06-02-2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commission Minutes-June 2, 2008 3363 Jim Gunkelman was present. He owns the company and said numerous studies have shown the chemicals cause no harm to the environment or to people. His company wants to be a good neighbor to the surrounding communities. Bob Staloch, zoning administrator for Normanna Township, was present. He said the township approved the subdivision and embraces it as economic development for the area. He said the township is willing to work with area residents regarding their concerns. Ms. Hagler welcomes the company into their community but just wants to make sure the chemicals used are safe. Mr. Wagner asked if the flares tested create a noise or smell for area residents. Mr. Gunkelman said the flares do not give off a sound or a smell when lit. Mr. Staloch said when Normanna Township meets to discuss zoning for the site, the township will consider including test restrictions regarding wind speeds and location of testing. Ms. Hagler was invited by Mr. Staloch to be involved in the discussion at the township zoning meeting. MOTION, passed Mr. Vanyo moved and Mr. Wagner seconded to grant final plat approval for Torgerson Second Subdivision, Section 16, Township 137N, Range 50W in Cass County, North Dakota. Motion carried. 9. ROAD DEPARTMENT, Construction proiect recommendations Keith Berndt, County Engineer, was present to discuss road construction projects for 2008. He provided a comparison sheet and map of different options to consider. He said due to the recent volatility in the oil market and inflation in highway construction costs, it is difficult to predict how much more the projects might cost if deferred until 2009. If the county awards the 2008 projects which have been bid, a shortfall of approximately $1.3 million will exist in the road and bridge fund. He recommends the county award all the projects, borrow money from the building fund, and pay the money back from the 2009 road and bridge budget. He said the only risk of awarding the projects today is prices could decrease between now and next year. The risk is small and is offset by having the projects in use sooner. He said the risk of deferring some projects is if inflation continues, it could make projects significantly more expensive next year and there were no offsetting factors for that risk. For example, a 20% increase in the cost of the Cass County 17 project would equate to $900,000, which is about 1/3 of total expected highway project funds available for next year. Michael Montplaisir, County Auditor, said it is not uncommon to borrow from the building fund and pay it back in a future year; however, the county needs to ensure the money will be paid back from the road and bridge fund. Mrs. Sorum asked if any 2009 projects will have to be deferred if the county borrows from the building fund this year. Mr. Berndt said the end result would be the same and if he combined the 2008 and 2009 projects, they would not look any different than they do currently. He said the county may have a smaller road construction program in 2009, but if any projects are deferred this year, the projects could be more expensive to construct in 2009, meaning fewer projects in 2009. Mr. Wagner discussed the $1.3 million shortfall and borrowing from the building fund. He asked how this will affect the 2009 road maintenance budget. Mr. Berndt said $4.4 million in projected funds are available for 2008 highway projects and approximately $3.3 million