Topic: Al "Minnow" Brooks is Worthless in Albert Lea
started by: alcitizens
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 25 2015,5:46 am
Al "Minnow" Brooks will go down as the Worst Albert Lea City Councilman in the history of the City..13 years since the last completed feasibility report was heard by him and the Albert Lea City Council on the Reconstruction of Virginia Place is nothing but pure incompetency of a City Leader, maybe worse..
He is responsible for more neglect in more neighborhoods in this city than anyone I've ever seen before..
He should resign immediately..
Posted by Self-Banished on Mar. 25 2015,6:00 am
Maybe he can be Hillary's running mate? 
Posted by MADDOG on Mar. 25 2015,11:54 am
Have you met with him or voiced concern at a council meeting or are you standing in the back yard bellering?
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 25 2015,3:56 pm
(MADDOG @ Mar. 25 2015,11:54 am)
QUOTE
Have you met with him or voiced concern at a council meeting or are you standing in the back yard bellering?
< 2015 Construction Projects >
< No public notice as required by Minnesota State Law >
< No Bids for Virginia Place >
< Virginia Place is Slated >
Can Al "Minnow" Brooks get the Albert Lea City Council to approve the Virginia Place Reconstruction Project from 4th Street to 7th Street?
He hasn't been able to for at least 13 years..
He's not qualified to do the job..
Posted by Glad I Left on Mar. 25 2015,4:32 pm
(alcitizens @ Mar. 25 2015,3:56 pm)
QUOTE
He's not qualified to do the job..
That's never stopped the City of A.L. of Freeborn County in general from keeping people in their positions.
You want accountability? How novel.
Never regretted leaving that town. Not one second.
Posted by twingroves on Mar. 25 2015,4:35 pm
next time there is election why don't you take his place
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 25 2015,8:07 pm
Al "Liar" BrooksNovember 26, 2002
City Councilman Al "Minnow" Brooks said that he knows the street is in need of reconstruction, but said that the city budget will be too tight in 2003 to fund such a project.(Virginia Place)
< http://www.albertleatribune.com/2002...project >
October 29, 2014
This is very important to me and the residents in the fact that if the replacement of this line works to control our sewer backup problem it will allow us to move forward on the reconstruction of Fifth Street and Virginia that is much overdue.(Virginia Place)
< http://www.albertleatribune.com/2014...council >
Storm Sewer, Sanitary Sewer and water line replacement is part of Reconstruction..
If I was a betting man, I would say Al has been very shady and should be investigated for corruption..
Posted by Botto 82 on Mar. 25 2015,9:18 pm
There's more to this than some neglected street, isn't there? It sounds more like there's something personal in your resentments. What's the back story?
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 25 2015,11:10 pm
(Botto 82 @ Mar. 25 2015,9:18 pm)
QUOTE
There's more to this than some neglected street, isn't there? It sounds more like there's something personal in your resentments. What's the back story?
Never met the guy but I'm very aware of the Ward that has deteriorated during his 16 years in office.. Ward 6.. He votes continuously to fund multi-million dollar projects on the North side without anything in return for the people on the South side.. Why would he do that?
Posted by ALAngst on Mar. 25 2015,11:20 pm
He won re-election in 2014. You've got him for another 3 plus years.
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 26 2015,1:38 am
(ALAngst @ Mar. 25 2015,11:20 pm)
QUOTE
He won re-election in 2014. You've got him for another 3 plus years.
I can guarantee you that Brooks will not be an Albert Lea City Councilman for another term IF he can even make it through this term without going to jail..
Posted by nzeroesc on Mar. 26 2015,3:03 am
I know you have a seemingly raging hard-on of pent up anger for the guy, but in my opinion we have been down this road before. Just as you are pissed off that the "north side" has been getting everything they want based on his voting record, and this small street in a quiet neighborhood gets the shaft repeatedly, the fact of the matter is that I would be just as pissed in reverse if my tax dollars from the "north side" were spent on your little street project on the "south side". The numbers simply don't support it because there aren't enough assessable properties on Virginia Place, let alone do the remaining properties have enough of a tax base to assess a project of that size to. So they would be left bonding for it or spending a huge chunk of the street budget with no return from the tax base for the repair/replacement.
That reason alone is why you keep hearing that there is no money in the budget for the project.
Posted by Self-Banished on Mar. 26 2015,4:08 am
(alcitizens @ Mar. 26 2015,1:38 am)
QUOTE
(ALAngst @ Mar. 25 2015,11:20 pm)
QUOTE
He won re-election in 2014. You've got him for another 3 plus years.
I can guarantee you that Brooks will not be an Albert Lea City Councilman for another term IF he can even make it through this term without going to jail..
Another threat from the "paper tiger"
Posted by twingroves on Mar. 26 2015,6:44 am
why don't you guys run for his seat next election and see how much you get done
Posted by grassman on Mar. 26 2015,7:53 am
(nzeroesc @ Mar. 26 2015,3:03 am)
QUOTE
I know you have a seemingly raging hard-on of pent up anger for the guy, but in my opinion we have been down this road before. Just as you are pissed off that the "north side" has been getting everything they want based on his voting record, and this small street in a quiet neighborhood gets the shaft repeatedly, the fact of the matter is that I would be just as pissed in reverse if my tax dollars from the "north side" were spent on your little street project on the "south side".
The numbers simply don't support it because there aren't enough assessable properties on Virginia Place, let alone do the remaining properties have enough of a tax base to assess a project of that size to. So they would be left bonding for it or spending a huge chunk of the street budget with no return from the tax base for the repair/replacement.
That reason alone is why you keep hearing that there is no money in the budget for the project.
The numbers simply don't support it because there aren't enough assessable properties on Virginia Place, let alone do the remaining properties have enough of a tax base to assess a project of that size to. So they would be left bonding for it or spending a huge chunk of the street budget with no return from the tax base for the repair/replacement.
That reason alone is why you keep hearing that there is no money in the budget for the project.
So just continue to cast them aside and hope they susceed to Glenville? They are still a part of Albert Lea, are they not? Isn't this how ghettoes become ghettoes? What about the talk of putting in roundabouts elsewhere in the city? Now that is a big waste of money! But they are so cool!
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 26 2015,8:02 am
(nzeroesc @ Mar. 26 2015,3:03 am)
QUOTE
I know you have a seemingly raging hard-on of pent up anger for the guy, but in my opinion we have been down this road before. Just as you are pissed off that the "north side" has been getting everything they want based on his voting record, and this small street in a quiet neighborhood gets the shaft repeatedly, the fact of the matter is that I would be just as pissed in reverse if my tax dollars from the "north side" were spent on your little street project on the "south side".
The numbers simply don't support it because there aren't enough assessable properties on Virginia Place, let alone do the remaining properties have enough of a tax base to assess a project of that size to. So they would be left bonding for it or spending a huge chunk of the street budget with no return from the tax base for the repair/replacement.
That reason alone is why you keep hearing that there is no money in the budget for the project.
The numbers simply don't support it because there aren't enough assessable properties on Virginia Place, let alone do the remaining properties have enough of a tax base to assess a project of that size to. So they would be left bonding for it or spending a huge chunk of the street budget with no return from the tax base for the repair/replacement.
That reason alone is why you keep hearing that there is no money in the budget for the project.
I don't have a problem with what the North Side gets.. Their councilmen are doing their job for the people they represent.. Brooks is no more than a paid monkey for the people he represents.. He has proved that doing nothing is better than doing what is right..
Albert Lea has $20 million dollars of debt and you don't think the property taxes paid by the people on the South Side are paying their fair share? They are taxed at the same rate as everyone else.. The majority on the South Side will never be able to sell their house for the assessed value stated by the City of Albert Lea and yet they still pay their property tax.
You need to get a grip on reality..
Posted by twingroves on Mar. 26 2015,9:26 am
it seams that you know everything alcitizen why don't you run against him in the next election
Posted by Common Citizen on Mar. 26 2015,9:41 am
(Glad I Left @ Mar. 25 2015,4:32 pm)
QUOTE
(alcitizens @ Mar. 25 2015,3:56 pm)
QUOTE
He's not qualified to do the job..
That's never stopped the City of A.L. of Freeborn County in general from keeping people in their positions.
You want accountability? How novel.
Never regretted leaving that town. Not one second.
Posted by Liberal on Mar. 26 2015,12:07 pm
I took heat from people for saying the South side looks like a warzone 10 years ago and it hasn't gotten any better since. Same goes for the Blazing Car Landing.Nothing will change until you get the dumb people off the council. There are several councilman that are great guys but I wouldn't trust them to run a lemonade stand. When's the last time you talked to an elected official around here and came away thinking that they were intelligent?
As long as we treat elections like popularity contests we're going to have these problems.
Posted by GOAT1450 on Mar. 26 2015,12:19 pm
Living in "East Berlin" for now 2 years. I've spoken to my councilor with no real impact, as stated the only way to see change is to vote them out.
Posted by Glad I Left on Mar. 26 2015,2:49 pm
(Liberal @ Mar. 26 2015,12:07 pm)
QUOTE
Blazing Car Landing
Posted by Botto 82 on Mar. 26 2015,4:52 pm
^That one still cracks me up, too. 
- Signed,
Uncle Nutzy
Posted by MADDOG on Mar. 26 2015,5:07 pm
(Glad I Left @ Mar. 26 2015,2:49 pm)
QUOTE
(Liberal @ Mar. 26 2015,12:07 pm)
QUOTE
Blazing Car Landing
He took picture to prove it. I still have a copy.
Posted by Botto 82 on Mar. 26 2015,5:40 pm
(Liberal @ Mar. 26 2015,12:07 pm)
QUOTE
I took heat from people for saying the South side looks like a warzone [...]
I did, too. I remember that neighborhood from the 70's and 80's. It used to be a lot nicer, with the bulk of the homes being occupied by the people who owned them.
Don't feel bad. It's happening everywhere.
Posted by Self-Banished on Mar. 26 2015,6:15 pm
Is Viginia Place where the backside of the Oliver dealer was in the 60's?
Posted by nzeroesc on Mar. 26 2015,7:09 pm
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 27 2015,3:31 am
This is an email from Al "Minnow" Brooks in June 2014..Al Brooks and the City of Albert Lea have done nothing on the south end of Virginia Place.. Nothing..
Its not about crossing your fingers, its about you doing your job.. Do you or Anderson even have a clue on how to do your job Al Brooks?
QUOTE
AL Brooks
June, 2014
Hi ***,
As of now the city is going to try at city cost to fix the sewer line underneath the south end of Virginia. If this correct's the flooding problems we will be working on the reconstruction in 2015. Let's keep our fingers crossed. Let me know if you have any more questions. Thanks for your concerns.
Sent from my iPad AL Brooks
June, 2014
Hi ***,
As of now the city is going to try at city cost to fix the sewer line underneath the south end of Virginia. If this correct's the flooding problems we will be working on the reconstruction in 2015. Let's keep our fingers crossed. Let me know if you have any more questions. Thanks for your concerns.
Sent from my iPad AL Brooks
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 27 2015,5:56 am
Email from the City Manager in July 2014..No sewer work done.. Nothing..
QUOTE
cadams@ci.albertlea.mn.us
7/3/2014
***,
Thanks for your e-mail below. I believed you have probably received a response already from the Mayor or our City Engineer, but in the event you have not, we will be doing some more street patching this year, along with the goal of completing the sewer work this year, all in preparation for a reconstruction next year of the road/sidewalks to address the concerns you’ve noted.
Have a great 4th of July and weekend!
Chad Adams, ICMA-CM
City Manager
City of Albert Lea
221 E Clark Street, Albert Lea, MN 56007-2421
507-377-4330 www.cityofalbertlea.org
Email from the Mayor in July 2014..
Never heard from him again..
QUOTE
Mayor@ci.albertlea.mn.us
7/1/14
Thanks ***. We are all very aware of the problems with the area and plans to deal with it are being worked on. I will get an update to your soon.
Vern Rasmussen, Jr.
Mayor
City of Albert Lea
221 E Clark Street, Albert Lea, MN 56007-2421
507-377-4330 www.ci.albertlea.mn.us
Mayor@ci.albertlea.mn.us
Posted by Glad I Left on Mar. 27 2015,9:30 am
(MADDOG @ Mar. 26 2015,5:07 pm)
QUOTE
(Glad I Left @ Mar. 26 2015,2:49 pm)
QUOTE
(Liberal @ Mar. 26 2015,12:07 pm)
QUOTE
Blazing Car Landing
He took picture to prove it. I still have a copy.
I remember it well. Totally forgot about it until he wrote Blazing Car landing... still cracks me up even a day later
Posted by MADDOG on Mar. 27 2015,10:05 am
Found it.
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 27 2015,4:19 pm
(nzeroesc @ Mar. 26 2015,3:03 am)
QUOTE
the fact of the matter is that I would be just as pissed in reverse if my tax dollars from the "north side" were spent on your little street project on the "south side".
So its OK for me to pay a portion of your debt and services as long as I stay in my place? This is a purely moronic way to think...
Reminds me of how Al "Minnow" Brooks would think while he's getting a few extra dollars under the table to remain a quiet slouch that doesn't bring up projects in his Ward for the City Council to vote on..
Its time for Up or Down votes on everything, not just the projects that are going to Pass. I want to know what the other councilmen think about projects in other Wards..
Personally I would demand an up or down vote for everything over time in my Ward if I was a City Councilman..
Community News Letter (January)
Posted by Blaze on Mar. 27 2015,5:56 pm
I think Al Brooks is one of our best Councilmen! There must be some reason he keeps getting reelected!
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 27 2015,7:46 pm
(Blaze @ Mar. 27 2015,5:56 pm)
QUOTE
I think Al Brooks is one of our best Councilmen! There must be some reason he keeps getting reelected!
What street do you live on?
Assessments for neighborhood improvements always stir a hornets nest among those that have to pay for the improvements on their street no matter what part of the City you live in.. If you don't piss the people off with an assessment, you don't get bad publicity.. He has proved that doing nothing is better than doing what is right.. Mainly for himself..
He is positioned perfectly to sell his vote on the City Council to the highest bidder for projects that others want done and get re-elected at the same time.. All the while his Ward is allowed to deteriorate and homeowners with depressed home values..
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 28 2015,5:49 am
This newsletter from the City of Albert Lea doesn't say the sewer has to be repaired a year before the reconstruction can move forward.. A reconstruction involves replacing everything with NEW Sewer Pipes and a NEW Water Main just like they did on Broadway..The entire project was to be completed by October 31st last year.. Nothing I hate worse than being lied to..
Community News Letter (March 2014)
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/about-albert-lea/community-newsletter/ >
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 28 2015,11:14 am
Can anyone tell me how many of these street repair projects are located in Al "Minnow" Brooks Ward 6? The list goes back to 2012..I found only 2 out of the 70 streets funded are from Ward 6..
Link to Street Projects 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/?s=projects >
Posted by grassman on Mar. 28 2015,11:27 am
A good council will try to find a way of getting things done. I don't mean hiring out for opinion, either. Research into grants and available funds for projects. It's out there, you just have to look beyond the door of city hall. We had a council that would kick the can down the road and eventually just take out a bond. That changed with new leadership.
Posted by Self-Banished on Mar. 28 2015,4:36 pm
(grassman @ Mar. 28 2015,11:27 am)
QUOTE
A good council will try to find a way of getting things done. I don't mean hiring out for opinion, either. Research into grants and available funds for projects. It's out there, you just have to look beyond the door of city hall. We had a council that would kick the can down the road and eventually just take out a bond. That changed with new leadership.
We had a council that would kick the can down the road and eventually just take out a bond. That changed with new leadership.Sure, grants and other available funds, other people's money
Posted by grassman on Mar. 28 2015,7:56 pm
The money is already there, someone just needs to apply. I can't think of a better use than making a community better. Maybe it should build a stadium instead? Good streets are a necessity. I pay for schools, for your children and grand children, WE DON'T HAVE KIDS.
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 29 2015,7:39 am
(nzeroesc @ Mar. 26 2015,3:03 am)
QUOTE
The numbers simply don't support it because there aren't enough assessable properties on Virginia Place, let alone do the remaining properties have enough of a tax base to assess a project of that size to. So they would be left bonding for it or spending a huge chunk of the street budget with no return from the tax base for the repair/replacement.
That reason alone is why you keep hearing that there is no money in the budget for the project.
That reason alone is why you keep hearing that there is no money in the budget for the project.
My kid is a grown adult on her own and I still pay property taxes for School District 241 along with many others in Freeborn County.. I don't have a problem paying my share to help educate your kids or a portion of your City debt.. Just don't turn your back on me when its my turn..
The assessment that I will have to pay for over the years for a little street that I can be proud of and utilities that will function properly into the future will be well worth it..
The City of Albert Lea has turned their back on Virginia Place for far too long..
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 30 2015,1:41 pm
Bids being accepted for everything in the list below and the video except: 5th Street & Virginia Place January 13, 2015 City Council
• Ordered the preparation of feasibility reports for road projects slated to be completed this summer.
Included in the neighborhood improvement overlay project for this year are portions of Plaza Street, Ekko Avenue, Sykes Street, Hi Tech Avenue, Westron Street, Airport Road, Troy Road, College Street, Court Street, Mill Street, Washington Avenue, Jefferson Avenue, Oline Drive, Bel Aire Drive and the wastewater treatment plant access and service roads.
The state aid street project covers Clark Street from West Avenue to about 165 feet west of Washington Avenue and Vine Avenue from Fountain Street to Abbott Street.
Also slated is the reconstruction of Fifth Street from Virginia Place from Fourth Street to Seventh Street.
< http://www.albertleatribune.com/2015...l-taxes >
< Road Construction Looms Large For Albert Lea >
Have been informed by the City Engineer that a Feasibility Report for 5th Street and Virginia Place will go before the Albert Lea City council at the end of April..
Posted by alcitizens on Mar. 30 2015,7:11 pm
< (KAAL) Road Construction Looms Large For Albert Lea 3/13/2015 >< View on YouTube >
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 02 2015,8:39 pm
Shouldn't all Advertisement for Bids Contracts include the address of where all the work is to be done?Like this..
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/wp-cont...551.pdf >
Not Like this..
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/wp-cont...550.pdf >
2015 Neighborhood Construction Projects(Looks Legal)
College St – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Court St – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Mill St – Euclid Ave to Washington Ave
Jefferson Ave – Front St to Madison Ave
Washington Ave – Front St to the UPRR
Oline Dr – SE Broadway Ave to the west end
Sykes Street – YH Hanson Ave to the east end
Bel Air Dr – TH 69 to the south end
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/departm...rojects >
Public Notice for the same(Doesn't look legal)
Jefferson Avenue – Front Street to Madison Avenue College Street – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Court Street – Adams Avenue to Washington Avenue Mill Street – Euclid Avenue to Washington Avenue
Washington Avenue – Front Street to UPRR Oline Drive – west end to S. Broadway Avenue
Sykes Street – YH Hanson Avenue to the east end Bel Aire Drive – TH 69 to the south end
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/public-notices/ >
Posted by nzeroesc on Apr. 03 2015,2:03 pm
(alcitizens @ Apr. 02 2015,8:39 pm)
QUOTE
2015 Neighborhood Construction Projects(Looks Legal)
College St – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Court St – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Mill St – Euclid Ave to Washington Ave
Jefferson Ave – Front St to Madison Ave
Washington Ave – Front St to the UPRR
Oline Dr – SE Broadway Ave to the west end
Sykes Street – YH Hanson Ave to the east end
Bel Air Dr – TH 69 to the south end
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/departm...rojects >
Public Notice for the same(Doesn't look legal)
Jefferson Avenue – Front Street to Madison Avenue
College Street – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Court Street – Adams Avenue to Washington Avenue
Mill Street – Euclid Avenue to Washington Avenue
Washington Avenue – Front Street to UPRR
Oline Drive – west end to S. Broadway Avenue
Sykes Street – YH Hanson Avenue to the east end
Bel Aire Drive – TH 69 to the south end
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/public-notices/ >
College St – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Court St – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Mill St – Euclid Ave to Washington Ave
Jefferson Ave – Front St to Madison Ave
Washington Ave – Front St to the UPRR
Oline Dr – SE Broadway Ave to the west end
Sykes Street – YH Hanson Ave to the east end
Bel Air Dr – TH 69 to the south end
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/departm...rojects >
Public Notice for the same(Doesn't look legal)
Jefferson Avenue – Front Street to Madison Avenue
College Street – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Court Street – Adams Avenue to Washington Avenue
Mill Street – Euclid Avenue to Washington Avenue
Washington Avenue – Front Street to UPRR
Oline Drive – west end to S. Broadway Avenue
Sykes Street – YH Hanson Avenue to the east end
Bel Aire Drive – TH 69 to the south end
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/public-notices/ >
So they missed the enter key a couple times. The list is exactly the same in the bid as the public notice.
As for the contract number 1, I would assume it doesn't include specific streets as the list would be 20 pages long. The first contract of the year is typically the one for repairing all potholes, curb cuts and surface penetrations for water main breaks, repairs, and general overlay, not for specific street improvement projects. It is the overall bid for the year for materials.
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 03 2015,6:37 pm
(nzeroesc @ Apr. 03 2015,2:03 pm)
QUOTE
As for the contract number 1, I would assume it doesn't include specific streets as the list would be 20 pages long. The first contract of the year is typically the one for repairing all potholes, curb cuts and surface penetrations for water main breaks, repairs, and general overlay, not for specific street improvement projects. It is the overall bid for the year for materials.
This is far from 20 pages long..
QUOTE
2015 NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT – 2015 BITUMINOUS CONTRACT NO. 1 (1550)
College St – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Court St – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Mill St – Euclid Ave to Washington Ave
Jefferson Ave – Front St to Madison Ave
Washington Ave – Front St to the UPRR
Oline Dr – SE Broadway Ave to the west end
Sykes Street – YH Hanson Ave to the east end
Bel Air Dr – TH 69 to the south end
City Wastewater Treatmeant Plant
College St – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Court St – Adams Ave to Washington Ave
Mill St – Euclid Ave to Washington Ave
Jefferson Ave – Front St to Madison Ave
Washington Ave – Front St to the UPRR
Oline Dr – SE Broadway Ave to the west end
Sykes Street – YH Hanson Ave to the east end
Bel Air Dr – TH 69 to the south end
City Wastewater Treatmeant Plant
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 03 2015,11:31 pm
< City of Albert Lea >
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 05 2015,1:43 pm
Al "Minnow" Brooks needs to give a big thanks to the Freeborn County Assessor's Office for him getting reelected last year.. You would almost think that our local government tried to keep Brooks in his position.. 
The assessed market values of homes in Ward 6 have dropped more than any other area in Albert Lea including the street he lives on which resulted in a lower property tax bill..
The assessed market value of Al Brooks home at 1402 Academy has dropped 23% since 2012 resulting in a $534 tax bill rather than the $730 he had in 2012.. Both figures include a Special assessment for having a street mill & overlay(asphalt)..
He currently pays less with a Special assessment than he would have in 2012 without a Special assessment..
Check your Property's Assessed Market Value at:
Online Property Search
< http://www.co.freeborn.mn.us/126/Assessor >
Ryan Rasmusson
County Assessor
rasmusson@co.freeborn.mn.us
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 06 2015,10:10 pm
This is the change of the Assessed Market Value for the personal residence of the Mayor and Albert Lea City Councilmen since 2012..Vern Rasmussen Jr. +3%
John H. Shulte V -4%
Larry Baker +9%
George Marin -11%
Reid Olson -11%
Larry Anderson -3%
Al "Minnow" Brooks -23%
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 07 2015,4:35 am
Freeborn County Commissioners AMV since 2012..Christopher Shoff -8%
Michael Lee -5%
Belshan Farms +35% AGRICULTURAL
Glen Mathiason +16% AGRICULTURAL
James Nelson +16% AGRICULTURAL
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 14 2015,1:51 am
To save money the City should eliminate the sidewalk on the east side of Virginia Place from 5th St to 7th St and then widen the street.. That sidewalk doesn't go all the way to 7th St anyway..
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 15 2015,4:32 am
If flooding has been an issue on South Virginia Place, why would an Albert Lea City Councilman and an Albert Lea City Manager refuse to correct what has been common knowledge for decades? Do they think that as long as they pour some concrete every few years that they are immune from liability if flooding were to happen to those residents that results in major damages?This is no longer a CHRISTOPHERSON case.. This will be flat out negligence by the City of Albert Lea..
neg·li·gence
ˈneɡləjəns/
noun
failure to take proper care in doing something.
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 15 2015,8:48 am
April 15, 2015 S. Virginia Place
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 15 2015,8:52 am
April 15, 2015 S. Virginia Place
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 17 2015,6:25 pm
An Emergency Generator should have been installed years ago at the Virginia Place Lift Station in the event of a power outage..Storm and Human Sewage being allowed to backup into the homes of residents during flash flooding is the worst form of disrespect a City can do to the residents in the area..
Emergency Generators sitting at a City Garage doesn't help when the sewage has already backed up into a person's house..
This is only one street that has been neglected by Al "Minnow" Brooks..
But the multi-million dollar sidewalks and lights that go around the lake sure look nice..
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 18 2015,12:59 am
According to City Engineer Steven Jahnke, the City of Albert Lea has been struggling with what to do with Virginia Place since 1998.. He's been working on it for the past month after 17 years..
If the experts said the street needed pilings, then put'em in. Banks wouldn't make mortgage loans available if they had been properly informed by the City of Albert Lea and/or Freeborn County that these issues exist..
Something smells very fishy, possibly illegal and Brooks is just as complicit..
Watch at 1 hour 35 minutes 55 seconds to 1 hour 37 minutes 12 seconds
< View on YouTube >
I have to say that I have never before seen Jahnke more raddled than this time.. He would never make for a good liar..
Posted by Botto 82 on Apr. 18 2015,4:45 am
(alcitizens @ Apr. 14 2015,1:51 am)
QUOTE
To save money the City should eliminate the sidewalk on the east side of Virginia Place from 5th St to 7th St and then widen the street..
That sidewalk doesn't go all the way to 7th St anyway..
That sidewalk doesn't go all the way to 7th St anyway..
Maybe the folks on the east side of the street like having a sidewalk. What then..?
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 18 2015,4:51 am
QUOTE
Albert Lea Tribune April 4, 2015
Are you ready for some road construction?
< http://www.albertleatribune.com/2015...ruction >
Virginia Place and Fifth Street
• Reconstruction of portions of Virginia Place and Fifth Street
• Virginia Place from Fifth Street to Seventh Street, Fifth Street from Broadway to St. John Avenue
• July to November
• Closed to traffic for majority of project
• Cost not released
Are you ready for some road construction?
< http://www.albertleatribune.com/2015...ruction >
Virginia Place and Fifth Street
• Reconstruction of portions of Virginia Place and Fifth Street
• Virginia Place from Fifth Street to Seventh Street, Fifth Street from Broadway to St. John Avenue
• July to November
• Closed to traffic for majority of project
• Cost not released
***FACT or FICTION? The story continues to change.. We shall soon find out on April 27th, 2015..
The City of Albert Lea’s Government Access Channel airs on Charter Communications Channel 180 in the City of Albert Lea at 7:00 PM..
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 18 2015,5:19 am
(Botto 82 @ Apr. 18 2015,4:45 am)
QUOTE
(alcitizens @ Apr. 14 2015,1:51 am)
QUOTE
To save money the City should eliminate the sidewalk on the east side of Virginia Place from 5th St to 7th St and then widen the street..
That sidewalk doesn't go all the way to 7th St anyway..
That sidewalk doesn't go all the way to 7th St anyway..
Maybe the folks on the east side of the street like having a sidewalk. What then..?
Pretty sure State funding requires sidewalks on both sides.. Currently there is only a single car lane if cars are parked on both sides..
I personally don't care but I think mail delivered on foot from door to door is crazy and unproductive..
Put a mail box by the street and I'd be fine with it even though I live on the east side of the street..
Posted by was1 on Apr. 20 2015,12:22 pm
Sounds to me like you either feel like you’re not getting yours or you just have an ax to grind with Brooks.Typically water and sewer infrastructure should now last about 100 years (possibly more with the newer materials). Road surfacing when bituminous should last a good 30 years as long as it is maintained during that time frame (crack sealing, chip sealing, a mill and overlay at some time). And curbing and sidewalk should go about 50 years before it needs any work.
There are 6 Wards in Albert Lea so from some previous posts it sounded like you feel Brooks’ Ward is way behind in getting their share of the work. Now, granted some of this work was in the late 90’s and early 2000’s but if you get that much work in a Ward in that time, and then spread the same about out to all the wards, you’re on a lengthy rotation.
Previous infrastructure improvement projects in 6 Ward:
• Reconstruction of Margareta from 8th to Broadway – total surface, curbing and sidewalks with some utility work
• Total Reconstruction of Frank from James to 7th – included all water, sanitary and storm
• Total Reconstruction of James from 2nd to 7th – included all water, sanitary and storm
• Total Reconstruction of St Joseph from 4th to 7th – included all water, sanitary and storm
• Surfacing of Oakwood and Waldorf
• Surfacing of Kenneth and Eunice
• Resurfacing of Oline
• There was also a large mill and overlay project that also included some curbing replacement and sidewalk replacements that were throughout Ward 6
• I also believe there was major work done on Myers Road and Crossroads Blvd not too long ago
I bet I’m even missing some work that has been done in this Ward in the last 15 years or so. I don’t know the value of this work but I bet it’s large (over $3M total).
Yes, Virginia is in BAD condition. Sounds like it’s been on the radar since 1998. If your engineer is correct about the need for piles for the utilities and road, then you’re talking BIG $. Others have pointed out the vacant lots and city owned lots along this road that also affect the assessments and ability to pay for the improvements. Does Albert Lea have a big pot-o-cash laying around to pay for this? Do the residents that live along that road each have one to pay for it?
You said “Banks wouldn’t make mortgage loans available if they had been properly informed by the City of Albert Lea and/or Freeborn County that these issues exist..” Which “issues” are you referring too? Do you work in banking? I’ve never heard of a City or a County getting involved in a mortgage loan process.
Calling Jahnke a liar is pretty bold. What exactly is he lying about? I can see you stating he’s a poor public speaker. Maybe even a less than adequate engineer. But if you want to throw out liar and also imply Brooks has something illegal to do with the road not being reconstructed you better put out some facts.
You doubt what they are saying, request the soils report that Jahnke referred to and read it yourself to see if their assessment of the soil conditions have any merit.
Posted by Self-Banished on Apr. 20 2015,12:33 pm
I have to give kudos to Alky, his persistance and research on this matter has been impressive.
Posted by Glad I Left on Apr. 20 2015,4:25 pm
^ What? that's it. Earth's over.
Posted by Self-Banished on Apr. 20 2015,5:54 pm
No really, he's done a lot of research and though I think he's pretty wacked most of the time he has covered this well.
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 20 2015,8:18 pm
QUOTE
AL Brooks
June, 2014
Hi ***,
As of now the city is going to try at city cost to fix the sewer line underneath the south end of Virginia. If this correct's the flooding problems we will be working on the reconstruction in 2015. Let's keep our fingers crossed. Let me know if you have any more questions. Thanks for your concerns.
Sent from my iPad AL Brooks
June, 2014
Hi ***,
As of now the city is going to try at city cost to fix the sewer line underneath the south end of Virginia. If this correct's the flooding problems we will be working on the reconstruction in 2015. Let's keep our fingers crossed. Let me know if you have any more questions. Thanks for your concerns.
Sent from my iPad AL Brooks
^^READ THIS EMAIL FROM AL "MINNOW" BROOKS^^
After 16 years as Ward 6 Councilman, Brooks says the city will "maybe" fix the flooding problem and then "maybe" reconstruct Virginia Place..
He obviously knows what is going on while he blows smoke up peoples asses.. He's had enough years to perfect his story on this project.. In 2002 he said the city couldn't afford doing such a project.. Well? How many multi-million dollar projects has he voted to support since?? How much will the reconstruction of Virginia Place cost today VS 12 years ago?
He has worked just as hard as the City of Albert Lea to keep residents in the dark when it comes to a street mostly owned by the City.. In the past year they could have purchased two of the properties in question for less than $50,000 total, leaving four or five the city could buyout.. $3 million can buy alot of property.. They're known to pay $25,000 per acre for swamp land..
The people on Virginia Place didn't create the $20+ Million Dollars of Debt the City of Albert Lea has spent on pet projects.. Was Brooks there to get his piece of the pie for the people on Virginia Place & 5th St? Hell No..
As in 2002, the City can't afford it..
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 20 2015,9:29 pm
(was1 @ Apr. 20 2015,12:22 pm)
QUOTE
Previous infrastructure improvement projects in 6 Ward:
• Reconstruction of Margareta from 8th to Broadway – total surface, curbing and sidewalks with some utility work
• Total Reconstruction of Frank from James to 7th – included all water, sanitary and storm
• Total Reconstruction of James from 2nd to 7th – included all water, sanitary and storm
• Total Reconstruction of St Joseph from 4th to 7th – included all water, sanitary and storm
• Surfacing of Oakwood and Waldorf
• Surfacing of Kenneth and Eunice
• Resurfacing of Oline
• There was also a large mill and overlay project that also included some curbing replacement and sidewalk replacements that were throughout Ward 6
• I also believe there was major work done on Myers Road and Crossroads Blvd not too long ago
I bet I’m even missing some work that has been done in this Ward in the last 15 years or so. I don’t know the value of this work but I bet it’s large (over $3M total).
• Reconstruction of Margareta from 8th to Broadway – total surface, curbing and sidewalks with some utility work
• Total Reconstruction of Frank from James to 7th – included all water, sanitary and storm
• Total Reconstruction of James from 2nd to 7th – included all water, sanitary and storm
• Total Reconstruction of St Joseph from 4th to 7th – included all water, sanitary and storm
• Surfacing of Oakwood and Waldorf
• Surfacing of Kenneth and Eunice
• Resurfacing of Oline
• There was also a large mill and overlay project that also included some curbing replacement and sidewalk replacements that were throughout Ward 6
• I also believe there was major work done on Myers Road and Crossroads Blvd not too long ago
I bet I’m even missing some work that has been done in this Ward in the last 15 years or so. I don’t know the value of this work but I bet it’s large (over $3M total).
Can I make a request to the City of Albert Lea for the total amount spent per Ward for residential improvements over the past 16 years so I can make it public?
I will wait for your answer..
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 20 2015,9:56 pm
Can I ask why Al Brooks Assessed Market Value on his home has dropped 23% since 2012 and those on the south end of Virginia Place has dropped only 9%?I will wait for your answer..
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 21 2015,1:03 am
I didn't call Jahnke a liar, I said he would make for a bad liar..
Posted by nzeroesc on Apr. 21 2015,2:02 am
(alcitizens @ Apr. 20 2015,9:56 pm)
QUOTE
Can I ask why Al Brooks Assessed Market Value on his home has dropped 23% since 2012 and those on the south end of Virginia Place has dropped only 9%?
I will wait for your answer..
I will wait for your answer..
Jesus you have it out for this guy. Have you talked to your doctor about Prozac™ lately?
The assessed value for the property located across the street from his has dropped by only 5%, however it is a rental, apparently poorly maintained, and is worth substantially less than those around it. Most of the value is in the land rather than the dwelling.
The assessed value of the property to the south of Al has decreased by 25%. Owner occupied. To the west, across the alley a decrease of 24%.
The neighborhood is going through a decline, and many of the properties in the last few years that were owner occupied are seeing people move away or pass on and properties are more and more frequently becoming rentals, which, like it or not, tends to decrease property values.
Nothing against whoever you are personally, and only gathering from your posts that you live or have a personally vested interest in Virginia Pl, but that happened to that street a long time ago, and there isn't any farther down the property values can go there for the vast majority of the properties on it.
I think you need to take a brief Macroeconomics and/or finance course to understand how municipal finances work so you can stop railing on the "city" for not wanting to pick up the entire tab for a project when at the same time bitching about how every other project gets done. You don't seem to understand that for those projects, there were property owners and property value to assess the project costs to.
Posted by Liberal on Apr. 21 2015,3:08 am
WTF? The neighborhood will decline more with roads like that, and part of being a city is that we share costs, so that roads like that are kept up. Minnow is a terrible councilman, he's a nice guy and that's why he won the last popularity contest, but I really think he's a terrible councilman.
.
Posted by Glad I Left on Apr. 21 2015,8:28 am
(Liberal @ Apr. 21 2015,3:08 am)
QUOTE
Minnow is a terrible councilman, he's a nice guy and that's why he won the last popularity contest, but I really think he's a terrible councilman.
I think you just described our POTUS too...
Posted by nzeroesc on Apr. 21 2015,8:36 am
@LiberalIf fixing and repaving roads worked to improve neighborhoods in any significant way, shouldn't you in theory been a supporter of the pathway of rusted totem poles, or the downtown revitalization, no matter the cost to the taxpayers?
Posted by was1 on Apr. 21 2015,8:59 am
You are correct, you did not outright call City Engineer Jahnke a liar, it did seem implied, as do your numerous references to Councilor Brooks doing things illegally and getting kickbacks.I need some clarification from you. You want city to purchase more properties on Virginia? Why? What is your plan then? Seems to me that with the City owning a large portion of the properties now, and many other vacant, that there is not enough property owners to spread the assessments to. You’ve never said if you live on Virginia, seems implied though. So, how much are you willing to pay on your assessment to get the water main and services, sanitary sewer main and services, all the storm sewer, and all the pavement, curb and gutter and sidewalks replaced?
What swamp land did the city pay for $25,000 an acre? Was this an actual property purchase or was this purchasing of wetland credits for a project? Big difference it that was the case.
I’m sure you can request from the city a list of all the construction projects and their costs over the years. I believe they are in the annual report so you should be able to get a copy of all the annual reports going back as far as you want to see how much has been spent in each Ward over the years. I do know that Frank Avenue was the first total reconstruction (will full utility replacements) the City had done in many, many years. Could have been possibly the first one ever.
Also, my $3 Million number is way low for all that work in Ward 6. I would bet that Frank was in the $1M range as was James. Throw the different surfacing projects and mill and overlay projects together for at least another $1M and that alone is $3M. St Joseph was probably like $400K. And if Myers and Crossroads areas were also done those together had to be well over $1M. So I would bet in the range of $5-$6 at least.
Sometimes it is more cost effective to continue to let a street and its underlying infrastructure to degrade and put your infrastructure $ elsewhere, where you will get more bang for your buck.
You’ve noted that Virginia has few property owners, that the city owns a lot of it. Seems like it is a very low traveled roadway. It does appear to have some safety issues with the bad sidewalk and curbing. Do you know of any injuries that have occurred to people who have been walking on the sidewalk? Why don’t you request this information from the City as well? While you are at it, get a copy of the soil report, all feasibility reports that have been done for Virginia, and most recent traffic counts. With that information you can then decide if the $ is best used for this couple blocks of street or would be better used elsewhere.
You can ask Councilor Brooks why his assessed market value dropped, but I don’t believe he is an assessor so I would bet he has no idea. Are you a property assessor? Do you know exactly how the process works?
I’m really confused as to why you are asking for permission to do such things (ask the city for a summary of projects and their costs, ask Councilor Brooks about his market value, etc.). Is there a reason you need permission to do these things from people on this forum?
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 21 2015,10:15 am
I stand corrected, it was 124 acres at $10,000 per acre or $1,250,000.00 paid to George Dress in 2008 for the Sunset Extension..< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/pdfs/07-28-08minutes.pdf >
I wouldn't doubt I'll have a property tax increase of about $1000.00 per year for ten years..
Banquet Dinners for a few years..
Posted by was1 on Apr. 21 2015,10:30 am
So, is $10,000 per acre out of line for the property that was purchased? What again does that property purchase have to do with Virginia?So, is there like 30 privately owned properties on Virginia? 30 at $10k total assessment including interest is only $300,000. Where does the other $1M come from to complete the project? I believe the estimated cost is in the $1.3M range.
"Banquet Dinners for a few years". What is that supposed to mean?
Once you do the rest of your homework on this and answer the other questions that were poised to you maybe then you’ll have enough information to understand.
Would you be this worked up if Virginia had been done instead of Frank? Are there no other streets in Albert Lea that are of similar condition?
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 21 2015,10:48 am
Swamp Land.. You ask so many questions that you can't remember them all.. Part is paid with local cost sharing.. You need to do your homework and then get back to me.. I'm not here to answer your stupid questions..
Bring on some facts or shut the hell up..
Posted by was1 on Apr. 21 2015,11:00 am
The entire 124 acres was swamp? At the time of purchase did you look into it and find out how the sale price was determined?So, for your 2 block, little used street the rest of the city is to pay for nearly 77% of the cost of the project?
I listed a number of infrastructure projects that were completed in Ward 6 over the years. There's facts. All you do is throw out nonsense. It seems facts are of little use to you.
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 21 2015,11:13 am
Everyone pays a portion of every project done.. Just like I'm paying for a portion of that 124 acres that I will never use.. Again, do your homework..
Posted by was1 on Apr. 21 2015,12:19 pm
Not sure what homework you want me to do.Per City Assessment Policy - City (that would be everyone) pays for sanitary sewer, water main, and storm sewer replacements. I believe at least for the sanitary and the water main those costs come from a portion of your water and sewer bill. Sidewalks, curb & gutter and street surfacing (including granular base) is assessed based on age. The age of Virginia puts all those costs at 100% assessable. In addition you are assessed a portion of the road bed drain tile system, topsoil and seed/sod restoration, a portion of the engineering costs, etc. Policy also states that if due to poor soil conditions additional granular base is required that cost, along with necessary excavation costs, is assessed to the property owners. From what City Engineer Jahnke said about the soils, which could get real spendy.
Have you requested any of the information to get a better idea of the actual costs and what would be assessed to the residents? Perhaps Councilor Brooks realizes that the assessments would be very large on those residents and is looking out for them so that they do not get burdened by a huge financial commitment.
If you really want this project done I try getting the rest of the affected property owners to sign a petition requesting the project done. Gather them all up and go to the next City Council Meeting, present the petition and express your concern of getting this project done now, no more studies, no more maybes no more delays. Express the importance for the property owners to get this done. Then, if Councilor Brooks and Engineer Jahnke still push back and put up road blocks you can take them to task on the whys.
Posted by Liberal on Apr. 21 2015,1:02 pm
(nzeroesc @ Apr. 21 2015,8:36 am)
QUOTE
@Liberal
If fixing and repaving roads worked to improve neighborhoods in any significant way, shouldn't you in theory been a supporter of the pathway of rusted totem poles, or the downtown revitalization, no matter the cost to the taxpayers?
If fixing and repaving roads worked to improve neighborhoods in any significant way, shouldn't you in theory been a supporter of the pathway of rusted totem poles, or the downtown revitalization, no matter the cost to the taxpayers?
I didn't have a problem with the Broadway repairs. I thought some of the ideas were stupid like taking out traffic lights and bumpouts. I know I'm not the only person that avoids using broadway because of all the stop signs.
I guess I miss the connection to my post, I said we share the cost I didn't say we don't bitch about stupid expenditures.
Posted by was1 on Apr. 21 2015,4:05 pm
With all the projects I listed I think it is hard pressed to say “the Ward has deteriorated during his 16 years in office.” “He votes continuously to fund multi-million dollar projects on the North side without anything in return for the people on the South side.” Well, maybe that’s because of all the projects I listed that occurred on the south side in years previous. Maybe it was time to spread the projects around to the other 5 Wards. Why would Councilor Brooks not make it through his current term due to going to Jail as you stated on 3/26/15 at 1:38AM? What do you know that you are not telling us about Councilor Brooks? You do a lot of implying that he’s done something illegal.
Post after post of yours makes it sound like there has never been a project completed in Ward 6. Did you read the previous list? Have you lived in the Ward the last 15 years? Did you never see the construction taking place? Do you expect every block in Ward 6 to be completely reconstructed? How much of the $20M in debt you keep bringing up is from the projects that have occurred in Ward 6?
You posted on 3/27/15 “Reminds me of how Al ‘Minnow” Brooks would think while he’s getting a few extra dollars under the table to remain a quiet slouch that doesn’t bring up projects in his Ward for the City Council to vote on.” Again, you have any proof that Councilor Brooks is doing something illegal? Again, do you not realize the Millions of $ that have been spent in Ward 6?
I truly hope you gather up your neighbors on Virginia Place and all appear at the next council meeting and tell the council you want action. Tell them it’s time you get your street and underlying utilities reconstructed. Tell them you don’t care what it costs or how much your assessments will be you just want it done. And, I hope they do it so you can hopefully find some peace.
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 21 2015,8:47 pm
QUOTE
Compliments of nzeroesc:
Here is the specific page of the Capital Improvement Plan - Page 125 [PDF] noting the funding breakdown for Virginia Place as well as the construction proposal.
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/pdfs/2013-17CIP_web.pdf#page=125 >
The city estimates $135000 in assessments. There are anywhere from 33-36 private assessable properties depending on if the city counts houses that do not have access or addresses on the street itself. There are 3 properties on the south end that have either Newton or 7th St addresses that are in question.
Without taking into account the exact assessment equation which factors in linear feet, dividing by 35 gives us an assessment value average of $3557 per property.
Assessment Policy
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/pdfs/AssessmentPolicy.pdf >
Per the assessment policy, there is a 10 year term for assessment values ranging from $2000-$10000. With an interest rate of 1-2% above bond, so lets just assume about 5%
A $3500 assessment over 10 years comes to an assessable value of about $370 annually for 10 years.
As I mentioned in a previous post, there are a fair amount of properties on that street that this dollar amount would double the property taxes for. Just something to be prepared for if you have an affected address.
Here is the specific page of the Capital Improvement Plan - Page 125 [PDF] noting the funding breakdown for Virginia Place as well as the construction proposal.
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/pdfs/2013-17CIP_web.pdf#page=125 >
The city estimates $135000 in assessments. There are anywhere from 33-36 private assessable properties depending on if the city counts houses that do not have access or addresses on the street itself. There are 3 properties on the south end that have either Newton or 7th St addresses that are in question.
Without taking into account the exact assessment equation which factors in linear feet, dividing by 35 gives us an assessment value average of $3557 per property.
Assessment Policy
< http://www.cityofalbertlea.org/pdfs/AssessmentPolicy.pdf >
Per the assessment policy, there is a 10 year term for assessment values ranging from $2000-$10000. With an interest rate of 1-2% above bond, so lets just assume about 5%
A $3500 assessment over 10 years comes to an assessable value of about $370 annually for 10 years.
As I mentioned in a previous post, there are a fair amount of properties on that street that this dollar amount would double the property taxes for. Just something to be prepared for if you have an affected address.
This project should have been done many years ago.. If you can't get that through your little head, you are just as slow as Brooks on this project..
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 22 2015,6:47 pm
(was1 @ Apr. 21 2015,4:05 pm)
QUOTE
Why would Councilor Brooks not make it through his current term due to going to Jail as you stated on 3/26/15 at 1:38AM? What do you know that you are not telling us about Councilor Brooks? You do a lot of implying that he’s done something illegal.
It boils down to two things as to why Al "Minnow" Brooks has not fulfilled the responsibilities of an Albert Lea City Councilman..
1) He is completely incompetent.. Or
2) He's held the Contract for Fire Safety Equipment for many years with the City of Albert Lea and to make sure he doesn't lose that Contract he has been no more than a puppet that does as he is told by the City when requested..(Which would be Corruption.. Conflict of interest..)
+3) Property Tax Bills are significantly reduced on owner occupied(Eligible to Vote..) residents in his Ward prior to an election by the Freeborn County Assessor to make sure he is reelected(Which would be Corruption or Fraud)
Yes, I've been told he is a really nice guy by several people..
I just know that if I was in his position that Virginia Place and 5th St would have been one of the first projects completed years ago when I wasn't a resident.. I'd be so embarrassed that after 16 years I couldn't get this little project done..
Posted by hymiebravo on Apr. 23 2015,8:36 pm
The photos of the street actually look less holey than the North Bridge Mall parking lot did a few weeks ago. The buy-out idea seems like a good idea to me. Given all the dire dismal circumstances as described by your city engineer. Just to name one reason.
Put a nice big juicy Blue Zones park in there or something.
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 26 2015,11:20 pm
To see if the Albert Lea City Council will finally fund the Virginia Place Reconstruction Project after 17 years of neglect.. Watch on Monday April 27th, 2015 on Albert Lea Charter Communications Channel 180 at 7:00 PM
Comments are welcome and should be submitted to the City’s Public Information Coordinator, Teresa Kauffmann, 221 E. Clark St., Albert Lea, MN 56007, 507-377-4380.
City Council Meetings air Mon., Wed., & Fri. at 7:00 p.m.
Tues. & Thurs. at 9:00 a.m.
County Commissioner meetings air Mon., Wed., & Fri. at 9:00 a.m.
Tues. & Thurs. at 7 p.m.
Shell Rock River Watershed District Meetings air Tues. & Thurs. at 6:00 p.m. the second week of the month.
Special Thanks to Chad Hayson
Posted by MADDOG on Apr. 27 2015,8:31 am
What's with the Mason symbol?
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 27 2015,10:33 am
(MADDOG @ Apr. 27 2015,8:31 am)
QUOTE
What's with the Mason symbol?
They get what they want..
Posted by Self-Banished on Apr. 27 2015,10:35 am
What's wrong with Masons?
Posted by MADDOG on Apr. 27 2015,11:00 am
So what's with the Freemason symbol? What do they want?
Posted by MADDOG on Apr. 27 2015,11:10 am
(Self-Banished @ Apr. 27 2015,10:35 am)
QUOTE
What's wrong with Masons?
Don't you know? They're part of that crusade thing that makes Christians look bad. At least to Saladin.
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 27 2015,11:54 am
150 years of local Masons< http://www.albertleatribune.com/2008/10/150-years-of-local-masons/ >
Posted by Self-Banished on Apr. 27 2015,1:38 pm
I have friends who are Masons, nice people.😄
Posted by grassman on Apr. 27 2015,2:10 pm
“Freemasonry is the oldest and largest fraternal order in the world. It is a universal brotherhood of men who are dedicated to the principles of service to God, their country, their families and their fellow men. It has its roots in the Middle Ages in the days when operative masons were constructing the great cathedrals of Europe. In those early days, especially in countries where liberty was severely restricted, Masonry was a secret society. Masons met to discuss such new and radical ideas as truth, brotherhood, and the secrecy of the ballot. Then in 1717, the Grand Lodge of England was formed and Masonry became public. Ever since then it has been one of the first institutions to be established when a new community arose.They are there for others, not just themselves. I wonder what they feel about todays trend of everyone for themselves.
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 27 2015,8:46 pm
Public Hearing Tuesday May 26, 2015 Regarding The Virginia Place And 5th Street Reconstruction Project (Job 1557) 
QUOTE
Resolution Accepting Feasibility Report And Calling A Public Hearing For May 26, 2015 Regarding The Virginia Place And 5th Street Reconstruction Project (Job 1557) – The attached resolution would accept the feasibility report and call a public improvement hearing for May 26, 2015 for the Virginia Place and 5th Street Reconstruction Project (Job 1557). The project involves the total reconstruction of Virginia Place from 4th Street to 7th Street, a distance of approximately 1,400 feet, and the total reconstruction of a 1,200 foot, four-block section of 5th Street from TH-65 (South Broadway) to St. John Avenue. Virginia Place will remain the same driving width of 30.6 feet back of curb to back of curb from 4th Street to the east-west portion and approximately 27.5 feet from the east-west portion to 7th Street. Fifth Street is proposed to remain at 37 feet back of curb to back of curb from Broadway Avenue to Newton Avenue and 31 feet back of curb to back of curb from Newton Avenue to St. John Avenue.
Work will include removal and replacement of concrete curb and gutter, subgrade correction, granular base material, bituminous surfacing, watermain replacement, sanitary and storm sewer replacement, sidewalk replacement and the installation of drain tile. Over the years, sections of the street have developed dips and humps, decreasing the ride-ability. Many sections of the curb and gutter are deteriorated badly. The existing sanitary sewer is vitrified clay pipe that is 80+ years old from 4th Street to 6th Street and has developed many cracks, mineral deposits, root growth, and sags. It is important to replace this aged utility before a section of it collapses, causing an emergency repair situation. This replacement would also diminish the infiltration of ground water into the sanitary sewer. The water main is also approximately 80 years old on the north end and 60 years old on the south end. The water main consists of old cast iron pipe with lead joints. Many of the existing water services are also lead. The existing storm sewer system consists of non-reinforced concrete pipe that needs to be replaced. Braun Intertec has performed soil borings and analysis along Virginia Place and 5th Street. The installation of drain tile to remove the moisture from the soils in the roadway is recommended. The sidewalk on 5th Street is proposed to be replaced on both sides of the roadway. The sidewalk on Virginia Place is proposed to be replaced with sidewalk on one side of the street only.
The estimated project cost is $2,114,012.70 and includes sewer funds, water funds, assessable funds, and local or bonding funds. Assessments will be levied to the benefiting properties based upon constructing residential street with 4-inches of bituminous over 8-inches of aggregate base and a geotextile fabric and sidewalk. The proposed assessment rate ranges from $91.78 per front foot to $106.97 per foot depending on street width. Corner lots will receive a 35% side lot credit. Fifty percent of the sidewalk costs will be assessed to the adjacent properties. Following the assessment Policy, the assessments will be over 10 years. The interest rate will be based on bonding in 2015. Staff recommends approval.
Work will include removal and replacement of concrete curb and gutter, subgrade correction, granular base material, bituminous surfacing, watermain replacement, sanitary and storm sewer replacement, sidewalk replacement and the installation of drain tile. Over the years, sections of the street have developed dips and humps, decreasing the ride-ability. Many sections of the curb and gutter are deteriorated badly. The existing sanitary sewer is vitrified clay pipe that is 80+ years old from 4th Street to 6th Street and has developed many cracks, mineral deposits, root growth, and sags. It is important to replace this aged utility before a section of it collapses, causing an emergency repair situation. This replacement would also diminish the infiltration of ground water into the sanitary sewer. The water main is also approximately 80 years old on the north end and 60 years old on the south end. The water main consists of old cast iron pipe with lead joints. Many of the existing water services are also lead. The existing storm sewer system consists of non-reinforced concrete pipe that needs to be replaced. Braun Intertec has performed soil borings and analysis along Virginia Place and 5th Street. The installation of drain tile to remove the moisture from the soils in the roadway is recommended. The sidewalk on 5th Street is proposed to be replaced on both sides of the roadway. The sidewalk on Virginia Place is proposed to be replaced with sidewalk on one side of the street only.
The estimated project cost is $2,114,012.70 and includes sewer funds, water funds, assessable funds, and local or bonding funds. Assessments will be levied to the benefiting properties based upon constructing residential street with 4-inches of bituminous over 8-inches of aggregate base and a geotextile fabric and sidewalk. The proposed assessment rate ranges from $91.78 per front foot to $106.97 per foot depending on street width. Corner lots will receive a 35% side lot credit. Fifty percent of the sidewalk costs will be assessed to the adjacent properties. Following the assessment Policy, the assessments will be over 10 years. The interest rate will be based on bonding in 2015. Staff recommends approval.
Posted by White Pride on Apr. 28 2015,11:25 pm
(grassman @ Apr. 27 2015,2:10 pm)
QUOTE
“Freemasonry is the oldest and largest fraternal order in the world. It is a universal brotherhood of men who are dedicated to the principles of service to God, their country, their families and their fellow men. It has its roots in the Middle Ages in the days when operative masons were constructing the great cathedrals of Europe. In those early days, especially in countries where liberty was severely restricted, Masonry was a secret society. Masons met to discuss such new and radical ideas as truth, brotherhood, and the secrecy of the ballot. Then in 1717, the Grand Lodge of England was formed and Masonry became public. Ever since then it has been one of the first institutions to be established when a new community arose.
They are there for others, not just themselves. I wonder what they feel about todays trend of everyone for themselves.
They are there for others, not just themselves. I wonder what they feel about todays trend of everyone for themselves.
...And that is EXACTLY why they are flawed..
Posted by was1 on Apr. 29 2015,7:44 am
Glad you will get your hearing. Hope you can gather up your neighbors, get them to the meeting, and all speak in favor of the project.You're previously posted assessment of $3,500 seem low, unless your lot is real narrow or have a corner lot where you get the credit. Based on a typical 50 foot wide lot assessments should be in the $4,589 to $5,348 range. Which is still crazy cheap for everything that needs to be done.
Hopefully this time next year your project will get started. I would be shocked if the Engineering Department already has the full plans ready to go to bid. Even if they did, hearing is not until end of May, post the advertisement, open the bids, and then award the project and you are looking at some time in July before the project is awarded. Not going to start a project of that size that late into the summer unless they are going to do part of it this year and then the rest next year.
Posted by alcitizens on Apr. 29 2015,9:27 pm
(was1 @ Apr. 29 2015,7:44 am)
QUOTE
Glad you will get your hearing. Hope you can gather up your neighbors, get them to the meeting, and all speak in favor of the project.
You're previously posted assessment of $3,500 seem low, unless your lot is real narrow or have a corner lot where you get the credit. Based on a typical 50 foot wide lot assessments should be in the $4,589 to $5,348 range. Which is still crazy cheap for everything that needs to be done.
Hopefully this time next year your project will get started. I would be shocked if the Engineering Department already has the full plans ready to go to bid. Even if they did, hearing is not until end of May, post the advertisement, open the bids, and then award the project and you are looking at some time in July before the project is awarded. Not going to start a project of that size that late into the summer unless they are going to do part of it this year and then the rest next year.
You're previously posted assessment of $3,500 seem low, unless your lot is real narrow or have a corner lot where you get the credit. Based on a typical 50 foot wide lot assessments should be in the $4,589 to $5,348 range. Which is still crazy cheap for everything that needs to be done.
Hopefully this time next year your project will get started. I would be shocked if the Engineering Department already has the full plans ready to go to bid. Even if they did, hearing is not until end of May, post the advertisement, open the bids, and then award the project and you are looking at some time in July before the project is awarded. Not going to start a project of that size that late into the summer unless they are going to do part of it this year and then the rest next year.
The hearing will only involve people that are against the assessments.. Let'em bitch, its healthy to vent a little.. I very seldom ever see people in support of a property tax increase but most know it's time..
My assessment will be around $6200.00 over 10 years.. This project should have been done 10 years ago..
This job will be done this year, no thanks to Al Brooks..
QUOTE
Virginia Place and Fifth Street
• Reconstruction of portions of Virginia Place and Fifth Street(Update: All of Virginia Place)
• Virginia Place from Fifth Street to Seventh Street, Fifth Street from Broadway to St. John Avenue(Update: Virginia Place from 4th Street to 7th Street)
• July to November
• Closed to traffic for majority of project
• Cost not released(Update: The estimated project cost is $2,114,012.70)
< http://www.albertleatribune.com/2015...ruction >
• Reconstruction of portions of Virginia Place and Fifth Street(Update: All of Virginia Place)
• Virginia Place from Fifth Street to Seventh Street, Fifth Street from Broadway to St. John Avenue(Update: Virginia Place from 4th Street to 7th Street)
• July to November
• Closed to traffic for majority of project
• Cost not released(Update: The estimated project cost is $2,114,012.70)
< http://www.albertleatribune.com/2015...ruction >
Posted by was1 on Apr. 30 2015,10:07 am
And I’ve seen councils vote down projects just for that reason, only people there are against the project – no one there in favor of it. I remember one former A.L. City councilor who would tally up how many spoke for and against a project and vote based on that.I’m surprised to hear that they would have plans and specs all ready to go when the hearing has not been held. Seems like a tight timeline, July to November, especially when bituminous paving should be completed by mid-October, although they always go beyond that, which is against spec.
Hope it goes through.
Posted by hymiebravo on Apr. 30 2015,9:31 pm
Better save your receipt in case you have to enforce your warranty.What ever became of all that 'free' sidewalks talk from back a few years ago?
Posted by alcitizens on May 03 2015,9:03 am
The Agenda for the Albert Lea City Council Meeting on April 27, 2015 is no longer available on the City Website.. Are they planning on changing what has already been voted on or is it just a website glitch?< http://newdev3.cityofalbertlea.net/city-council/city-council-agenda/ >
QUOTE
Resolution Accepting Feasibility Report And Calling A Public Hearing For May 26, 2015 Regarding The Virginia Place And 5th Street Reconstruction Project (Job 1557) – The attached resolution would accept the feasibility report and call a public improvement hearing for May 26, 2015 for the Virginia Place and 5th Street Reconstruction Project (Job 1557). The project involves the total reconstruction of Virginia Place from 4th Street to 7th Street, a distance of approximately 1,400 feet, and the total reconstruction of a 1,200 foot, four-block section of 5th Street from TH-65 (South Broadway) to St. John Avenue. Virginia Place will remain the same driving width of 30.6 feet back of curb to back of curb from 4th Street to the east-west portion and approximately 27.5 feet from the east-west portion to 7th Street. Fifth Street is proposed to remain at 37 feet back of curb to back of curb from Broadway Avenue to Newton Avenue and 31 feet back of curb to back of curb from Newton Avenue to St. John Avenue.
Work will include removal and replacement of concrete curb and gutter, subgrade correction, granular base material, bituminous surfacing, watermain replacement, sanitary and storm sewer replacement, sidewalk replacement and the installation of drain tile. Over the years, sections of the street have developed dips and humps, decreasing the ride-ability. Many sections of the curb and gutter are deteriorated badly. The existing sanitary sewer is vitrified clay pipe that is 80+ years old from 4th Street to 6th Street and has developed many cracks, mineral deposits, root growth, and sags. It is important to replace this aged utility before a section of it collapses, causing an emergency repair situation. This replacement would also diminish the infiltration of ground water into the sanitary sewer. The water main is also approximately 80 years old on the north end and 60 years old on the south end. The water main consists of old cast iron pipe with lead joints. Many of the existing water services are also lead. The existing storm sewer system consists of non-reinforced concrete pipe that needs to be replaced. Braun Intertec has performed soil borings and analysis along Virginia Place and 5th Street. The installation of drain tile to remove the moisture from the soils in the roadway is recommended. The sidewalk on 5th Street is proposed to be replaced on both sides of the roadway. The sidewalk on Virginia Place is proposed to be replaced with sidewalk on one side of the street only.
The estimated project cost is $2,114,012.70 and includes sewer funds, water funds, assessable funds, and local or bonding funds. Assessments will be levied to the benefiting properties based upon constructing residential street with 4-inches of bituminous over 8-inches of aggregate base and a geotextile fabric and sidewalk. The proposed assessment rate ranges from $91.78 per front foot to $106.97 per foot depending on street width. Corner lots will receive a 35% side lot credit. Fifty percent of the sidewalk costs will be assessed to the adjacent properties. Following the assessment Policy, the assessments will be over 10 years. The interest rate will be based on bonding in 2015. Staff recommends approval.
Work will include removal and replacement of concrete curb and gutter, subgrade correction, granular base material, bituminous surfacing, watermain replacement, sanitary and storm sewer replacement, sidewalk replacement and the installation of drain tile. Over the years, sections of the street have developed dips and humps, decreasing the ride-ability. Many sections of the curb and gutter are deteriorated badly. The existing sanitary sewer is vitrified clay pipe that is 80+ years old from 4th Street to 6th Street and has developed many cracks, mineral deposits, root growth, and sags. It is important to replace this aged utility before a section of it collapses, causing an emergency repair situation. This replacement would also diminish the infiltration of ground water into the sanitary sewer. The water main is also approximately 80 years old on the north end and 60 years old on the south end. The water main consists of old cast iron pipe with lead joints. Many of the existing water services are also lead. The existing storm sewer system consists of non-reinforced concrete pipe that needs to be replaced. Braun Intertec has performed soil borings and analysis along Virginia Place and 5th Street. The installation of drain tile to remove the moisture from the soils in the roadway is recommended. The sidewalk on 5th Street is proposed to be replaced on both sides of the roadway. The sidewalk on Virginia Place is proposed to be replaced with sidewalk on one side of the street only.
The estimated project cost is $2,114,012.70 and includes sewer funds, water funds, assessable funds, and local or bonding funds. Assessments will be levied to the benefiting properties based upon constructing residential street with 4-inches of bituminous over 8-inches of aggregate base and a geotextile fabric and sidewalk. The proposed assessment rate ranges from $91.78 per front foot to $106.97 per foot depending on street width. Corner lots will receive a 35% side lot credit. Fifty percent of the sidewalk costs will be assessed to the adjacent properties. Following the assessment Policy, the assessments will be over 10 years. The interest rate will be based on bonding in 2015. Staff recommends approval.
The above Resolution from the Agenda was voted on and passed by the Albert Lea City Council at the 5 minute mark..
< View on YouTube >
Posted by alcitizens on May 03 2015,2:27 pm
(was1 @ Apr. 30 2015,10:07 am)
QUOTE
And I’ve seen councils vote down projects just for that reason, only people there are against the project – no one there in favor of it. I remember one former A.L. City councilor who would tally up how many spoke for and against a project and vote based on that.
I’m surprised to hear that they would have plans and specs all ready to go when the hearing has not been held. Seems like a tight timeline, July to November, especially when bituminous paving should be completed by mid-October, although they always go beyond that, which is against spec.
Hope it goes through.
I’m surprised to hear that they would have plans and specs all ready to go when the hearing has not been held. Seems like a tight timeline, July to November, especially when bituminous paving should be completed by mid-October, although they always go beyond that, which is against spec.
Hope it goes through.
Do you seriously think that any councilman will vote against funding this project?
They've had 17 years to get the specs right.. They can knock out a project like this in a couple months or less when coordinated properly..
Can't say I've ever had any respect for Ellen Kehr or her hubby..
Posted by alcitizens on May 06 2015,9:40 am
Virginia Place has a built in Bike Ramp.. Prices for the three homes that have sold in the past 12 months on Academy Ave. sold for Top Dollar, Not at a depressed -23% to -25% Discount that the Freeborn County Assessor now says they're worth..
< http://www.co.freeborn.mn.us/DocumentCenter/Home/View/1375 >
The three homes on Virginia Place that have sold in the past 12 months have sold for nearly half of what the Assessor says they're worth.. My property is truly in a depressed area and was only given a -9% break..
Seems as though Al Brooks and Ryan Rasmusson the Assessor are on the buddy program..
QUOTE
(3) the increase or decrease between the total taxes payable in the current year and the total proposed taxes, expressed as a percentage.
< http://www.sos.state.mn.us/index.aspx?page=606#275.61 >
< http://www.sos.state.mn.us/index.aspx?page=606#275.61 >
Posted by alcitizens on May 06 2015,1:52 pm
2014 Estimated Market Value for 2015 Property Tax Property 1, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $67,500, Sale Price $95,000
Property 2, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $45,500, Sale Price $69,900
Property 3, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $45,700, Sale Price $62,000
Property 4, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $54,700, Sale Price $73,568
< http://www.co.freeborn.mn.us/DocumentCenter/Home/View/1375 >
I really want to say the F word so Friking bad right now..
Posted by Self-Banished on May 06 2015,2:14 pm
My county low balls my properties tooKinda glad they do
Posted by grassman on May 06 2015,4:04 pm
Your taxable and marketable averages are usually between 75 and 80% of actual value. That is a GOOD thing, don't complain.
Posted by alcitizens on May 06 2015,5:17 pm
(Self-Banished @ May 06 2015,2:14 pm)
QUOTE
My county low balls my properties too
Kinda glad they do
Kinda glad they do
I agree.. The lower the better.. Less taxes to pay..
My issue is that my Estimated Market Value is $28,000 higher than what I paid for the house a year ago.. No improvements and a street with wall to wall potholes, messed up underground utilities and f'ed up curb and sidewalk..
A house across the street just sold for $10,000 with an Estimated Market Value of $43,600.. One just north of me on Virginia Place sold for $30,000 and its Estimated Market Value is $72,400..
Al "Minnow" Brooks Estimated Market Value on his house in the Academy Addition has dropped nearly 25% with an assessment since 2012 while mine has only dropped 9% without an assessment.. WTF??
QUOTE
Property 1, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $67,500, Sale Price $95,000
Property 2, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $45,500, Sale Price $69,900
Property 3, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $45,700, Sale Price $62,000
Property 4, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $54,700, Sale Price $73,568
< http://www.co.freeborn.mn.us/DocumentCenter/Home/View/1375 >
Property 2, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $45,500, Sale Price $69,900
Property 3, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $45,700, Sale Price $62,000
Property 4, Academy Addition, Estimated Market Value $54,700, Sale Price $73,568
< http://www.co.freeborn.mn.us/DocumentCenter/Home/View/1375 >
May 6, 2015 Virginia Place
Posted by alcitizens on May 07 2015,7:31 pm
Al,Thanks for answering my first email back in June of 2014 before the election.. I voted for you..
Why no response from you about Virginia Place after I sent you my second email in March 2015 after you were reelected?
Here is the email that you ignored..
QUOTE
Mar 14, 2015
Hi Al,
Whats the word on the Virginia Place reconstruction project?
Thanks, ***
Hi Al,
Whats the word on the Virginia Place reconstruction project?
Thanks, ***
Posted by alcitizens on May 08 2015,4:27 am
I have many questions for Al if he would like to stop by..Why would the property value of a 2 Lot Rental House at 800 8th St E/Academy go from $41,900 in 2009 to $22,500 in 2014 that has been owned by the same landlord the whole time? Are landlords being rewarded with lower Tax Bills for neglecting their properties?
Why would the property value of 1428 Academy Ave go from $41,000 in 2013 to $17,300 in 2015? 58% drop in value in 3 years..
1440 Academy Ave. is considered Homestead yet the Tax Bill is mailed to a Post Office Box.. Are they not allowed to have a mailbox at this residence?
Or is it really Non-Homestead?The Market Value of 1437 Academy Ave has dropped from $63,000 in 2009 to $40,600 in 2015, but it appears from this Tax Bill below, the only taxes paid is for Recycling..
Does anyone understand why?
< http://www.bonnerupfuneralservice.com/obituar...1380367 >
Posted by alcitizens on May 08 2015,7:27 am
The only thing I could find is that Al Brooks Sr must have either been more than 70% Disabled from his service in the Korean War or because he was awarded the Honorable Service Medal while POW.. All property tax is Deferred annually up to $300,000 except Special Assessments.. Patricia has 8 additional years as a spouse.RIP Al Sr..
Posted by alcitizens on May 08 2015,11:17 pm
If you got a letter for this project:The City of Albert Lea will hold a neighborhood informational meeting on Thursday May 14 beginning at 6:30 pm to discuss the project.
City Council Chambers at the City Center, 3rd Floor, 221 East Clark Street.
Posted by alcitizens on May 09 2015,7:48 am
Now that the residents concerned have received a Public Notice from the City of Albert Lea for the Virginia Place and 5th Street Project, I can finally inform the Taxpayers of Albert Lea that I can save them $200,000.00 on this project..Just make a Reply on this Topic and I will send you the detailed information..
Please allow 72 hours for delivery..
Posted by alcitizens on May 09 2015,9:48 pm
Talked to 3 residents from 3 different homes today on S. Virginia Place and all of them said its about time. Two residents didn't understand why the single sidewalk would be put on the East side that dead ends into a back yard..Also mentioned was unanswered calls and emails from City Leaders, it seems to have become part of the culture.. They have forgotten who they work for and who pays them..
Word is that Al and the City have been telling residents for many, many years that "Maybe Next Year" it will happen..
Well, Next Year has finally come..
Posted by alcitizens on May 16 2015,8:38 pm
Virginia Place 1400 feet5th Street 1200 feet
=2600 feet
Two Sides X2=5200 feet to be assessed
Cost of improvements $2,114,012.00 X 10.9% = $230,427.00 Total Special Assessments
Special Assessments $230,427.00 divided by 5200 feet = $44.31 per foot
Total Interest of less than $70,000 over 10 years on Special Assessments
How do they figure that I will pay $122.00 per foot with a narrow street and one sidewalk?
At $122.00 per foot X 5200 feet = $634,400.00 which would be the total Special Assessments..
The City is responsible for Water and Sewer reconstruction.. Pretty much from the street down..
A large portion of the City's Storm Water Sewage goes to the S. Virginia Place Lift Station (Pump) with a connection that goes West at 1201 Virginia Place and running south on Virginia Place to the lift station, also from 7th Street/Virginia Place and from Newton from the West and James Ave from the East through the park.. (See Picture)(Red is Virginia Place Lift Station)(Yellow is Storm Sewer)
The City of Albert Lea is trying to pawn off the expense of the Storm Water Sewer System, Sanitary Sewer and Water Main onto those that live on Virginia Place and 5th St..
Is Al Brooks doing his job? I don't think so..
Posted by Botto 82 on May 16 2015,9:41 pm
Well, that was a nice town you had there. Now it's a deteriorating craphole.
Posted by alcitizens on May 17 2015,12:05 am
46% of the total cost should be paid by the Albert Lea Water and Sewer Fund which would be $972,445.00..If there was half of the 5200 feet that exists or 2600 feet, it would be $115.38 per foot including interest..
At $122.00 per foot that the city estimates I will pay per foot means the whole street of 5th would be FREE of any special assessment if everyone on Virginia Place paid $122 per foot..
Get it right you frikin dipsh!ts..
Posted by Botto 82 on May 17 2015,1:51 am
"Newtown Avenue"?? Christ, what out-of-town joker put that document together?
Posted by alcitizens on May 17 2015,3:22 am
City of Albert Lea, fill the frikin potholes with gravel until the reconstruction begins.. Pictures of the potholes will be posted one at a time until they're gone.. Christ Almighty..
Posted by alcitizens on May 17 2015,4:41 am
Virginia Place and 5th St Reconstruction project was added to the Capital Improvements list in 2012 at a total cost of $1,300,000.00, now they are saying $2,100,000.00, an increase of $800,000.00.. More than enough to cover the $600,000.00 portion that the City of Albert Lea Water and Sewer Fund was suppose to cover in 2012..
The $600,000.00 in 2012 is 46% of $1,300,000.00..
I wonder how many projects they have done this to over the years..
Posted by grassman on May 17 2015,10:02 am
They best fix the streets before any of the Sharptons come around! 
Al Sharpton's Daughter sues city $5,000,000 for spraining ankle.
She learned at the feet of a master.
Shakedown artist Al Sharpton’s eldest child wants $5 million from city taxpayers after she fell in the street and sprained her ankle, court records show.
Dominique Sharpton, 28, says she was “severely injured, bruised and wounded” when she stumbled over uneven pavement at the corner of Broome Street and Broadway downtown last year, according to a lawsuit.
Currently on vacation in Bali, the membership director for her gadfly dad’s National Action Network claims she “still suffers and will continue to suffer for some time physical pain and bodily injuries,” according to the suit filed against the city departments of Transportation and Environmental Protection.
“I sprained my ankle real bad lol,” she wrote in a post to Instagram after the Oct. 2 fall.
She was pictured in a walking boot in the weeks following the tumble, but by December, Dominique was good to go for NAN’s Justice for All march in Washington, DC, and for a New Year’s Eve jaunt to Miami Beach.
And despite claiming “permanent physical pain” in a breathless notice of claim in December, at around the same time there were social-media shots of her in high heels and fancy dresses and climbing a ladder to decorate a Christmas tree.
Posted by alcitizens on May 17 2015,10:35 am
I say, I say, you should be careful around the Lift Station on Virginia Place in Albert Lea...
Posted by alcitizens on May 17 2015,10:37 am
..
Posted by alcitizens on May 17 2015,10:38 am
..
Posted by alcitizens on May 17 2015,2:45 pm
The properties shown are offering an investment opportunity to the City of Albert Lea.. Eliminate water main, Eliminate sanitary sewer, Eliminate curb and gutter, Eliminate street surface, Eliminate sidewalk and the best part is the Elimination of soil correction from the Red Circle to the Red Circle..
This is a one time offer to the City of Albert Lea.. All six properties combined for one low price of $507,000.
Call me..
Posted by was1 on May 18 2015,8:28 am
How was the informational meeting? Did you question the assessment figures there?Where does the sanitary currently run in that area? My guess is that can not be eliminated. That portion of the road is the low area and I would assume the sanitary is flowing that direction.
You may be albe to eliminate the water, but its never good to have short dead end mains which you would be left with. The couple of homes that would be on it most likely would not be happy with the water quality or the pressure they would then be getting.
You could elimiate much of the road though, but would still need road access to the lift station, and would have to add a couple of cul-de-sacs or other turn around on each end.
Would definately elimate some big $ for the soil corrections that sound like they are needed.
Hope you actually are presenting this option to the City in a manner other than this platform.
Posted by alcitizens on May 18 2015,6:15 pm
Sanitary Sewer runs north from 1209 to 1201 Virginia Place.. Elimination not a problem..The Total Preliminary Assessments has went from $135,000 in the Capital Improvement Plan to $429,000..
Calculations used in the Capital Improvement Plan:
46% from Water and Sewer Fund
43.6% from GO Improvement Bond
10.4% from Special Assessments
The Same Calculations for Current Estimated Cost of Project:
$2,114,012.00
46% =$972,445.00 Water and Sewer Fund
43.6% =$921,709.00 GO Improvement Bond
10.4% =$219,857.00 Special Assessments
How did the City of Albert Lea come up with the figure of $429,213.00 for Special Assessments?
Posted by was1 on May 19 2015,8:11 am
Did you ask about the assessment calculations at the public meeting and get an explaination for the change?Where does the sewer run for the 1100's? My guess is that it runs south into the area you want to eliminate. Probablly around the same area as the storm lift.
Did you present your idea to the city your just post it here?
Posted by alcitizens on May 19 2015,12:42 pm
(was1 @ May 19 2015,8:11 am)
QUOTE
Did you ask about the assessment calculations at the public meeting and get an explaination for the change?
Where does the sewer run for the 1100's? My guess is that it runs south into the area you want to eliminate. Probablly around the same area as the storm lift.
Did you present your idea to the city your just post it here?
Where does the sewer run for the 1100's? My guess is that it runs south into the area you want to eliminate. Probablly around the same area as the storm lift.
Did you present your idea to the city your just post it here?
The informational meeting had to do with Engineering.. I would hope they will have someone from all departments involved with this project to answer questions on May 26 at the hearing..
1100's Sanitary Sewer runs south to just north of 1201 and then runs East or West.. Elimination not a problem..
Posted by alcitizens on May 19 2015,5:53 pm
Why would the cost of the project be estimated at $800,000.00 more than the Capital Improvement Plan?Why would Special Assessments jump from 10.4% from Capital Improvement Plan to 20.5% of cost?
The Water and Sewer Fund should be responsible for soil correction to keep their Water and Sewer lines from sinking and the Lift Station Pump needs to be replaced with a higher capacity pump because Flooding during Storms softens surrounding soil.. I'm also guessing the pressure lines are too small and need to be replaced with larger ones.. Stop the Flooding!
The current sidewalks didn't have any gravel used as a base.. I can only imagine the lack of Class 5 gravel on the rest of the street..
At least 4" to 6" base for sidewalks and 4" to 8" base for the street is mandatory in Minnesota to keep water out that freezes and then cracks, heaves and buckles concrete and asphalt.. Tile will serve no purpose and will be a big waste of money if the area is allowed to Flood..
Does anyone know how deep the Water Table is on S. Virginia Place? The surface of Albert Lea Lake would be the same as the Water Table..
Posted by alcitizens on May 20 2015,1:04 am
Annual Minimum Soil Depth to Water Table is 17" to 43"..< http://www.arcgis.com/home...c956ca6 >
Posted by alcitizens on May 20 2015,1:09 am
The cost to replace everything from 1201 Virginia Place south to 7th St would be about the same as buying out the six properties for $507,000.The Water and Sewer Fund would be spared up to 30% of the total cost of this project and the cost of additional projects that would guarantee S. Virginia Place residents would never be flooded again with human waste or storm water..
For a Grand Total Savings of over one million dollars..
Posted by was1 on May 20 2015,8:18 am
Information meeting should have been where all the questions would be answered. Engineer should have been there along with city councilor and city manager. That's how they use to do them. They should have explained what all was involved in the project, gone over how the construction would occur, and discussed how they arrived at the construction cost estimate and then how the assessments were calculated. City Council Meeting with the Public Hearing SHOULD NOT be the place to have those questions gone over. Why have the informational meeting if you are not going to give the residents the information? Or answer their questions.Good that you were able to verify that the sewer stops short and then heads east (I'm 95% sure it heads to James).
Typical Street section currently should be 4 inches of bituminous, 8 inches of class 5 and 18" of select granular borrow. At the bottom of this, running along each side of the road, should be 4 or 6 inch drain tile encased in a pea rock envelope. In the areas of the poor soils (peat) the select granular borrow section would be deeper, or possibly even use a light weight fill material instead (this could reduce the depth you would need to remove the peat). You also need a geotextile fabric at the bottom of our gravel section to separate it from the underlying soil.
I believe the cost for soil corrections necessary for the roadway are assessable. I agree that any piles that are required for utility stabilization should come from those funds.
Previously you mentioned soil boring reports. That will show you the ground water level – it is not necessarily the level of either lake. If there is a lot of peat there it would be down below that. Depending on the soil types and how they change, you could have a perched water table only 3 feet below the road and then 100 feet away it could be 30 feet below.
Where did you get your cost estimate from to say the costs would equal the cost of the buy outs?
You also did not say if you’ve actually presented the proposal of buying out the properties or just put it on this forum.
If they were to take your proposal, they could use part of that area for additional park space, but also as a storm water pond, if the lift station truly is under sized (pumps, discharge pipes). I do know that a few times during storms power has gone out at that lift station which lead to flooding there – not capacity problem.
Posted by alcitizens on May 20 2015,9:57 am
I prefer to get the answers while being recorded.. I've seen people get up and speak for 15 to 20 minutes trying to sell a program of one kind or another.. They can answer a few questions.. I don't mind being assessed for a properly installed street, curb and gutter and sidewalk.. I just know that to put a proper base under the water main, sanitary sewer and storm sewer will remove a large portion of soil..
When I worked at well drilling it was a practice to determine how far we had to drill to reach the water table by being aware of a river or lake prior to drilling into the limestone..
Total of affected properties assessments divided by the total assessments for everyone gives you the percentage.. Then you take that percentage and multiply the total estimated cost of project to get cost of the affected area minus assessments of affected area except for 4 City properties =total cost/savings to the City..
People from the City of Albert Lea periodically check it out from what I've heard.. Word travels fast..
If its a capacity issue it would involve a pump that is too small or the storm sewer lines are undersized to handle the volume or the level of the lake rises and covers the outlet.. Most likely the first two and not having an emergency generator.. This will cost hundreds of thousands and should have been done many years ago.. If they want the people out, buy'em out.. If not fix it.. The sanitary sewer going west at 1201 needs to be replaced for I don't know how far to stop the inflow of ground water and storm water from overwhelming the sewer..
They know who I am and how to get in touch with me..
Posted by was1 on May 20 2015,11:13 am
your not drilling a well in limestone, you are building utility and road infrastructure over peat - theres a big difference. And, there is a soils report that has the data, including water table in it. But you keep on speculating instead of getting facts and answers.Nice ratio work, but not actual cost reduction, may be close, may not be. If its in the worst of the soils, which it appears to be, then you may actually be saving the City more $!
So, by your "They know who I am and how to get in touch with me." just tells me you just like coming on here, spouting off, and really don't want to do anything. Sad.
Posted by Botto 82 on May 20 2015,11:22 am
Just move. Shut up, and do it. Your town is a crap hole, and that's not changing, anytime soon. The only person here that's not aware of that is you.
Posted by Self-Banished on May 20 2015,11:34 am
Funny thing is that he lives in the crappyest part of the crap hole.😜
Posted by Glad I Left on May 20 2015,1:04 pm
(Botto 82 @ May 20 2015,11:22 am)
QUOTE
Just move. Shut up, and do it. Your town is a crap hole, and that's not changing, anytime soon. The only person here that's not aware of that is you.
It's not always that easy to move. I know I've told my parents the same thing, but they are both in their 70s, house is paid for. Like most housing in A.L. they won't get much for it if they do sell.
I can see their logic in just sticking it out. If they were in their 50s maybe it would be an easier decision.
They know the town is a sh!thole and not getting better anytime soon.
I don't know ALCI but he sounds like he might be in the same position.
Posted by Self-Banished on May 20 2015,1:57 pm
The "writing" was on the wall for AL 30 some years ago.
Posted by alcitizens on May 20 2015,5:06 pm
(was1 @ May 20 2015,11:13 am)
QUOTE
your not drilling a well in limestone, you are building utility and road infrastructure over peat - theres a big difference. And, there is a soils report that has the data, including water table in it. But you keep on speculating instead of getting facts and answers.
Nice ratio work, but not actual cost reduction, may be close, may not be. If its in the worst of the soils, which it appears to be, then you may actually be saving the City more $!
So, by your "They know who I am and how to get in touch with me." just tells me you just like coming on here, spouting off, and really don't want to do anything. Sad.
Nice ratio work, but not actual cost reduction, may be close, may not be. If its in the worst of the soils, which it appears to be, then you may actually be saving the City more $!
So, by your "They know who I am and how to get in touch with me." just tells me you just like coming on here, spouting off, and really don't want to do anything. Sad.
Hey! You question my knowledge of a water table, then you refuse to accept the data I posted from the respected ArcGis with centimeters converted to inches for people like you.. Then you say I speculate when I give you facts.. Go to this link and enter 1201 Virginia Place:
< http://www.arcgis.com/home...c956ca6 >
You can't get better facts than showing the location of this property has Le Sueur loam with a minimum soil depth to the water table is 45cm (17")..
Didn't I say over one million in savings? In 2012 the storm water was bubbling out of the storm sewer leaving the area flooded up to the siding of homes.. The disturbing part is its been fixable for many years prior to the 2012 flood..
It takes actions like this topic or as Maddog would say, Yelling in the back yard for City Leaders to listen.. Al Brooks has been publicly shamed but it also goes much deeper to those not elected to the City Council.. The local lobbyist at the Chamber of Commerce gets paid to push an agenda along with his ding bat wife... Who the hell does the people on the South, East and West sides have to lobby for them? Nobody..
This single topic has done more for more people than you ever did on the City Council.. You Ellen Kehr are a leach like your husband Randy..
Nothing but a Bloodsucking Phony..
Posted by alcitizens on May 20 2015,11:36 pm
(Glad I Left @ May 20 2015,1:04 pm)
QUOTE
They know the town is a sh!thole and not getting better anytime soon.
I don't know ALCI but he sounds like he might be in the same position.
I don't know ALCI but he sounds like he might be in the same position.
The Neighborhood is quiet with limited traffic and the people in my area are all really nice and my street will soon be brand spankin new..
I really do love my 3 bedroom with a Rear Split Foyer, Vaulted Ceiling, toilet on all three floors and an oversized single car garage next door to a park..
Thank you for your support..
Posted by alcitizens on May 21 2015,1:37 am
My list of questions that I will be asking at the May 26 hearing on the Virginia Place Reconstruction.. 1) What is the breakdown per foot of a special assessment?
2) What are all the funding sources and what is the percentage they will be responsible for?
3) Why would the assessments jump from 10.4% of cost in the Capital Improvement Plan to 20.5%?
4) What percentage of the job is the Water & Sewer Fund paying?
5) How did assessments go from $135,000 in the Capital Improvement Plan to $429,000?
6) What is the reason for an additional $800,000 over the Capital Improvement Plan?
7) What is the lift station pump GPM?
8) Can the City install an adjustable vent to allow outside air in at the lift station? The door is always wide open and I am concerned that someone will turn off the power supply to the pump..
9) What is the age of the sanitary sewer line that runs from 1201 Virginia Pl straight west to Broadway? My concern is that it is so close to the water table that a severe storm could overwhelm proper flow if its severely falling apart and allowing a major inflow of storm water..
10) Could the City add an automatic generator to the bill? I would feel a whole lot better if I knew that during a severe storm and the power goes out that a generator will kick in at the lift station to run the pump..
11) Would the City please run a 30" storm sewer line from the manhole at the park to the lift station and a 18" storm sewer line from the manhole at the big park drain to the manhole at the park? All the lines I viewed were way too small in the gutters for the volume of water coming from Broadway to the West and 6th St. to the East and all of Virginia Place..
Thank you all for your time and effort..
Sent to: City Councilmen, Mayor, City Manager and City Engineer
Posted by was1 on May 21 2015,9:51 am
Let’s see. . . you reference an AcrGIS – Water Table Depth. Which is a generated MODEL – not actual physical soil boring data. You stated some time ago that the City had done soil borings. GET THE SOILS REPORT! It will show you where they first encountered water, and where it was upon completion. That is true data for that location, not a model.Map does not zoom in enough to pinpoint any location. Could be Le Sueur loam, could be Lester loam (one minimum depth given of 110 cm or since you assume I don’t understand the metric system, approximately 43 inches), could be Undorthents wet substratum (again no water depth given). Therefore you need to look at the actual SOILS REPORT.
Now there are lobbyist in Albert Lea working not have your street fixed? WOW!
As for you list of questions, all of those should have been addressed at the Informational Meeting that was held. Back when I was1, that’s what was presented at those meetings. Sad if they were not covered, and even sadder if you did not ask them. I know many who don’t like the “grandstanding for the cameras” that elected officials do now that their meetings are on TV. Sounds to me like you are looking to do the same, sad.
I think your question #8 is a legit safety concern, not only for someone turning off the power and causing an issue, but also for safety of kids, or someone else, getting in there and hurting themselves. Sounds like a major liability to the City.
Question #9 – I would bet that the line going west is at least as old as the line in Virginia. I also guarantee that over 75% of the sewer mains in that town are old clay tile that leak like a sieve all year long putting clean water into the sanitary sewer system, which leads to backups and also additional sewage treatment costs. It is a problem in nearly every community in the country. Now, take into consideration all the sewer services that run from the homes to the main that are also like this and you can really have overwhelmed sewers.
#11 – you should let the City know you are a hydraulics engineer and that you have completed a drainage study and calculated the required storm water pipe sizes. Shoot – I bet they will be so happy for your assistance on that they will pay you for your efforts!
On a serious note, that street is long overdue to be reconstructed. It has many engineering and construction challenges which drives up the cost on the project, which I assume has been the reason for the long delay. I honestly hope you actually present your “buy-out” plan and the resulting reduction in at a minimum the sanitary sewer and roadway. And a little advice, present it in a nice and professional way, not the way you spout off here, no one will listen to that nonsense.
Posted by Joink on May 21 2015,10:34 am
Nice. Solid advice. Kudos was1.
Posted by alcitizens on May 21 2015,12:47 pm
All of your advice reminds me of a mother.. You have gotten use getting by with spouting off to others because I'd have to say you get pretty lippy with me.. I never once said they did borings.. And I'm sure ArcGis collected data because it is so precise..
When you click on the Le Sueur loam it shows a little bluish oval area on the map.. I've checked closely with the other selection of maps and it brings in 1201 and several of the City properties, also a portion of Newton.. Beacon shows the ring of peat..
You know when a budget is set, you and Randy are right there at the front door of City Hall trying to get funding for one thing or another and that goes on all year.. When the money is gone you two are sucking up to staff and council for the next time you want to get your hands on funding for a special interest..
What I'm doing with this project, I learned from the Kehr's.. Get the money before its gone..
Interest rates are going up and will cost the residents of the area even more next year.. Everyone concerned has the list of questions. It should go quick..
I thought while they have the street torn up they might be able re-line the sewer.. Hell I don't know.. I just don't want a basement full of sh!t..
I have never checked to see if there is a second door that is locked at the lift station.. Still an open door seems like an invitation..
You think its sad that I want the answers I get from the city to be recorded?
If during heavy rainfall you have a 10" line coming from Broadway and a 10" line coming from 6th St., that would be 20" of pipe putting out a fairly high pressure of storm water.. Then you add on all the water from Virginia Place that goes to the 4 street sewer drains in the same location as mentioned in question #11 and then you add on the large drain in the park and that 30" sewer line I recommended will be close to maxed out..
I have the feeling that some of the flooding problems were caused because of a lack of capacity going to the lift station.. If the City says the lift station pump can't handle more water coming in, then we know the pump is too small and should have been replaced a long time ago..
Treat me with respect and I'll treat you with respect.. If the City shows me respect on the 26th, they'll get the same in return from me..
Posted by was1 on May 21 2015,2:44 pm
Sorry you don't want any advice. Sounds like you got everything under control then."you and Randy. . ."' "you two. . ." Are you referring to me? I certainly hope not since you don’t know me.
Add to your list of questions/requests a full copy of the soil report that was completed for Virginia Place, trust me there is one and the ground water table is lower than 17 inches below the street surface.
You can reline a sewer without any street tear up as long as there are no collapsed sections. That is the beauty of trenchless pipe repair and replacement technology. You can use a cured in place pipe lining system and just pull the resin impregnated liner between two manholes, invert it, steam or hot water cure it and you basically have a new pipe. Or, you could use pipe bursting and even upsize the pipe. But you wouldn’t want to do this if there were service laterals connected to the main you are working on, that causes problems. You could even do some newer technology of spin grouting the existing pipe.
If you have two 10” pipes flowing into one manhole and the two pipes are at a 0.5% grade you have roughly a peak flow entering the manhole of 3.1CFS. If you have one 12” pipe leaving that manhole, at a 1% grade, that pipe has a capacity of 3.56CFS. I believe it is pretty standard practice to use a 12” concrete pipe as the smallest storm sewer pipe, even if one that large is not required. FYI – 2 10” pipes don’t equal 1 20” pipe. Hydraulic flow does not work that way. A 20”pipe at 0.5% grade can handle 9.8 CFS.
I recommend that you not ask what size pipes they are putting in for the storm sewer, or make your non engineered recommendations to them, and ask them what design year event they designed the storm sewer for (and what design year event the lift station is designed for). My guess is that they designed the storm sewer for a 10 year event. That is pretty standard practice for a residential street (I’ve even seen some places go as low as a 2 year event, which to me is just crazy). Larger used roadways typically are designed for a 20 or 25 year event. I would hope the lift station can handle a minimum 50 year event.
I don’t think it’s sad you want your questions and their responses recorded, I think it’s sad that it seems more like you what your 2 minutes of TV fame.
Posted by alcitizens on May 21 2015,7:33 pm
Steve Jahnke answered every question and supplied me with the detailed feasibility report.. I would never say that I'm correct about everything but I was right about the Albert Lea Water and Sewer Fund not wanting to pay much more than the $600,000. in the Capital improvement Plan.. Steve explained that the figures in the CIP are from 2003..
The cost of the project has went up $800,000. but the City Water and Sewer fund is set to pay only $638,000. of the project..
The Lift Station pumps can't keep up..
Posted by alcitizens on May 21 2015,7:37 pm
That 6th St. to Newton sanitary sewer is being replaced..The storm sewer at the old Donut Place was added to send water to Virginia Pl because the Broadway connections couldn't handle all the water..
If we lived in a perfect world, I would be invisible.. I've had a severe case of stage fright since I refused to go down the aisle at a wedding as a ring bearer when I was 3.. All it took was everyone turning around to look at me and the little girl.. I got her crying as hard as myself and neither one of us made it down the aisle..
Fame.. Hardly..
Posted by alcitizens on May 22 2015,3:51 am
Who has been flooding S Virginia Place since before the Federal Government funded the City of Albert Lea to buy out all the properties on S Virginia Place?Lets just say that the culprit has been right under our noses.. Not to act like Sherlock but as you can see in the photo below, the yellow zig zag going from top left to bottom right is a storm sewer line that was installed to drain rain water from Broadway Ave.
There had to be homes where you now see the Zig and the Zag or there would be no Zig and Zag.. It would run straight East to the street and then South to the lift station..
Long story short, the City of Albert Lea has been responsible for flooding their own neighborhood for at least the past 37 years..
The lift station was only meant to pump so much water and then came the Zig and the Zag and history was changed forever..
THE END
Posted by alcitizens on May 22 2015,4:30 am
I just found out recently from the feasibility report that I got from the City Engineer is that my street was last paved way back in 1963.. 52 years ago..
Posted by alcitizens on May 26 2015,11:00 am
The estimated cost of this project has increased by 60% since 2002 which would be the rate of inflation and is very understandable.. That 60% also includes 2 additional blocks on 5th St..Why would assessments for the same project go up 318% since 2002? The assessment policy change of 2006 should not affect neighborhoods in need of reconstruction with a previous Feasibility Report prior to 2006..
Interest rates were very low and assessments were so much more affordable.. Did Al Brooks vote in favor of the change in the Assessment Policy?
Posted by alcitizens on Dec. 07 2015,5:50 am
Lets not forget the storm sewer problem caused by the City of Albert Lea on Virginia Pl..