03-18-13 Jt City Council, PTRC, and PC

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—MARCH 18, 2013 4 Councilmember Holden requested staff speak with the other homeowner who also had an abnormal spike in water usage and discuss the utility bill appeals process with him. The consensus among the Council is to have staff split the difference on the bill for the Beckman Avenue property. C. Verizon Wireless Communication Site Discussion City Planner Beekman stated that the City and Ramsey County have both been approached by Verizon Wireless regarding an underserved area near City Hall and the possibility of a ground lease for a monopole tower. She indicated that Verizon Wireless was seeking a location north of Highway 96 that could accommodate a 75-100 foot tower. The City is open to considering this request, but the final decision will rest with the Council. She explained that under current City Code, monopoles require co-location and are allowed through a conditional use permit. She stated she will investigate this matter further with Verizon and will report back to the Council. Councilmember Holden asked if the City Hall site had any height restrictions due to the helicopter flight paths. City Planner Beekman noted she will have to look into this. It was noted that one option is to place the monopole on the building. Mayor Grant questioned if Verizon was located on any water towers in the City. City Planner Beekman reviewed the current antenna tenants located within the City and noted that Verizon does not currently have an antenna in Arden Hills. She indicated the County property may be a better location for a monopole than City Hall. Mayor Grant stated he was not in favor of a monopole and suggested that the water tower site be recommended. Councilmember McClung indicated that he needs more information before making a decision on this issue. The consensus among the Council is to direct staff to investigate the Verizon Wireless monopole further. D. Discuss Proposal Increase in Metro Area Transit Sales Tax Mayor Grant stated he was contacted by the Regional Council of Mayors (RCM) regarding supporting the proposed increase in the sales tax for the metropolitan transit system. He commented the governor has not backed off on this issue. Councilmember McClung indicated the governor has actually recommended the rate be increased .75% to assure enough revenue is raised. It is estimated $791 million would be raised for transit by 2017.