Adopt Resolution #15-10-244 Approving the Classification and Sale of Tax Forfeit Parcel in the City of Ramsey

Purpose:  To approve the classification and sale of a Tax Forfeit Parcel located in the City of Ramsey.

Background:  On July 24, 2012, the City Council took action on four parcels located within the City that were tax forfeit. Prior to the 7/24/2012 meeting, staff reviewed the parcels and found that three of them would serve no public purpose and should be classified as tax forfeit and offered for sale; and one parcel, 23-32-25-11-0006, would be acquired for a utility easement.  The resolution was completed and adopted to purchase the one parcel to be used for a utility easement; however, a resolution was not adopted stating the City's intent was to not purchase the other three parcels.  Staff had conversation with the County back in February, 2015 relating to two of the above-mentioned parcels (26-32-25-41-0024 and 26-32-25-41-0023) the City was not interested in; however, no discussion took place at that time re the remaining parcel (23-32-25-11-0070).  Staff received an email from Hilary Dischinger, Property Specialist at Anoka County, inquiring about the 0070 parcel.  At the July 24, 2012 meeting, staff presented the following report as it relates to the property:  This property is located west of St. Francis Boulevard off of 156th Lane NW and is 9.03 acres in size.  This property is a long meandering piece of land that is dotted with wetlands.  There is an opportunity to develop this property.  Staff had been notified in the past of interest by property owners to the west to incorporate this property into a larger development.  Furthermore, infrastructure is located near this property to be used for future development; and, to connect an existing gravity sewer line to an existing lift sewer line.  Besides securing a trail easement, there is little foreseeable value in the City acquiring this property.  Staff recommended the City not pursue purchasing this property and Council agreed.  A map showing the parcel is included in this report.  Also attached is the staff report and minutes from the July 24, 2012 meeting.

Following the County's inquiry, staff re-reviewed this parcel and again determined there is no value in acquiring this property.  A resolution (attached) has been drafted stating the parcel should be classified as tax forfeit and offered for sale. 

Staff is recommending the City Council adopt the resolution classifying the subject parcel as tax forfeit and offer it for sale.

Motion to adopt Resolution #15-10-244 Approving the Classification and Sale of Tax Forfeit Parcel (23-32-25-11-0070) in the City of Ramsey.