CCP 10-23-2012. - Laserfiche WebLink

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Director Fernelius met with the MPCA in an attempt to resolve a few items including the request for the city to record institutional controls; covenants that would go against the title, detailing the history of the site. There is concern that the City may need to put additional venting in to address the methane that is coming out around the perimeter of the dump. Fernelius suggested waiting to install the venting until development occurs, in order to avoid the possibility of having to move the venting. Commissioner Neumann-Walker asked if the methane could be burned. Director Fernelius stated that the methane concentrations are not high enough. Update on Alternative Urban Areawide Review(Informational) Director Fernelius introduced the City's consultant Ken Nimmer. The City has been working with Mr. Nimmer since 2005. The AUAR is beneficial because developers can avoid having to pay for their own environmental study, and the City receives reimbursement from the developer. Mr. Nimmer suggested the City complete the AUAR and the subsequent update in house, allowing for a significant cost savings. The finished document is about 60 pages, hyperlinks are provided, allowing readers to access pertinent information. Currently the New Brighton Exchange is about 30% developed; once the site is completely developed, the AUAR will no longer be required. Chairperson Zisla asked for a summary of the document. Mr. Nimmer s described it as a comprehensive planning document. Director Fernelius clarified that the AUAR addresses traffic patterns, land use, infrastructure as well as contamination issues. Chairperson Zisla questioned if the number of dwelling units proposed will alter the report. Director Fernelius responded that the AUAR can be structured in various ways, and the maximum developmentis assumed. Director Fernelius directed the commissioners to the City's website to view the current AUAR, noting the 2012 update will be posted soon. Councilmember Burg stated that the AUAR is very expensive, and it has been a great benefit for the City to have had the assistance of Mr. Nimmer. Councilmember Burg questioned if neighboring cities are considered when completing the AUAR. Mr. Nimmer confirmed that they are; reporting that neighboring cities are included on the distribution list. Commissioner Knight questioned the cost, and the process for tracking employee's time. Director Fernelius reported that two funds have been created, and that is where staff time is charged to. The last AUAR cost about$50,000, that same cost is anticipated. Commissioner Knight asked why the City chooses to complete the AUAR, if it isn't a requirement. Mr. Nimmer explained that it can serve as a development benefit. Director Fernelius explained that the cost is negotiated into the land price. Mr. Nimmer explained the AUAR is a comprehensive voluntary option to several mandatory requirements. Commissioner Zelm stated that she thinks it was admirable for the City to complete the AUAR. Director Fernelius explained that historically Ryan Company was going to be the developer of the Northwest Quadrant, when that didn't materialize, the City assumed the role of developer. The testing and clean up and proactive measures taken by the City have been a contributing factor to the interest expressed by Pulte and Stuart Co. Commissioner Potter questioned the review process; what comments various agencies may make. Mr. Nimmer responded that they may question some of the projections; noting they need to provide objective findings. Director Fernelius reported the following agencies submitted comments in 2007; MN DOT, PCA, EPA, Core of Engineers, US Fish and Wildlife. August Conference Call Notes with Colliers &Ryan(Informational) Director Fernelius reported that there is a user interested in a 30,000 square foot site. Additionally APi has expressed interest in the lot north of their site. Stuart Co. has a redevelopment right through January 1, 2013.