Council approves first readings: utility easement vacation and updated floodplain map, public hearings set
Loading...
Summary
The Morris City Council approved first readings of Ordinance No. 124 (vacating a portion of a utility easement to allow Otter Tail Power substation expansion) and Ordinance No. 125 (adopting updated floodplain maps). Both items were set for public hearings; council requested clearer maps and a possible DNR or county representative for the floodplain hearing.
The Morris City Council held first readings and scheduled public hearings for two ordinances affecting land use and utilities.
Ordinance No. 124 would vacate a portion of a utility easement in Block 7 of the original plat to allow Otter Tail Power to expand a substation near the McDonald's site. City staff said public works reviewed the parcel and determined the proposed easement was no longer necessary for water, sewer or storm infrastructure; property owners will be responsible for publication and recording fees (staff quoted approximately $46 for recording). Council members asked whether other telecom conduits or utilities could be affected; staff said other utility companies would be informed through the permitting process and that the action only vacates the city’s easement.
Ordinance No. 125 would update the city’s floodplain ordinance to incorporate recently adopted county floodplain maps and to remain in compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program. Staff said the county’s map adoption required minimal changes to the city template; councilors asked if the update would affect current property owners and requested clearer maps for the public hearing. Council suggested inviting a representative (county or DNR) to the public hearing to answer specific questions about boundaries and homeowner impacts.
Both first readings were approved (voice votes) and public hearings will be held at a future council meeting; no final ordinance adoptions occurred at this session.
