04-22-13 Public Works & Property Vacation

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PUBLIC WORKS AND PROPERTY VACATION APRIL 22. 2013 3:30 P.M. Committee Members Present: Oliver Davis, David Varner, Valerie Schey, Gavin Ferlic (3:34 p.m.) Other Council Members Present: Tim Scott, Henry Davis, Dr. Fred Ferlic, Karen White, Derek Dieter Others Present: Chester Gamble, John Frank, Eric Horvath, Scott Ford, Mike Schmuhl, Carol Davis, Jack Smith Agenda: Bill No. 13 -13 — Vacate Alley St. Louis/Wayne Bill No. 15 -13 — Vacate Assumption Dr. Update — New Energy Vice - President Oliver Davis, Chairperson the Public of the Public Works & Property Vacation Committee opened the hearing with two bills to consider along with an update on the New Energy Plant from the Public Works Director Scott Horvath. Bill No. 13 -13 was first. This is a petition to vacate an alley from Wayne St. north toward Jefferson Blvd. for 195 feet. Zion United Church of Christ filed the petition to expand parking while constructing a new parish hall. This bill had been continued from a prior meeting to allow the petitioner an opportunity to meet with a neighbor who was worried about the project negatively affecting his property nearby. Mr. Chet Gamble representing the petitioner said the parties had met and any concerns were satisfied. Mr. Gamble went on to briefly describe the proposal for the committee. After brief discussion David Varner moved the bill go favorably to Council. Valerie Schey seconded and all concurred. Bill No. 15 -13 a petition to vacate Assumption Drive was second on the agenda. This 1750 foot long loop from Locust to Locust had been dedicated to the city when the area was annexed. Provident Ministries acquired the property from the former owner and would like to expand the campus to include a warehouse and sanctuary. John Frank described the project for the Committee. After brief discussion Valerie Schey moved for a favorable recommendation. David Varner seconded and all affirmed. The New Energy update was next. Oliver capsulized the events leading up to this point before calling upon Eric Horvath, Director of Public Works to enlighten the Council. The update was divided into two parts. Eric had Scott Ford, Director of Community Investment, described the city's continued efforts to work with the new owner to find a buyer, interested in operating the plant. Mr. Horvath then briefly described the city's ongoing effort to monitor ground water levels in the residential area near the plant. He said to keep a water pump running and to provide security for it was costing the city approximately $12 — $13 thousand per month. He went on to say he was working on long term plans and would be able to detail associated costs at the next meeting on May 13. Oliver Davis expressed satisfaction that a long- term solution for the homeowners was in the works. Henry Davis was less so commenting that the plight of homeowners with damaged homes from the groundwater rise was not being addressed. Eric said homeowners have been referred to the health department and legal aid in the interim. Karen White asked how much sewage revenue was lost from the plant closing. The answer was about $190 thousand per month. Dr. Ferlic was told a permanent relief well would cost about $500 thousand.