BROOKLYN CENTER

March 24: The City Council gave final approval to changes in the junk-vehicle storage ordinance. Classic cars had previously been exempt from the rule that required junk or inoperable vehicles to be stored in a building. Another change to the ordinance allows the city to impound vehicles that are in violation of the ordinance and charge the owner. The owner will get a written notice and 10 days to correct the problem before the city impounds the vehicle.

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS

March 24: The new public safety building is on its way after the City Council gave initial approval for up to $11.5 million in bonds to pay for the project. The approximately 40,000-square-foot police and fire facility will be located at 41st Avenue NE. and Jackson Street NE. The cost to the owner of a $200,000 home will be between $47 and $58 a year starting in 2009.

The council also awarded the construction contract to EDS Consultants and Construction Managers. Buetow and Associates was approved as the architect for the project.

BLAINE

March 13: An architectural firm presented a study about the future of the city's Mary Ann Young Senior Center. The council commissioned the study last fall to analyze future needs and uses and address whether to build a new center. The study concluded that the size of such a center should be about 15,000 square feet, more than three times the size of the current center. The study said a future center could be located at Aquatore Park or adjacent to City Hall, because each of those sites is large enough to include a future community center and senior center.

COON RAPIDS

March 18: The City Council approved a joint-powers agreement with Anoka County to upgrade a portion of University Avenue from County Road 10 to Hwy. 10. The improvements include a raised median and turn lanes, as well as curbs and gutters. A traffic light at 91st Avenue will remain but was a point of contention during talks between the city and county. The city's estimated share of the cost is $85,000. The street borders Blaine, which also has approved an agreement with the county. Construction is expected this year.

STAFF REPORTS