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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCCAgen_07Jun27CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS Regular Meeting of the City Council City Hall 2077 West Larpenteur Avenue AGENDA June 27, 2007 A. CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 PM B. ROLL CALL: GEHRZ ____ KUETTEL ____ HARRIS ____ LINDSTROM ____ TALBOT _____ MILLER _____ KREUSER_____ C. PRESENTATIONS: 1. Recognition of Emily Mendenhall for receipt of the Girl Scout Gold Award and William Plaisance for receipt of the Boy Scout Eagle Award 2. Northwest Youth and Family Services annual update TAB 1 D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: June 13, 2007 TAB 2 E. PUBLIC HEARINGS: F. CONSENT AGENDA: 1. General Disbursements through 6/20/07: $112,662.43 Payroll through 6/15/07: $15,728.38 TAB 3 2. 2007 licenses TAB 4 3. Salary adjustment for Parks and Public Works Director Tim Pittman TAB 5 4. Acceptance of $5000 grant from Fireman's Fund Insurance Companies TAB 6 G. POLICY AGENDA: 1. Approval of Community Park lease renewal TAB 7 2. Blue Cross/Blue Shield ‘Communities on the Move’ grant application TAB 8 3. Adoption of City goals for 2008 TAB 9 H. COMMUNITY FORUM: I.? INFORMATION/ANNOUNCEMENTS: J. ADJOURNMENT: If you have a disability and need accommodation in order to attend this meeting, please notify City Hall 48 hours in advance between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at 651-792-7600. We will be happy to help. 2 Regular Meeting of the Falcon Heights City Council June 13, 2007 Members present: Mayor Gehrz, Council members Lindstrom, Harris, Kuettel and Talbot, Administrator Miller, Assistant City Administrator/Deputy Clerk Kreuser, and Parks and Public Works Director Pittman. Mayor Gehrz called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Presentation: 1. The first presentation was given by the City’s prosecuting attorney’s office, Hughes & Costello. Martin Costello introduced Katrina Joseph and Tory Stewart from his office, and Costello began by explaining the three areas of focus: advising and drafting ordinances, criminal prosecution, and civil litigation. Stewart spoke about criminal prosecution. Joseph spoke next, by talking about civil injunctions. She explained that an injunction is a cease and desist order that is subject to fines and ultimately jail time but is used rarely. She next explained civil litigation, which stays with a single judge for the length of the case. Since it’s the same judge, they see the case through to the end and have all the information from the very beginning. Joseph stated that the attorney’s meet with staff, staff send letters and document their actions, and as a last resort the attorney’s office gets involved. Council member Talbot asked if a case can go to court without council approval. Joseph replied it could, but the council lends support. Council member Lindstrom asked how the city could make Hughes & Costello’s job easier. Joseph answered that staff is easy to work with, and the office has a great working relationship with SAPD. Public Hearing: 1. The first public hearing presentation was given by Tim Pittman, Parks and Public Works Director, for the MS4 permit requirement. He outlined Falcon Heights’ actions to remain in compliance with the MS4 regulations, and explained the permitting objectives are to keep pollution from getting into our water resources. Council member Talbot asked about MS4 requirements for construction. Pittman replied they always want vegetation on dirt and silt fencing around erosion areas to combat runoff. Administrator Miller added cities aren’t responsible for enforcement of that, it would be up to the watershed district to issue a stop work order. Council member Lindstrom asked about the city’s fleet maintenance and building maintenance, as outlined in the permit. Pittman replied by ensuring there are no leaks and nothing that would run into the storm sewer. Mayor Gehrz opened the public hearing. She closed the public hearing. 2. The second public hearing was introduced by Administrator Miller regarding the city’s new assessment manual. He explained the differences between the current policy and new manual, and stated the main difference is that new assessments would be charged on a percentage basis, rather than a set per-foot dollar amount. Council member Kuettel stated that the city has studied the policy, and couldn’t afford to subsidize assessments any longer. 3 Council member Harris stated that now was a good time to implement a new policy, since there aren’t any major projects coming up in the near future. Residents won’t be at risk for a higher assessment for some time. Council member Lindstrom agreed. He said that each resident would be charged a percentage based on per linear foot, and that was a fair shake. Council member Talbot asked about the senior deferment and changes regarding sidewalk repairs. Administrator Miller answered sidewalk repair remains city responsibility, and deferral is still based on need. The state allows cities to defer assessments with interest accrued. Interest accrues at 6.5% and must be paid out should the property change ownership. Mayor Gehrz opened the public hearing. She closed the public hearing. Council member Lindstrom rose the topic regarding deferments and stated that as the manual reads, a deferment can be granted to anyone who earns below 50% the median income. He proposed increasing it to 75%, with seniors in mind who may live on a fixed income. Even with a ten-year deferment, it may be a hardship for some. Council member Talbot agreed it was a good idea to examine. Administrator Miller stated the median is based on metro wages and the number in each household. The council discussed whether to increase the percentage to 75, with not only seniors but also young families in mind as well. Administrator Miller said from a financial standpoint, interest would accrue quickly at 6.5%, but the assessments and deferments would be approved at the same time. Mayor Gehrz stated more information was needed in order to consider the increase. She asked if the council would table the item until more research could be done. Council member Harris stated other cities manuals could be checked, and Talbot wanted to know more about the median income. Administrator Miller proposed the council approve the manual as-is, and staff would bring back the deferment portion later. Council member Talbot moved to approve the manual with section six brought back at a later date. The motion passed unanimously. The minutes of the May 23, 2007 regular council meeting were approved as submitted. Consent Agenda: Administrator Miller pointed out one disbursement was on the credit card rather than the check roster, which amended the total disbursements to $102,025.89. Council member Kuettel moved to approve the following three items on the consent agenda. The motion passed unanimously. 1. General Disbursements through 6/6/07: $102,025.89 Payroll through 5/30/07: $15,993.04 2. 2007 Licenses 3. Resolution to change polling place location Policy Agenda: 1. Changes to the Employment Contract for the City Administrator Mayor Gehrz gave an overview to the council by stating Justin had been with the City for oneyear, and in accordance with the city’s practice, was up for review. Interviews conducted by the Mayor with city staff and the council produced excellent reviews of Justin’s performance. Data from comparably-sized cities placed Justin at just over $83,000, which is is 90% of the average for that data set. She recommended increasing Justin’s salary to $83,300 effective June 19, 2007. 4 Council member Harris said she was in favor of the increase and asked what percentage that would be. Administrator Miller answered he made $75,000 currently and so it was be an 11% increase. Council member Talbot took issue with the city’s compensation policy, asking why employees weren’t paid at 100% of the average of comparably-sized cities. Mayor Gehrz replied the city doesn’t operate it’s own utilities, and so that was the reason. Council member Talbot and Kuettel both congratulated Justin on one-year, and both were impressed with his contributions to the city. Council member Lindstrom stated he would be in favor of more than just a 3% increase for employees in coming years, as has been the practice for COLA adjustments at the new year. Council member Harris moved to approve the changes to the employement agreement for the City Administrator. The motion passed unanimously. Administrator Miller thanked the council and staff for making his first year a good one. Information/Announcements: Council member member Harris reported the Parks/Rec Commission will start holding their meetings in the various parks around the city in order to survey and inventory the resources. Council member Lindstrom stated the Environment Commission met, and that he’d seen the garden was doing very well. He joked he also heard some people want to start a garden at the east side of town. Council member Talbot said CTV15 finished the installation of the new cameras in the council chambers, which will produce better video and audio once the kinks are worked out of the system. He thanked Pat Cook and Maureen Anderson for the improvements. Mayor Gehrz announced the council’s goal setting workshop would be Jun 20 at 6 p.m. Public is welcome, or pass along your ideas to a council member. The Consolidated Dispatch Center opened Monday, with a grand opening and tours of the facility. Assistant City Administrator/Deputy Clerk Kreuser reported new block party play kits are available for free use during the summer months. Balls, Frisbees, and and a parachute are among the items included. Call City Hall to reserve. Mayor Gehrz adjourned the meeting at 8:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Stacey Kreuser Assistant City Administrator/Deputy Clerk 5 CONSENT F1 6/27/07 ITEM: Disbursements and payroll SUBMITTED BY: Roland Olson, Finance Director REVIEWED BY: Justin Miller, City Administrator EXPLANATION: 1. General Disbursements through 6/20/07: $112,662.43 2. Payroll through 6/15/07: $15,728.38 ATTACHMENTS: General disbursements, credit card statement, and payroll ACTION REQUESTED: Approval 6 CONSENT F2 6/27/07 ITEM: 2007 Licenses SUBMITTED BY: Stacey Kreuser, Assistant City Administrator/Deputy Clerk Explanation: The following business has applied for a mechanical contractor’s license. Staff has received the necessary documents for licensure. • Air Conditioning Associates Inc. • Four Seasons Air Specialists 7 CONSENT F3 6/27/07 ITEM: Step Increase for Tim Pittman, Parks and Public Works Director SUBMITTED BY: Justin Miller, City Administrator EXPLANATION: Tim Pittman recently passed his six-month anniversary as the city’s parks and public works director. His performance over his first six months has been exemplary, bringing many fresh ideas to the department and completing numerous projects in ways that were on time and under budget. Under our current policy, employees who work for the city for six months are eligible for a 5% step increase. REQUESTED ACTION: Due to his outstanding performance, staff is requesting that Tim Pittman’s salary be increased by 5% effective June 18, 2007. This increase has already been factored into the 2007 budget, so no adjustment is needed. 8 CONSENT F4 6/27/07 ITEM: Acceptance of $5000 Grant from Fireman’s Fund Insurance Companies SUBMITTED BY: Clem Kurhajetz, Fire Chief EXPLANATION: Recently the Falcon Heights Fire Department submitted a grant application to the Fireman’s Fund Insurance Companies. We were recently notified that we were the recipient of $5000 to go towards the purchase of new computer equipment, battery and gas powered saws, and gas detection equipment. This equipment will significantly improve our ability to provide public safety services, and using grant money will offset any impact to the general tax levy. Representatives from the Fireman’s Fund will be in town on July 19th to make a formal presentation. The presentation will be at 9:30 am in the fire department and all are welcome to attend. REQUESTED ACTION: Staff recommends that the Falcon Heights City Council accept a $5000 grant from the Fireman’s Fund Insurance Companies. 9 POLICY G1 6/27/07 ITEM: Community Park Lease Renewal SUBMITTED BY: Justin Miller, City Administrator EXPLANATION: The city’s largest park, Community Park, is not actually owned by the city; rather we lease the land from the University of Minnesota. Our current 15-year lease is set to expire at the end of 2008, but one of the city council’s goals for 2007 is to renew this lease as soon as possible. For several months, staff has been working with the University of Minnesota real estate office on drafting a new lease. After several discussions, staff is presenting a new 15-year lease to the city council for approval. The main points of the lease remain the same as our current lease. The major difference is that instead of the new version being for a lump sum of 15 years, it is a series of 15 one-year leases. In effect, it is the same because under both leases, either party could terminate the lease for any reason with one year’s notice. So while the current lease is technically a 15 year lease, practically it is a year-by-year lease. The annual leases automatically renew, so further council action will not be needed until the lease ends on December 31, 2024. Other terms remain the same, such as the city owning improvements made to the park (new equipment, buildings, etc.), and the city retains maintenance responsibilities. The city attorney has reviewed the lease and his recommendations have been included into the revised version attached to this report. The city has enjoyed a very positive relationship with the university in regards to leasing lands for our park needs. Grove Park is also on university land, and these arrangements have been beneficial to both parties. If the city were to purchase land the size of Community Park today, it would be in the millions of dollars. Instead, the only costs associated with the park are our maintenance and equipment needs, which are included in our annual budgets and capital improvement plans. REQUESTED ACTION: Staff recommends that the Falcon Heights City Council approve approve the attached lease with the University of Minnesota for Community Park. University Lease No. U-117 LEASE THIS LEASE (“Lease”) is entered into this __ day of June 2007 (the “Effective Date”) by and between Regents of the University of Minnesota, a Minnesota constitutional corporation (“University”) and the City of Falcon Heights, Ramsey County, Minnesota, a municipal corporation (the “City”). WHEREAS, University and City entered into an Agreement dated December 31, 1973 and an Amendment Extending Lease dated April 5, 1990 (together, the “Agreement”), wherein the City leased from University approximately 14.5 acres legally described on the attached Exhibit A (the “Property”) for playground and recreational purposes; and WHEREAS, the Agreement will expire on December 31, 2008; and WHEREAS, City desires to continue leasing the Property; and WHEREAS, University agrees to execute a new one-year annually renewable Lease. NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows: 1. Term. The term of the Lease shall be for one (1) year beginning on January 1, 2009, automatically renewing for up to fourteen (14) additional one (1) year terms ending on December 31, 2024 (the “Term”), unless terminated earlier as provided herein. This Lease may be terminated by either party for any reason on any December 31 during the Term upon not less than 365 days’ prior written notice to the other party. 2. Rent. As rent for the entire Term, the City shall pay to the University One Dollar ($1.00) (“Rent”) on the Commencement Date. 3. Use of Property. 3.1 City shall occupy and use the Property solely for playground and recreational purposes, and for no other purpose without University’s prior written consent, which University may withhold in its sole discretion. 3.2 City shall comply with all applicable laws relating to its use of the Property, including but not limited to the City’s Ordinance Chapter 34 Parks and Recreation. In addition, the City shall comply with applicable University policies and procedures, including but not 10 11 limited to the University’s Board of Regents’ Policy regarding Possession and Carrying of Weapons, which is attached as Exhibit B, and the University’s Smoke-Free Indoor Air Policy, which is attached as Exhibit C. 3.3 City shall procure, maintain in effect, and comply with all conditions of any and all permits, licenses, and similar authorizations required by any governmental authority having jurisdiction over the use thereof. 4. Improvements. 4.1 The City shall not install or build any new structures, buildings, or other improvements (“Improvements”) on the Property without University’s prior written consent, which may be withheld in University’s sole discretion. All building permits for any Improvements shall be issued by University’s Building Official’s Office. 4.2 During the Term, all existing Improvements shall be owned by the City. On the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, the Improvements shall be owed by the University. (Together the Improvements and the Property are referred to herein as the “Leased Premises”.) 4.3 City shall keep the Leased Premises free of any and all mechanics’, materialmens’, and other liens arising out of any work, labor done, services performed, or materials furnished for City or claimed to have been furnished during the Term. 5. Maintenance. City shall neither commit nor suffer any waste to the Leased Premises and shall, at City’s sole cost and expense, keep and maintain the Leased Premises in good order and repair and safe condition. The City, at its sole expense, shall make any and all additions to or alterations or repairs in and about the Leased Premises that may be required by any laws, ordinances, and regulations applicable to the Leased Premises. In no event shall City undertake or allow any activity to be conducted on the Leased Premises that constitutes a nuisance, is immoral or obscene, or is a threat to the welfare of the general public. 6. Damage or destruction. If the Leased Premises are damaged or destroyed from any cause(s) whatsoever, City shall shall promptly give written notice thereof to University. City shall promptly repair or restore the Leased Premises as nearly as possible to its condition immediately prior to such damage or destruction unless University and City mutually agree in writing that such repair and restoration is unnecessary. All plans and or specifications for such repair or restoration work shall be submitted to University for approval, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or denied. University shall have no liabilities, obligations, or responsibilities whatsoever with respect thereto or with respect to any plans or specifications submitted to University under this Lease. University’s review of any plans or specifications is solely for University’s own purposes, and University does not make any warranty concerning the appropriateness of any such plans or specifications for any other purpose. University’s approval of any such plans and specifications shall not render University liable therefore, and City agrees to indemnify, indemnify, defend, and hold harmless University from and against any and all claims arising out of or from the use of such plans and specifications. 12 7. Condemnation. 7.1 In the event of a total taking of the Leased Premises, this Lease shall terminate on the date of the taking. Any award or payment made in respect to the taking of the Property shall be paid to University. Any award attributable to Improvements shall be equitably allocated between University and City. 7.2 In the event of a partial taking, the Lease shall continue for the remainder of the Term for that portion of the Leased Premises not taken. Any award with respect to the taking of the Property shall be paid to University. Any award attributable to Improvements shall be equitably allocated between University and City. 8. Assignment and Subletting. City shall not assign or sublet the Leased Premises in whole or in part without University’s prior written consent, which may be withheld or denied in University’s sole discretion. Any assignment or sublease attempted to be made in violation of this Lease shall be void. The terms of the Lease shall bind and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns. 9. Surrender of Leased Premises. At the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, City, at its sole expense, shall (a) remove all Improvements and personal property from the Leased Premises; (b) repair any damage to the Property; and (c) quietly yield and surrender the Property to University in the same good condition that existed when it took the Property, to be determined at University’s sole discretion. Personal property not removed by Tenant shall be considered abandoned and University may without liability dispose of it as it deems expedient. At University’s option, University may accept the Property in its improved condition rather than requiring the City to remove them. 10. Utilities, Services and Taxes. During the Term, City shall pay all costs associated with or resulting from its use of or otherwise attributable to the Leased Premises, including but not limited to real estate or personal property taxes or payments in lieu thereof and installments of special assessments. 11. Environmental Requirements.City shall not install, use, generate, store, or dispose of, in, or about the Leased Premises any hazardous substance, toxic chemical, petroleum product, pollutant or other material regulated by the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, or the Minnesota Environmental Response and Liability Act or any similar law or regulation relating to environmental protection or human health, including without limitation any material containing asbestos or PCBs (collectively, “Hazardous Materials”) without University’s written approval of each Hazardous Material. 12. Insurance. 12.1 During the Term, the City shall obtain and keep in force (a) either commercial general liability insurance or equivalent insurance through the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust (LMCIT) with coverage for personal and bodily injury, property damage and public liability with limits of not less than $1,000,000 each occurrence; (b) worker’s 13 compensation insurance to at least statutory limits for any and all workers; and (c) property insurance covering all Improvements and personal property on or about the Property. 12.2 Each policy shall name the Regents of the University of Minnesota as an additional insured and shall be endorsed to provide University with at least thirty (30) days advance written notice of non-renewal, reduction in coverage, or cancellation. . 12.3 Upon request, the City shall provide certificates of insurance or certified copies of the policies to University. 13. Indemnification. The City shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the University from and against any and all injuries, damages or loss (including attorney’s and other professional fees) arising from any act or omission of City under this Lease. The City’s duty to indemnify and hold harmless is subject to the limitations, immunities and defenses in Minnesota Statutes Chapter 466, which are not waived and which are incorporated herein. 14. Default. Any breach of this Agreement which remains uncured for thirty (30) days following written notice from University to City (plus, with respect to breaches which cannot be cured within the thirty (30) days, such additional period as is reasonably required to cure such breach), shall be deemed a default entitling University to terminate this Lease or cure the default, charge such cost to the City and the City shall pay the same immediately upon demand. 15. Remedies Cumulative, Waiver of Rights. All remedies conferred on University shall be deemed cumulative and no one exclusive of the other, or of any other remedy conferred by law or equity. The failure of either party to insist on any one or more cases upon the strict performance of any of the covenants of this Lease or to exercise any option contained in this Lease shall not be construed as a waiver or relinquishment for the future of such covenant or option. No waiver by University of any provisions of this Lease shall be deemed to have been made unless expressed in writing and signed by University. 16. Notices. All notices, requests, and other communications that a party is required or elects to deliver shall be in writing and shall be delivered personally, or by facsimile or electronic mail (provided such delivery is confirmed), or by a recognized overnight courier service or by United States mail, first class, certified, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, to the other party at its address set forth below or to such other address as such party may designate by notice given pursuant to this section: 14 If to University: Regents of the University of Minnesota c/o Real Estate Office Attn: Leasing Manager Suite 424, Donhowe Building 319-15th Avenue SE Minneapolis, MN 55455-0199 Facsimile No.: (612) 624-6345 E-mail: reo@umn.edu If to the City: City of Falcon Heights Attn: City Administrator 2077 West Larpenteur Avenue Falcon Heights, MN 55113 Facsimile No.: ____________ E-mail: _________________ 16. Governing Law/Jurisdiction. The internal laws of the State of Minnesota shall govern the validity, construction, and enforceability of this Lease, without giving effect to its conflict of laws principles. All suits, actions, claims, and causes of action relating to the construction, validity, performance, and enforcement of this Lease shall be in Minnesota state court. (REMAINDER OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK) 15 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, University and City have executed this Lease. Regents of the University of Minnesota City of Falcon Heights By: By: Name: Name: Title: Title: Mayor Date: Date: By: Name: Title: City Administrator Date: 16 EXHIBIT A The North 925 feet of that part of the SW 1/4 Section 16, Township 29, Range 23, lying West of the westerly line of Block 2, Falcon Woods, the westerly line of Block 5, Falcon Woods No. 2, and said westerly line extended in a southerly direction, according to the plats thereof on file and of record in the office of the Register of Deeds in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota, subject to the rights of the public over any portion thereof for highways, consisting of about 14.5 acres, more or less. EXHIBIT B 17 18 19 EXHIBIT C 20 21 22 23 POLICY G2 6/27/07 ITEM: Submittal of Blue Cross/Blue Shield Communities on the Move Grant Application SUBMITTED BY: Justin Miller, City Administrator EXPLANATION: In January 2006, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota launched a long-term health improvement program called Prevention Minnesota. This program is supported by the $241 million lawsuit with the tobacco industry. Prevention Minnesota is designed to address the root causes of the state’s deadliest and costliest diseases – heart disease and cancers. Experience in Minnesota and around the country shows that community-based efforts to improve health can be extremely effective. Prevention Minnesota’s community funding helps provide the resources and support necessary for successful community health initiatives in Minnesota. Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Minnesota has recently issued a new RFP for Communities on the Move – Small Programs. They intend to fund 20 to 40 applicants that are working in their communities to increase the physical activity levels of sedentary and insufficiently active adult Minnesotans by enhancing access to and support for physical activity. They have encouraged local governments to apply for this grant cycle. The city councils of Falcon Heights and Lauderdale discussed submitting a joint application at our June 6th workshop. The grant proposal includes the formation of a walking club made up of 40-50 Falcon Heights and Lauderdale residents. The goal of the group will be to make a hypothetical trip to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida (a play-on-words of Lauderdale, Minnesota). We will provide pedometers to each member, as well as pre-paid passes to the Warner Coliseum on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. This will provide a climate-controlled atmosphere for walkers during the winter months. We will also provide incentive prizes such as walking weights, water bottles, and gift cards to those who meet pre-determined distance goals. A grand prize of an MP3 player will be awarded to the person completing the most miles. We will keep a log on our websites with a map showing the progress the walking team has made. The total grant application is in the amount of $4,850 ($4,999 is the maximum award). While this is a joint application, the City of Falcon Heights will serve as the main point of contact and will administer the grant. No additional city money is anticipated to be used in this program. REQUESTED ACTION: Staff recommends that the Falcon Heights City Council approve the attached grant application to the Blue Cross/Blue Shield Communities on the Move program. 24 POLICY G3 6/27/07 ITEM: Adoption of City goals for 2008 SUBMITTED BY: Justin Miller, City Administrator REVEIWED BY: City Council EXPLANATION: At the June 20 City Council goal setting workshop, the council discussed and developed the City goals, strategies and action plan for 2008. ATTACHMENTS: • 2008 City Goals ACTION REQUESTED: • Adopt City goals for 2008 25 City of Falcon Heights 2008 Goals Purpose: To sustain this community as a good place to live, work and visit. Goal 1: To protect the public health and safety. Strategy 1: Provide public safety services to citizens. Action Items: ?? Provide a responsive, visible, police service utilizing community oriented policing model ?? Provide a responsive, well-trained fire service ?? Practice the emergency management plan ?? Participate in Metro-wide emergency management planning, activities and exercises ?? Continue to offer training to prepare volunteers to assist with disaster response ?? Maintain Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) throughout the city ?? Work with other cities, agencies and institutions in Ramsey County to develop a county-wide emergency management inventory and plan ?? Continue to use St. Paul for ambulance service ?? Participate in the North Suburban Haz Mat Team ?? Explore options for a bicycle safety program and bicycle patrols ?? Promote 55 Alive programs ?? Conduct proactive neighborhood crime prevention meetings as needed ?? Promote services provided by SAPD such as premise checks, vacation checks and carseat safety Strategy 2: Participate in initiatives designed to prevent crime and the need for emergency responses. Action Items: ?? Promptly remove graffiti from public buildings and provide removal materials for city businesses ?? Expand opportunities for using technology to improve crime watch notification ?? Communicate regularly with residents about Homeland Security and the emergency management plan ?? Support the work of the Neighborhood Commission and Neighborhood Liaisons ?? Use traffic-calming tools including the speed monitoring trailer and warning signs ?? Take steps to prevent hate crimes through the activities of the Human Rights Commission 26 Strategy 3: Participate in early intervention programs with juveniles. Action Items: ?? Support Northwest Youth and Family Services (NYFS) ?? Continue referrals to NYFS through facilitating connections between NYFS and SAPD Strategy 4: Protect the public health. Action Item: ?? Participate in Ramsey County public health emergency exercises ?? Publicize mosquito control measures, including free tire pick-up by Metropolitan Mosquito Patrol, utilizing city council meetings, newsletters and flyers ?? Continue education about preparing for pandemic flu in this community ?? Explore opportunities to distribute free gun locks Goal 2: To sustain and promote the assets of the city’s unique neighborhoods and tax base including commercial, residential and open space uses for present and future generations. Strategy 1: Maintain and enhance the neighborhood and community parks with updated facilities, recreation and community services. Action Items: ?? Maintain community landscaping and investigate additional options ?? Maintain a sound maintenance program for public facilities ?? Focus on the quality, appearance, and longevity of public improvements ?? Research opportunities for enhancing recreational resources at Falcon Heights Elementary School ?? Support and continue to promote an Adopt-A-Park program ?? Implement the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Strategy 2: Work with businesses and homeowners to maintain a functional and desirable business and residential environment. Action Items: ?? Continue to review and communicate city code requirements to business and commercial property owners ?? Maintain the desirability of neighborhoods through education and code enforcement ?? Use non-profit organizations such as NYFS ?? Communicate community standards through photos and code information on the website ?? Publicize Falcon Heights businesses including the Farmer’s Market 27 Strategy 3: Maintain the City’s infrastructure. Action Items: ?? Maintain and increase the pathways ?? Complete development of a system for rating pathways throughout the City ?? Maintain the sanitary sewers and storm sewers ?? Continue with a boulevard tree program for replacement, maintenance and expansion ?? Publicize the resources available through the Housing Resource Center ?? Maintain streets and alleys in accordance with the Pavement Management Plan ?? Pursue residential streetlighting study Strategy 4: Protect and enhance the physical land use characteristics of the community. Action Items: ?? Regularly review and update zoning code as necessary ?? Participate in planning discussions, and get the required planning expertise if needed to assure that University of Minnesota and State Fair land uses and future inter-government decisions do not negatively impact the City’s neighborhoods ?? Expand the use of the GIS system for land use planning and maintaining information on the city’s land use and facilities ?? Support environmental education programs and activities ?? Complete and submit plan for 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update Strategy 5: Pursue community and economic development opportunities and business retention activities. Action Items: ?? Be well informed with the necessary planning, engineering, financial and legal expertise when making land use decisions ?? Offer local businesses opportunities to be included in new resident welcome packets and community activities Strategy 6: Expand pedestrian and bicycle opportunities. Action Items: ?? Be an active partner in the Active Living Ramsey County! (ALRC) initiative ?? Work with ALRC to conduct a GIS inventory of pathways and bicycle lanes ?? Pursue collaborative funding for a bituminous pathway at FH Elementary playground. 28 Strategy 7: Promote the unique assets of Falcon Heights. Action Items: • Publicize the new Bell Museum of Natural History • Distribute the “Fun Facts About Falcon Heights Flyer” Goal 3: To expand opportunities for the interaction and involvement of citizens of all ages in their neighborhoods and community. Strategy 1: Promote and participate in youth development. Action Items: ?? Continue the Junior Leaders program ?? Include youth as commission members ?? Include youth in city meetings, trainings and courses ?? Informally interact with youth when the opportunity arises ?? Speak about local government at schools or youth related functions ?? Recognize youth achievement at City Council meetings, in the newsletter, and through the Neil Kwong Youth Citizenship Awards, and the North Suburban Gavel Association ?? Promote awareness of the Cable Commission scholarships and internships ?? Encourage student participation in City Council Meetings ?? Participate in the Kids Voting Program at precincts one and two through the Roseville Rotary Club ?? Conduct a council meeting with students ?? Contact RAMS or RAHS to solicit youth commission members Strategy 2: Host community/neighborhood events and activities. Action Items: ?? Sponsor Annual Ice Cream Social ?? Sponsor Winterfest ?? Encourage neighborhood gatherings ?? Support the Neighborhood Block Parties and National Night Out activities ?? Support the Fire Department/Public Safety Open House ?? Encourage volunteers to be involved in community planning activities ?? Hold an annual food drive in conjunction with Falcon Heights Elementary School and other community partners ?? Review and explore existing and additional city sponsored events Strategy 3: Explore, create and provide an array of recreation programming. Action Item: ?? Provide recreation programming for all age groups ?? Provide referrals for alternate programming ?? Manage recreation programming on a seasonal basis 29 ?? Provide space for and promote the Falconeers Senior program Strategy 4: Encourage citizens to participate in city government. Action Items: ?? Promote resident participation ?? Continue to web-stream televised council and planning commission meetings ?? Promote, recruit, and publicize citizen participation in city commissions and task forces Strategy 5: Build stronger community and neighborhood connections. Action Items: ?? Distribute the “Welcome to Falcon Heights” booklet ?? Support and promote the Neighborhood Liaison Program ?? Use conflict resolution resources for neighbors to use in resolving neighborhood conflicts ?? Send out three newsletters per year ?? Distribute monthly Falcon Flyer and post to city website ?? Support and expand the city’s website ?? Promote and support the AARP Tax Assistance Program ?? Research “Aging-In-Place” in the City Strategy 6: Maintain and promote our commitment to human rights and diversity. Action Items: ?? Promote diversity on our commissions ?? Support the work of the Falcon Heights Human Rights Commission Goal 4: To provide a responsive and effective city government. Strategy 1: Communicate promptly and clearly with citizens, business owners and institutional representatives by anticipating information needs and quickly responding to questions. Action Items: ?? Provide a photo of new staff members and a description of jobs in the newsletter ?? Publish a summary of the goals in the City’s newsletter and on the website ?? Educate residents about the property tax ?? Hold a Truth in Taxation Hearing annually Strategy 2: Maintain collaborative relationships with other entities. Action Items: ?? Participate in the U of M Campus/Community Advisory Committee and on the Stadium Area Advisory Group 30 ?? Maintain regular communication with the University of Minnesota, the Metropolitan Council, Ramsey County, the Minnesota State Fair, the Capital Region Watershed District, the cities surrounding Falcon Heights, and the State of Minnesota ?? Convey city goals to the City’s representatives at the legislature, the Metropolitan Council and the County, as well as to neighboring communities ?? Met Council representive presentation at future council meeting ?? Participate in Northwest Youth and Family Service, North Suburban Communications Commission and CTV15, and the Ramsey County League of Local Governments ?? Encourage Councilmembers and Staff to participate in service and professional organizations Strategy 3: Effectively manage the City’s consulting and personnel resources. Action Items: ?? Evaluate the performance and work assignments of City employees through annual performance reviews ?? Provide employees with affordable resources they require to efficiently and effectively do their jobs, including a a training plan and technology resources ?? Provide adequate funds for personnel, equipment and contractors to maintain the City’s infrastructure, facilities, public spaces and public improvements ?? Evaluate and review consultants’ performances and fees ?? Retain highly skilled and high-functioning employees ?? Provide salaries and benefits that are competitive with cities of a similar size, scale, and scope Strategy 4: Effectively manage the city’s financial resources. Action Items: ?? Update and provide a well-researched five year capital improvement program ?? Review and adjust fees and policies as part of the annual budgeting process ?? Research and pursue new revenue sources, including grants ?? Pursue conduit bonding opportunities ?? Review and evaluate the City’s long term financial needs and the City’s current and future financial resources to meet these needs ?? Continue to research and pursue new opportunities for reducing expenses by using more contracts and joint powers agreements to share equipment, personnel, and technology with other levels of government ?? Maintain a contingency fund to be prepared for unexpected, but necessary, expenditures ?? Retain highly skilled and high functioning employees ?? Continue to meet the standards for the GFOA Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting Strategy 5: Develop and expand an e-mail capability to communicate with residents 31 Action Items: ?? Solicit e-mail addresses through the Falcon Flyer and newsletter, at the front desk, on the City website, and at community events ?? Solicit new resident e-mail addresses ?? Provide critical information in a timely manner utilizing city’s list serv Strategy 6: Expand the capability to conduct any city-to-resident transaction online Goal 5: Provide for a clean, healthy, sustainable environment. Strategy 1: Undertake efforts to maximize recycling. Action Items: ?? Explore moving to a single-sort recycling system. ?? Research an incentive program to encourage recycling. ?? Investigate collecting recycling on a weekly basis. Strategy 2: Consider environmental benefits in city purchasing. Action Items: ?? Consider environmentally-friend y options in city vehicles and public works ?? Change to energy-efficient, compact light bulbs. Strategy 3: Continue support of Community Garden. Action Items: ?? Investigate placement of dedicated water line to garden. ?? Continue publicity in newsletter, on website, and in the Falcon Flyer.