was $14.90 per foot. Mr. Byers
asked why the rest of the area is not included in this pro�ect. The City
Engineer explained that 5th Street north of 54th Avenue is already under
contract for this year. He said that he was not notified that 5th Street
was going to be improved. Councilman Harris asked if he was buying under
contxact, and Mr. Byer said yes. Councilman Harris said that the listing
for sending out the notices is received from the County and they list the
fee owner.
Mrs. Ervin Layland, 5331 Sth Street N.E., said that she understood that
this was for curb, gutter and street and the cost was $14.90 per foot.
Mayor Kirkham said yes She asked if that estimate included everything and
the City Engineer said yes. She then asked the cost of the alley and was
told $2.37 per foot, and that it would be maintained.
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SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING MEETING OF JULY 13, 1970
Alley between 5th Street & 6th 5treet: 53rd Avenue to 54th Avenue
PAGE 6
Mr. Earl Mi11er, 401 53rd Avenue N.E., said that he could see no purpose
for this alley to go through. There are two garages that use the alley now,
so the improved alley would be in the nature of a private driveway. The
rest of the garages use the street entrance. Councilman Harris explained
that normally when there is work to be done in an area, an opportunity is
given for all the work to be done necessary in that area, as it can be
done cheaper when the contractor is in the neighborhood. It is presented
as an option if the people are interested in pursuing it.
Mrs. Layland said that they have to have the garbage cans sitting in the front
so that they would be picked up. She felt that there was a definite need
for the alley, and that it was a good price. Councilman Liebl said that
there are a lot of tickets given in this area and if the alley is improved
and maintained by the City crews, it should take care of the garbage
problems and the problemS with the snow plow, He felt that if the improve-
ment went in, it would be a help to the whole block.
6th Street: 53rd Avenue to 54th Avenue
Councilman Harris commented that the cost of this street per foot is $14.90,
as it is with the other streets in this neighborhood.
54th Avenue: 130 feet West of 4th Street to Sth Street
Councilman Liebl asked if there would be any trouble with the water
drainage. The City Engineer said that the storm sewer would take care of
it. There are catch basins planned. The catch basins now do not take care
of the water because it is a dirt street.
Mayor Kirkham informed the audience that the Council does not take action
on any of these streets at the public hearinq meeting. Action will be at
a subsequent meeting. Councilman Liebl said that in the next week, he
will check out these streets and reva.ew the comments made at this meeting.
On occasion, streets are deleted by the Council because of hardship cases.
These streets are in the 10 year street mprovement program, and there must
be a public hearing held. He said that he would also check the people's
tax problems. Upgrading the streets in the area, brings about an increase
in property value, and would also take care of some of the complaints
generated from this area.
MOTION by Councilman Liebl to close the public hearing on St. 1971-1.
Seconded by Councilman Sreider. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye,
Mayor Kirkham declared the public hearing closed at 9:00 P.M.
Street Improvement Pro7ect St. 1971-2
Gardena Avenue: Central Avenue to Arthur Street
Mr. Richard French, 1469 Gardena Avenue N.E., asked if this would be a
wider than normal residential street. He said that Gardena Avenue is a
drag strip and the speeding is quite a problem. He said that his personal
feeling is that if the road is improved, the speeding would be worse.
Most of the people up and down Gardena Avenue are interested in a standard
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SPECIAI, COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 197D PAGE 7
residential street. The City Engineer said that the proposal is to keep the
same width as the existing Width of about 40' blacktop plus curb and gutter.
Mr. French asked about the drainage coming from Grace High School. Unless
the drainage is taken care of the street would not last. Mayor Kirkham
said that this street is intended to be permanent, so the drainage would
be taken care of, along with curb and gutter.
Mr. Bailey Tiller, 1535 Gardena Avenue N.E., asked if �ust because the street
is in the 10 year street improvement program, does this mean that it cannot
change. Councilman Liebl said that this is the reason for the public
hearing; to hear the wishes of the people affected. He said that he did
realize that interest is very high. Mr. Tiller asked why there was never
a sealer put on every two years to preserve the old Gardena Avenue. He
said that he would have liked to see the old street saved. He said that
there was never a sealer put on the stxeet. The City Manager explained that
one of the reasons for the 10 year street improvement program is to eliminate
putting a sealer on a street that is scheduled to be torn up the following
year. This would be a waste of tax money. Mr. Tiller said that if the
street had received a sealer, it would not be in the condition it is in.
He pointed out that there are some people living on Gardena with a limited
income and this assessment would hurt them. It seems that people cannot
afford to keep their homes when they retire. He said that he knew of no
one that was in favor of the sidewalks. He pointed out that on Mississippi
the children still walk on the street, so sidew�lks are not the answer.
The children do not have to walk on any sidewalks to get to Gardena
School, there are other walkways provided and paid for by the school.
It �ould be cheaper to bus them than to put in the sidewalks. He added
that from Arthur Street, the water will run the other way, towards Stinson.
Nir. Robert Gunville, 1110 Gardena Avenue N.E. said that he was speaking for
about 24 property owners and would like to present a petition. He then
read the petition aloud.
PETITION N0. 9-1970 - IN FAVOR OF THE STREET IMPROVEMENT� BUT
TO TAE PROPOSED SIDEWALKS ON GARDENA AVENUE
MOTION by Councilman Harris to receive Petition No. 9-1970. Seconded by
Councilman Breider. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Kixkham
declared the motion carried.
Mr.French said that he had covered every home but one, on the north side of
Gardena from Central to Arthur and the people were unanimously objecting to
the sidewalks. Councilman Liebl said that he had walked up Gardena
Avenue and he felt that the street must be put in. Mr. French agreed, there
was almost unanimous approval of the street improvement. It was only the
sidewalk that the people ob7ected to. It is felt that there would not be
adequate room for snow storage, and the children still would not be using
the sidewalks. Gardena is centrally located and there are blacktopped
walkways in a wagon wheel fashion for the children to walk on. They are
already there and have been paid fox by tax money.
Mr. Joe Randall, 5901 Central Avenue Ni E. said that he lives on
Mississippi Street and his mother lives on Gardena and spoke in opposition
to the sidewalks. He said that he did not feel �hat the sidewalks were a
success on Mississippi 5txeet.
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SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING MEETING OF SULY 13, 1970 PAGE 8
� Mr. Glenn Lillmars, 1561 Gardena Avenue N.E., said that he lives between
Arthur and the City line and received a notice, and wondered if he was in
the pro7ect. The City Engineer said �that if the water runs toward Stinson,
he would not be in the assessment area. He asked why not do the rest of
Gardena this year. The City Engineer said that this area is in the worst
shape. They felt that the rest o£ Gardena could stand another year of
wear. If the residents want the rest done, it could be added into the
construction project. He said chat the assessment is $13.38 per foot and
there is some additional cost being picked up from state aid funds. He
added that there could be state aid money for the sidewalks.
Mrs. Hazel O'Brien, 1080 Gardena Avenue N.E. asked what happens when the
sidewalks need repair. Mayor Kirkham answered that this problem has never
come up as yet. Mrs. O'Brien said that she was not in favor of the side-
walks.
Mr. French asked how the storm sewer districts would be determined. He
said that about 1/3 of his lot drains toward the street and 2/3 is held in
the back yard. The City Engineer said that this storm sewer district is
basically to take care of Gardena Avenue. He added that everyone is in one
storm sewer district or another, and also it is possible to have one
property in two drainage districts. Mr. French said that he did not mind
paying for storm sewer to take care of the water that would contribute to
the erosion of Gardena Avenue The City Engineer said that this district
� is only to eluninate the erosion of Gardena Avenue. Mr. Tiller felt that
the hole by Grace High School would hold back a lot of the water and it
would cause no problem.
Mr. Rober� Sather, 5927 Central Avenue N.E. said that he received a notice
and wondered if he was in any assessment area. The City Assessor said yes,
he would receive a sicie yard assessment. Councilman Harris then explained
the policy with side yard assessments, and advised the audience that if they
wished to know their individual assessments to call the City Assessor �he
next day.
Mr. Raymond Renner, 1564 Gardena Avenue N.E. said that he assumed that the
same would apply to ha.m, in that he would not be in the storm sewer assess-
ment area if the water drained toward Stinson, and the City Enga.neer said
that this was correct.
West Moore Lake Drive. Carol Drive to 136 feet East of Baker Avenue
Mr. Sol Gunzburger, 6209 Baker Avenue N.E. said that he received a nota.ce
but his street is already in and wondered what was proposed. The City
Engineex said that he received a notice because of the sidewalks. Mr.
Gunzburger felt that his land was already ruined with the putting in of
the street. He said that the sidewalks would be put in over h�.s dead
body:
� Councilman Liebl asked the audience for an expression of their sentiment in
regard to putting in the street improvement. The Fire Department feels
that it is in bad shape and should be replaced. Nlr. Gunzburger said that the
block between Baker and University is a race track. This street has been
graded three times and blacktopped three times since he has lived there.
He said that when he bought this pxoperty there was nevex any talk of a
sidewalk.
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SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING MEETING OE JULY 13, 1970 PAGE 9
Mr. Don Savelkoul, 916 West Moore Lake Drive N.E., asked what Was being �
proposed in respect to the sidewalks. The City Engineer said that there
would be some money available from state aid funds to put the sidewalks
on the people's property. Then there would be no assessment, as the state
aid money could be used. This is something new and has not been done before.
Mr. Savelkoul asked if sidewalks are proposed for both sides. The City
Engineer said thaL this is the proposal, but it depends on what the people
want. Mapbe a s'idewalk on the north side only could be a solution. The
north side is needed more than on the south side. Mr. Gunzburger said that
the children walk in the streets.
Mr. Savelkoul said that he moved to his place in 1958 and at that time it
was a nice residential neighborhood. Subsequently, the traffic has
greatly increased and changed the complexion of the area. Now there are
heavy trucks using the street. He said that he realized traffic patterns
do change, but he did not feel that the residents should have to pay for
this change. The road would still be in good shape i£ it only received
the normal residential traffic West Moore Lake Drive has become a
speedway. He said that he ha�s already paid for a street, now conditions
have changed and he is being asked to pay for a new up-graded street.
This street was torn up to put in water and sewer to sexve people in a
different area, then it was patched up. This changing trend on the use of
the street is something beyond the control of the residents. Now new
conditions will be imposed by reason of it bea.ng a state aid road. The
sidewalks would not benefit these people. He said that he would have been �
happier i£ this whole change never came about. He did not feel that the
resa.dents should have to pay for a condition they did not bring about. They
have already paid their fair share. As far as sidewalks are concerned, he
felt that it was unanimous, as it was with the people on Gardena, that the
people were opposed to them. He said that the children would not use them
and they would not be kept up and it would not be a wise expenditure of
public funds.
Councilman La.ebl said that as the pro�ect is laid out the proposal is for
sidewalks on both the north and south sides of the street. He said that�he
did not feel that there was enought right of way for this. Traffic
constantly increases, and there are more people living in Fridley than in
1958. He said that he felt that the street should be improved however. This
has been designated as a state aid street and the City may use state aid
funds. The street would cost $13.92 per foot and the side yard would be
$1.70 per foot. The sidewalks are proposed for the protection of the
children. Mr. Savelkoul ob7ected to paying $13.92 per foat for the street.
Councilman Harris commented that it has been his experience that whether a
road is good or not does not seem to affect the amount of traffic. He
asked Mr. Savelkoul if he had any suggestions for the control of the speed,
since he had complained of it being a speedway. Mr. Savelkoul said that there
is a certain kind of driver that you cannot control, but he thought that
there could be "Slow" signs, or maybe a three way stop sign. He also
suggested more patrolling. The City Engineer said that the City could put �
up signs indicating that the roadway is curved. He said that this street
was dug up in 1961 and patched as Mr. 5avelkoul said, but this is not the
only reason rt is bad. This area has a high water table and this affects the
life of a street. There are quite a few streets that were paved that gear
that are now being redone. This pro7ect was proposed in 1966 and at that
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SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING MEETING OF JULY 13� 1970 PAGE 10
� time people did not want the improvement. At that time the estimated
improvement was $8.47 per foot, so there has been over a SOo increase in
cost in the last four years. The trend is that construction costs are
going up faster than the cost of living. He explained that the 10 year
program is so that everyone will eventually have a street up to City
standards. Maintenance funds come from the general tas dollar and it is
not fair for those that have paid for a street to also have to pay for
someone elses street, through maintenance funds, because they do not
want the assessment. Once the streets are in to City standards, they are
treated and seal coated to try to lengthen their life.
Mr. Savelkoul said that he felt that the residents should be responsible
for normal residential use but not for the extra wear and tear £rom the
trucks etc. The usual standards of neiqhborhood traffic do not apply.
This is an unequitable proposal and he would be opposed to the $13.92 per
foot assessment.
Mrs. Warren Hanson,said that she lived next door to Don Savelkoul and the
statement was made that the curve would act as a traffic deterrent. She
felt that this was not true as every year there are cars that end up in
her front yard, and there are always several collisions in front of her
house. The City Engineer said that the point was that curbing was needed
to help contain the cars and keep them out of her front yard.
� Councilman Harris suggested that some control over the traffic could be
done by a three way stop between T.H. #65 and Ab1e Street. Between 61st
and IIniversity the traffic is slowed down by the stop sign on 7th Street
The City Engineer said that he would study this and look over the accident
records of the Police Department.
Mr. Francis Van Dan, 6342 Baker Avenue N.E., said that he had the south �
of Lot 10 and the north ; of Lot 11 and he did not think that he should be
assessed. The City Assessor said that there was an assessment � way up the
block. Mr. Van Dan said that at one time 61st and West Moore Lake Drive
were county roads. The City Engineer said that they were not to his
knowledge. Mr. Van Dan said that he would have to agree that it was a race
track. He suggested a"School Zone" sign, or limiting the speed to 15
miles per hour, as there is a complex of three schools in the vicinity.
He suggested that it could be made one way to the church. This would be
somewhat of a hardship, but it would reduce traf£ic to the residents.
Mrs Don Savelkoul said that in regard to sidewalks, all the children are
bused to Rice Creek School. All the children across T.H. #65 are bused.
There is getting to be fewer and fewer children that walk to schools. The
Senior Aigh students drive cars and there are only a few Sunior High that
walk. She said that she could see no point in sidewalks, and did not want
to lose any of her land.
Mr. Warren Hanson, 900 West Moore Lake Drive N.E., said that he would like
� to add his ob7ection to the proposed sidewalks also.
Mr. A. Amerslav, 870 West Moore Lake Drive N.E., said that he would aqree
with his neighbors. The street is needed, but the sidewalks are not.
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SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING MEETING OF JULY 13� 1970 PAGE 11
Mr. Richard Anderson, 861 West Moore Lake Drive N.E., said that he agreed �
that the street needed fixing, although he must also agree with Mr.
Savelkoul. This street is not strictly a residential street, there is too
much traffic. He felt that a three way stop sign at Able might help to
control the traffic. He said that he did not understand why the proposal
for the sidewalks. Shey would go out to T.H. #65 and quit at the Highway.
Councilman Harris said that the sidewalks were part of an overall plan
that includes a controlled access at that intersection. Mr. Anderson
asked if there were any plans for sidewalks for Able or Baker. Mayor
Kirkham said not to his knowledge. Mr. Anderson asked how wide the street
was going to be and how much boulevard there is for the sidewalks. The
City Engineer said that the street would be the same width as by the St.
Philips Church. 2£ the same procedure fox the sidewalks is followed,
the property would be given by the property owner and then they would not
be assessed. The sidewalks would then be on the property owner`s land.
If the land is not given freely, he would recommend that there not be
sidewalks as there would be no room for snow storage. Usually 8' is
needed in the boulevard, but there have been cases where sidewalks have
been put in with less. Mr. Anderson asked if there was considerable amount
of objections, could the City condemn. The City Engineer said that they
do have that right. The sidewalk program was adopted in con7unction with the
schools, and this sidewalk was in the plans.
A resident asked about the drainage. The City Engineer said that the
system was installed when the rest of West Moore Lake Drive was paved �
in 1966. The storm sewer system is already provided for. The resident
said that he also would ob�ect to the sidewalks. He felt that he would
not be able to maintain the grass because of the salt used, and the
grass would not grow in the bou2evard area.
Mayor Kirkham suggested 7ust putting the sidewalks on the north side of
the street and off centering the street within the right of way. The
City Engineer said that there was only 60' right of way here, but it
could probably be worked out.
Mr. Stan Carlson, 6219 Saker Street N.E. said that he agreed with his
neighbors on the sidewalks. He said that he could see no good use
during the school year, when they would be needed, they would be covered
with snow. The sidewalks by the church are not cleared. Consideration
must be given to how to clean and maintain them once they are put in.
A resident from the area said that he belonged to St. Philips Church and
they have found it impossible to keep their sidewalk cleared in winter.
He said that he was not in favor of sidewalks, and he thought that the
City would have trouble getting land from the north side of the street.
MOTION by Councilman Harris to close the public hearing on Street Improve-
ment Pro7ect St. 1971-2 (MSAS). The motion was seconded and upon a voice
vote, all voting aye, Mayor Kirkham declared the motion carried and the
public hearing closed at 10:20 P.M. �
RECESS:
Mayor Kirkham declared a recess from 10:20 to 10:40 P.M.
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SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING MEETING OF JULY 13, 1970 PAGE 12
� RECEIVTNG CON➢EMNATION #31257 - PROJECTS: PARK AND RECREATIONAL PURPOSES AND
#30855 - PROJECTS• STREET IMPROVEMENT:
The City Attorney reported that in his opinion the City should not appeal, as
he felt they could not do any betteY through an appeal. Councilman Harxis
commented that the City is now owners per se of this property The City
Attorney said that possibly the City could abandon the condemnation, but
he was not sure if this was entixely legal. Councilman Harris said that he
felt that the land was a qood buy at this price.
MOTION by Councilman Liebl to authorize transfer o£ funds from the
emergency general fund to the Parks and Recreation fund, and payment of the
commissioners fees for Condemnation #31257 and #30855 Seconded by
Councilman Brea.der. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Kirkham
declared the motion carried.
A. RAYMOND RENNER REQUEST FOR REMOVAL FROM ASSESSMENT - PROSECT SS.
1971-2 (MSAS)
MOTION by Councilman Haxris to receive the corc¢nunication from Ra1mond
Renner, 1564 Gaxdena Avenue, dated July 7, 1970. Seconded by Councilman
� Liebl. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Kirham declared the motion
carried.
RECEIVING PETITTON NO. 10-1970 REQUESTING COUNCIL TO TAKE ANY AND ALL
ACTIONS THAT WILL RESULT IN THE IMPROVEMENT AND GENERAL LIVING CONDITI�NS
ON THE PROPERTY AND BUILDINGS AT 6025 3RD STREET N.E.:
MOTION by Councilman Liebl to receive Petition No. 10-1970 and instruct the
Inspectors to check out this property and report back on the condition and
give the people sufficient time to correct the condrtion. Seconded by
Councilman Brea.der. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Kirkham
declared the motion carried.
REPDRT ON WATER LINE IN HICKORY DRIVE•
� The City Engineer explained that the Council pxeviously authorized giving the
contract for the repair of the 7oints in the water line to G.L. Contracting
Inc 5ince then his department has found that there is more repair necessary
than was anticipated. He suggested that the laying of the new line in
Hickory Ca.rcle could be put into the street improvement pro�ect (although
it would not be assessed) and have that contractor do this work, and have
G.L. Contracting Inc. continue to replace the 7oints Councilman Liebl
asked if this would save any money. The City Engineer said no, it would
7ust be splitting up the work to elitninate letting another contract.
Councilman Liebl said that this would have to be done befoxe the new street
� is put in anyhow. He asked what preventions were going to be taken to
forestall this happening again. The City Engineer said that the 4" line
in Hickory Circle was going to be incxeased to 6" so that it could .Ue
flushed and the �oints are going to be wxapped with polyethylene. Council-
man Breider asked how much the new line would cost. The City �ngineer said
that rt would be over $3500 and would not be assessable, as rt would be in
the nature of a repair.
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SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 13, 1970
PAGE 13
MOTION by Councilman Harris to authorize the City Engineer to proceed as
he has outlined Seconded by Councilman Breicler. Upon a voice vote, al.l
voting aye, Mayor Kirkham declared the motion carried.
TOUR OF MEDTRONICS:
Mayor Kirkham reported that he received a call from Medtronics and they have
offered to conduct a tour of their plant for the Council and Department
Heads at our convenience. It was agreed to accept the offer and the date
of July 21, 1970 (TUesday) at 7:30 P.M. was set.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business, Mayor Kirkham declared the Special Public
Hearing and Workshop Meeting of July 13, 197D adjourned at 10:47 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
�r
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✓'
Juel Mercer
Secretary to the City Council
Gt!-li��(% �✓7/"' ��
G
ack O. Kirkham
Mayor
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