3. Staff Report-Helms RequestSCANDIA
Staff Report
Date of Meeting: March 5, 2013
To: City Council
From: Kristina Handt, Administrator
Re: Helms' Request to Purchase Property on 196th St.
Background:
Ron and Vicki Helms recently became the owners of property near 12160 196th St, Scandia.
Included in your packet is a request from them to purchase a small parcel (.13 acres) currently
owned by the City. This parcel abuts their property on the east. They are looking to add to their
parcels. Maps provided by Mr. Helms and an aerial from the City's GIS are included in your
packet as well. Mr. and Mrs. Helms will be at the meeting to make their request in person and
address any questions the Council may have.
Issue:
Should the City sell Lot 1, Block 1 in the Beckstrom Addition to the Helms?
Proposal Details:
The parcel the Helms are interested in acquiring is highlighted green on the aerial map. Staff is
not aware of any use for the property at this time. However, should the Council decide to move
forward with selling it to the Helms, an easement should be granted to accommodate the
roadway that passes over the south easterly portion of the parcel. The Council should consider
whether further road easements are needed along the Helms' parcels and 196th St. Also, further
research would need to be done to confirm there are no deed restrictions in place on the parcel or
whether or not it's held for a special purpose. At this point, it is unclear how/why the City
obtained it.
Additionally, City Attorney Pratt has recommended that the Helms be required to submit an
escrow ($500) to cover the City's cost related to the sale of the parcel (quit claim deed, County
filing fees, survey work, etc).
Options:
1) The Council may schedule a closed meeting to discuss the asking price for the parcel to
be sold to the Helms or discuss a price openly.
2) The Council may solicit bids for the property from the public.
3) Visit the site in the spring before making a decision.
4) The Council may retain the parcel; take no actions to sell it.