4.3. SR 11-17-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT Northstar Corridor Development Authority Regular Meeting Minutes October 2, 2003 Page 2 Provide an exemption from sales tax on the acquisition of rail rolling stock, construction costs and fuel used in commuter rail operations; Clarify liability and insurance matters arising in the construction and operation of commuter rail; and Preserve and protect the regional railroad authorities' interests and assets, and strengthen local govermnent's pm'tnership role in corridor development. A motion was made by Mm'k Stenglein, seconded by Bob Jolmson mad carried unanimously to approve the 2004 legislative package as presented. Commissioner Peter McLaughlin, Hennepin County, and Chair of the Metro Transitways Development Board, reviewed the progress and status of the Hiawatha LRT Line. He compared the Hiawatha Line with the successful rail line in Seattle, Washington. Commissioner McLaughlin stated that the Northstar project is the top priority for the Metro Transitways Development Board. Bob Johnson, City of St. Cloud, requested clarification of "metro counties" relating to the possible ½% sales tax to help fund the project. Bill Schreiber stated that, at the current time, "metro counties" is defined as the seven county metro area, however, this definition could change. Gary Erickson presented an update on the construction progress of the Hiawatha LRT line. The Hiawatha line is expected to open between downtown Minneapolis and Fort Snelling in April 2004 with the rest of the line terminating at the Mall of America in December, 2004. Members of the Authority expressed interest in scheduling a tour of the Hiawatha Line. Gary Erickson will make the necessary arrangements. o Jeff Dehler, Anoka County, and John Himle, Himle Horner, Inc., reviewed a petition addressed to Governor Pawlenty and Minnesota Legislators. The petition will be used to communicate infbrmation about the Northstar Corridor and may be shared with legislators and other elected officials to show support of the Northstar Commuter Rail. This petition will be mailed to households in the corridor and is also available on the NCDA website. Copies of letters fi'om citizens supporting the project were distributed as well as Resolutions from Pope County and the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors supporting funding and support for the Northstar Corridor Project. A copy of the letters and Resolutions will be forwarded to Legislators.