05-16-1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

Comm. Minutes--May 16, 1994 1209 15. These projects were originally submitted as relocations, according to Mr. Sovig, but funds were not approved for relocation since one project would involve moving a business. Mr. Ness asked about the project cost and what the two property owners will pay. Mr. Sovig said the grant award is for $196,200, and there is no cost to these two landowners. Mr. Ness is concerned about spending taxpayers' money to benefit two people who do not have an investment in correcting the flood problem themselves, when other taxpayers have spent money for flood damage on their property. Also, Mr. Wieland said the road from the south still floods at times and asked if part of the grant money will be used to address the accessibility problem. Mr. Sovig said no money is available at this time for the road, but he has talked to Jeff Volk at Moore Engineering about using some of the first money from the grant to address the road issue. Mr. Wieland mentioned the on-going flood control project on the Maple River, which will potentially reduce the flow of water by about 1/3. He would like to see how this might affect the Reed and Raymond Township properties before taking action on this grant today, as it will potentially reduce the elevation of water in that area. MOTION, passed Mr. Wieland moved and Mr. Eckert seconded to delay action for a minimum of 45 days on the financial award for two properties in Reed and Raymond Townships in order to get some background information on the following: 1) how the money would be specifically spent; 2) other alternatives; 3) could the money be expanded to include additional properties in the event the cost could be substantially lower; and 4) consult with engineers regarding what the future project on the Maple River might do in reducing the flow and lowering the elevation of water in this area. On roll call vote, the motion carried with three members voting "Aye" and Mr. Ness opposing because of tax dollars being used for a project where the homeowner has nothing invested. Mr. Sovig asked if the Commission would be opposed to using money from this grant to pay for engineering costs, and Mr. Risher said to send a proposal in writing before the Commission will act on any requests concerning this grant. Mr. Wieland also said he will not automatically support this request after receiving additional information because he thinks the grant needs to be reviewed further in terms of benefitting more than two property owners. He will contact Jeff Volk concerning the Maple River issue. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT, Update on Bryan and Janice Johnson project and City of Harwood project Mr. Sovig reported that the CDBG grant award for Bryan and Janice Johnson is proceeding on schedule, with the environmental review being complete and the bank account set up. He said Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are waiting for loan approval, and then they can find a new property.