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26. Communication from Councilmember Shachner regarding the City's Sidewalk Program. (to be provided) Councilmember Shachner delivered the following oral communication: Dear Colleagues, The Sidewalk Program has greatly unproved the walkability ofour city by ensuring that all 180 miles of sidewalk are safe. However, every spring we hear from residents that receive estimates that are higher than they expected or planned. Safe sidewalks serve both a private and public interest and with the program reaching its final sections prior to starting over again, I believe it is time to explore capping the amount the city charges residents to repair their sidewalks if they choose to opt-in to the Sidewalk Program. I reviewed the estimates fi^om 2017-2020 to determine a reasonable cap that would not financially burden the city or residents. I found that a cap of$1,000 would provide residents the security of knowing that that would be the most that they would have to budget for and would keep the city's cost under$200,000 a year. I anticipate that future costs would be even less because the Sidewalk Program will be inspecting sections that were previously reviewed in 2013. Additionally, I propose that we limit eligibility for the cap to owner-occupied single-family homes and owner-occupied multifamily homes with 3 or less units. I look forward to discussing this proposal and exploring additional ways we can lessen the burden of our residents. Motion by Councilmember Shachner, seconded by President O'Malley to receive and file the communication. Discussion: President O'Malley remarked that he has often deliberated on the expense of sidewalks and the burden it poses to residents on corner lots.He added that he is looking forward to delving deeper into this issue in committee and finding an equitable solution. It was clarified that the City is under construction for year 9 and inspecting for year 10. Director Ducu remarked that making this change now would be unfair to the residents who have already paid the full amounts. He reported that the cost of sidewalks is approximately $215 per slab. He further reported on the programs and policies of surrounding communities. Councilmember Bullock expressed overall support for the sidewalk program. He questioned whether the city expects lower costs over the next ten years of the program, given that sidewalks have all now been recently repaired. Director Ducu replied that that has yet to be determined and that there are examples of sidewalk damage from wear and tear and tree growth over the past ten years. On the motion: All members voted in favor. Motion passed. 9