11-27-23-R - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION — NOVEMBER 2, 2023 11 Community Development Director Jagoe said they were waiting on a final budget and then they would go into the RFP process in the first quarter of 2024. She didn't think they would start on ordinance work until 2024. City Administrator Perrault added that if the EAC uses an energy consultant that could drive more changes to the TRC and potential city-wide changes. City Administrator Perrault stated his understanding is to move the language forward to the next available Planning Commission and advertise the public hearing so the public can provide comments in lieu of a separate public engagement event. Councilmember Monson reviewed the comments she would be taking back to the JDA. 4. COUNCIL/STAFF COMMENTS Councilmember Monson said when people ask her what's been done and why is this different versus the past, she describes it as the new JDA carrying water the last mile; all of the work was done by past Councils. She wanted them to know that she acknowledges that. Councilmember Rousseau asked if bid bonds will be required for contractors. Mr. Lux replied yes, for public utility work. But typically not for other buildings/single family homes, as the high percentage of the workers are union workers. Councilmember Rousseau asked what happens if Mr. Lux retires during the process and who would carry this forward. Mr. Lux said they have a capable team of 12. There is also plenty of support at the builders. Councilmember Holden asked who would be the management in the future, do they need to write something in the documents that there would be a responsible management company over the rentals. Mr. Lux said they don't self -manage, they use a national firm called Gray Star. Councilmember Fabel was hopeful they could incorporate Habitat for Humanity into the construction process. Mayor Grant said there was a program offered by the Met Council regarding water conservation for smart irrigation systems that was discontinued in 2023. The program will be back in 2024 so he will be asking staff to look into it. City Administrator Perrault stated he had sent an email regarding the Council retreat contract. Councilmember Monson asked when an inquiry regarding TCAAP comes in to the City Council from the press, how do they manage answering the questions? She assumed it would be one person from the JDA and the Mayor that would respond.