Rochester City Council Discusses Proposed Sidewalk Fee
Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) - The Rochester City Council discussed a proposed Sidewalk Improvement District ordinance Monday but took no action.
The proposal was first presented to the council last month.
Under the proposal, fees would be collected from every property owner to pay for the city’s sidewalk program, including maintenance and ADA costs.
Public Works Director Richard Freese told the council the city currently spends $360,000 per year on its sidewalk program, a figure he says is far short of what is needed. His proposal would have an annual cost of $3.6 million over 10 years. Freese says without the new fee, the higher costs would have to be collected through property taxes.
The only council member to voice support for the proposal at the meeting was 2nd ward representative Michael Wojcik. Council members Ed Hruska and Mark Hickey oppose the proposal. Council President Randy Staver did not speak in favor or against the proposal and asked that it be brought back for more discussion at a future meeting.
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