02-14-2005 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council IvIinutes February 14, 2005 Page 2 . Mayor Klinzing recessed the regular City Council meeting at 6:31 p.m. for an Executive Session. Mayor Klinzing reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:05 p.m. Mayor Klinzing stated for the record the executive session was adjourned and that the City Council met with their attorney to discuss the Builder's Association lawsuit. 5. Open Mike Noone appeared for Open Mike. 6.1. Consider Proposal for Consulting Services for Highway 10 The Tinklenberg Group Elwyn Tinklenberg of the Tinklenberg Group explained his past government involvement both in transportation issues and with obtaining transportation funding. He distributed the analysis for the trunk Highway 10 Downtown Elk River design alternative as well as Federal Funding Request Documents and Processes informational form, which explained the work plan in trying to obtain funds. . He explained that he would work with the staff of Congressman Kennedy for submitting an application for funding, continue to work with the authorizing committees, and work with other members as well as local members of Congress who are supporting this application. He would also work with city staff to develop a large support group (Chamber, business groups, etc.) and work with this group. He emphasized that it is very important to build support in the community to help citizens understand and appreciate the importance of this funding and getting them behind this project. He explained that expenses would always be brought before Council for their approval prior to planning trips to \Vashington. He stated that the other part of his role is the attendance of fundraisers in Washington to get to know the people who are working with these projects. The city would not pay for attendance at these events, they are a business expense of the Tinklenberg Group. CouncilmemberMotin asked if the Councilmembers were to have direct contact with representatives or senators, is it appropriate to talk to them at that time, or does a meeting need to be scheduled. Mr. Tinklenberg stated that any time is appropriate and that Councilmembers could call him or his office to get background information. He stated that if Councilmembers were to be in Washington, D.C., he could help to arrange meetings with the senators and congressmen. Councilmember Motin asked if there is a match of funds. City AdministratorKlaers stated that there is a 20% local match. . Mayor Klinzing stated that transportation has been identified as the number one issue in Elk River and we need to be pro-active and very involved in the political process. She stated that she is convinced that unless we have other forces at work, we will not be successful. She stated because the state has not funded transportation adequately for some time now,