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have to start prior to us. They can do some work around the King and Main <br />site and maybe take the lead on the sidewalk removal on the north side. A <br />rash of poor weather that would limit construction activity could hamper a <br />tight construction time frame, but we think we are safe in saying everything <br />should be completed by mid June. <br /> <br />Staff wanted to have a meeting or two with the HRA on costs and assessment <br />options prior to having the neighborhood meeting with the downtown business <br />and property owners. In this manner, in addition to the product and the design <br />for the sidewalks, we could also discuss assessments. Based on the scenarios <br />laid out by the city engineer, it is staffs opinion that a combination unit and <br />front footage assessment approach is the best and fairest for downtown <br />property owners. Either way, the city is a significant property owner and will <br />receive assessments for this project. <br /> <br />What amount to assess is a judgment call for the City Council and I-IRA. A <br />certain minimum amount needs to be assessed in order to cover the <br />administration/engineering cost for going through the assessment process <br />while assessing too much could spark opposition to the project by the property <br />and business owners. "Hard feelings" shouldn't develop when we assess only <br />15 to 20 percent of the cost of a project, but it could happen. Where the balance <br />exists will be anyone's guess. The three assessment options show revenues <br />being received that range from $42,900 to $58,500. <br /> <br />As noted in January, the HRA's share of the project will be paid off over time <br />and will be funded via an internal loan from one of the city's reserves. In this <br />manner, there will still be some HRA funds available on an annual basis for <br />other projects. If no other projects arise, the HRA can pledge more monies to <br />the repayment of the sidewalk project in any given year. <br /> <br /> <br />