04-14-2003 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, March 24,2003 7:00 o’clock p.m. MAYOR/CITY COUNCIL REPORT, ConHnued Murphy suggested a video be edited together from the meeting and also complimented the local paper on a terrific article. Mayor Peterson questioned the tree trimming job done on the Burwell property along County Road 15. She also indicated that she had received calls and letters regarding a home on Olive that has had a tarp on the roof for a number of years. Gappa stated that the City needs to discuss enforcement of Codes in this respect. Nygard suggested the City investigate how they could possibly help homeowners complete their work. He felt, if it's an economic situation, it would be nice if the City could provide the resources or volunteers to assist homeowners who ’ve fallen on tough times. White encouraged staff to investigate CDBG grants, which are designed to help people based on need, to get things done. He maintained that there are needs not being recognized in Orono. White stated that, while affordability shou'd start at home, one priority should be to keep the affordable homes we have and assist the elderly who can't afford many things. He believed Orono could tweak the CDBG formula in order to set more money aside for its people. Moorse indicated that Orono is one in a consolidated pool of a dozen communities who share the CDBG funds. In general, Moorse stated t lat approximately $300,000 is available each year. He pointed out that several years ago, Orono and Spring Park did receive about $130,000 in funding for housing rehab projects in h avarre and Spring Park. He indicated that staff could strive to identify certain properties in Orono and resubmit an application for a portion of the funds next year. He noted that additional funding opportunities exist and could be investigated. A key would also be to get information out to the people and residents who need it. Murphy suggested contacting local churches, as they would have knowledge of their most needy parishioners. Nygard agreed that, at minimum, the City should strive to maintain the affordable housing it has. Mayor Peterson stated that, oftentimes, proud people don't ask for help, however, the City should be there as a resource. Murphy stated that Mrs. McCarthy on Chevy Chase, had contacted him regarding her water going out last Wednesday. Sh.* suggested the City do more to notify residents, like Wayzata does, when work is goin'; to be done that will affect water pressure etc. She then noted that much rust had been stirred up in her pipes due to the work done. Page 6 of9 ‘ i