October 12, 2011 Assessment Hearing Minutes
DANUBE CITY COUNCIL
Hearing on Proposed Assessment for 2nd Street Improvements
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 6:30 PM
Danube City Council Chambers
A hearing on the proposed assessment for the 2nd Street Improvements was held by the Danube City Council on October 12, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. with Mayor Gene Allex presiding.
The following Councilmembers were present: Al Strunc, Dave Maurice and Phil Standfuss.
Councilmembers absent: Ryan Bentley
Others Present: City Engineer Lee Elfering, City Clerk-Treasurer Sara Wilson, and Mike & Kay Krueger.
City Engineer Lee Elfering reported that the 2nd Street Improvements are substantially complete. There will probably be some reseeding done in the spring (under warranty) and the final lift towards the end of June. The assessments ended up being considerably less than originally thought. The assessable cost is around 40% of the total project cost. The property owners have 30 days from the hearing date to pay in partial or in full without interest. After that, the assessments will be certified to the county at an interest rate of 5 ¼ % over 10 years. The assessments range from $5,200 - $50,000. The school received a credit for the curb they already had in place. Elfering pointed out that if any property owner challenged their assessment, they would have to do it in writing at this hearing.
Councilmember Strunc asked if all property owners were sent the assessment roll. Clerk Wilson replied that yes they were.
Councilmember Strunc moved and Councilmember Maurice seconded a motion to close the public portion of the assessment hearing. The motion carried unanimously.
The council reviewed the fact that originally 100% of the cost of the project was going to be assessed to the property owners. At a later date Clerk Wilson found and City Engineer Elfering reviewed an assessment policy dating back to 1978 that spelled out what costs get assessed and what the City pays for. The City is picking up about 60% of the cost of the project.
Councilmember Strunc moved and Councilmember Standfuss seconded a motion to adopt the assessment roll. The motion carried unanimously.
Clerk Wilson will send a letter to all property owners with the final assessment roll and date it needs to be paid by to avoid interest costs.
Councilmember Maurice moved and Councilmember Standfuss seconded a motion to pass resolution 08-2011 adopting the assessment roll for the 2nd Street Improvement Project. The motion carried unanimously.
Adjournment
There being no further business before the council, Councilmember Standfuss moved and Councilmember Maurice seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting. With all members voting in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 6:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted: Sara Wilson, City Clerk