Ludescher discusses Council impasse and behavior
In a move he hopes will push forward changes to the Land Development Code, Councilor Ludescher has acquiesced to the block of 4. He says they are at an impasse and he wants to break it. He will vote for the changes if it’s necessary but his plan is to not vote at all. There’s an issue as to the legality of a simple majority vs a supermajority. Our City Charter requires a supermajority to pass any ordinance, yet the City Attorney argues that the State supersedes it with the Municipal Planning Act. If Ludescher doesn’t vote, it would pass with a supermajority of 4/2. He added that a lawsuit over the issue would be bad for the City but believes that he is bound by the City Charter “our law” and that he’s uncomfortable not adhering to it. As most of you know, there are 6 amendments that Councilor Pownell made to the Planning Commission’s 7 changes to the C1 and C2 districts. The hang-up is a 2 story requirement versus a 1 story for the adjacent downtown area. Ludescher had worked to find a compromise. Builders suggested, in particular, the west side of Hwy 3 between St. Olaf Avenue and 8th street be 1 story. In the meantime, there have been some ugly outbursts at the some of the council meetings. Ludescher wished to apologize for his part in their behavior and added that he hopes they can continue to respect the process. He praised City Administrator Nick Haggenmiller and staff. Although he vehemently disagrees with the 2 story height requirement, he says it’s time to let cooler heads prevail. Ludescher’s handwritten letter and his full interview this morning is posted on kymnradio.net.
Mayor commends Ludescher’s actions
Mayor Dana Graham commented on Councilor Ludescher’s actions. He commended him for apologizing for council behavior and also respects him for his position regarding the Charter and not putting up barriers. Mayor Graham will be meeting with Councilor Pownell this week. The LDC changes will come up for vote on May 12th. The Council met last night for a work session. Graham’s interview is posted on kymnradio.net.
Blurred lines in Dundas come into focus
A street that doesn’t exist and blurred property lines caused consternation for some property owners in Dundas. City Administrator John McCarthy said the property in question was in single ownership for many years. He says it wasn’t surveyed properly. That’s typical in many rural areas but in this case it created a real problem. It created some major issues as the Planning Commission worked with the Kolb family and adjoining property owner, Daniel Pumper, to produce a saleable property description. Dundas Council approved the consolidation and changes that now match all of the adjoining property owners.
First of 4 Woodley Street meetings tonight
Tonight is the first meeting on the Woodley Street project involving the community and neighborhood. The scope of the project will be introduced by City Staff and County officials. The meeting is being held at the Sibley Elementary School gymnasium from 6:30 to 8:30 this evening.
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The post Today’s news update – Ludescher discusses Council impasse and behavior; Mayor commends Ludescher’s actions; Blurred lines in Dundas come into focus; First of 4 Woodley Street meetings tonight ; appeared first on KYMN Radio - Northfield, MN.