HomeMy WebLinkAbout1980-01-03 Planner Ltr to CA *Cod 1ci41
January 3, 1980
Mr. Mark V1erl ing, Attorney at Law
Eckberg, Lammers, Briggs and Wolff
126 South 2nd Street
Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
F Oak Park Heights - Consolidation Study
Dear Mark:
As per your request, we have reviewed and given consideration to the report by
the Metropolitan Council staff df the merger- consolidation study involving Oak
Park Heights, Bayport and Baytown. At this point it is our conclusion that the
City should only object to the inadequacy of the analysis and evaluation which was
conducted. It is our view that the report goes from a statement of background
material, some of which appear to reflect faulty assumptions, to a general con-
clusion and recommendation which is based upon limited technical analysis and
statistics.
The report isaa general statement indicates that an economy of scale will be pro-
duced if one large community is created. There are, however, no calculations
based upon existing tax bases, revenues and projected expenses and service demands.
In other words, what will be the impact, both advantages and disadvantages to
each community. From our past experience, for example, it would be expected
that if Baytown were totally merged at present, its residents, regardless of geographic
location, will expect and demand increased services such as improved roads, etc.
The benefit suggested as qualification for the municipal state aid fund will put
little dent in service expenditures which would be required.
Another example of lack of specifics is the recommendation that the area north of
U.S. 212 be incorporated into Stillwater. No determination is given to what impact
fiscally such a change would have on Oak Park Heights. Additionally, the majority
of this area is serviced by the City of Oak Park Heights. This factor should have
some consideration in determination of jurisdiction. Finally, the rationale of land
use compatibility is cited date the City of Oak Park Heights would appear to have
demonstrated more concern for this matter than either Stillwater or Stillwater Township.
Additionally, the Mandatory Land Planning Act process administered by the Metropolitan
Mr. Mark Vierling
January 3, 1980 Page Two
Council is to concern itself with such compatibility issues. If such is attended to
through the planning process, implementation through governing ordinances should
have no major effect.
While geeeral in nature, hopefully the above comments are helpful in determining
the tactics which the City selects in approaching the Metropolitan Council #s report
and recommendation. While this may be viewed as a stalling action, we believe
serious questions will be raised if all the facts and details are assembled and
presented.
Now that my bout with a cold is hopefully over, I am hoping to meet with Lyle
the early part of next week on the C&P question and the waste treatment plant issue.
Possibly we could meet at the same time to discuss the consolidation matter further.
Yours truly,
MIDWEST PLANNING AND RESEARCH, INC.
David R. Licht, AICP
President
DRL/nd
cc: LaVonne Wilson
Otto Bonestroo
(798.02)