12-14-2015 Councill Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, November 23, 2015 7:00 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Page 17 of 41 McMillan stated it might be more difficult on Mr. Libby’s property but that replacing the trees would be a nice gesture. Libby pointed out the location of his home and the existing cul-de-sac. Libby stated that area currently is a heavily wooded area that is highly elevated at the street end. In order for a roadway to be created, that elevation would have to be dropped approximately 6.5 feet. In 2003, Mr. Gronberg was the recommended design architect to modify his lot after his property suffered catastrophic flooding. Libby stated when the flood occurred, he did not know what to do and that he approached the City and said he would like to fix the grading. Libby stated Mr. Gronberg did the design and everything was done by the book. Libby stated he had to bring in 185 yards of dirt to regrade and extend his lot out. McMillan noted most of the Council has visited Mr. Libby’s site and they are aware of the grade. Libby stated when he brought in 185 yards of fill, it took 14 truckloads of dirt. Libby stated all the engineered designed drainage that moves the water away from his house will have to be addressed, modified and changed. Libby stated the Corps of Engineers also took a look at his property prior to even a shovel of dirt being moved and that he complied with all the regulations. Libby questioned why this project is not being treated the same way. Libby stated too many pieces of the puzzle are missing and that the Council should look at filling those in. Libby commented he has not tried to make himself self-centered or selfish but instead tried to be the voice of the children and neighbors. Libby indicated he has received numerous calls thanking him for being the voice of the people who often do not get consideration. Libby noted just two weeks ago the Council had Hennepin County here at the bequest of the Metropolitan Council to talk about a project beginning in January of 2016. Libby stated that will be one of the largest sewer projects on County Road 15 to Orono Orchard Road. Libby stated in addition to what the residents will be dealing with relating to this subdivision, that project will also cause major delays for the residents trying to get in and out of their neighborhood. McMillan stated to her knowledge they will be accessing off of Dakota Trail, but that if the project is not done, the residents will not be living in their houses and that it is a necessity. McMillan stated the City has to have good wastewater treatment infrastructure. McMillan pointed out this is an example of what is called infill development, which means that the areas surrounding this property are fully developed. McMillan stated due to that, these types of development are very difficult. McMillan stated this project will obviously be much more impactful than simply one house since there will be three lots being developed and trees will be removed. McMillan stated she does not doubt any of the residents for being concerned but that this is what happens in an infill development. McMillan stated people have a right to private property and they have a right to develop that property. The City Council has a book of codes that they must comply with. As Mr. Malkerson pointed out, everything in the code book allows them to do what they are proposing to do. McMillan stated the applicants have legal access off of a public road in order to develop these three lots and they are not required to create a temporary construction road on their property when they have legal access to the northern lot on a public road.