TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL

FROM: DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS

DATE: APRIL 20, 2004

SUBJECT: RESIDENTIAL UNDERGROUNDING PROGRAM

RECOMMENDATION

Adopt guidelines for undergrounding utilities in residential neighborhoods.

BACKGROUND

On December 16, 2003 staff presented to the City Council draft program guidelines for an undergrounding program in residential neighborhoods. The City Council reviewed the draft and directed staff to prepare a program with the following characteristics:

1. Two-thirds of property owners in the project area must sign petitions in support of the project.
2. Property owners signing the initial petition shall submit a check in the amount of $100. These funds will be added to the City funding to design the improvements.
3. The City will provide seed monies to fund the design of the improvements, and the formation of the assessment district.
4. When the project first appears before the City Council, the neighborhood must present a written plan to address concerns of property owners who express financial hardship as their reason for opposing the project.

DISCUSSION

In an effort to encourage the undergrounding of utility lines throughout the City, the City Council requested staff to prepare guidelines to assist property owners. The attached guidelines were prepared after much input from the City Council and neighborhoods interested in proceeding with a district. At the present time petitions are circulating in two neighborhoods, Seaview and Grandview, to determine neighborhood support.

CONCLUSION

Adopting the staff recommendation will approve guidelines to underground utilities in residential neighborhoods, and the formation of an undergrounding assessment district.

Submitted by,

Dean Allison,

Director of Public Works

Reviewed by,

Les Evans, City Manager

Attachments:

Draft Guidelines

December 16, 2003 City Council Staff Report

Minutes from December 16, 2003 City Council meeting