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City Council Regular Meeting - 09/13/04 Minutes - Page 13 Maschka moved, Schroeder seconded, continuation of the Assessment Hearing for Project Number P-ST -03-02-68 to September 27, 2004, to allow staff adequate time to review questions or complete additional research. Roll Call Ayes: Maschka, Ihlan, Kough, Schroeder and Klausing. Nays: None. 7. Consider Changing the City's Policy or City Code Respecting Financial Responsibility for Sewer Back-ups Councilmember Kough, on behalf of the homeowner at 2932 Asbury Street, advised Councilmembers that a recent blockage had been found at the connection of the service line and City main. Councilmember Kough opined that, in this particular circumstance, the problem was caused by roots of a Dutch Elm tree planted less than five feet from the existing sewer service. Councilmember Kough requested Council consideration of sharing costs for replacement, between $5100 - $5500, with the homeowner. Councilmember Kough and staff reviewed the current policy language as to maintenance responsibility. Ms. Johnson, 2932 Asbury Street Ms. Johnson advised that the problem was in the connection, and that no cement or bonding material was evidenced around the rubber donut between the six inch city main and the four inch service line; further opining that the connection was set to fail and totally root bound at the connection, even though her service line was operational. Ms. Johnson clarified that the repair and replacement cost had been approximately $4,600 in addition to the City's permit fee of$500, for a total of$5,129.00. Councilmember Kough reiterated the unique circumstances, and opined that the Council should at least split half of the damages with the property owner. Mayor Klausing clarified whether Councilmember Kough's request was to review the City's current policy, or just for City's Policy or City Code Respecting Financial Responsibility for Sewer Back-ups