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I I ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - OCTOBER 15.1996 5 t' Mr. Ringwald informed Council of neighborhood concerns regarding the value of the new home to be constructed since the average home value in this neighborhood is about $69,000 but the I average value of homes being constructed today are about $240,000. He noted that a charitable organization is interested in pursuing the acquisition of the property and constructing a hOl11e of similar type to this particular neighborhood, if the City is interested. I Mr. Ringwald recommended the Council authorize Staff to extend an offer to purchase 1900 Edgewater Avenue for an al110unt not to exceed $17,300 and if the offer is not accepted by the I property owner within ten days of receipt ofthe offer, then Staff would be authorized to proceed with the abatement/condemnation of the building. I Brian Fritsinger, City Administrator, advised of revisions to proposed Resolution #96-59. I Councilmember Malone stated he is sympathetic to the property owner's plight, however, he believes they have been given adequate time to gain compliance. I Councilmember Keim noted the letter from the mortgage company and questioned ownership of the property (Kathy Skweres or mortgage company). She also asked whether this property is in the midst of foreclosure. Mr. Fritsinger advised of Staffs discussion with the City Attorney Ie regarding this issue and the intent of the resolution to proceed only if there are no property encumbrances. Councilmember Keil11 stated she believes the mortgage company would accept an offer to purchase such as this. I Councilmember Hicks asked if Staff has had recent discussion with the homeowner advising of the implications of this process. Mr. Ringwald reviewed Staffs past discussion with the property I owner. Councilmember Hicks agreed that a three year time period is sufficient and commented on the I need for some type of closure for the neighboring properties. I Mayor Probst stated his intention to support the resolution because he believes it is the best option for the neighborhood. I MOTION: Hicks moved and Keim seconded a l11otion to adopt Resolution #96-59, Authorizing the Negotiated Purchase and/or Condemnation of 1900 Edgewater Avenue. The 1110tion carried wlanimously (5-0). I The Council then returned to Agenda Itel11 6B. I B. Presentation by Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher .. Sheriff Bob Fletcher, Ramsey County, introduced John Luey, Undersheriff of the Patrol Division; Larry McDonald, Arden Hills resident, retired St. Paul police officer and Community I