03-14-2016 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, March 14, 2016 7:00 o'clock p.m. CITY ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT Van Eyll stated there was an active fire in Myrtlewood approximately six, seven years ago. Walsh stated it is his understanding they are looking to send out a letter notifying the residents and then hold a public hearing. McMillan stated exploring this is a good idea and saving money is a good idea, but that in her view this year might not be the time given the construction on Old Highway 12. McMillan stated she does not really want to have citizens coming up here and providing comment given the issues that will happen on the east end. McMillan noted there will also be some construction on the eastern edge in 2018 and that the south shore and Long Lake Road is a big deal for the community. McMillan stated she does not feel comfortable going ahead with it right now given the unknowns with Old Highway 12. Printup stated they are then potentially kicking the can down the road another two years. Printup stated they have a great opportunity to look at this now, have the information, and that they should invite the citizens in. Printup noted he has been talking about this repeatedly over the past couple of years and that they should hold the open house to see what kind of feedback they get. Printup moved, Walsh seconded, to approve a public hearing on April 11, 2016, regarding fire service, and to send out the notice to the affected homeowners. McMillan stated she would like to reword the notice slightly if the motion passes. Cornick noted the last time the Council discussed this it was suggested that a representative from the City of Long Lake sit in on this. Walsh indicated they are aware of the situation and that the Mayor attended the Fire Advisory committee meeting. Van Eyll stated he also spoke with the Long Lake City Administrator about appearing here tonight. Cornick asked if they are supportive of this. Van Eyll stated in his view the support is there as long as Orono is wiilmg to approve it. Van Eyll stated there is not anything that will negatively impact the City of Long Lake's response. Van Eyll stated as they ran some of the numbers, it was determined that it would actually help with the fire department's deficit. Walsh stated the biggest number is if it will reduce their costs so it does not impact them. Van Eyll stated they will not have to hire any new firefighters to handle 20 more calls or new fire equipment. Levang stated the greatest responsibility of the City is to provide service to the residents and that she does not want the Council to forget that. Levang stated cost savings are important but that these folks are already paying taxes. Page 34 of 37