01-26-2015 Council Work Session Packet

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January 8, 2015 R �i Orono Ci Council FC�� 2750 Kelley Parkway �4N j� F� �0 Orono, MN 55356 c��'o,�o � R�NO Greetings: Unfortunately, the potenfial solution for access to our lots in Orchard Park has not occurred, and we are left with land-locked, potentially useless property. We had previously presented a request to Hennepin County for a driveway permit from County Road 6. This permit was prepared by Mark Gronberg, and it is our understanding that it met all the design requirements. Hennepin County has denied the request based on the fact that it was adjacent to the median divider and suggested we try to find an alternafive access. That solution has proven to be unavailable. If the denial of access stands, the only remaining solution will be litigation against Hennepin County, City of Orono and the State of Minnesota for damages. It appears from the response received from Hennepin County that the denial of a driveway access was a close call as the actual design by Mark Gronberg met all of the requirements except for sight lines related to County Road 6. This access would serve one residential unit under Orono's current zoning requirement and as a result, the usage of this driveway would be minimal. Prior to starting lifigation, which could be costly to us, the City of Orono and the other parties, it might be worth the effort for the City to work directly with Hennepin County to secure the approval of access to our property in accordance with the plans prepared by Mark Gronberg. The added pressure from the City may be effective in securing the issuance of the driveway permit. We will gladly work hand-in-hand with the City in this matter and, if successful, we can resolve this issue of access without the necessity of litigafion. We would like to express our appreciafion to the Mayor for her involvement in helping us find a solution. Si er,�ly, �� n�� �� .-�Y��Z�� ' and Jean Whalen CC: Mayor Lili McMillan