10-24-11-WS - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—OCTOBER 24, 2011 4 Public Works Director Maurer responded that retaining walls would be eligible as long as they are associated with roadway. He then stated that he knows the Council's policy had been to hang onto the State Aid funds, but he believes that if there are projects eligible, the funds should be utilized allowing the City to take advantage of the interest-free loans. Councilmember Holden asked that additional information on possible MSA projects be provided to the Council. Councilmember Holden questioned if the areas where the City experiences frequent water main breaks are being considered when prioritizing street projects. Public Works Director Maurer explained that one of the projects included in his recommendation is the Edgewater neighborhood which is an area with a lot of water main breaks. He recommended the Council hold a neighborhood meeting to advise residents what the City is considering and the proposed assessment amount. Councilmember Holmes questioned why the PCI rating only reflects the appearance of the street surface and not the overall condition of the street. Discussion took place regarding the type of improvements that would be needed in the Glenview Avenue neighborhood and in the Chatham Avenue neighborhood. Public Works Director Maurer stated that he would like to see the rating done in-house so that we can rate our own streets and trails and do it more often so the ratings are accurate and current. Mayor Grant summarized the Council consensus as follows: • accept proposed maintenance plan with more details to be provided • direct staff to request a proposal from Kimley-Horn for the final plan preparation for the Old Snelling bridge for state funding • proceed with survey work on the Mounds View School trail and determine assessability to the school for project costs. B. Public Works Department Update Public Works Director Maurer stated that staff has done research and determined that a full- time staff person could be hired for the same amount of money we currently pay for 75 percent time for Roseville engineering services. Having our own staff would generally give the City more control. He explained that he would look for someone who could lead and direct projects; have ICON software skills; and someone who can work outside with Public Works staff. Consultants would only be hired for work that staff cannot accomplish and for special projects. Other options considered included working with a consultant to place a contract employee at city hall. After researching human resource issues, staff is recommending we hire a full-time staff member at a pay grade 9 or 10. Public Works Director Maurer explained that if the City decides to end its Joint Powers Agreement with Roseville for engineering services, that may impact other services Roseville