HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/28/1983 Council MinutesT
February 28, 1983
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The regular meeting of the Lino Lakes City Council was called to order
at 7:00 P.M., February 28, 1983 by Mayor Benson with all members
present. Mr. Hawkins, Mr. Davidson, Mr. Schumacher, Mr. Kluegel and
Mrs. Sarner were also present.
MINUTES - FEBRUARY 14, 1983
Mr. Marier moved to accept the minutes as written Seconded by Mrs.
Elsenpeter. Mayor Benson - under Old Business - on the appointment of
the Engineering firm, the motion carried with Mr. Kulaszewica abd Mr.
Marier voting, No. Motion on minutes carried unanimously.
DISBURSEMENTS - February 28, 1983
Mr. Kulaszewicz questioned the division of a check for Tom's Tools to
the several departments - Mr. Schumacher explained this is done by
percentage.
Mr. Kulaszewicz moved to approve the disbursements. Seconded by Mr.
Reinert. Motion carried unanimously.
OPEN MIKE
There was no one to apperar under this portion of the agenda.
STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS
Mayor Benson noted this is required by the City Charter. Since there
was no format, he noted that he had put this together and if there are
questions after the address, he will be glad to answer.
Lino Lakes Charter required the Mayor to deliver a comperhensive State
of the City report. Since no prior format has been established, I will
address the following areas:
1982 and 1983 budgets - Council /Staff accomplishments in 1982,
Objectives for 1983 and Closing Remarks.
The adopted 1982 budget was $891,570.00. This included an aticipated
surplus of $51,000 by year's end. Anticipated receipts for 1982 were
$942,510.00. In 1982, Lino Lakes spent $869,028 on budget expenses.
Some of the major expense areas were Police - $260,500; Public Works -
$186,300; Administration - $89,900; C onsultants - $71,600; Parks
$38,800; and Fire Protection - $35,600. Receipts for 1982 were $987,940.
In 1982, Lino Lakes received $21,000 less from State Aid to Cities than
expected, and City services were $25,600 less than expected. Our surplus
for 1982 was $51,463. In 1982 the City was audited by the State of
Minnesota. Their determination was that Lino Lakes was operating in a
financially proper manner. The State did recommend a couple of minor
administrative changes and the City complied. For the most part, 1982
was a financially sound year for the City.
The 1983 Adopted Budget for Lino Lakes is $896,277. This was approved
on December 20, 1982. However, the City Council delayed spending
$46,000.00 or 5.1% of the budget expenses. When Lino received more
accurate information on State Aid to Cities, the City Council will
reconsider this action. Some of the major areas of expenses are
Police - $301,000; Public Works - $168,000; Administration - $101,000;
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February 28, 1983
Consultants - $58,000; Certificates if Indebtedness - $65,000
Parks - $46,000; and Fire Protection - $44,000. Anticipated
receipts are $930,125 for 1983. This represents a plus of $33,800
difference when you include the delayed expenditures. When you
total last year's surplus plus this year's anticipated surplus
the City should have an $89,000 surplus before any salary adjust-
ments are made. This should be enough of a cushion to work with
until more accurate figures are available. This budget represents
approximately a 2 mil reduction in the City's mil rate while the
level of services will remain high. The City Council and Staff
spent many hours working with the budget to reach a good sound
result.
In 1982 the City of Lino Lakes made several changes in Consultants,
there was three new Council members, a new Police officer and some
part time help. It was obvious that it was going to take a little
time to get the City moving in a more positive direction.
This past year the City Council worked very well together, even
though we had a difference of opinion on issues. Every Council
member spent extra hours in Council and Committee meetings and I
want to Thank them for their efforts. The City Council met with
a representative from Rice Creek Watershed District, Corps of
Engineers, adjoining City Councils, and representatives from several
other agencies in an effort to improve communications.
The City Staff made an extra effort to improve communications
between City Hall and the residents of Lino Lakes. Even communi-
cations between Council, Staff, Consultants, and Department Heads
improved. It appears as though most areas of personnel are running
smoothly.
The Park Board, P &Z, Charter Commission, Cable Representative, Task
Force and all groups made a substantial contribution to the progress
of the City. Without them the task of of running a City would be
almost impossible. I want to express mu Thanks to the many members
for their time and support. I know it takes a great deal of time
and dedication to participate in City Government.
In 1982, Lino Lakes accomplished a great deal through the efforts of
the City Council, Committees, and Staff, Let me list a few:
1 - Initiated and completed a special census which makes the City
eligable for annual Minnesota State Aid Funding.
2 - Established a 5 year plan and adopted a Municipal State Aid Road
System.
3 - Made a few minor adjustments in the City Charter to clarify and
ease administration.
4 - Adjusted utility rates and created a reserve program attempting
to make the utility system self supporting.
5 - Proceeded with a Cable TV program and expect a contract to be
awarded in 1983.
6 - Completed codification of all City Ordinances.
February 28, 1983
7 - Established a Task Force to complete a Zoning Map and Review and
update Ordinance #56.
8 - Received a comprehensive report from the Fire Study Task Force.
9 - Purchased several pieces of equipment which were outlined in the
City's Capital Improvement Plan including Park, Police, Public
Work's equipment.
10. Received funding and grants for land use, planning and community
development.
11.- Established a Senior Citizen Building Committee to assist with
plans for a Senior Center.
12 - Recommended and completed seal- coating and overlay improvements
on several streets.
13 - Initiated a propane study of City Vehicles.
14 - Initiated a study of traffic in local parks.
15 - Applied and received Mortgage Revenue Bond approval
16 - Amended Metro Council's Water Quality plan to allow the Blaine
interceptor to be extended to Lino's Westerly border.
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17 - Requested and received adminssion in Anoka County Joint Law Enforce-
ment Council.
18 - Reviewed Special Use Permits making sure the Special Use is com-
plied with and not expanded and revoked permits which have failed
to follow the City's ordinances.
19 - Realized a common source of communications throughout Lino Lakes
shich should help to keep people updated.
20 - Generally eased the tension which existed within the City.
It is easy to see that by reviewing the above list amd many more not
mentioned, that Lino Lakes made some great strides in a year when many
communities, the State and Federal government had considerable difficulties.
I'm sure that in 1983 Lino Lakes will still make-.:-every attempt to im-
prove the quality of life within the City. I believe we will continue
to be responsive to the public and the task before us. Some of the
City's objectives will be to establish a road maintenance policy which
will address specifics each year. Finalize the City's zoning map, in-
vite more agencies, Councils, and Boards to visit with the City Council
in a continuing effort to improve communications. Complete the propane
and park studies, pursue with other Cities, Counties, and School
Aoards the possibility of shared facilities and services. Right now we
have a Fire Task Force attempting to reach a sound fire protection plan
for the area. We have entered into a shared agreement of our Building
Inspector. Establish a Police committee, Review several Park proposals.
Reach a sound decision on the Senior Citizen Building and possible
addition to City Hall. Automate City offices for efficiency and
economy. Make every attempt to esolve the assessment on the 4 lots
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February 28, 1983
along Black Duck Drive. Maintain a close watch on the financial
picture of the City. Make every attempt to be responsive to the
public, welcoming their input and asking for their time and partici
pation on committees, task forces, etc. The Civil Defense Depart-
ment will be making an attempt to expand it's membership and follow
through on some of their projects. Thorughout this year more goals
and onjectives will appear as well as many not mentioned above. I
feel it is important that we don't try to be too aggresive which
could cause financial burden to our residents.
Let me close by offering a few personal observations. I believe 1983
will be a good year for Lino Lakes. Already we have a large number
of inquiries into building permits. There is the possibility of a
horse racing facility adjacent to our City. This could mean more jobs
and City revenue. The City has taken a firm stand on spending yet
realizes projects and programs must continue. Programs and procedures
are being re- examined by the State and Federal governments which most
likely will lead to changes for Cities. Property taxes appear certain
to rise for the next few years. When I begin looking at a few of my
observations, I begin to think that maybe as a City, we ought to re-
examine our approach to many things. Maybe we should be more aware
of reforms and how they will affect Lino Lakes. Maybe we should re-
shape our attitudes and thoughts on consolidation of services with
other Cities, the County, School and State. If not consolidation,
maybe a sharing of resources. We may very well find it necessary to
depend on voluntary and cahritable groups in the future. We must
listen and analyze those who wish to speak and be responsive when and
where necessary. The more input and - knowledge we have will make it
easier to decide what to do and what not to do in Lino Lakes. We
cannot afford to make the same mistakes in the future as we have in
the past. The cost it too great.
Mr. Reinert moved to accept the State of the City address. Seconded
by Mr. Marier. Motion carried unanimously.
CLERK's REPORT
The Clerk presented the correspondence with the Forest Lake Times in
reference to the preparation of a packet for that paper.
Mr. Reinert asked if this City had ever had a policy in regards to
a request such as this and the general consensus was that there has
not been a policy established. He suggested checking with the other
Cities as to their policy on this type of request..
Mrs. Elsenpeter felt that all material prepared for the Council should
be prepared for the three papers at no cost and suggested that either
mailing them or having the packets available to be picked up.
Mr. Marier disagreed - he flet they should be charged for the cost of
materials to make the copies and that, if the papers wanted them, they
should pick up the packets.
Mr. Marier moved to suggest to afford to all papers the information
from the Council of the happenings and they pay the necessary charges
for the materials. Packets to be sent by mail, if possible. otherwise
the packets to be picked up. Seconded by Mr. Kulaszewicz.
February 28, 1983
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Mrs. Elsenpeter asked, if this is to include postage and Mr. Marier said
this is to include actual costs.
There was discussion of the actual cost of copies with the Clerk explain-
ing that Mr. Johnson, the intern, had done an analyziz when working here
and had established the cost figure at 250 per copy. Mr. Marier disagreed
with this cost figure.
Mr. Kulaszewicz noted that such an analysis has just been completed at
his firm and the cost figure for just the material is 60.
Mrs. Elsenpeter felt it was the job of the Clerk to supply any person
with anything they request. This is her job to supply the information.
The motion carried unanimously. There will be further information as to
the cost.
Direction as to publishing the Minutes - this had been discussed and
money had been allocated in the budget for this purpose. The Clerk asked
for direction. The cost as proposed by the White Bear Press would be
$120.00 per month. The City would supply copies of the approved minutes
for this purpose.
Mr. Reinert asked if this would be 'word for word' and Mr. Schumacher
said that was how the estimated cost had been arrived at.
Mr. Reinert suggested that perhaps a summary would be better. Mayor
Benson felt that is what is being done by the papers at this time.
Mr. Marier moved to direct Mr. Schumacher to call different newspapers
for their procedures and the costs. Seconded by Mr. Kulaszewicz. Motion
carried unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARING - BALDWIN MOBILE HOME PARK SEWER PROJECT
This Public Hearing was opened at 7:40 P.M. Mr. Davidson explained this
system is to serve the Mobile Home Court and is being requested by the
owner of the Park. This hearing is to discuss the connection being
installed at a greater depth in order that a wider area could be served
by this connection to the lift station. Mr. Davidson explained that the
cost for the extra depth will be borne by Mr. Howard at this time. How-
ever, if within the ten year life of the bonds, other properties should
connect to this line, then those properties would be assessed at the
time they connect.
Mr. Davidson pointed out thatthis is a Council initiated project and as
such requires a 4/5's vote of the Council for approval. He also noted
that Mr. Howard will provide 35% of the cost in the form oa a Letter of
Credit for the protection of the citizens of the City.
Mr. Davidson explained the cost for installing the line at a greater
depth and went through the cost for each individual parcel owner, if and
when they connect to the line.
There were some questions from the audience which Mr. Davidson and Mr.
Hawkins answered. There was a suggestion that this project was setting
a precedence and Mayor Benson said each project would:'be considered on
an individual basis and judged on its' own merit.
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February 28, 1983
Mrs. Elsenpeter moved to close the public hearing at 8:22 P.M.
Seconded by Mr. Kulaszewicz. Motion carried unanimously. Due to
Charter requirements, no further action may be taken on this matter
for 60 days.
A recess was called and the meeting reconvened at 8:34 P.M.
PLANNING AND ZONING ACTIONS
Mr. Kluegel presented a request for a Variance by Mr. A. Stafki to
split a lot in the Lexington Park Lakeview area. This is a corner lot
and would result in two lots of approximately 1/3 acre each. This
matter had been returned to Planning and Zoning for further information.
Mr. Hawkins had been asked for an opinion on this matter and a letter
had been sent to the Planning and Zoning. This letter states that this
split does not conform to the Land Use Plan and it was felt this would
set a precedent.
Mr. Stafki stated that he had started this request several years ago
and could not follow through due to financial reasons. He pointed out
that almost all of the corner lots in that area have been allowed to be
split and he felt that he should be allowed to split this lot even
though the rules are different. He felt the Council was setting a
precedent with his lot.
Mr. Hawkins pointed out that the City has the right to change the rules
and regulations and the law states that in order to grant a variance,
there must be a reason and there is nothing unique about this parcel
of land.
Mr. Marier asked what the minimum frontage requirement of alot is at
this time and Mr. Kluegel said 150 feet. Mr. Marier pointed out that
this lot does not meet even that criteria.
Mr. Marier moved to deny this request. Seconded by Mr. Reinert.
Mr. Stafki repeated his reason for asking for this variance and asked
for special consideration for his split.
Mayor Benson asked for the reasons why Mr. Marier moved to deny this
request and Mr. Marier noted 1) against presetn ordinance; 2) against
the Land Use Plan;and 3) does not meet minimum frontage requirements.
Mr. Stafki said his understanding was this ordinance is not law - that
it is just tentative and will not be law until approved by the Council.
It was pointed out that the Comprehensive Land Use Plan has been
approved by the Council and is law at this time.
Mayor Benson call for the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
ATTORNEY's REPORT
Mr. Hawkins had no report at this time.
RESOLUTION #83 -07 - SENIOR CITIZEN BUILDING - MULTI -YEAR PROJECT
Mr. Schumacher presented the following Resolution for adoption:
February 28, 1983
RESOLUTION REQUESTING AUTHORIZATION TO PURSUE LINO LAKES SENIOR CENTER
PROJECT #241 AS A MULTI -YEAR PROJECT
WHEREAS,
The Lino Lakes City Council has designated by Resolution a
portion of its' 1981, 1982 and 1983 Community Development Block
Grant allocations for the construction of a Senior Citizen
Center, and
WHEREAS, the multi -year designation of this project would allow the City
of Lino Lakes more flexibility during the construction period,
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that:
The Lino Lakes City Council hereby requests the Anoka County Board of
Commissioners to authorize the City of Lino Lakes to pursue a multi-
year designation for its' Senior Center Project #241, dedicating $74,889.00
of 1982 Community Development Block Grant funds and $39,179.00 of 1983
Community Development Block Grant funds.
Passed by the City Council this 28th day of February, 1983.
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Edna L. Sarner, Clerk
Mrs. Elsenpeter moved to waive the reading of this Resolution and to
adopt Resolution #83 -07. Seconded by Mr. Reinert.
Mr. Marier discussed the total figures presented and asked what this
could allow to be constructed?
Mr. Schumacher explained this Resolution just allows the funds to be used
over a period of time.
Mr. Marier asked about a time frame for the completion and would it be
usable - what would be used to purchase furnishings? Would these dollars
create a totally functional building? Can this money be allocated for
any other use?
Mr. Schumacher explained the use must meet HUD criteria and Mr. Marier
asked if it could be used for roads. The general consesnsus of the
Council was that it could be used for that purpose if all criteria was met.
Mayor Benson called for the question and the motion carried with Mr. Marier
and Mr. Kulaszewicz voting, No.
OPTIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE SENIOR CENTER
Mr. Schumacher reported that he had checked on the possibility of using
interst income as supplement funding for the construction. He had checked
with the Auditor and with Mr. Hawkins. Mr. Hawkins felt that the only
interest that must be returned to the fund invested was the debt retire-
ment fund.
February 28, 1983
Mr. Schumacher presented his proposal of using the surplus of
$13,000.00 om the Certificate of Indebtedness fund to purchase the
proposed new squad car that is in the Police budget and to budget the
remaining amount in the 1984 budget. There could be specifications
written into the contract as to the degree of completion for 1983.
Mr. Reinert asked if such a project were initiated, could the City
require the contractor to use local labor? There was some discussion
on this point but no answer.
Mr. Marier moved to table this item for more information and this is
to be on the March 14, 1983 agenda. Seconded by Mr. Kulaszewicz.
Motion carried unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS
Council members had been provided with a copy of the Water Resources
Management Development Guide which approved the extension of the Blaine
interceptor to the Westerly border of Lino Lakes.
Mrs. Elsenpeter reported that at the last Cable Commission meeting
there was a recommendation that each of the eight Citites award a
franchise to Group W Cable. An ordinance is being prepared and will
be forwarded to each of the Cities for their adoption.
Mr. Marier asked the status of „the agreement with Anoka County with
respect to the regional park and Mr. Schumacher said he had tried to
contact Mrs. Langfeld with the suggestion that perhaps Mr. Torkildson
should accompany her to a Council meeting.
Mayor Benson asked for an update on the Fire Study Commission and Mr.
Schumacher reported on the last meeting. He also reported that copies
of the minutes will be forwarded to the Council when received. Mr.
Krantz of Lexington is the secretary and will supply the minutes.
Mr. Reinert asked that a calendar of the current month's meeting
schedule be prepared and forwarded to the Council.
Mr. Schumacher reported that he did meeti with Mr. Weible and discussed
the items set forth in his letter to the Council. Mr. Weible will be
doing some further work and will get back to Mr. Schumacher.
NEW BUSINESS
Mayor Benson noted there are copies of Resolutions supporting the Horse
Racing Facility from several communities.
There was also information generated by the Quadrant meetings in
reference to the zoning ordinance and zoning map.
Mr. Reinert moved to adjourn at 9:20 P.M. Seconded by Mr. Kulaszewicz.
Aye.
These minutes were considered, corrected and approved at the regular
Council meeting held on March 14, 1983.
Edna L. Sarner, Clerk
Benjamin G. Benson, Mayor