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. . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 26,1999 20 With regard to the land transfer issue and Councilmember Larson's upcoming trip to Washington D.C., Councilmember Aplikowski stated that she did not believe it would make a difference for Councilmember Larson to speak on behalf of the City, Councilmember Malone stated that Congressman Vento had indicated that the process had been completed. He was reluctant to press the issue so as not irritate anyone. Councilmember Malone asked Mayor Probst ifhe had been able to contact General LeBlanc. Mayor Probst stated that General LeBlanc was currently in Washington D.C. and he has not returned any of the Mayor's calls, He left a request with the General's office that General LeBlanc return his call when he returns to Minnesota on Wednesday. Mayor Probst indicated that this was unusual behavior for General LeBlanc to not return his calls and he was trying not to read too much into this. Councilmember Larson asked ifhe should plan to stay one extra day in Washington D.C. He agreed that it does not make sense to ask Congressman Vento to do anything, however, it would bring attention to the City. He expressed concern that the City had not received a copy of the land transfer documents. It would be preferable to see a copy of what is being signed as it has a direct impact on the new City Hall project. Mayor Probst stated the reason the City had not received a copy was because the City is not party to the agreement and a copy was not asked for. He suggested that the Army National Guard be asked for a copy of the agreement. Councilmember Larson concurred. Council member Aplikowski asked if staff had been in contact with the contractor for the City Hall project regarding an extension to the start date. Mr, Fritsinger stated that the contractor would not be contacted until stall has a better idea of the status of the land transfer. COlillcilmember Aplikowski asked at what point in the timeline the project is. Mr. Fritsinger stated that June 11, 1999 would be the end of the 90 days. He indicated that he would prefer to wait a couple more weeks before approaching the contractor for an extension, This should allow time to lind out from the Army National Guard if the City Hall project can move forward without the lease agreement being finalized, Councilmember Larson asked, with the relationship that staff has with the Commander's Representative, Mr. Mike Fix, why would the City have to ask for a copy ofthe land transfer agreement. Mr. Fritsinger explained that it was due to protocol and the fact that the transfer is being handled at a different level ofthe Army. Mayor Probst asked staff if there had been any feedback regarding the lease agreement. Mr. Fritsinger stated that there had been no feed back as of yet.