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Horace council directs preliminary assessment lists, agrees $350,000 cost share for Wall Avenue extension
Summary
Council directed staff to prepare preliminary special-assessment lists for Wall Avenue East and West with a 25% benefit for Lost River West/Jackson Alley lots, and authorized a $350,000 city cost share for the Wall Avenue extension plus 25% of construction costs (post-bid) for the 81st Street South improvement.
The Horace City Council on May 27 directed the city engineer to prepare preliminary special-assessment lists for Wall Avenue East and Wall Avenue West and approved a city cost share for the projects discussed.
Lucas (staff) summarized a recent meeting with developers and council members to address reallocating proposed special assessments related to the Lost River West and Jackson Alley 1st and 2nd additions. The staff recommendation included treating properties in Lost River West and Jackson Alley as receiving a 25% benefit allocation for the Wall Avenue projects, while giving those developments 100% benefit for the 81st Street South improvement when it proceeds.
After staff explained that planning for the 81st Street South improvements is expected to start in 2028 with construction tentatively planned for 2029, the council approved two motions: one directing the city engineer to prepare preliminary special-assessment lists with the proposed benefit allocations, and a second motion to contribute a city cost share of $350,000 for the Wall Avenue extension and to commit to 25% of construction costs post-bid for the planned 81st Street South improvements. Both motions passed by voice vote.
Staff said the Special Assessment Commission will review the preliminary lists, set an objection hearing if it moves forward, and the council retains discretion under Century Code to adjust final assessments. Council members emphasized the goal of equalizing assessment burdens across affected properties and noted the timing will be coordinated with the CIP and project schedules.
Next steps: City engineer will prepare the preliminary assessment lists and present them to the Special Assessment Commission. Council and staff will coordinate timing with the CIP process so construction and assessments align with project readiness.
