Committee Minutes

MINUTES/PUBLIC SERVICE COMMITTEE
Monday, July 31, 1995 - 7:00 p.m.

Members present: Hagness, Hamerlik, Klave.

1. Applications for moving permits:
a) Don Wurzbacher - to move building from 1213 Belmont Road to 2203 Chestnut Street.
Mr. Wurzbacher was present, as was Bruce Melin, building inspector. Mr. Melin briefly reviewed application, that building permit had been issued by their office in error prior to approval of the moving permit.

Chairman Hagness reported he had received several calls from neighbors (Dean Jacobson and Walt Orchard called; and Karen Jacobson was at last comm. meeting) who are concerned about appearance of building, and read recommendation from building inspector re. repairs to building "..exterior repairs, and other miscellaneous repairs as required" to bring building to Code.

Mr. Wurzbacher reported he had called City Hall, and asked what he needed to do, and was given building permit to repair building; that he has talked to several neighbors; and that building will be repaired to meet Code, and will go either to the lake or farm.

Klave reported present.

Moved by Klave to approve with stipulation that building be brought up to Code within 90 days - November 1, 1995; motion died for lack of a second.

Moved by Klave and Hamerlik to approve application for moving permit with stipulation that building be brought up to Code within 60 days, October 1, and subject to the public hearing. Motion carried.

b) Park District - to move building from 110 Cherry St. to Bacon Road.
John Staley, Park District, was present. Mr. Melin reported this is nice building, and recommended approval. Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to approve application for moving permit, subject to the public hearing. Motion carried.

c) Brent Krenelka - to move building from 2103 N. Washington to 2009 13th Avenue North.
Mr. Melin reported this is nice looking building and recommended approval of the application, with stipulation that Planning and Zoning Department approve site plan prior to moving of the building. Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to approve the application, subject to approval of the site plan by the Planning Office prior to moving of the building, and subject to the public hearing. Motion carried.


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2. Matter of substandard building at 615 South 5th Street.
Mrs. Bonnie Coss was present; as was Bruce Melin, building inspector. A memo from Mr. Melin, building inspector, reporting that an inspection of the property at 615 South 5th Street was made on July 24, 1995, by fire marshall Max Allard, assessor John Herz and himself, listing the external and internal damage to the building and general estimates of correction in the amount of $10,000; an as is estimated value on the property of $18,000; and a memo from Roger "Max" Allard, fire marshall, stating that the building contains excessive combustible storage, is in a state of dilapidation and is not secure. It was noted that in 1986 the assessor's office had an appraised value of $42,000 on the property, including land (land value $9,100, 37 ft. lot) Mr. Melin stated that property owner still has ability to repair. Mr. Swanson stated that City not obligated to tear down because est. damage exceeds value of property by 50%. Mrs. Coss stated that she is selling the property, has several people interested in buying.

Mr. Swanson reported this matter came back to committee, that council asked Mrs. Coss to begin whatever repairs she considered appropriate and set time line, the committee's recommendation was to set public hearing on the demolition of the structure, and that was stricken on the council floor and sent back. He stated that if the committee is inclined to set public hearing for the demolition of the building, the earliest they could do that would be council meeting of October 2, if they don't want to set the hearing on the demolition of the building but want to wait and give her the opportunity to repair, can take no action tonight and previous action will stand. Mrs. Coss stated that the building will be sold as is, she will remove what she wants, and will be sold in September. She has rented storage unit and has started removing items from the house. Mr. Swanson stated that if building sold, can record order of demolition, and record notice of public hearing so that perspective buyers aware. He reported that notice posted on structure and can record at Register of Deeds. Mr. Swanson stated once they hold public hearing, can take action to demolish building.

Ralph McKenna, 605 South 5th Street, stated he would like to know what has been done to the house in 30 days re. report from fire marshall; that his house is close, what done to make house secure, and in event anything happens is City responsible; and what is being done with excessive combustible materials. Mr. Swanson stated City doesn't have ability to do anything, can order to secure, but no right to remove anything from the property. He also stated that the phrase combustible includes paper, cardboard, etc.; if referring to lamp oil, alcohol, not sure what that is. Mrs. Coss stated she will remove lamp oil and alcohol (left over from bar).


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Committee asked if they could have inspection by next Monday, City will help move if Mrs. Coss so requests. The committee also stated they would ask fire inspector to order out any hazardous material; Mr. Melin stated he could call the fire inspector and will be told there is no hazardous material. Mrs. Coss again stated she will get that out first (lamp oil and alcohol).

Moved by Klave and Hamerlik to receive the report and to set the public hearing on demolition for October 2, 1995.

The committee stated they would like to have status report at the first meeting in September and find out if she has followed through and completed cleaning out the house. Committee asked if they could stop demolition proceedings at that time. Mr. Swanson advised committee that once they have set the public hearing, they must hold the hearing, but would not have to take any action. Mr. Swanson advised that they must give 45 days notice upfront, 30 days after issuance of the order, and property owner can still appeal.

Mr. Swanson stated he doesn't understand what Mrs. Coss wants to do, because she won't even tell committee that; he asked Mrs. Coss that if committee has offered to help her, why run risk of all this when can get some help on it. Mrs. Coss stated she originally was going to fix outside and fix inside as she got to it, but now she's almost 70 and it's too late; and she might as well sell it as is. She stated in answer to Mr. Swanson's question that she hasn't lived there for some time (4 1/2 years) has no immediate plans to go back into the house because it would cost too much and she will be too old, and she can still work present job until she's 75. Mr. Swanson asked if she would allow City to remove material from the basement with the sanitation department; Mrs. Coss stated that maybe in a couple weeks. Mr. Swanson then asked if they had truck there tomorrow morning for her, would she let them help, and Mrs. Coss stated no, because she has to spend time at work so she can't, she's trying to get over there as much as she can. Mr. Swanson then asked when she would have time to have truck over there, and she asked if she could let them know in a week or so because she wouldn't want it sitting there when she wasn't there. Mr. Swanson stated they would like to have done in that time; Mrs. Coss stated she would remove combustibles, and Mr. Swanson stated they would like to have it all out. Mr. Swanson asked her is she would agree that it's not liveable now; Mrs. Coss agreed but that she's putting things in storage. He also stated that if house can be entered at anytime, what is in the house cannot be very secure or valuable anymore, and Mrs. Coss stated, not to anyone else, but has records, pictures, etc. and has spent lot of time picking up glass, things that have been broken, dishes, etc. Mr. Swanson stated he would think she would be little more anxious to protect
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what she's got. She stated that at this point they have wrecked most of what she had that was valuable, she stated that she asked to have water shut off and she didn't think they had. Mr. Melin stated that water service has been shut off for some time. Mr. Hagness asked Mrs. Coss if City could be allowed to help and if somebody gave them some direction they would go in and get com- bustibles out of there, and she could then proceed with cleaning rest of things out and into storage by October 2. Mr. Hagness stated they had discussed three weeks ago, and didn't know that a lot of things have been hauled out of there. Mrs. Coss stated there wasn't in the beginning because she didn't have a place to store it, and has hauled out about dozen pickup loads (not full ones). She stated she would rather do it herself for a couple weeks, and her children are helping her.

Upon call for the question, the motion carried.

Chairman Hagness asked if there was separate motion on the fire marshall's report; there was not. He then asked if there was second motion; there was not, and Mr. Hagness informed Mrs. Coss that she has until October 2 to remove, but that committee will monitor progress and bring back to committee the first meeting in September for update on the matter, and would like Mr. Allard and Mr. Melin come in the first part of September. Mr. Melin stated he would make arrangements.

The committee asked Mrs. Coss if she was telling them that she hopes to have everything cleaned out by September 1 in order to put the property up for sale and to sell in the month of September so it is sold prior to City's ever having a public hearing on October 2, and Mrs. Coss stated yes. The committee stated that if that was done, then council more likely to discontinue the public hearing if building in good enough shape to be able to sell it or be sold.

15. Matter of request from Grand Forks Water Resource District
for assistance on collapsed culvert on English Coulee
Diversion ditch.
H.J. "Jack" Lien and C.W. Ekness, Board members of Grand Forks Water Resource District, presented request, that this culvert is on road going north from gun club to lagoon. Mr. Lien reported they had their attorney look into what could be done to go back to contractor and people who manufactured culvert, both are bankrupt; 12 years since culvert installed. He stated they went to State Water Commission with a proposal for them to share in the cost to replace; that they have an offer of $71,654.00 from the County to do the project. Mr. Lien reported that the State Water Commission will contribute 50% of the cost to replace the structure, or $35,827.00; that the Grand Forks County Water Resource District will participate in the amount of 25% of the cost, $17,913 and are asking the City to also participate in
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the amount of 25%, as City involved to 25% for English Coulee Diversion, this installed as part of English Coulee Diversion, and is for the City's protection. Mr. Lien stated that if this isn't taken care of by next spring they face chance of flooding, and possibly damaging channeling.

Mr. Hagness asked if the County Hwy. Dept. had been approached to participate in the project, and Mr. Lien reported that Co. Hwy. Department has material on hand and will be doing the work. Mr. Grasser reported that County taking care of the project for the Water Resource District, and they have already completed bids for doing other bridge replacement activities within the County, they have some arrangements where County forces do some of the work and some contractors, County is planning to use that same process to replace this bridge; County's participation in using County forces and engineering.

Moved by Klave and Hamerlik to approve City's participation in the project in the amount of 25% of the cost of the project, not to exceed $17,913. Motion carried.

18. Matter of plans and specifications:
d) Proj. 4350, sanitary sewer in Sun Land West 2nd
e) Proj. 4351, watermain in Sun Land West 2nd
f) Proj. 4352, storm sewer in Sun Land West 2nd
Dan Schmaltz asked for approval of plans and specs. for private installation of utilities, that this is continuation of his projects. Al Petrick, CPS, Ltd. reviewed plans with the committee and that this is continuation on 7th.

Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to approve plans and specifications for private installation of utilities, contingent upon comments from the engineering department. Motion carried.

b) Proj. 4366, Dist. 539, paving on 6th Ave.N. west of 51st Street.
Mr. Grasser reported this paving runs from 51st Street to the end of Sun Land West First Addition, to Lot 13, and they will have to put in temporary turn-around, and recommended gravel turn-around if committee recommending that street installed next year.

Mr. Schmaltz stated that entire project approved, but just half being installed this year. Mr. Vein expressed some concern re. number of years before completion. Committee suggested they look at this year from now. Mr. Schmaltz asked if installation of underground would stop at this point also (from 51st to 55th, and it was stated that it would.

Moved by Klave and Hamerlik to pass a resolution approving the plans and specifications for this construction and further that

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the city auditor be directed to advertise for bids on the project. Motion carried.

a) Proj. 4314, Dist. 350, storm sewer along S. 34th St. (24th Ave.-30th Ave.)
Mr. Grasser reviewed plans with the committee for this project which starts at English Coulee and takes storm sewer back to tie into existing stub of sewer north of 30th Avenue South, following along S. 34th Street. Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to pass a resolution approving the plans and specifications for this construction and further that the city auditor be directed to advertise for bids on the project. Motion carried.

c) Proj. 4322, English Coulee Diversion ditch improvements.
Dean Weiland and Al Petrick, CPS, Ltd. reported this is part of the City's LOMR, that they have run into some problems with elevation of the English Coulee Diversion channel, that State Water Commission and Soil Conservation Service couldn't certify to FEMA that it would meet the 100-year requirements, and consequently worked out joint engineering agreement where they did the elevations and CPS did the plans and specs. showing what would have to be up-graded. He stated they are proposing to upgrade 3 miles of dikes on the diversion channel and upgrade structures at 3 locations, and this project will bring the diversion channel up to the elevation where it will carry the 100-flood elevation as it's diverted from the diversion dam so the City can get their LOMR through the English Coulee which runs through the city of Grand Forks. Mr. Weiland stated he wrote letter that based on plans and specs. it brings up to elevations required and that CPS will certify the elevations, and the State Water Commission and SCS will certify that it will carry it based on those elevations. He reported that it is then up to FEMA, and they (CPS) has put together letter to FEMA asking that they approve the LOMR on a conditional basis and will have City review before sending out. Mr. Weiland stated should have approval by the end of the year if construction done; est. cost $200,000.

Mr. Grasser reported that State Water Commission has agreed to fund 50% of the cost of the project, the Red River Joint Board has agreed to fund 20 or 25%, and remaining balance split between City and Water Resource District. Mr. Weiland reported that when this is done it will take lots out of the flood plain; and noted
that replacement of the culvert on English Coulee Diversion ditch will also be beneficial for this, because that will lower the water level as that structure was also undersized, will have some effect along with bridge replaced on 29th and 55th with flood damage funds. It was not known what savings would be in flood insurance premiums (possibly between 100 to 200 properties), which run from $200 to $700+. It was noted that funding has already been approved.


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Moved by Klave and Hamerlik for approval of the plans and specifications. Motion carried.

16. Matter of preliminary engineering agreements for projects:
a) Proj. 4349 - bikepath along Red River from Plum to Lincoln (Federal Aid Project TEU-6-986(041)044).

Mr. Petrick, CPS, reported they submitted engineering services agreement to engineering department. Mr. Grasser reported they have reviewed the contract for bikepath along Red River from Plum to 8th Ave. which covers preparation of concept report and plans and specifications, have federal commitment on the project. He noted they will subsequently enter into another contract for actual construction engineering on the project.
Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to approve agreement for preliminary engineering in the amount of $27,144.98. Motion carried.

b) Proj. 4340, Dist. 238, watermain along S. Washington from 28th Ave.S. to 40th Ave.S.
Tom Hanson, WFW, was present. Mr. Grasser reported this project was originally Project No. 4010, trying to complete water distribution system along S. Washington, connecting it from 28th Ave.S. to 32nd Ave.S., this has been before committee several times, that Forx Rental is looking to put in mini-storage facility at S. Wash. and 40th Ave.S., that in view of the construction and needs out there (project would run from 28th Ave.S. to 40th Ave.S. and along 40th), that with number of projects and late requests, don't have time to adequately address all of the questions that have come up on the project, and as WFW has done water distribution model of the city of Grand Forks and there are portions of that model that will show impact of this project, have asked Mr. Hanson to put together estimate of what it would cost to provide engineering for plans, administration and to get project bid; construction will be done by the City; that this is large project and needs to be done this fall; est. cost of engineering $22,600.00 which is on a time and material, not to exceed, basis. Mr. Grasser reported that staff will be meeting with Mr. Norman (and others) tomorrow to review process, with subsequent meetings to provide better breakdown of costs and more details.

After further discussion it was moved by Klave and Hamerlik for approval of preliminary engineering agreement with Webster, Foster & Weston in amount not to exceed $22,600.

Committee asked why change in est. cost of project; Mr. Vein reported only change in project is that scope of the project has changed, that 8% engineering costs assessed whether City or consultant does work.

Upon call for the question, the motion carried.

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8. Matter of agreement for engineering services for Proj. 4306, siting and development of new landfill.
Mr. Lambrecht reported that this is agreement with Burns & McDonnell, Kansas City, KS; that they use WFW as local firm, that they spent some time negotiating the agreement and have good agreement which reflects scope of work to be done; two parts to the agreement: master agreement which sets forth provisions that apply throughout the entire project of developing new landfill, including engineering services; second part, is Phase I, or first work order which involves finding a spot for the landfill, getting State approval of the site, at cost of $116,368.00; total est. cost for the landfill is $4.7 million, including engineering, permitting, land, construction, etc.; total engineering costs could reach $600,000, and tonight committing to the first $116,000. He reported that breakdown of the fees in Phase I aree as follows: $61,000 to Webster, Foster & Weston, and $40,000 to Burns & McDonnell, and $15,000 to Midwest Testing for soil explorations.

It was noted that they have already done selection criteria, etc., and phases priced separately; it was also noted that they will work with Region IV and County on this, and information from County will be provided to consultant.

Mr. Swanson advised committee that there is a limitation on liability on part of the engineer at $2 Million; that was long time in coming from negotiations, they wanted no liability; there are a few unique things in this contract that normally don't have but have exhausted all our negotiating leverage in reaching agreement that he can live with. Mr. Hanson noted that there are more regulatory phases than normal to get to construction, two more steps, and are shown on the list.

Moved by Klave and Hamerlik for approval of the master agreement for engineering services and approval of Authorization #1.
Motion carried.

12. Report on study of wastewater treatment capacity.
Hugh Veit, KBM, Inc., reported they were commissioned to look at capacity of the wastewater systems and entering into a contract to study the three areas of the existing system: reassessment and evaluation of the pre-aeration system, four smaller cells, and evaluation would be based on new flow and strength of incoming waste since initial work in 1992; evaluate treatment process of the lagoon system; and assessment of the nitrification capabilities of the system and evaluation of nitrification concern (nitrification is ammonia removal from the wastewater stream). He reported that when they first looked at this the scope of work did not include anticipation of evaluation of alternative treatment options, rather the study was going to concentrate on the optimization of existing treatment processes

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which is pre-aeration followed by lagoon treatment and when started getting involved in this study and researching, found out that the ultimate capacity of the wastewater treatment system is 9 mgd, based on 180 day storage of main lagoon system; evaluating pre-treatment in that system in two cells using 9 mgd and consistent strength of waste as is coming in now, would have to activate two other cells, and add 4 more. He reported they have about 27% removal efficiency with the first two cells, if add 2 cells up to about 43%; but when start building the additional cells, go from 43% to 47%, to 51%, so removal efficiency is very little while anticipated waste flow is going to get stronger, so not gaining much. He reported they then started looking at other options, one of which is converting the pre-aeration system into an active sludge system, that basic structure (ponds, aeration, etc.) can be used in an activated sludge process, and all adding is two clarifiers on the back, return sludge that is gathered off the bottom of the clarifiers and bring back into the headwaters, in essence seeding the waste coming in to increase the treatment capabilities of the system. He reported that other benefit is that activated sludge removal is more reliable and they are evaluating that. He reported that study has taken a right turn, that they were going to be evaluating existing processes to see what could do, but have seen certain advantages to do an activated sludge so are evaluating a treatment alternative. He reported that they met with State Health Department last week, that one of the issues with activated sludge is that you have to have sludge disposal, and they were receptive to the alternative types of sludge disposal, and they are looking to dispose of in the main lagoons, and if can do, will save significant amount of money in capital costs plus operation and maintenance. He stated they wanted to update committee and have some really neat things to give flexibility, expandability; that where this ultimate system had 5l% b.o.d. removal, the activated sludge would be 98%
removal. The committee asked how much more money are they talking about; and Mr. Veit stated that's not determined yet; that there are common costs to both systems; and that he has alerted Mr. Vein that this is a change in the scope of the study.

Mr. Vein reported that they need to make committee aware, and that they needed to make modifications or changes to the treatment system, and are looking to have everything in place so can have construction project in 1996, that will be part of the budget approval process. He stated they need to look at total cost, life cycle or annual costs, one more capital intensive, and need to study them both to see which will be least costly in long run for City to operate. He reported they were able to get 3% revolving loan fund from the State Health Department and helps in making decision on which way to go. He stated that they will bring in revision to their contract for the study phase to look at in conjunction with what originally defined, and they will continue with this study to make sure it proceeds in a timely

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manner. The committee questioned why study both systems, and not just activated sludge system; Mr. Vein stated they want to make sure have most efficient use of system; would rather spend money upfront to thoroughly analyze alternatives to make sure making right decision. Mr. Vein stated est. $2-3 million for the project; but not sure what additional costs for the study are. Mr. Veit stated he would have numbers in two weeks.

7. Request to solicit engineering proposals for sludge plant
evaluation, Project No. 4377.
Hazel Fetters-Sletten, water supt., stated they are proposing pilot program for different technique in handling sludge, received zero bid and now at point where need to make evaluation of project and funding; this is request to solicit proposals. Mr. Lambrecht reported there is funding in the budget, need to identify problem and how to deal with, and have consultant prepare grant applications. Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to authorize staff to solicit proposals for the project. Motion carried.

9. Request for authorization to call for bids:
c) analytical balance for laboratory for water department
Mrs. Fetters-Sletten reported they need for State certification of the lab., funds are budgeted. Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to authorize call for bids for the lab equipment. Motion carried. (comm. only)

a) air compressor for street department
Mr. Lambrecht reported this will replace 25-year old compressor used for removal of concrete, asphalt, etc. Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to authorize call for bids. Motion carried. (comm. only)

b) sand spreader box for street department
Mr. Lambrecht reported this box for truck they will inherit from sanitation department, and replaces box on a single-axle truck. Moved by Klave and Hamerlik to authorize call for bids. Motion carried. (comm. only)

5. Selection of provider for drug and alcohol testing services.
Mr. Gordon was not present. Mr. Lambrecht reported this is drug and alcohol testing that is required for commercial drivers license holders as of the first of next year; that he, Mr. Gordon, and Mr. Ulland had interviewed four potential providers (one from Stillwater, MN, two from Bismarck, and one from Grand Forks) and they are recommending contracting with Ad-Med Associates of Bismarck to provide that service (it was noted that Grand Forks firm in debt to the City in substantial amount of money), that this provider presently is doing testing for Bismarck and Minot; that provider will do random selection, make
arrangements for testing, shipping of tests and report results

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for review and/or referral, for 120-150 employees to which this will apply, est. cost $6,000/year. He noted that this may be means of finding employee who has problem, City does have program in place to assist that employee. Moved by Klave and Hamerlik to accept the bid of Ad-Med Associates, Bismarck. Motion carried.

Klave brought to attention of committee article in paper on street repairs, and stated he would like to commend employees of street department for a job well-done.

10. Matter of authorization to offer for sale on bids:
a) scrap metal (appliances) at landfill.
Mr. Newman reported they had tried to sell several years ago, but nobody wanted; that a company came in and offered to take at no cost to the City; that last year they had inquiries re. disposal of appliances, have 3 or 4 parties interested, and requested authorization to take bids. Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to authorize calling for bids for the sale of scrap metal. Motion carried.

Mr. Lambrecht reported that they don't expect to make much money, but will have agreement in place, can require insurance, hold harmless and definite date for removal of materials.

3. Matter of request for special assessment project at 930 North 3rd Street. Mr. Grasser reported he had talked with Ms. Jensen, that they had problem on private property, that eng. encouraging that this be handled privately, but they are having some problem finding funding, and it now appears they will be able to handle privately. Held.

4. Matter of excessive water in area between 10th and 13th Aves. N. and between N. 17th and 20th Streets.
Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to refer to the engineering department. Motion carried.

6. Request to obtain quotes for Proj. 4339, school crossing at
5th Street and 2nd Avenue North.
Mr. Grasser reported this is for improvement of pedestrian crossing on 5th Street and 2nd Avenue North; that there were lights there at one time and were taken down because didn't meet warrants, and now apparently with latest traffic and pedestrian counts and with anticipated increase in pedestrians with 9th graders at Central, it appears those warrants will be met. He reported they have to have approval from DOT before installation of anything, that they were deciding between full signalized intersection or flashing school beacons, and appears that DOT is going to recommend installation of the full signalized intersection, and assuming this goes through, and as City has most of the material, are asking for quotes to do all the

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installation, and estimating cost at about $20,000.

Mr. Klave stated he has problem with this, that they have turned down requests to get grade school children across the street, that they can spend $20,000 to put lights in, and those kids are going to cross in the middle of the street; lights won't solve problem. Committee suggested requiring the School District to participate in the cost so will take little responsibility for those kids. Mr. Vein reported safety committee has proposed either one of these solutions (flashing or permanent signals), and noted that one of City Hall employees struck by car at this intersection; other pedestrians crossing.

Mr. Grasser reported that the safety committee didn't refer to this committee, but authorized the engineering department to proceed with getting safety measures installed.

Hamerlik moved to refer this matter back to public safety with the express purpose of determining safety value; motion died for lack of a second.

Moved by Klave and Hagness to approve quotes and authorize advertising for bids for a fully signalized intersection on a 50-50 cost participation basis with the Grand Forks School District, and contingent upon strict enforcement of pedestrian traffic and vehicle traffic regulations. Motion carried.

11. Matter of purchasing property for future water plant project.
Mr. Lambrecht reported that the project to expand the plant had been placed on hold while making improvements inside the
plant, however, within perhaps next five years that project will be necessary. He reported that residents of block south of the plant have been put in difficult situation in that we've hurt their mobility to sell their homes or exercise whatever options may be available to them because of potential of this project over them. He reported there are 13 properties in that block, and that he has been contacted by the owners of 7 of the properties asking if the City would consider buying their properties; that City has money in this year's budget, $400,000, which could be used for this purpose. He stated that pros for offering individuals option that they could offer their property to the City is that it's morally right thing to do if we have negatively affected or impacted their ability to sell their property on the open market; that we have financial capability to buy, and have means to keep in good condition through Community Development, rent and hold until some point in the future where need for water plant project or offer back to the public on the
open market if property never needed. He stated that it's going to be somewhat of complicated project in that can't just go and offer to buy someone's home, should make sure to inform everyone in the block of City's intentions. He stated that alternatives

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are 1) to do nothing, 2) consider each offer made individually, 3) and what they are advocating and asking for permission is to go ahead and consider purchasing properties that are offered to the City, would come back to this committee with each offer. He stated he would send letter to each property owner in the block relating history of the project, that they are not actively soliciting to buy properties, but would consider offers made. He stated they would establish procedure, using assessor's valua- tion, with possibility of obtaining independent appraisals, and also holding public meeting. Mr. Swanson advised not using independent appraiser, but use valuation of city assessor, if property owner adamant not going to sell at city assessor's appraised value, then go to independent appraisal. Hamerlik asked what advantage to buying piecemeal; Mr. Lambrecht stated that this location identified as least costly location for expansion, but there are other locations that might work, and they have stopped short of saying this IS the spot. Mr. Hamerlik stated he didn't see any advantage to buying now. It was also noted this would become tax exempt property. Mr. Vein stated they are going to need sometime, $1 Million less to use this side that post office property, and are looking at as in-kind match for federal funds in the future. Mr. Swanson stated City would have ability to condemn property. Mr. Hamerlik asked if any advantage to get option to buy. Mr. Swanson stated that if get option, cap price; but that some of the people who don't want to sell now, wouldn't want to give option. He reported his suggestion to Mr. Lambrecht was not to solicit purchase, but tell property owners that project is still uncertain and there have been no decisions made, that City has been approached by a number of property owners interested in selling their property and City
would entertain any proposals they might wish City to consider. He also noted that any acquisition would have to come back.

Moved by Klave and Hamerlik to authorize staff to negotiate purchase of property with any property owners who approach the City re. sale of their property. Hamerlik seconded the motion. Motion carried.

13. Matter of various easements.
The committee reviewed the following easements:
a) temporary construction easement for English Coulee Diversion ditch for improvements to existing dikes and culverts at southeast corner of US Hwy. 2 and Co. Road No. 5 (Airport Drive ext.) for and in consideration of $1.00, William G. Saumur, grantor.
b) temporary construction easement for Watermain Project No. 4365, 6th Ave.N. between N. 51st St. and vacated N. 52nd St. for and in consideration of $1.00, Sun Land West L.L.C., grantor.
c) easement for electrical distribution line for underground
distribution service at city water tower site at S. 38th St. and 29th Ave.S., for and in consideration of $1.00, City of Grand

MINUTES/PUBLIC SERVICE COMMITTEE
July 31, 1995 - Page 14

Forks, grantor (to Nodak Electric Cooperative).
Moved by Klave and Hamerlik to approve the easements as presented, and authorize proper City officials to sign said easements. Motion carried.

14. Budget amendment.
The committee reviewed request to amend street department budget in the amount of $19,200.00 from cash carryover to various line items (wages, temp. wages, office supplies, minor tools and equipment, and maintenance streets) to cover expenses through end of the year. Moved by Klave and Hamerlik to approve the budget amendment. Motion carried.

17. Matter of consideration of bids:
a) Proj. 4196, lagoon discharge sample building.
Mr. Grasser presented tabulation of bids received, that this is budgeted item, bids are within budget, and recommended award to low bidder. Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to accept the low bid of L.A. Anderson Construction in the amount of $10,250.00. Motion carried.

b) Proj. 4374, Dist. 364, storm sewer in Medvue Estates 6th.
Mr. Grasser reported this project north of 17th Ave.S., reviewed tabulation of bids received, bids little over estimate but good price, and recommended award to low bidder. Moved by Hamerlik and Klave to accept the low bid of Duckstad Contracting, Inc. in the amount of $27,842.80. Motion carried.

19. Matter of creating special assessment districts:
a) Proj. 4255, Dist. 531, paving 26th Ave.S. and S. 21st St.
Mr. Grasser reported they had received petition from Dan Mikkelson requesting paving, that it's late in the year to start project, but Mikkelson has some development and needs paving, and reviewed project for paving of 26th Ave.S., 2000, 2100 and 2200 blocks, and 2600 block of South 21st Street. It was noted that there are no up-front monies as developer is installing all utilities privately (and is comparable to $100,000, which is half of est. cost). Moved by Klave and Hamerlik that we adopt a resolution creating the assessment district, approving the engineer's report, including estimate of cost, an assessment district map, and further that we pass a resolution instructing the city engineer to prepare detailed plans and specifications, and that we declare intent to sell bonds to finance these improvements. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 9:55 p.m.

Alice Fontaine
City Clerk

Dated: 8/01/95