Draft Minutes November 19, 2012, Work Session

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—NOVEMBER 19, 2012 3 Community Development Director Hutmacher indicated that the cost of moving wells and related water lines was included in the remediation credit negotiated with the GSA. The U.S. Army will remain responsible for the operation of the ground water clean-up system. Councilmember Holmes suggested the word "addressing" be changed to "resolving" when addressing the remediation concerns in Section 1. She expressed concern with how the site would be properly remediated by the County. Mr. Norton indicated Staff would select another word. He commented the point was to have the County understand the necessity to clean the property to a certain standard based on the proposed use for the site. However, additional clean up may be required from a future developer. Community Development Director Hutmacher further discussed the cleanup levels required for residential standards and how the County, Army and future developer would be involved. She then described the VIC program in detail with the Council noting this could be added to the JPA. Councilmember Holden asked if parcels would be allowed to be developed next to contaminated areas. Mr. Norton stated this could conceivably happen and the developer may be forced to install improvements in this case. Mayor Grant commented a market study would greatly assist the developers in selling the site, as this would define which portion should be residential versus retail. Councilmember Holden requested clarification on the terms new development and public improvements. Mr. Norton explained he would work to clarify those terms. Councilmember Holden noted through the JPA language, the City would be responsible for the storm water retention ponds. She indicated this would be a large expense in the future. She recommended if this were to remain that it be added to the City's responsibility section. City Administrator Klaers recommended this be a developer driven improvement through the Master Plan process. Public Works Director Maurer stated there was less expense and liability in maintaining the storm water ponds than in installing a sanitary sewer system. Councilmember Holmes commented the City would then be responsible for any proposed water feature amenity. She encouraged the Council to consider how this would be financed up front and if bonding would be necessary. Public Works Director Maurer stated the Master Plan would lay out the surface water management for the property.