05-28-1996 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON MAY 28, 1996 (Mayor /Council Report - Continued) Callahan brought the Council's attention to a draft, as well as a memo written by Moorse, regarding Highwav 12. He asked for comments on the draft concerning the Citv's objection to the inclusion of a south bypass, and /or a TSM alternative in Mn/DOT's continuing decision process. The City will send comments to Mn/DOT this week. Council commented on the number of letters received this week in reference to the Hwy 12 proposal. ENGINEER REPORT The City Engineer was absent from the meeting. CITY ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT ( #6) LOWRY WOODS ACCESS EASEMENTS Moorse reported that the Park Commission had discussed access to Lowry Woods and have recommended acquiring a pedestrian access versus vehicular access. This is the least costly and has the least impact. Access through a small triangular parcel of land on the north side of Bayside Road is recommended. Staff would like authorization from the Council to approach the property owners regarding acquisition of easements. Two owners, one owning the triangular shaped land and another to gain access past the corner of the property, would need to be approached. Goetten asked why 20' was recommended. Moorse said the trail minimum would be 10' and the additional 10' would assist with maintenance and creation of a buffer zone. Hurr asked if Lowry Woods would be used for walking through. Flint said it would. The Park Commission is attempting to gain access in the most obtrusive way in order to make Lowry Woods available to the public. Goetten said it was unfortunate that it takes such large sums of money to gain access. Moorse said Staff will attempt to negotiate with the property owners noting there would be no impact on those properties to the south side of Bayside. Jabbour noted that there would be costs involved to the oroperty owners if they desired their attorneys to review documents. Kelley voiced concern with cars stacking up on Co Rd 84. He asked if the shoulder was large enough to support parked cars. Moorse said the road was not equipped for car parking, but it was not expected that those interested in enjoying Lowry Woods would be coming by car but by bike or walking.