WS 2008 02 25
CHANHASSEN CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION
FEBRUARY 25, 2008
Mayor Furlong called the work session to order at 5:35 p.m.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT:
Mayor Furlong, Councilman Litsey, Councilwoman
Ernst, Councilwoman Tjornhom, and Councilman McDonald.
STAFF PRESENT:
Todd Gerhardt, Laurie Hokkanen, Kate Aanenson, Paul Oehme, Todd
Hoffman and Jill Sinclair.
UPDATE ON MINNETONKA MIDDLE SCHOOL WEST PROJECT 08-08.
Paul Oehme introduced Brian LeMon with Barr Engineering who provided an update on the
progress of test drilling and background information on GM, the low bidder for the project. He
explained the problems associated with the existing well not meeting current state standards due
to when the well was constructed, and explained what will need to be done to meet those
standards. Paul Oehme showed a drawing of the proposed well site and locations for piping and
easements, explaining which approvals are needed from the School District. Mayor Furlong
asked about the estimated cost associated with the short term use as defined by the Department
of Health’s sunset clause of 2012 and whether that date is flexible. Todd Gerhardt stated the
agreement can contain broad language to address the sunset date and if and when the new water
treatment plant or Well #14 are built. Councilman McDonald asked if there were any guarantees
that the school well would work through 2012. Todd Gerhardt talked about the costs and
timeline involved with drilling a new well now.
DISCUSSION OF RECYCLING PROGRAM.
Jill Sinclair gave a power point presentation on the benefits of an organized recycling program,
and the steps the city would have to follow if they wanted to pursue such a program. She
reviewed the cost savings to residents, along with a potential revenue source. Councilman
McDonald asked about the impact to current haulers. Todd Gerhardt discussed the process the
city has gone through before and what the council can expect to hear from the haulers and
residents.
The work session was recessed at 7:00 p.m. It was reconvened at 7:55 p.m.
Discussion continued with the organized recycling program. Todd Gerhardt asked for council
feedback on whether to pursue or not pursue this program. Kate Aanenson talked about a
comprehensive study that was conducted by Eden Prairie, stating staff could invite other cities to
a future meeting to discuss their experiences. Councilman McDonald stated he would like
feedback on an open versus one hauler option, along with additional information from other
cities. Councilwoman Ernst felt it was worth studying further as a possible revenue source.
Councilwoman Tjornhom stated she didn’t envision the city being in the recycling business and
would prefer to let the residents keep their rights on who to pick and negotiate privately with the
City Council Work Session - February 25, 2008
hauler of their choice. Councilman Litsey talked about the cost savings on road maintenance
with one hauler, but would be in favor of exploring other options. Mayor Furlong expressed
concern with restricting competition and would favor a free enterprise system. Todd Gerhardt
asked the council to consider what services they envision providing residents, and if recycling is
one of those services they wish to provide.
REVIEW LYMAN BOULEVARD PLANS & SPECIFICATIONS.
Paul Oehme gave an update on the schedule for the Lyman Boulevard improvement project,
noting that the intersection with Galpin Boulevard does not currently meet warrants for a
signalized intersection. Mayor Furlong asked about the cost savings of installing a light now
versus later once the high school is completed. Todd Gerhardt, along with Todd Hoffman,
discussed the trail system and the temporary placement of the trail until the Degler Farm
develops. Paul Oehme noted the biggest concern of staff is the staging and temporary traffic
routes being proposed by MnDot for the entire length of the project. He also reviewed offer
letters being sent to residents and current budget numbers.
CITY CODE UPDATE, CHAPTERS 18 & 20 (IRRIGATION).
Kate Aanenson discussed the changes being proposed by staff regarding signage, pre-application
submittal meetings, permitting hospitals and health care services in the commercial and
industrial districts, animal impound, and landscape escrow. Mayor Furlong asked about the
wording “in an emergency” regarding landscaping escrow. He also asked staff to look for
feedback and include the Chamber of Commerce in the review process regarding signage.
Mayor Furlong asked about the land use changes being proposed. Todd Gerhardt suggested the
council take a field trip to visit 4 or 5 of the sites with major changes. The council discussed the
public hearing process regarding land use changes in the comprehensive plan update, and
feedback received to date from other governmental agencies.
Mayor Furlong adjourned the work session meeting at 9:10 p.m.
Submitted by Todd Gerhardt
City Manager
Prepared by Nann Opheim
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