Adopt Resolution #20-103 Approving 2018 - 2022 Master Partnership Contract with the Minnesota Department of Transportation

Purpose:
The purpose of this case is to adopt Resolution #20-103 approving 2018 – 2022 Master Partnership Contract #1028156 with the Minnesota Department of Transportation allowing for future partnering on joint maintenance projects on Trunk Highways within the City of Ramsey.

Background:
Currently, when maintenance work is required along Trunk Highways within the City of Ramsey, either the City or the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) completes the work independently by contracting the work out, or completes the work with internal forces.  Contracting work out may require the City to hire a consultant to prepare plans and specifications that must meet MnDOT Trunk Highway design standards. Right-of-way permits are also often required from MnDOT. This all adds cost and delay to such maintenance projects.

The City Council is therefore asked to approve attached draft Master Partnership Contract #1028156 with MnDOT for the purpose of partnering with the City of Ramsey to complete future maintenance projects within City limits. The Master Partnership Contract provides a framework for MnDOT and local agencies to provide payment to each other for services rendered. A few routine services are included in the contract and all other services are accomplished through the execution of work orders.

Attached is a copy of draft Master Partnership Contract #1028156.  This contract is nearly identical to the previous Master Partnership Contract that was approved and executed by the City in late 2015, which was Contract #1001234.  That contract, which was in force until June 30, 2017, was reviewed and approved by both the City Attorney (after requesting several minor revisions) and MnDOT (after accepting the City Attorney’s requested revisions).
 
Also attached is a cover letter summarizing the purpose and benefits of using the contract to complete maintenance projects on trunk highways.

The last time the City entered into a work order using a Master Partnership Contract was to construct a new pedestrian crosswalk across Trunk Highway 47 on the north side of the intersection with CSAH 5/Nowthen Boulevard, connecting the trail along the east side of TH 47 to the new trail constructed along the north side of CSAH 5 with the Stoney River assisted living development. 

Notifications are not required for this case.

Observations:
The City Council may reject or modify this contract. Not approving the contract will result in increased costs and delays to future maintenance projects. The next Master Partnership Contract will be presented for approval sometime in or before 2023.

Alternatives:
Alternative #1 – Motion to adopt Resolution #20-103 approving 2018 – 2022 Master Partnership Contract #1028156 with the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

No costs are associated with approving this contract.  While there may be cost implications for future projects, such costs would be discussed with Council prior to completing the work, unless maintenance funds were budgeted for the work. However, opportunities will likely exist for saving money by completing joint maintenance projects in partnership with MnDOT in the future.  

Staff recommends Alternative #1 for reasons noted herein.

Motion to adopt Resolution #20-103 approving 2018 – 2022 Master Partnership Contract #1028156 with the Minnesota Department of Transportation.