CCP 10-15-1996 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

DRAFT . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 30. 1996 4 .. Councilmember Hicks asked if the contamination occurred over time because of the operation of the Arsenal. Mr. Tolaas answered affirmatively. Councilmember Hicks pointed out that the . Arsenal has begun significant clean-up of other areas on its site and asked why they have not taken action on the Round Lakc basin. Mr. Tolaas clarified he is not saying the Arsenal is not . willing to carry the cost but it has other areas within its site which are of a higher priority due to health issues. In the case with Round Lake, the contamination was found in soil sediments so there is no threat to wildlife. . Councilmember Hicks asked if it is possible that the Arsenal would never have to fund the clean- up of this site as long as it remains undisturbed. Mr. Tolaas explained that from the Arsenal's I perspective, that may be an option. Councilmember Hicks asked, if this is the case, would the Arsenal be willing to participate financially to obtain the right-of-way needed for the upgrade of . Highway 96. Mr. Tolaas stated he does not believe the Arsenal has any funding mechanism available within its current operations to cover such a cost. Councilmember Aplikowski stated her understanding that the homeowners to be displaced will . be given an equitable housing unit within the city of their choice. She stated she is very concerned about this project, but believes the final outcome for impacted residents will be equal . or better than their current situation. Council member Aplikowski inquired regarding the outcome for the owner of the Arden Manor Mobile Home Park since it will have fewer lots. Mr. Tolaas explained the County will look at the property in terms of income potential and the park .. will be professionally appraised. Mayor Probst requested a review of the relocation policies. Mr. T olaas advised it is a state . policy and the intent is to find an equitable home site for all individuals who would be displaced. In this situation, impacted individuals would be relocated back into the same mobile home park. Home owners are also given the option for a buy-out. If the homeovvner wants to be placed into . the same park, the age of the unit is considered and if the unit is too old to relocate, it is possible to provide a supplement to the homeowner to cover the difference. Or, the resident could use the I supplement as a cash buyout and apply the funds towards a new home or whatever they want to purchase. Larry Neilson, representing the Arden Manor Mobile Home Park, explained they just found out . about this project and urged the Council to consider other alternatives that may be available. He stated this project will result in a large impact since it would relocate and displace a significant . part of their business. Mr. Neilson asserted his client is being penalized due to what the Army has done in the past, which is now causing an alignment shift to the north which will impact their business and its residents. He noted it would be very costly to condemn and take the Arden . Manor Mobile Home Park land due to sewer and water improvement issues and suggested alternatives be considered, such as a narrower boulevard. Mr. Neilson advised his client is willing to work with the City and can rearrange lot configuration but it appears the current I proposal is to eliminate many lots and income which will be a significant impact. Mr. Neilson again urged the Council to consider other alternatives and not penalize his clients for activity of .. the Army. He noted the Army cooperatively worked with them in the past and paid for the Arden Manor Mobile Home Park to connect to City water so he believes they will be cooperative I