07-20-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commission Minutes-July 20, 1998 1840 being in addition to the $300,000 in the approved budget. On roll call vote, motion carried unanimously. 13. RESOLUTION #1998-14 DECLARING PUBLIC NECESSITY TO TAKE LAND, Road #31 reconstruction Mr. Berndt reported that some progress has been made with the landowners since the July 6, 1998, Commission meeting when a decision was delayed on adopting a resolution declaring public necessity to take land for reconstruction on County Highway 31 from Highland Park north to County Highway 22. Additional land for right-of-way is needed in four sections of Reed Township. In the case of the Vogel property, Mr. Berndt said he offered a compromise on the 55 mph design speed on the curve, as discussed at the July 6th meeting, thereby cutting in half the number of acres the county would need. However, this action necessitates obtaining additional property from another party. He estimated another one-half acre of the Gill property will be needed as a result of the design change. Earl Lien was present on behalf of the Gill property. He expressed concern about the lack of communication on the part of the county as far as negotiations and changes in the project design. Also, he said the offer of $3,000 per acre on their property is too low and wondered how that figure was reached. He believes $4,000 per acre is more realistic and said Mrs. Gill would probably accept that as a selling price for her land. Mr. Berndt explained that this project's land appraiser recommended a per acre range with $3,000 being the upper part of the range. The decision was made to offer $3,000 per acre throughout the project, Mr. Berndt said. Michael McNair, attorney representing the Vogel property, also felt there has been a lack of communication and suggested that the county hold public meetings in the future for the benefit of the citizens whose land is needed for road projects. He said he appreciated the delay from the last meeting to work out more of the project details, and he indicated the Vogels will accept the offer made to them. Mr. NcNair said his clients understand that four acres will be purchased from them and this is acceptable, plus or minus a small amount. Mr. Berndt said it appears he will be able to work with the parties present today, however, he was not able to settle on the Blackmore property and would recommend the County begin condemnation proceedings for this last parcel. MOT/ON, passed Mr. Wieland moved and Mr. Meyer seconded to authorize the chairperson to sign the following Resolution #1998-14 declaring necessity to take land for reconstruction of County Highway 31. On roll call vote, motion carried unanimously. WHEREAS, Plans have been prepared to reconstruct County Highway 31 from Highland Park north to County Highway 22; and WHEREAS, Additional property in Sections 1, 2, 11 and 12 of Reed Township is required to construct the new roadway to appropriate engineering standards; and