11-26-1991 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . WESTWOOD INFORMATIONAL MEETING HELD AT ELK RIVER CITY HALL TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, ]991 MEMBERS PRESENT: Councilmembers John Dietz and Duane Kropuenske STAFF PRESENT: Terry Maurer, City Engineer; and Pat Klaers, City Engineer CITIZENS PRESENT: Approximately 35 residents from the Westwood Improvement Project area (see attached attendance sheet) Councilmember Kropuenske opened the informational meeting at about 7:00 p.m. and welcomed all the residents in attendance. He stated that the improvement project had been ordered on October 28, 1991, and that the purpose of this meeting was to review the information discussed on 10/28/91 and to answer questions from the residents regarding the proposed improvement project. The City Engineer, Terry Maurer reviewed the information that was presented to the City Council and public on 10/28/91. This information is outlined in the attached handout that was distributed at that meeting and to the citizens on 11/26/91. The review by the City Engineer included a discussion on the history of the project; the proposed sewer, water, streets, and storm sewer improvements; the cost for the project; and a number of proposed assessment formulas. Issues raised and discussed at the meeting include the following: Concern regarding the underground springs in the area and the fact the improvement project taking place may not prevent wet basements in the future. Concern over the School project and the dewatering in this area that is taking place which is causing more water problems in the Westwood area. Concern that the drainage problems in the Westwood area are not caused by property owners in this vicinity, but are caused by property owners in the Industrial Park and the area north of the Westwood area. Some residents indicated that they are not experiencing any storm sewer, street, sewer, or water problems and do not desire the project. Residents expressed concern over the state of the economy and the fact that the project may be very expensive for some homeowners. Concern was expressed regarding the assessment methods and the cost for the project and the actual value to the homeowners as a result of the improvement project. Residents requested the actual assessment amounts and the assessment formula that would be used, but this information could not be provided by the staff until the bids are opened and the City Council makes a determination on which assessment formula they prefer in this area. Additionally, it was noted by Councilmember Kropuenske that appraisals are being done in the area that will help determine an appropriate assessment level.