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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/10/1986 Council Minutes27.0 COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Mayor Benson called to order the regular meeting of the Lino Lino Lakes City Council at 7:03 P.M., Monday, February 10, 1986. All Councilmembers (Reinert, Bohjanen, Marier, Bisel) were present. Also present were the City Attorney, Bill Hawkins; City Admini- strator, Randy Schumacher; Building Official, Pete Kluegel; Public Works Director, Don Volk; and Secretary, Shar Foster. (Mr. Toddie, City Engineer joined the meeting later.) STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS The first order of business, as Mayor Benson explained as required by the City Charter was the State of the City Address. Mayor Benson gave his State of the City Address, a copy of which accompanies these minutes, and asked for any questions. No questions were asked. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES January 23, 1986 - Mr. Marier moved to approve the minutes of the 1/23/86 meeting as presented. Mr. Bohjanen seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. January 27, 1986 - Mr. Reinert moved to approve the minutes of the 1/27/86 meeting. Mr. Bohjanen seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. CONSIDERATION OF DISBURSEMENTS January 31, 1986 - Mr. Marier moved to approve the disbursements of 1/31/86 as presented. Mr. Bisel seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. February 10, 1986 - Mr. Reinert moved to approve the disbursements. of 2/10/86 as presented. Mr. Marier seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED CABLE FRANCHISE AMENDMENTS WITH GROUP W CABLE Denise Durante, Special Projects Manager for Group W; Mike Cusick, Cable Administration for Cable Commission; Ruth Hogenson - Rutford, Sales Manager for Group W; Ron Kolessar, Chairman of North Central Cable Commission and also Coon Rapids Representative; and Herb Johnson, Lino Lakes Representative were all in attendance to dis- cuss the issue of the cable franchise amendments. The following statistics were given to the Council: 1) As of 1/24/86 there are 172 customers on line, 2) 83 more customers have applied for connection since 1/24/86, 3) To date 893 homes have been solicited (about 2/3 of the 1,258 potential homes in Lino Lakes), 4) Currently this is 31% penetration, 4) Marketing is taking place neighborhood by neighborhood because it appears that this method provides for a higher penetration rate. 1 1 1 1 1 271 COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Two Being considered this evening were Ordinance No. 11 -85, which would amend Articles VI, Exhibit A (Rates), and Article III of Appendix I regarding the franchise agreement between Lino Lakes and Group W Cable (Appendix I of the Lino Lakes City Code); and Resolution No. 85 -25 adopting cable communications ordinance amendment Agreement No. 1. Mr. Bisel voiced his concern that one of results of passage of Ordinance No. 11 -85 would be a rate to customers of $12.95. for "Tier II" service rather than the rate of $10.95 for that same service which is what the Council was quoted and considered in earlier stages of working with Group W. Ms. Durante explained that these rates have been in the process of negotiation with the cable commission for some time and that the $12.95 rate which is what Lino Lakes customers are being offered was a compromise from $14.95 which Group W originally requested. The Cable Com- mission has agreed to $12.95 along with other compromises within the system. She also explained that the $12.95 rate would be for Tier II service only and that service for the movie channels such as HBO, Showtime, Disney, etc. would be in addition to the $12.95 rate. Ms. Durante explained that the rates being offered presently are subject to change in January of 1987 at which time rates for cable service will be deregulated. Mr. Kolessar said that the cable commission felt it appropriate to stabilize the rate now, before Lino Lakes customers come on line, in order to avoid a change at the time of deregulation. Ms. Durante, in response to further questions from the Council stated that 1) Lino Lakes residents have been marketed at the $12.95 rate - no one has been solicited with the $10.95 rate, 2) the sales staff has performance standards which must be met to assure efficient marketing of cable service, 3) installation of the actual cables is done above ground as a cost saving unless the other utilities in the neighborhood are underground, in which case the franchise requires that the cable utility conform to the existing utility installation, 4) interested Lino Lakes resi- dents can contact Group W, the City Hall office or the Cable Commission for any information with regard to cable service. Mayor Benson stated that the Council should keep in mind that cable service is a luxury which is selected by the residents, unlike gas and electric service which are necessities, for which the Council has no power to approve rates. MOTION: Mr. Reinert moved, in light of the fact that deregulation is in the very near future, that Resolution 85 -25 and Ordinance 11 -85 be adopted. This motion died for lack of a second. MOTION: Mr. Bisel moved to table this issue until the next meeting of the Council. Mr. Marier seconded the motion. Motion carried. 272 COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Three Ms. Durante stated that she would have to check with their attorney to see if Group W can continue to market within Lino Lakes in view of the fact that the Council has not adopted Ordinance 11 -85 and Resolution 85 -25 this evening. ENGINEER' REPORT Consideration of Resolution #01 -86 - Easements for Rice Lake Estates - Mr. Toddie explained that this Resolution would authorize the City Attorney to acquire easements pertaining to the construction of 1986 utility and street improvements for Rice Lake Estates. Mr. Reiling, the owner of the property from which this easement will be acquired, has indicated a willingness to grant easement. MOTION: Mr. Marier moved to adopt Resolution No. 01 -86 and asked the secretary to read the Resolution. Mr. Bohjanen seconded the motion. Mrs. Foster read the following Resolution. CITY OF LINO LAKES ANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION NO. 01 -86 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CITY ATTORNEY TO ACQUIRE EASEMENTS PERTAININ TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF 1986 UTILITY AND STREET IMPROVEMENTS, RICE LAKE ESTATES, PROJECT 86 -1 WHEREAS, a public hearing has been held on the improvement of 1986 Utility and Street Improvements, Rice Lake Estates, Project 86 -1, and WHEREAS, plans and specifications have been authorized for said improvement, and WHEREAS, easements are necessary to construct certain phases of this improvement. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF LINO LAKES, MINNESOTA: That the City Attorney is hereby authorized and directed to proceed with easement acquisition through negotiation or condemnation. 4dopted by the City Council of Lino Lakes, this % day of - 1986. arilyn G. Anderson, City Clerk enjami G. Benson, Mayor 1 1 1 273 COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Four Mr. Reinert asked if there would be any problem with adhering to the schedule laid out for this program as a result of having to acquire this easement. Mr. Toddie stated that he did not foresee any schedule adherance problem. On the motion, motion carried unanimously. Consideration of Resolution #02 -86 - Easements for 4th Avenue MOTION: Mr. Marier moved to adopt Resolution #02 -86 and to waive the reading. Mr. Bisel seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. CITY OF LINO LAKES ANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION NO. 02 -86 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CITY ATTORNEY TO ACQUIRE EASEMENTS PERTAINING TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF STREET AND DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS FOR 4th AVENUE NORTH - MAIN STREET (CSAH 14) TO LILAC STREET (STATE TRUNK HIGHWAY 49), PROJECT 86 -2 WHEREAS, plans and specifications have been authorized on the improvement of Street and Drainage Improvements, 4th Avenue North -Main Street (CSAH 14) to Lilac Street (State Trunk Highway 49), Project 86 -2, and WHEREAS, easements are necessary to construct certain phases of this improvement. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF LINO LAKES, MINNESOTA: That the City Attorney is hereby authorized and directed to proceed with easement acquisition through negotiation or condemna- tion. Adopted by the City Council of Lino Lakes, this ;< day of 1986. 'pr -1p..AIK ll t- g)-O.._ Marilyn G. Anderson, City Clerk jamip dl Benson, Mayor Consideration of Resolution #03 -86 - Award Project Rid for Improve- ments of Rice Lake Estates Mr. Toddie distributed a memo dated 2/10/86 listing the bids which were received and opened on February 6, 1986 for the 1986 utility and street improvements for Rice Lake Estates. The list read as follows: 274 Contractor C. W. Houle, Inc. Richard Knutson, Inc. Austin P. Keller Construction Arcon Construction Company Winona Plumbing Company' Barbarossa & Sons Minn -Kota Excavating Kenko, Inc. L & G Rehbein, Inc. Northdale Construction Lametti & Sons Progressive Contractors COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Five Bid $ 911,944.50 $ 973,619.55 $1,075,364.50 $1,075,652.51 $1,077,638.20 $1,090,796.40 $1,095,095.90 $1,149,297.30 $1,152,163.70 $1,199,883.25 $1,213,000.00 $1,261,307.55 The engineer's estimate for the project was $1,074,637.00 and the engineer recommended awarding to the low bidder, C. W. Houle, Inc. Mr. Toddie stated that he had worked with this contractor in the past and he rated the contractor as reliable and competent stating that past experience has shown quality work and schedule adherence. Mr. Volk, when asked, stated that he had experienced no problems with C. W. Houle. MOTION: Mr. Marier moved to award the bid to C. W. Houle for $911,944.50. Mr. Bohjanen seconded the motion. When asked if there would be any foreseen schedule adherence problems, Mr. Toddie stated that the bids were submitted with an understanding of the planned schedule and that he anticipated the schedule would be met, particularly in view of the fact that a $600 per day penalty would be charged if not met. Mr. Toddie felt that even though the awarding of the bid was slightly behind schedule, the contractor would still be able to begin construction according to the schedule. On the vote, motion carried unanimously. RESOLUTION #03 -86 A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE LOW BID AND AUTHORIZING THE IMPROVEMENT OF RICE LAKE ESTATES WHEREAS, WHEREAS, pursuant to the advertisement for bids for the improvement of Rice Lake Estates from North Road West of the City limits to Lake Drive, South on Highway #49 to Rice Lake Estates, bids were received, opened and tabulated according to law, and it appears that � . �,� of 7. , is the lowest responsible Bidder. LLL COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 COUN NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY CIL OF LINO LAKES, MINNESOTA: 275 1. The Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to enter into the attached contract with • of t _ z in the name of the City of Lino Lakes for the improvement of Rice Lake Estates according the the plans and specifications therefor approved by the City Council and on file in the office of the City Clerk. 2. The City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to return forthwith to:all bidders the deposits made with their bids, except that the deposits of the sucessful bidder and the next lowest bidder shall be retained until a contract is signed. Adopted by the council this 10th day of February, 1986 enjaini► G. Benson, Mayor Marilyn G. Anderson Clerk - Treasurer Mr. Toddie stated that a pre- construction meeting will be held after the appropriate paperwork is in order (about two to three weeks from this evening). Mr. Marier suggested that this meeting include the City Administrator and the Public Works Director. Discussion on the Status of 80th Street - Mr. Toddie said that in discussing this issue with the Anoka County engineer's office, he has learned that the County is planning on a schedule of fall /winter of 86 for the preparation of plans and specificiations and fall /winter of 87 for construction. Mayor Benson suggested that because there seems to be a misunder- standing of this schedule (Council feels that an earlier schedule had been promised by the County), that a letter be sent to the County Commissioner and Board explaining the fact that the Council feels that the County has made a commitment to Lino Lakes and that the Council expects to see that commitment met, and request a response to be received before the next Council meeting. 276 COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Seven Water Tower Location Study, Chomonix Golf Course - Mr. Toddie explained that without going through a complete feasibility study, which would be quite expensive, he has done some research into the possibility of a future water tower being constructed at the Chomonix Golf Course. The initial findings are that 1) the land is approximately 20' lower than the area around it which would dictate the need to elevate the tower to compensate, 2) the length of the driveway and water main to the site may be quite long and possibly would have to go through a marshy area which would add expense. This concept was initiated by the County as a benefit to both parties. Mr. Toddie felt that with this sketchy information, there would be about an equal tradeoff con- sidering the County would share its property with the City. Mr. Toddie was instructed by the Mayor that should there be any further talk on this issue that the possibility of a location midway between the golf course and the area within the City which needs water enter into the discussion. Ditch Restoration - Mr. Schumacher reported that Mr. Willenbring, the Engineer for Rice Creek Watershed District called him regarding the ditch restoration issue which Council has discuss recently. Mr. Willenbring estimated $35,000 for legal, engineering and construction costs. Mr. Schumacher asked for guidance from the Council as to a general response to the cost involved. Mr. Schumacher will be meeting with Mr. Willenbring this week. Mr. Marier felt that Lino Lakes would be willing to participate depending on the portion for which the City would be responsible. He also stated that RCWD has a responsibility to maintain and repair the ditch as necessary and that Lino Lakes should hold them to that. MOTION; Mr. Marier moved to check with1RC,WD and Anoka County to see that each is willing to contribute their one -third of the costs of restoration of the ditch, along with Lino Lakes contri- buting one - third, as was originally said last spring. Mr. Bohjanen seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. ATTORNEY'S REPORT Municipal Amicus Program - Mr. Hawkins explained the purpose of the Municipal Amicus Program as outlined in a 1/14/86 memo from the League of Minnesota Cities to City Managers and Attorneys. This program would require a contribution from Lino Lakes to be involved in the program. Mr. Hawkins thought that the cost would be about $700 and that, in his opinion, the City would not benefit from the program substantially enough to participate. The exact cost was not certain at this time. MOTION: Mr. Marier moved to table this issue until further clari- fication of the cost is available. Mr. Bohjanen seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. 1 277 COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Eight CONSIDERATION OF PLANNING AND ZONING APPOINTMENTS Some of the Councilmembers had had an opportunity to phone or personally speak with Certain candidates for the two Planning and Zoning Board vacancies. Those candidates are: 1) Cheryl Nelson, 2) Patricia Diane Sorenson, 3) Arlene Averbeck, 4) Julie LeBlond and 5) Harvey Karth. MOTION: Mr. Bohjanen moved to appoint Mr. Karth to the Planning and Zoning Board. Mr. Bisel seconded the motion. Mr. Bisel felt that since not all of the candidates are familiar to the Council, that it would be fair to ask each candidate to answer the following questions: 1) What contribution do you feel you can make to the Board? 2) Will you be available not only for regular monthly meetings, but also the comprehensive plan review and other necessary meetings? 3) What do you feel is your respon- sibility within this Board? 4) If a conflict of interest would arise, what action would you take? 5) What do you see as the major planning issues facing the City? Mayor Benson reported that he had by phone interviewed the candidates with similar questions and he stated his opinion of the candidates' qualifications. Mr. Reinert added that another question which would be important to answer would be - Do you feel you can work together with the existing Boardmembers and not create an obstruction? He also felt that it would be helpful to personally meet each applicant. Mr. Benson stated that the candidates are all fairly familiar to the Council (other than to Mr. Bisel), with the exception of Cheryl Nelson. However Cheryl Nelson submitted a resume of her previous planning experience, therefore her background information is also available. Mr. Marier stated that he also did some research on his own, but suggested that the Council invite the candidates to represent themselves at the next Council meeting in order to dispel any concerns of the other Councilmembers. Mr. Bohjanen withdrew his motion. Mr. Bisel withdrew the second. MOTION: Mr. Marier moved to send out a letter inviting each candidate to the next Council meeting at which time appointments will be made. Each candidate should be prepared to answer the six questions raised during this evening's discussion. Mr. Bisel seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED INTERSECTION UPGRADING - TRUNK HIGHWAY 49 AND CSAH #1 (ASH STREET) Mr. Volk explained (per his 2/6/86 memo on this subject) that he felt that due to the fact that fatalities have occurred at this intersection and the fact that approximately 6,000 vehicles 278 COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Nine per day cross (north /south) this intersection, that a lighting control mechanism, minimum of flashing amber one way and flashing red the other, is warranted. He also stated that the intersection is under the jurisdiction of Anoka County, Ramsey County and MNDOT rather that the City of Lino Lakes. With regard to the costs involved, Mr. Volk stated that it is the City's policy not to pay for the apparatus and it is Anoka County's policy not to pay power or maintenance costs. He felt that if the project hinges on Lino Lakes assuming partial mainten- ance, it may be to the benefit of the City to consider accepting partial maintenance. Mr. Reinert felt that it is the responsibility of the Counties involved and the State and that each must accept the responsibility and take action. MOTION: Mr. Reinert moved to write to the County representatives and the State representatives explaining the problem and urging them to persuade the highway departments of the Counties and MNDOT to take action. Mr. Marier seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. CONSIDERATION OF ACCEPTING BID FOR ONE TON TRUCK Mr. Volk requested that the Council accept the low bid from GMC Truck Center for purchase of one -ton truck at $11,980.00 due to the fact that the bid falls within budgeted amount of $12,500 for cab and chassis. The Front plow and dump body will be pur- chased on separte quotes and installed by city crews, making total cost of vehicle approximately $17,000.00. MOTION: Mr. Marier moved to accept the bid of $11,980 from GMC Truck Center based on Mr. Volk's recommendation. Mr. Bisel seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. CONSIDERATION OF ACCEPTING BID FOR 33,000 GVW TRUCK Mr. Volk requested that the Council accept the low bid from Lakeland Ford Truck Sales for purchase of 33,000 GVW truck at $37,534.00 due to the fact the bid falls within budgeted amount of $40,000 for cab and chassis. Dump body, sander, front and wing plows and hydraulic system will be bid out separately and will be brought to the Council separately. MOTION: Mr. Bisel moved to accept the bid of $37,534 from Lakeland Ford Truck Sales based on Mr. Volk's recommendation. Mr. Reinert seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. OLD BUSINESS Roland Ford Update - The Council was updated with regard to the Roland Ford property. The judge deciding the case put together a list of items to be taken care of by April 15, 1986. Per the 1 1 1 279 COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Ten judges instructions, a local contractor has submitted an estimate of $4,000 to complete the items on the judge's list. Mr. Ford has submitted to the City a cash escrow of $4,000 to be held until April 15, 1986, at which time, should the list of item not be completed, the City will use the $4,000 and have the local contractor do the work. Mayor Benson recommended following up with a letter to Mr. Ford explaining again the timetable involved so,that there is no misunderstanding and that the City has record that Mr. Ford was notified of the plans of the City. The letter should also state that the City is in receipt of the $4,000 escrow and that the local contractor will come in if the list of items is not complete by 4/15/86. Mr. Ford should be aware that there will be no grace period. Since the judge ordered that the list be completed to the satis- faction of the Building Oficial, the Council requested that the Building Official report at the April 14, 1986 Council meeting the status of clean up at the Ford property, and the Council will take action that evening. MOTION: Mr. Marier moved to send Mr. Ford a letter as Mayor Benson outlined and to take action on the Roland Ford issue at the Council's 4/14/86 meeting. Mr. Bisel seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. Circle Pines Gas Utilities Mr. Schumacher reported that the City of Circle Pines has appointed a negotiating team consisting of one gas utilities member, the City Administrator, the City Attorney, and-the Mayor, to meet with Lino Lakes regarding the gas utilities. MOTION: Mr. Marier moved to have a special meeting, which should last about an hour on Tuesday, February 18 at 7 :30 P.M. to form a committee to deal with the gas utilities issue. He felt that this issue was too important to be rushed through tonight and that the committee should have an objective of moving forward and putting the past behind. Mr. Bohjanen seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Marier requested that this committee not become so large that it is inefficient. Attendees should come prepared to put together a team and a plan of action. Discussion of Police Chief Campell's Probation Mr. Bisel voiced his feeling that, particularly in view of the forward looking programs, etc. spelled out in Mayor Benson's State of the City Address this evening, all City Boards and employees would have to pull together to see these plans become a reality and it would require a cooperative working relationship between all involved. Based on this, Mr. Bisel moved as follows. 280 COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Eleven MOTION: Mr. Bisel moved that in order to put tozest an issue which he felt is tearing the City apart and place this issue behind us, that the Council confirm Dean Campbell as Chief of Police and that the remainder of the 90 day probation period be waived. Mr. Bohjanen seconded the motion. Mr. Reinert stated that he felt that the Council should adhere to the decisions made in the previous meetings on this subject. Mayor Benson concurred and stated that items had been laid down for Mr. Campbell conform to and that Mr. Campbell must demonstrate his performance ability. He felt that the motion was premature and asked Mr. Bisel to withdraw the motion, because he felt that if the motion passed it may be detrimental to the Chief and if it did not the working relationship between the Council and Mr. Campbell may be damaged. Mr. Reinert felt that Mr. Campbell should be aware that he has the support of the Council, however the position taken at the previous meeting must be held. On the motion, Mr. Reinert and Mr. Benson voted no, motion carried. Police Complaint - .Tan Apitz and Chuck McKenna Mr. McKenna came before the Council explaining that Mrs. Apitz was out of town and thus unavailable to bring her recommendations to the Council with regard to solving the police problems which she explained to the Council at their last meeting. The Council had, at that meeting, asked that Mrs. Apitz return with further information regarding the complaint she brought forth earlier. Mr. McKenna reviewed the recommendations which were made part of the past Police Task Force's report approximately six months ago. He passed on Mrs. Apitz concern that these recommendations have not been accomplished. Mayor Benson reminded Mr. McKenna and Mrs. Apitz that the Police Task Force is a recommending body to the City Council and that the Council is not required to act on all the recommendations. He said he appreciated the time and effort put into the task force however the Council has final authority to put the ideas to work or not. Mr. Marier felt that the only real problem he saw at the last meeting was the patrolmen /population ratio. Mr. Bohjanen felt that several of the issues which have come to the Council's attention are history of over a year ago. Mr. Bisel felt that any citizen has the responsibility to file a complaint if he /she feels there is a problem, however, he did not wish to deal with innuendos, and prefers to see substantiation. 1 1 1 COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Twelve Mayor Benson stated that he felt that the Council has the responsibility of listening to any citizens and would not support mandating a procedure calling for substantiation of all claims. Mr. McKenna outlined a suggestion of forming a review board of seven members, allowing up to three Centerville members (Mayors of each City to appoint members), which would meet monthly at the onset, be open to the public, and hear compliments and complaints with regard to police protection. Mayor Benson suggested a board of 3 -4 members to be appointed by the entire Council. Mr. Reinert stated that he had specifically asked Mrs. Apitz to return with facts in writing rather than the verbal presentation such as Mr. McKenna gave. Mayor Benson asked that Mr. McKenna /Mrs. Apitz put together this presentation in writing and submit it to the Council. Mr. Reinert suggested that the Charter Commission get active once again and see where special interest groups belong and decide how problems such as this should be handled. He also voiced a concern that this item did not appear on this evening's agenda, therefore he felt it improper to discuss the issue, particularly to take a formal action such as Mr. Bisel's motion. Mr. Hawkins, as requested, checked and found nothing which would make it illegal to discuss and act upon an issue which did not appear on an agenda. Mr. Benson told Mr. Bisel, that the Council has made it a policy to go by the agenda. NEW BUSINESS Teague of Minnesota Cities Conference. 1986 - Mayor Benson told Mr. Schumacher that he plans on attending the conference on June 17 -20, should he feel that the agenda items would be bene- ficial to him. Work Session - 4th Avenue Funding Policy - Mr. Schumacher requested that the Council set a time for a work session regarding the 4th Avenue Funding Policy. The meeting was set for 6:00 P.M. (just before the regular meeting time of the next Council) on February 24, 1986. Park Board Letter Mayor Benson reported that he had received a thank you letter from the Park Board for authorizing funds from the general fund for park use in 1986. A copy of the Park Board's capital im- provements plan was attached. Mayor Benson asked that each Council member receive a copy. 282: COUNCIL MEETING February 10, 1986 Page Thirteen Fire Depreciation Meeting - Mr. Schumacher stated that this week he and Mayor Benson and representatives from Circle Pines and Centerville met regarding fire depreciation. Circle Pines and Centerville had not been satisfied with the values of the apparatus as estimated by Mr. Fagerstrom, the appraiser. Mr. Fagerstrom felt his appraisal was fair, but that the cities could negotiate a different percentage. The appraised value called for 50% depreciation, Circle Pines and Centerville requested 70%, all parties compromised on 60%. Mr. Schumacher stated that the 60% depreciation would fit into the Lino Lakes budget. MOTION: Mr. Marier moved to accept the 60% fire depreciation figure. Mr. Bohjanen seconded the motion. Motion carried unani- mously. Mr. Bohjanen moved to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Marier seconded. Aye. These minutes were considered and approved at a regular Council meeting on February 24, 1986. Marilyn G. Anderson, City Clerk 1 1 1 283 INTRODUCTION As is customary at the beginning of each new year, I would like to take this opportunity to present my State of the City address. The purpose of this address is to inform the citizens of the community on the City's activities in 1985, and preview some of the projects and goals that the City will be working to achieve in 1986. ELECTION One of the events affecting Lino Lakes in 1985 was the election of City officials in November. The outcome saw Harold Bisel elected to the Council to replace incumbent Dick Kulaszewicz. I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the City to welcome Harold to the Council. Also reelected to the Council were Mr. Vern Reinert for a second term and myself for a third term. FINANCES 1985 turned out to be one of the strongest financial years the City of Lino Lakes has ever experienced. In 1985 we projected our surplus to approach the $200,000 figure. We not only met but surpassed this mark and finished the year with a surplus exceeding $350,000. The importance of this feat is magnified by the projected reductions in state and federal assistance to cities. By maintaining a healthy surplus in the general fund the City will not be forced to cut essen- tial services during periods of economic crisis and will be able to meet emergencies or unanticipated expenditures without increased taxes to the residents. The City's adopted 1985 budget was $1,222,435. I am happy to report that this City was able to accomplish many of its goals, maintain all present services, upgrade many more and yet not increase taxes. If you look around at other taxing districts, this has not been the case. 284 2 I commend the City Council and staff for achieving what I consider to be a major accomplishment for the City and in turn a major benefit to the citizens of this community. A more precise breakdown of 1985 major department expenditures is as follows: Administration $118,119; consultants $77,923; government buildings $106;191; police department $330,056; fire department $76,280; building official $42,023; parks $64,143 and public works $303,109. All major departments came in under City Council authorized spending levels. This was a significant contributing factor in the City's strong financial year end statement. Revenues received in 1985 for general operating purposes are as follows: General levy $783,497; state aid $196,177; state aid for roads $13,935; city services $122,433; police receipts $129,351; refunds and reimbursements $21,040 and federal revenue sharing $41,018. A major financial accomplishment was achieved by the City in 1985 by receiving the highest financial rating a city the size of Lino Lakes can obtain. Moody's Investors Service assigned the City an "A" credit rating. This reflects the overall financial stability of the City and indicates our excellent future for development and general city growth. In 1985, the City was financially stronger than in previous years which allowed diversification of investments. Through this process the City has realized a higher yield on its noncommitted funds thus re- flecting significant interest earnings in the general fund. This is the first time in many years interest has been derived from general 1 285 3 fund. As indicated by our auditing firm the "General Fund" has seen great resurgance since the Council adopted a rebuilding plan three years ago. POLICE In February, 1985, the City Council hired Chief Dean Campbell to head our Police Department. The last few months have seen Chief Campbell making an effort to upgrade programs and policies within the department. In the first six months, 1985, the Police Department realized the following statistics: - Residential burglaries down 66% from the same time 1984. - Larceny down 77 %. - Auto thefts down 58 %. - Assaults down 87 %. - Automobile personal injury accidents down 73 %. - Automobile property damage accidents down 69 %. During 1985 the Lino Lakes Police Department continued to promote the Neighborhood Watch Program. The program generated not only interest by our citizens, but active participation. Requests and presentations by the Police Department have doubled. The Police Department also offers its Operation Identification to residents. This program offers engravers to residents forthem to mark their property, thereby making it easier to trace if stolen. IOther services offered include school programs such as bicycle safety, school patrol safety, officer friendly and police canine demonstrations. In 1985 the Police Department received a Yamaha Moto -4 purchased for the Department by the Circle -Lex VFW. The Moto -4 has proven to be a valuable tool for residential patrols during the summer months. Business and commercial premises surveys have sparked interest and participation within out business community. Officers are trained to recommend security improvements in areas of vulnerability. In 1985, the Lino Lakes Police Task Force recommended that due to the large area of the City, there should be two officers per shift on patrol. Based on this recommendation, an additional police offi- cer will be hired. Other recommendations by the Task Force were also implemented in 1985. The Civil Defence program is also a very valuable arm of the Police Department. They will continue to train and remain ready when needed. PUBLIC WORKS 1985 was a very active year for the City's Public Works Department. City crews sealcoated eight lane miles of city streets within budget, and completed their 1985 bituminous overlay program of six lane miles $25,000 under budget. Not only does our Public Works Department concentrate on keeping our roads in top condition, but there are many day to day special projects that arise. This year was no exception. One special project this year was the Arbor day tree sale. Over 300 trees were sold at one dollar a piece to area residents. Varieties such as Black Hills spruce, white pine and maple were available. We intend to continue this program again in 1986. 1 1 1 5 The Public Works Department also assisted in the renovation of the ICity and Police offices and completed landscaping, planting and irrigation for the front of the municipal complex. This was not a small undertaking and I would like to thank them for a job well done. We can certainly be proud of our City Hall. This year we initiated and completed the first repairs to the City storm water collection system. This maintenance will continue into 1986. 1986 should be an equally busy year for the Public Works Department. We have an ambitious roadway program of sealcoating 11.8 lane miles and overlaying 7.5 lane miles. In addition to these programs, the ICity will continue construction of our first MSA roadway on 4th Avenue, and continue the process of bridge rehabilitation and right -of -way purchase on 80th St. in accordance with County State Aid Highway desig- nation. The City expects to acquire two major pieces of equipment in 1986 - the first being a dump /plow truck which will update the city fleet with snow fighting capabilities. The second vehicle will be a mini dump /plow truck used to expedite snow removal in cul -de -sacs and dead end roads. Both vehicles are replacements for outdated equip- ment presently in use. IIn a forward thinking project, the City Code was updated with new street construction standards that should eliminate the need for any maintenance for new roads in their first five years. 238- 6 As has been our policy in the past, the City Parks will be maintained and improved upon in 1986. A major effort is now underway by the Park Board to obtain park property on the eastern portion of the City. Other possible plans for the parks will include tot lot equip- , ment to be installed'Lino and Arena Acres. Picnic tables, benches, bleachers and bird houses will be appearing through the year in all City parks. I would encourage all area residents to take advantage of our City parks. They are well maintained and include tennis courts, ball parks, picnic areas and children's play equipment. They are there for your use and enjoyment. BUILDING & ZONING DEPARTMENT In 1985, construction showed a steady increase in the area of commer- cial and residential development. The City of Lino Lakes issued a total of 268 building permits. This is up from 213 in 1934. We expect 1986 to equal or exceed 1985 due to favorable interest rates and numerous platted lots available in the City. These 268 building permits represent a total construction valuation of $9,615,223. 118 single family homes were constructed in the City in 1985. I would like to welcome these new families to our community. Construction was begun in 1985 on a new subdivision off Highway 49 known as Rice Lake Estates. This subdivision, to be completed by the summer of 1986, will include over 100 single family homes and a commercial convenience area. The City Council worked with Metro Waste Control Commission to extend sewer and water to this area of the City. The addition of this extension should serve as the spring- board for future development of that area. Also, future extension to the Lino Industrial Park and future shopping center plan. This will greatly enhance the services offered to our residents as well 1 1 7 289 as serve an additional support for Lino's tax base. Due to the rapid growth our City is experiencing at present, a compre- hensive plan task force has been established. The task force will be meeting monthly through September to update our comprehensive plan and bring it more in line with what the City needs in order to bring about' controlled and orderly growth. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT In conjunction with the rise in single family homes, the City's Economic Development Committee has been busy trying to attract the businesses needed to supply the services demanded by these new resi- dents. In addition to providing services, these new businesses would increase our tax base thereby relieving homeowners of a portion of their tax burden. The Economic Development Committee is made up of members of the community interested in the commercial growth of the City. The com- mittee's responsibility is to serve as go between for developers and the Council. The committee is presently working on a development package that will aid contractors and developers with pertinent infor- mation concerning the City. The committee is working with programs from Anoka County Services and other groups to make our commercial and industrial areas more desir- able for potential developers. Within the last two months the committee members and staff have met with an architectural firm, an engineering/ marketing firm in an attempt to obtain a shopping center for Lino Lakes. 290 The road to commercial and industrial development is a difficult one, but I feel the committee has made great strides in the last months of 1985, and with the Council's input and support, I'm sure that even greater strides can be made in 1986. ADMINISTRATION If you have visited the City Hall within the past few months, you should have noticed .some changes that have taken place. The area that used to be the City Council Chambers is now city office space. The remodeling was accomplished in cooperationwith both area carpen- ters and our public works department. The walls are of a demount- able nature that will give the office the flexibility for change in the future. All this added up to both substantial savings on the part of the City and a flexible working space for city staff and police department. In coordination with the remodeling, the City Hall was also automated with a computer system. Payroll, accounting, word processing and utility billings are among the items in the process of being automated. Those of you on city sewer and water will notice the new billing system next quarter. All this has been done in an effort to streamline and increase efficiency at City Hall. In the past year our communities' senior citizens have probably become acquainted with our senior citizens center located at the rear of this building. The Center was constructed with the Community Develop- ment Block Grant Funds administered through the City. A grant re- ceived from the McKnight Foundation was applied to the construction of a full service kitchen in the center. The Council also awarded the Senior Citizens a grant of CDBG Funds to help establish them as 9 291 a self - sufficient organization. With these funds, the seniors pur- chased kitchen equipment and supplies with which they now regularly IIserve breakfasts and lunches. I would recommend to any area senior to drop in and take advantage of the activites and functions the seniors have to offer. The City has been working with Group W Cable over the past year to the point where cable is now ready for area residents. Cable is just one of the amenities that this city now has to offer its resi- dents, both present and future. The City will also be making use of its local broadcasting capabilities (Channel 10) whereby the City will be able to advise residents of upcoming and community events. ITwenty five years ago the cities of Lino Lakes and Circle Pines entered into an agreement whereby residents of Lino Lakes would be provided with gas service. The agreement with the Circle Pines gas utilities commission terminates this fall. This will give Lino Lakes the opportunity to renegotiate with Circle Pines for more equitable representation on the Commission. This is one example of this Council's-- committment to fairness and standing up for the rights of the citizens of Lino Lakes. It is the Council's intent to further renegotiate a new franchise agreement which will allow Lino Lakes to capture the growth of gas customers in our area. This could in turn mean new revenues for the City. CONCLUSION IIt is with great anticipation that I look forward to 1986. The City is financially fit with an adopted budget of $1,339,228.00. I anticipate our surplus to be over $350,000 by the end of 1986. 292 10 Major areas of expense include administration $130,555; consultants $78,800; government building $73,360; police department $343,980; fire department $108,000; building official $46,570; public works $361,483; parks department $70,470. In 1986, the City will purchase police and public works equipment totaling approximately $107,500. The City will be financing this equipment through the issuance of a certificate of indebtedness. In the upcoming year, it is anticipated that the state and federal governments will be making cuts which will directly affect our city. This will create the necessity for locating increased sources of revenue. An option that is being researched is the further promotion of economic development to assist in the development of the tax base. By promoting this type of development, the additional revenue would offset the need to raise taxes. Improvement projects to be undertaken by the Council in 1986 include: The upgrading of 4th Avenue street and storm water system which will thereby eliminate surface water problems in the area. To obtain the necessary right -of -way on 80th St. for the up- grading of the street and for the upgrading of the bridge over Hardwood Creek. - The extension of sewer to Rice Lake Estates and a shared water system with Circle Pines. Researching the possibility of sharing an elevated storage tank with the Chomonix Golf Course. - The extension of sewerto the residents who live adjacent to Shoreview city limits. is In 1986, the Public Works Department will be planning for expanded Igrowth in their department. With the growth of the City increasing every year, the need for city services in the area of utilities and maintenance also grows. This department will need to adapt to this , change thus creating the need for expansion and reorganization for a more efficient operation. • One of the priorities within the Fire Department will be the site selection of the new fire hall. The size of the district dictates that a more centrally located position be found. The Council plans to work closely with the Fire Commision on this issue. In keeping with this Council's policy of cooperation with our neigh- bors, the City is looking into programs such as shared equipment and Ishared services contracts. These programs will not only save the residents of participating communities money, it will also foster better communications between us and our neighboring communities. The City will continue its quest for special legislation that will enable us to obtain assistance and promote shared services for muni- cipalities. In looking to the future of Lino Lakes, it becomes evident that a need arises for strong planning programs. I will be requesting five year plans from the Economic Develoment Committee, Planning and Zoning Conuuission andthe Park and Recreation Board. By having these Ipolices in place, the decision- making process for future development will be more regimented and consistent with the needs of the City. In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the 293 294 12 citizens of Lino Lakes for the support and assistance they contributed in 1985. The larger the City becomes, the more the Council must rely on Boards and citizen's input to grow and prosper. I am always pleased to see the number of applicants who are willing to commit their time and effort when a vacancy arises. It proves to me that the citi- zens of Lino Lakes are ready and willing to make the committment to our City's future. Let me again thank you on behalf of the City Council. You are appreciated and needed. As I begin my fifth year as Mayor we must continue to extend a help- ing hand to all who seek help. We are growing and must remind our- selves that many new residents will call Lino Lakes their home in the future. I must also remind the City staff and Council that we are here to serve the residents of the City. We must be helpful and courteous when dealing with their concerns. 1985 was a very good year for Lino Lakes. A special thanks must go to the staff and Council for their efforts. I fully expect 1986 to be another year with much progress. We can see development moving closer and in fact, we are beginning to experience the progression from our southern cities. We must be prepared to cope with the expansion in the future. Finally, as a Council we are the fathers of the City. We accepted that responsibility when we were elected. In 1986 the decisions we make will affect not only the immediate future but future success throughout the balance of this century. Let's make every effort to base those decisions on sound foundations for a strong city. Again, thanks to all who helped make 1985 a good year for Lino Lakes. 1