HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-BPW-1995-07-19BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
July 19, 1995
NOTES
PRESENT: Commissioners Seligmann, Smith (arrived at 4:40), Reeves, Mayor
Nichols, Alderperson Johnson, Superintendent Gray, Assistant Superintendent Ferrel.
Commissioner Reeves chaired the meeting.
Additions: Request for Extension from Kathryn Dietz
There were no deletions from the agenda.
1. Reagest for -Extension for Kathrvn Dietz.
Supt. Gray noted that Kathryn Dietz, owner of 211 Columbia Street, has requested an
extension of one week to comply with the City Code. The board ruled that Ms. Dietz
was to cut the tall grass at her property in order to comply with the standards of the
neighborhood. It was decided that an extension of one week should be granted since
Ms. Dietz is making efforts to cut the grass.
%w 2. City Property Inventory.
Tim McHarg of the Planning Department, explained that he has been working on
compiling a list of city owned properties from existing permanent files and the current
tax assessments. He indicated that the list provided to the board indicates current use
of properties and whether the parcel could be utilized in a better way. This would
assist in determining what properties should be freed up. He noted that the list is in a
data base although it is not linked to a GIS map at this time. Mr. McHarg said that he
would give the board a final report at the next regular meeting.
3. Skateboarding Issue
The Board of Public Works received a letter from Micah Baker and Michael Briggs,
both are interested in a safe area which skateboarders can use. Mr. Baker
recommended that the city consider building an inside area or that an old factory or
warehouse could be used. Discussion followed on possible locations for a skateboard
area. Beverly Baker was present to address the board. She said that she has looked
into several possibilities and has found that many parents are willing to assist in
building a structure. She added that finding a location has been difficult. Alderperson
Johnson questioned why the Youth Bureau or Recreation Committee couldn't be
involved. Alderperson Mackesey suggested that the idea move forward and that
during the interim, the city find a way that a vacant portion of the Dean Building be
used. It was decided that a letter would be sent to the Youth Bureau asking for
assistance in moving forward with the issue.
BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
July 19, 1995
4. Proposed New Sidewalks and Retaining Wall.
Lynne Yost, Junior Engineer, noted that a letter was received from Dick Booth and
John Johnson requesting that a sidewalk be installed on Dryden Road from the Mobil
Station to Humphries Service Building. She explained that adjacent property owners
have been notified of the proposed new sidewalk. She added that a public hearing
could be held since it involves the installation of new sidewalk. Supt. Gray noted that
Cornell has sent a letter indicating that they are concerned that a new walk will be
more of a hazard. It was suggested that a pedestrian count be obtained in the early
fall. The BPW decided that members should look at the area of the proposed
sidewalk and that this item will be discussed further at the next committee of the
whole meeting.
5. Proposal to Form a City Natural Areas Commission.
Comm. Reeves explained that the Conservation Advisory Council has endorsed the
idea of having a committee for all natural areas within the city. Beth Mulholland was
present to address the board. She noted that the additional responsibility of natural
areas cannot be taken on by the Parks Commission. Discussion followed concerning
the existing Six Mile Creek Committee and how it would be effected. The board
decided that more information is needed: what areas would be involved, how would
the committee be organized and what services will be requested of staff. This item
will return to the BPW at a future meeting.
The meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m.
2M
Notes taken by:
Donna L. Payne
Administrative Secretary
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