HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 2007/08/13• PROCEEDINGS OF THE MOUNDS VIEW CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOT
Regular Meeting
August 13, 2007
Mounds View City Hall
2401 Highway 10, Mounds View, MN 55112
6:00 P.M.
1. MEETING IS CALLED TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL: Stigney, Hull, Flaherty, Mueller, and Mariy (arrived at 6:27 p.m.)
NOT PRESENT: None.
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
• A. Monday, August 13, 2007 City Council Agenda
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Hull. To Approve the Monday, August 13, 2007 City Council
Agenda as Amended.
Ayes - 4 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
Mayor Marty was not present for the vote.
5. PUBLIC INPUT
Dick Palmetier of 7639 Edgewood Drive addressed Council and said that he spoke with Mr,
Ericson regarding his concerns about the addresses of the Community Center, City Hall,
ballfields and ballfield watering. Mr. Palmetier indicated that between 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. it
was witnessed by him that the ballfield was being watered but it is on the west side of the road
and the question raised is why City Hall and the City of Mounds View would violate its own
watering regulations.
Mr. Palmetier commented that the Community Center and Ballfields have the greenest lawns on
the street and he thinks that the City should be setting a good example by not watering on the
wrong days.
~ Council Member Stigney indicated that the Resolution implementing the Tier II restrictions is
being discussed tonight.
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 2
Public Works Director Lee explained that there are two separate systems and they are set up to •
operate on an odd even watering system.
David Jahnke of 8428 Eastwood Road addressed the Council and said that he wonders whether
all employees including the Police Department get free use of the exercise roam.
Council Member Stigney indicated that he believes they can.
Community Development Director Ericson indicated that he would need to look into that.
6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUISNESS
A. 2008 Budget Discussion
Finance Director Beer provided an overview of the draft budget for 2008 with a deficit of
$566,000 and he would like Council to go through each department to look at changes and
additions.
Acting Mayor Stigney said he would like to send the budget back to the departments to review
and make suggested amendments befare it comes to the Council.
Finance Director Beer indicated that the $566,000 deficit is before any levy increase or any •
transfers.
Council Member Mueller said that she feels the department heads know best where to trim or cut
the budget and she would like to have them review it.
Finance Director Beer indicated that any surplus from 2007 could be used to pay for 2008
expenses.
Council postponed this item to the end of the meeting.
7. COUNCIL BUSINESS
A. Public Hearing, Resolation 7128 for a Conditional Use Permit for an
Oversize Garage at 8290 Sunnyside Road
Acting Mayor Stigney opened the public hearing.
Community Development Director Ericson explained the requested Conditional Use Permit for
an oversize garage at 8290 Sunnyside Road. Director Ericson indicated that this is a unique
situation in that the garage is in front of the house and is a side loading garage eliminating the
ability to expand out the back of the garage. •
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 3
• Community Development Director Ericson pointed out that this public hearing needs to start at
7:05 and not before as that is the time it was noticed for.
B. Public Hearing, Resolution 7129 to Consider Preliminary Plat for the
Abiding Savior Major Subdivision of 8184 Eastwood Road and 8211 Red
Oak Drive
Postponed to later in the meeting.
C. Resolution 7138, Appointing a Candidate to the Position of Cable Television
Coordinator
Assistant to the Administrator Crane explained that Council authorized Staff to being tl~e hiring
process for a cable television coordinator as a full time position. Assistant Crane handed out a
revised Staff report to Council, Staff received 34 applications and 6 were interviewed by the
interview panel. All candidates were required to submit a videotape and the panel agreed upon
two candidates and, at 5:00 p.m. today, the Cable Committee met and made a recommendation
for Vanessa VanAlstine for the position.
Assistant Crane indicated that all background checks were compieted and found to be positive.
• MOTION/SECOND: Flaherty/Mueller. To Waive the Reading and Approve Resolution 7138,
Appointing a Candidate to the Position of Cable Television Coordinator.
Council Member Flaherty indicated that Ms. VanAlstine has impressive credentials and he is
assuming that this would be a considerable step backward in pay. Council Member Flaherty
explained that there is a deficiency in the City in this area and the City wants someone who will
be staying with the City for some time and not use this as a stepping stone. Council Member
Flaherty indicated that there have been issues with this position because the previous person felt
that the hours ended at 4:30 p.m. and that is not the case.
Ms. VanAlstine explained that she understands the hours will not only be during the day. Ms.
VanAlstine explained that she changed careers as educational television is what she wants to do
and that meant a career change and a step back in pay but it is a huge step forward for her in
terms of quality of life.
Council Member Mueller asked how the candidate would prioritize the tasks needed to be done.
Ms. VanAlstine said that she looks at what is urgent and what is important. Ms. VanAlstine
explained the number of projects that she is working on for Little Canada an.d how her ability to
multitask helps her do her job.
• Council Member Mueller asked for information on a personally rewarding job for the candidate.
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 4
Ms. VanAlstine said that the Parks and Recreation Department asked her to video at least one of •
each of the kids' sports this summer and it has really been well received by the residents and a
very rewarding project.
Mayor Marty arrived at 6:27 p.m.
Council Member Hull said that he has some reservations with hiring due to the financial position
of the City.
Mayor Marty asked for input from the Cable Commissioners. Mayor Marty noted that this
position is paid for and funded entirely out of the Cable Franchise Fee.
Jerry Skelly of 7095 Knollwood Drive said that there is only one cable commissioner in the
audience and he is the Cable Committee Chairman.
Barbara Haake of 3024 County Road I asked the Council to hire Ms. VanAlstine. Ms. Haake
said that this candidate is very innovative and she thinks that Ms. VanAlstine will do an excellent
job for the City.
Council Member Stigney cammented that the first thing that he wants to do is work on the
coloring on the video. Council Member Stigney said that it looks like Ms. VanAlstine is over
qualified and this does not make any sense to him to step down to a cable coordinator from a
masters degree in engineering. •
Council Member Stigney indicated that he had asked for verification of credentials and he then
asked what the inductance in a series circuit formula is. He then asked for the basic power
formula.
Ms. VanAlstine said that it has been a very long time since she has used these formulas and then
said that power is I squared over R and provided a formula for inductance in a series circuit.
Council Member Stigney said that it seems to him that the candidate has limited electronics
knowledge, as the answer given was incorrect. Council Member Stigney said that he does not
support this, as he does not want this to be a full time position.
Assistant to the Administrator Crane said that Ms. VanAlstine provided transcripts for all of her
degrees including her high school diploma.
Council Member Mueller said that in today's society, it is not uncommon for people to change
career paths. Council Member Mueller indicated that in 1998 she took a step down as a manager
,in order to assume a very basic position to allow for more family time and free time, and to
allow her to enjoy what she was doing.
Council Member Mueller said that the Council agreed to post for this position. The position was •
posted, the interviews done, and the Cable Committee made this recommendation for hiring so
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 5
• she feels that the City should follow through with the commitment to bring this position to the
City.
Council Member Hull thanked the Cable Committee for the recommendation.
Mayor Mariy indicated his degree is in psyckolagy, but he did not go into psychology which may
have paid better, but he likes the flexibility of his current position.
Mayor Marty said that Mr. Ulrich had stated that due to the expertise of this canaidate, the City
will be able to utilize this person for more of the duties that other City Staff has had to take over.
Mayor Marty indicated that Barb Haake had said that those involved in the interview process
were excited and pleased to recommend this candidate.
David Jahnke of 8428 Eastwood Road asked what is wrong with someone stepping up, and said
he is wondering why the Council would not want better for someone. Mr. Jahnke said that he
does not think it is even right for someone to ask if this is a stepping stone on a candidate's
career path.
Ayes - 3 Nays - 2(Stigney/Hull) Motion ca.rried.
• Council Member Stigney said he hoped that Ms. VanAlstine would handle the color issues right
away.
Jerry Skelly of 7095 Knollwood Drive said that this candidate knows a lot of things and he feels
that if Council gets behind this candidate, the City is going to see some great programming.
D. Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance 794, an Ordinance Amending
Chapter 1009 of the Mounds View City Code Pertaining to Swimming Pooi
Fences
Community Development Director Ericson explained that a petition was received by the City
asking the City to consider lowering the fencing requirement for pools to four feet rather than
five feet, as that really requires a six foot fence, as a five foot fence is not readily available at the
home improvement centers. Director Ericson explained that Staff used language from the Code
from the City of Blaine to make the proposed amendments to lower the fencing requirement to
four feet with all requirements for self latching and locking gates remains the same.
Council Member Flaherty said that he agrees with this recommendation, but questions what a
non-climbable fence is.
Director Ericson indicated that the word "non-climbable" appears in other Codes and suggested
• that it is in there to eliminate the use of sornething like split rail fencing which can be climbed
like a ladder. Director Ericson indicated that chain link fence would be acceptable for a pool
fencing enclosure.
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 6
Council Member Mueller asked how the enforcement of the fencing requirement is handled. •
Director Ericson explained the current procedures and said that the procedure would not be
changed with this amendment.
Director Ericson explained that the purpose behind the suggested amendment is to bring the
City's Code in line with the State Building Code.
Mayor Marty asked whether the language regarding self-closing hinges and self-latching gates
was from State Code. Mayor Marty said that he received calls regarding when the cLange would
be effective and make pool enclosures legal.
Director Ericson stated self-closing hinges and self-latching gates is state code
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Flaherty. To Waive the Reading and Introduce Ordinance 794, an
Ordinance Amending Chapter 1009 of the Mounds View City Code Pertaining to Swimming
Pool Fences.
Council Member Stigney commented that he hears that you cannot buy five foot fences but you
can see them in the Menard's ad, so that is not a valid reason.
Mayor Marly indicated that the reason for the change is to bring this into consistency with the
state building code. •
Ayes - S Nays - 0 Motion carried.
E. Resolution 7136 Approving a Wetland Buffer Permit for the Clear Channel
Billboard on Sysco Outlot A
Community Development Director Ericson explained the requested wetland buffer permit by
Clear Channel. Rice Creek Watershed District has assessed where the wetlands are and the trail,
access road, and billboard wili not impact the wetland. However, this billboard is within 100 feet
of the wetland, and that is what necessitates the wetland buffer permit.
Director Ericson explained where the billboard would be located. Director Ericson explained
that the City needs to determine that there will be no impact to the wetland with the development
proposed. Staff has looked at the proposed billboard and has determined that there should be no
impact to the wetland and Staff recommends approval.
Director Ericson read the conditions of the Resolution, if approved.
MOTION/SECOND: Stigney/Mueller. To Waive the Reading and Approve Resolution 7136,
Approving a Wetland Buffer Permit for the Clear Channel Billboard on Sysco Outlot A.
•
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 7
~
Council Member Flaherly said that one thing he likes about this is having Rice Creek watching
this for wetland erosion.
Ayes - 5
Nays - 0
Motion carried.
Council had to hear item 7A after 7:05 and that was done at this point in the meeting.
A. Public Hearing
•
LJ
Mayor Marty opened the public hearing at 7:07 p.m.
Planner Heller explained the requested Conditional Use Permit for an oversize garage at 8290
Sunnyside Road. Planner Heller explained that a variance is required due to the width of the
garage. Planner He11er explained that the garage is a side load garage that is only 14 feet from
the property line, so it would be impractical to expand to the rear of the garage.
Planner Heller reviewed this request in relation to the Comprehensive Plan, and said that both
Staff and the Planning Commission have agreed that this is in line with the Comprehensive Plan.
Planner Heller reviewed the remaining requirements and noted that the Planning Commission
and Staff recommend approval.
Hearing no public comments, Mayor Marty closed the public hearing at 7:10 p.m.
Council Member Flaherly said that his major question is whether the peak of the garage will be
the same height.
Tim Clemons, the Applicant, said that they plan on doing a bump up to get a little bigger garage
door to allow them to get the boat in easier.
Council Member Mueller asked whether he runs a business out of the home.
Mr. Clemons indicated that his business is down in South Minneapolis where he keeps most of
his trucks and equipment.
Mayor Marty indicated that he would like Staff to review the plans when they come in.
Mayor Marty indicated that this is a unique property and a unique situation.
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Hull. To Waive the Reading and Approve Resolution 7128, for a
Conditional Use Permit for an Oversize Garage at 8290 Sunnyside Road.
MOTION/SECOND: Flaherty/Marty. To Amend Resolution 7128, to Include a Review of the
Plans Before Issuing the Building Permit.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Amendment carried.
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 8
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 The Motion, as Amended carried. •
B. Public Hearing, Resolution 7129 to Consider Preliminary Plat for the
Abiding Savior Major Subdivision of 8184 Eastwood Road and 8211 Red
Oak Drive
Mayor Marty opened the public hearing at 7:1$ p.m.
Community Development Director Ericson explained the major subdivision request of Abiding
Savior Lutheran Church. The Church would like to split the home and 16,000 square feet from
the remaining property to allow the home to be sold and to add the remaining property to the
existing Church property.
Director Ericson explained that 5taff has looked at all requirements for the creation of a new lot
and those are met with this request. Director Ericson indicated that Council will need to discuss
the park dedication fee.
Director Ericson explained that the drainage and utility easements have been reflected in the
proposed plat. Director Ericson indicated that there was a resident that asked about the
remaining utilities on the property. Xcel's position is to not move the utility at this time, as there
is no development planned in that area for this time.
Director Ericson said that the Church may have in their plans, some e of senior housin but •
~ g~
that has not been a part of this reyuest. Any interest by the Church in doing so would require
further subdivision application.
Director Ericson indicated that the Planning Commission has reviewed this request and
recommends approval of the request.
Randy Heltzer of 8181 Eastwood Road, said that in the Comprehensive Plan, it says resident
amenities required shall be properly maintained, and he would like to know what that means.
Mr. Heltzer said that he has an email from Xcel stating that they will move the lines, and he
would like those lines moved since they were set in 1955.
Mr. Heltzer said that in the last two years he has dumped over $40,000 into his home, and by
removing that property he will lose $20,000. Mr. Heltzer said that Gary Cox, at the Planning
Commission, thanked them for the vote, and mentioned that they would be back, and that is why
he would like the utility situation taken care of.
Pete Sargent, with Abiding Savior Lutheran Church, addressed the Council, and said that at the
time a development is done the power lines would be moved, and that would be paid for by Xcel
and the developer.
~
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 9
• Mr. Sargent encouraged Council to vote for this project, and noted that their request meets all
necessary Code requirements. Mr. Sargeant said that he remembers that the Church had to give
up the whole block on the north side in order to fund their church at one point in the past.
Mr. Sargent said that they feel that something is needed in Mounds View for senior housing.
Mr. Heltzer asked if the property along Arden was sold before or after the City denied the
vacation of Arden.
The Church representative was not sure.
Hearing no further public comments, Mayor Marty closed the public hearing at 7:36 p.m.
Mr. Heltzer said that the Church is going to sell the property for less than market price, and that
will impact other homes in the neighborhood.
Council Member Flaherty said that land values and home values are on the amount of land, home
value and condition of home, so he does not know how the subdivision of land near Mr.
Heltzer's would affect his valuation.
Council Member Flaherty asked if there is a value to uruformity of lot sizes within the City.
• Council Member Flaherty asked whether this is strictly a monetary move for the Church.
Mr. Sergent said that it was never their intention to keep the house, and the Church needs to sell
it off.
Helen Kuntz of 7325 Pleasantview Drive said that she has been a member of Abiding Savior
since 1955, and the goal is to keep the area nice, and there is no ulterior motive of trying to
destroy anyone's home or value.
Mayor Marty said that one thing in the Staff report was a question on park dedication. At the
present time, it is not creating any higher density so he does not feel 10% is justified.
Mayor Marty said that Option 1 would be $40,403.00 and that seems to be somewhat high due to
the fact that this is acquiring more property. Option 2, dedication on the Eastwood Road
property, is more in line at $5,970 and that would be his recommendation.
Mayor Marty asked whether going from a taxable property to Church property would give the
City a reduction in taxes.
Director Ericson explained that the Church is a tax exempt entity, but the value is still on the
~ property.
Finance Director Beer estimated the loss of City tax at less than $1,000.
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 10
Mayor Marty said that future development may not occur on the site, but he would support •
moving the lines to the easement or increase the easement to encompass the power lines.
Director Ericson explained that the City does not usually take easements for private utilities, but
the City could take more easement and then the Xcel lines would be in the City's easement.
Mr. Sargent said that it makes sense to move the lines, but they would like to just do that once to
save the Church money.
Mr. Sargent said that park dedication fees are usually assessed because there is pressure or
additional use for the parks, but in this case, nothing will be happening, so he would propose
putting the park dedication with any future development.
Mr. Heltzer said that he would like his utility issue cleared up, as the Church is the subdivider of
the property.
Council Member Flaherty asked why the power line bothers Mr. Heltzer.
Mr. Heltzer said that the Church obviously intends to move forward with other plans, and he
would like this dealt with now.
Mayor Marty commented that in order to subdivide, there has been a park dedication fee •
required, as the City is pretty well built out, and park dedication is harder to come by. Mayor
Marty explained that the park dedication funds really help out with the parks and allow the City
to be able to do things for the parks without asking the residents to pay additional ta~ces to
support the parks.
Mr. Sargent suggested that they will be getting attorneys involved with this situation. Mr.
Sargent said that the Church has gone with the City suggestion, and this process has been taking
a very long time. Mr. Sargent said that there are those that need and want to se11 the property to
make money for the Church, and are not as willing to keep this out of litigation.
Mayor Marty asked whether the comments regarding attorneys were meant as a veiled threat.
Mr. Sargent indicated that there is a real possibility that attorneys will be involved if this matter
does not get resolved.
Mayor Marty infortned Mr. Sargent, and the Church, that he does not appreciate being threatened
in any way.
Director Ericson said that last year, the Minnesota Legislatwre adopted new rules regarding park
dedication fees, and there is a clause in the Code that indicates that any subdivider of land
assessed a park dedication fee, may challenge the fee, and the fee would be put into escrow and a •
judge will review the details and make a decision.
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 11
i
David Jahnke said that it would be unfair for the Church not to pay a park dedication fee when
the City requires the fee of all other subdividers of land.
Mr. Heltzer asked if the City determines that the Church can sell the house to get money.
Council Member Mueller asked when the Church bought the property.
A Church representative said that it was purchased approximately two years ago.
Council Member Mueller asked whether taxes have been paid on it over that time.
Council Member Mueller said that if the Church owns the property, and changes the registration
with the County, the property is tax exempt. So subdividing this property will move the parcel
with the home back onto the tax roll for future years.
Council Member Mueller suggested a letter on file on the easement situation.
Mayor Marty said he would like the City Attorney to review that suggestion to determine the
weight or enforceability of such a letter.
• Mr. Sargent said that they agree to work with the homeowner to make sure that the utility
situation gets taken care of.
Mayor Marty said that k~e is considering postponing this to the next meeting to allow time to look
into expanding the easement area to include the utilities, and to talk with the City Attorney on a
letter on the utilities, and how much weight that would have.
Mr. Heltzer said that he has been told by the Church, that their senior living project is going
through no matter what he thinks about it.
Mayor Marty asked Mr. Heltzer and the Church to consider discussing this in an attempt to work
something out.
Council Member Stigney commented that, if the Church needs to do this for money purposes, it
would seem to him that the entire lot would be worth more.
Council Member Stigney said that it will be difficult to get Council and residents to agree to
rezone that lot to anything other than an Rl designation.
Council Member Stigney said that he would like the Church to work with Mr. Heltzer in an
attempt to negotiate on the utilities.
•
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 12
Mayor Ma.rty agreed, and said that he has heard opposition from the community to the proposed •
plan for a senior living facility in this area, despite the fact that the City does need this type of
facility.
MOTION/SECOND: MartylStigney. To Postpone to August 27, 2007.
Council Member Mueller said that she is not sure if there is a hidden agenda or anything behind
this. Council Member Mueller said that she does not see an issue with what is being presented to
Council as a subdivision for this property.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
F. Resolution 7137, Resolution Authorizing the Mounds View Police
Department to Enter into a Grant Agreement with the Minnesota
Department of Public Safety, Offce of Traffic Safety for the Sale and Sober
Project from October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008
Chief Sommer explained that this is a renewal of the grant agreement that shares in payment for
additional enforcement time.
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Flaherty. To Waive the Reading and Approve Resolution 7137,
Resolution Authorizing the Mounds View Police Department to Enter into a Grant
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. •
G. Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance 796, an Ordinance
Implementing a Franchise Fee on Center Point Energy Natural Gas
Operations wi~hin the City of Mounds View for the Year 2008
Finance Director Beer explained that the Franchise Fee Ordinance sunsets in December every
year and, if so desired, Council must approve a new Ordinance each year.
MOTION/SECOND: Marty/Mueller. To Waive the Reading and Introduce Ordinance 796, an
Ordinance Implementing a Franchise Fee on Center Point Energy Natural Gas Operations Within
the City of Mounds View for the Year 2008.
Council Member Flaherty asked Staff to explain where the fees go.
Finance Director Beer indicated that 50% of the franchise fees go toward street improvements
and 50% are used for paying for services in the general fund.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
u
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 13
•
H. Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance 797, an Ordinance
Implementing a Franchise Fee on Xcel Energy Electric and Natural Gas
Operations within the City of Mounds View for the Year 2008
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Stigney. To Waive the Reading and Introduce Ordinance 797, an
Ordinance Implementing a Franchise Fee on Xcel Energy Electric and Natural Gas Operations
within the City of Mounds View for the Year 2008.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0
I. Resolution 7139, Authorizing a Step Increase for Dave Olsen, Part
Time Cable TV Technician; Mark Beer, Finance Director; and
Officer Nicholas Erickson, Mounds View Police Department.
•
Community Development Director Ericson read Resolution 7139 as amended.
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Hull. To Approve Resolution 7139, Authorizing a Step Increase
for Dave Olsen, Mark Beer, and Officer Nicholas Erickson.
Motion carried
Council Member Stigney indicated that he does have an issue with one of the people on the list
as he is not sure that his performance has been exemplary.
Ayes - 5
Nays-0
Motion carried.
J. Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance 795, an Ordinance Amending
Chapter 1Q01, Building Code
Community Development Director Ericson reviewed the proposed changes to be made to the
Building Code to bring the City consistent with the State Building Code.
MOTION/SECOND: Flaherty/Mueller. To Waive the Reading and Introduce Ordinance 795, an
Ordinance Amending Chapter 1001, Building Code.
Council Member Mueller said that she likes the way that the changes are presented as they are
easy for Council to understand.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
K. Resolution 7135, Setting an Interest Rate and Administrative Fee for
Special Assessments Certified During 2007
. Finance Director Beer explained to Council that this Resolution would set the interest rate to
match the market rate.
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 14
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Stigney. To Waive the Reading and Approve Resolution 7135, •
Setting an Interest Rate and Administrative Fee for Special Assessments Certified During 2007.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
Council Member Stigney asked to handle item N at this point in the meeting to accommodate a
resident that had waited for the matter to be heard. Council agreed.
N. Resolution 7142, Implementing Tier II Water Sprinkling and Irrigation
Regulations
Public Works Director Lee reviewed information with Council concerning the need to implement
the Tier II Water Sprinkling and Irrigation Regulations. Well Number 6 has been reviewed and it
is set for rehabilitation for this fall and, as part of that, Staff will look at extending that well
deeper into the aquifer and that may require a new pump.
Dick Palmetier of 7639 Edgewood Drive indicated that certain language of the exclusions came
into play when he was discussing this matter with Staff. Mr. Palmetier explained that the
residents' perception of the addressing of the City Parks and properties and when they are being
watered creates issues. Mr. Palmetier indicated that the City of Mounds View is on sand and that
takes a lot of water to keep grass alive on. Mr. Palmetier indicated that he would recommend
review of the exclusions, because he feels that washing a car takes more water than watering the
Iawn. Mr. Palmetier asked if residents could put in a private well. .
Public Works Director Lee indicated that the Department of Public Health would need to
approve a permit for a private well. Director Lee indicated that the City uses City Water and not
a private well for irrigating its properties,
Council Member Mueller asked how the City is going to supply adequate water to the Medtronic
location if there are issues with the water.
Public Works Director Lee clarified that there are no water issues, but the City is pumping at
capacity. Director Lee indicated that the City does have the capacity to accommodate Medtronic.
Council Member Flaherty said that the City has been following the City Code with its water
usage as ballfields are exempt.
Mayor Marty noted that the only former City property that had a private well was the golf course.
Council Member Stigney suggested changing the Code for Tier II to do limited watering at the
parks. Council Member Stigney said that he would like to restrict filling of large swimming
pools not little rubber kiddie pools.
•
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 15
• Council Member Stigney said that he does not think that the City's parks should look as lush and
green as a golf course during drought times, so he would like to see more restriction than just odd
and even.
Public Works Director Lee indicated that having foot traffic on stressed grass can really damage
it. Director Lee expiained that the grass needs to be healthy to handle the Festival in the Park.
Mayor Marty questioned how this will be communicated to the residents so that they are aware of
the restrictions.
Staff has purchased signs to inform residents of what the watering restrictions are, along with
publishing it in the newspaper, on the website, and on the electronic message board.
Mr. Palmetier commented that the taxpayers are paying far watering the parks, and would like to
keep their own lawns green also.
Public Works Director noted that Well Z was constructed in 1961, and the pump does not have
cooling for the motor, so water is used to cool the motor and then pumped out. Director Lee said
that there is a hose with a sprinkler in that area to utilize the water that is used to cool the motor
of the pump.
• MOTION/SECOND: Hull/Flaherty. To Waive the Reading and Approve Resolution 7142,
Implementing Tier II Water Sprinkling and Irrigation Regulations.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
Community Development Director Ericson explained that there have been two requests to waive
the fee for the rental of the Community Center for the Holmes Family and for a child at
Pinewood Elementary. The City Administrator's recommendation is to establish a policy on
rental of the City's facility for this type of matter.
Council agreed to waive the rental fees for these causes.
Council Member Mueller asked for more information on the fundraiser as the plans move
forward.
L. Resolution 7140, a Resolution Authorizing the Preparation of an Updated
Preliminary Feasibility Report for the 2008 Street and Utility Improvement
Project
Public Works Director Lee explained that there is a very short time schedule for this project.
Director Lee explained the process and what criteria were used for determining the 2008 Street
~ and Utility Improvement Project.
Council Member Flaherty asked what the 2007 Feasibility concentrated on.
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 16
Public Works Director Lee explained that it focused on Areas A, B and E. Director Lee •
indicated that there will only need to be a minor update to some areas of the feasibility report.
Council Member Flaherty indicated that he would like an idea of what the feasibility study will
cost the Ciiy.
Council Member Stigney agreed, and said he would like to get a ballpark idea of what this would
cost. Council Member Stigney said that there were no recommendations as of yet, and no
information on the financing.
Council Member Stigney indicated that the residents have not been asked to buy into the project
as of yet, so that concerns him.
Council Member Mueller asked whether Public Works would feel comfortable updating the
feasibiliiy study.
Public Works Director Lee indicated that Staff cannot do it, as there are water gardens being
added, and earth work to create them and those items are beyond the realm of the public works
responsibilities.
Mayor Marty noted that he got out to some of the neighborhoods on National Night Out and he
does not see having a problem with the proposed plan as residents seemed to be interested in •
having streets improved.
Mayor Marty would like to approve this with a condition that this comes back to Council with
information on costs.
Public Works Director Lee indicated that this is a new and different situation, as there are 29 rain
gardens proposed for this project.
MOTION/SECOND: Marty/Flaherty. To Waive the Reading and Approve Resolution 7140,
Authorizing the Preparation of an Updated Preliminary Feasibility Report for the 2008 Street and
Utility Improvement Project as Amended to Require that Staff Bring Back Information on
Feasibility Study Costs.
Council Member Mueller said that she is disappointed that the $200,000 feasibility report from
last year is not of more assistance for this year.
Council Member Stigney suggested a friendly amendment to amend the Resolution based on the
current tentative recommendations, and in Item 2 with the current tentative recommendations.
The Motion and Second accepted the friendly amendment.
~
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 17
•
~
Council Member Stigney indicated that he would like to know when a 11st of tentative
recommendations would be available.
Public Works Director Lee indicated he would have Staff provide a brief suinmary.
Brian Amundsen of 3048 Wooddale Drive addressed Council, and said that he had to drive over
to the meeting because the feasibility report cost $200,000 for four miles of road. Mr. Amundsen
said that some rain gardens were included last year, and he does not understand why the City
would have a feasibility report and pay for that, when it was not ready to be built. Mr.
Amundsen said that he wants the project done, but it frustrates him that the Council is being
asked to pay for a preliminary feasibility before costs are known.
Mr. Amundsen said that he has serious concerns about the consultant being used. Mr. Amundsen
asked the Council to not approve any more work from this consultant until there is a better idea
what work will be done, and what that work would cost.
Mayor Marty said that the concern he has, is that if Council does not move on this tonight, it may
mean going another year without a street project.
Council Member Flaherty asked how much consultant time would be used between this meeting
and the next.
Public Works Director Lee indicated that Staff could ask the consultants not to expend any time
other than what is required for sending out the resident notices.
Public Works Director Lee explained that the City is required to do a feasibility report, and it
usually costs around 15% of the total project costs.
Council Member Flaherty commented that the City Charter and State Statute say that the
feasibility study is required.
Council Member Mueller said that she thinks it would be better to hold off on the Feasibility
Study until Council knows that residents will support the project.
Public Works Director Lee indicated that would mean that there would not be a project until
2009.
Public Works Director Lee explained that there have been other consultants in the past and, the
reason that this consultant has this type of feasibility report with these costs, is because the
Council and the residents require it.
Ayes - 4
Nays -1(Mueller) Motion carried.
• M. Resolution 7141, Approving a Contract with DNR Construction
Services Incorporated for poor Replacement at Treatment Plant No. 1
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 18
Public Works Director Lee explained that Staff recommends approval of the contract to replace •
the doors at Treatment Plant No. 1 to put a stainless steel door in the chlorine room, and a
galvanized door in the sulfur dioxide room, in order to eliminate corrosion issues the City has
seen with the existing doors.
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Hull. To Waive the Reading and Approve Resolution 7141,
Approving a Contract with DNR Construction Services Incorporated for poor Replacement at
Treatment Plant No. 1.
Ayes - 4 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
Council Member Stigney was not present for the vote.
8. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Item Deleted
B. Resolution 7115, Approving an Amusement Devices and Centers Business
License for Premier Game Company, Doing Business at the Mermaid, 2200
County Road 10
C. Resolution 7130, Renumbering Incorrectly Numbered Resolutions 8002,
8003, 8004 and 8005 to Resolutions 7131, 7132, 7133, and 7134, Respectively
D. Set a Public Hearing for August 27, 2007 at 7:Q5 p.m. for the Second Reading •
and Adoption of Ordinance 796, an Ordinance Implementing a Franchise
Fee on Center Point Energy Natural Gas Operations within the City of
Mounds View for the Year 2008
E. Set a Public Hearing for August 27, 2007 at 7:10 p.m. for the Second Reading
and Adoption of Ordinance 797, an Ordinance Implementing a Franchise
Fee on Xcel Energy Electric and Natural Gas Operations within the City of
Mounds View for the Year 2008
Council Member Mueller requested that Items B and C be removed for discussion.
MOTION/SECOND: Hull/Mueller. To Approve Consent Agenda Items D and E as Presented.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
B. Resolution 7115, Approving an Amusement Devices and Center
Business License for Premier Game Company, Doing Business at the
Mermaid, 2200 County Road 10
Council Member Mueller said that she wanted to make sure that the business requesting this
approval is up to date on all fees owing to the City, because there was some concern about the
business being for sale. •
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 19
• Finance Director Beer indicated that, as far as he knows, this is Pxemier Game Company's only
dealings with the City of Mounds View.
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Flaherty. To Waive the Reading and Approve Resolution 7115,
Approving an Amusement Devices and Center Business License for Premier Game Company
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
C. Resolution 7130, Renumbering Incorrectly Numbered Resolutions
8002, 8003, 8004 and 8005 to Resolutions 7131, 7132, 7133, and 7134,
Respectively
Council Member Mueller asked if the City knows how this happened.
Community Development Director Ericson indicated there was a type of glitch in the program
that caused numbering issues, but the program has been fixed.
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Stigney. To Waive the Reading and Approve Resolution 7130,
Renumbering Tncorrectly Numbered Resolutions 8002, 8003, 8004 and 8005 to Resolutions
7131, 7132, 7133, and 7134, Respectively.
• Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
9. JUST AND CORI2ECT CLAIMS
Council Member Flaherty asked for clarification on the Cathy Smith permit refund.
Community Development Director Ericson explained that the resident applied for a refund for a
building permit previously requested, as her plans changed and she submitted for a different
permit.
Council Member Flaherty asked if this is the final City HaII rehabilitation invoice.
Finance Director Beer indicated that this would be partial payment.
Public Works Director Lee indicated that the City is retaining $5,000 due to an issue with
insulating the pipes.
Council Member Flaherty asked about the Clean Response charge for $593.78. He then asked
what happened.
Public Works Director Lee indicate that there was a sewer backup at that location, as a contractor
• hit the sanitary sewer line and caused it to back up. Director Lee explained that the City will be
marking all utilities when there is work to be done near them to avoid issues like this in the
future.
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 20
Council Member Stigney asked what kind of repair was done by Boyer Ford. •
Public Works Director Lee explained that the transmission went out on one of the trucks and had
to be replaced.
Council Member Mueller asked about recycling cans for $823.00.
Finance Director Beer explained that there were some other charges on the invoice but the charge
was also for office recycling containers.
Council Member Stigney asked what Switch, Cleaner is.
Public Works Director Lee indicated that he thinks that it was for the switch, and one was for the
cleaner, but both are on the invoice. Director Lee will look into it and report back.
Council Member Stigney asked about Hewlett Packard for computer equipment.
Finance Director Beer indicated that was for four desktop computers as part of the replacement
schedule.
Council Member Stigney suggested adding replacement of computers to a list to consider cutting
back as part of the budgeting process. •
Council Member Flaherty asked if Medtroruc is reimbursing the City on the fireworks.
Finance Director Beer indicated that Medtronic is reimbursing the City for the fireworks.
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Hull. To Approve Just and Correct Claims as Presented.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
10. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. July 9, 2007 and July 23, 2007 Council Minutes will be Approved at the
Next Council Meeting
11. REPORTS
A. Reports of Mayor and Council
Mayor Marly noted that he attended two funerals last week for two Mounds View residents Pat
Holmes and Paul Eicksted, and the thoughts and prayers of Council and the City go out to the
families.
Mayor Marty indicated that Festival in the Park is August 19, 2007. •
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 21
•
Council Member Mueller said that there is a schedule of events for the Festival in the Park on the
City's website. She then reviewed the schedule of events for Council.
Council Member Mueller thanked Medtronic for providing the fireworks for the Festival.
B. Reports of Staff
Community Development Director Ericson explained that there has been a City wide ban on
recreational fires adopted due to the drought conditions. Staff will notify residents in all manners
available including posting at City Hall, reader board, cable channel, and the website.
Community Development Director Ericson explained that there are some things to discuss
regarding the liquor license facilities. Director Ericson explained that Maes is not complying
with the Resolution approving its liquor Iicense due to failure to replace a kitchen hood, as
approval was contingent upon satisfactory review by the Fire Marshall. There is a substantial
cost in replacing this hood. However, the owner of Moe's has not provided an estimated date for
replacement. Staff recommends red tagging the kitchen hood, as that would cause an impact, but
not as large of an impact as would revoking the liquor license.
Mayor Marty suggested directing them to replace it before the next City Council meeting or the
. Council would consider revoking the liquor license.
Council Member Flaherty asked whether the City has any funds to loan to assist the business
owner with getting this hood replaced.
Staff will look into what options may be available.
Council Member Stigney asked what determines a delinquency with taxes, and noted that the
Mermaid does not have delinquent taxes listed, but they have only made a partial payment.
Finance Director Beer indicated that the County taxes are considered current year taxes, and they
assess a fee and interest, but they are not considered delinquent by the County until the year goes
by.
Community Development Director Ericson explained that the Mermaid has not fully paid the
first half taxes for this year. But, with Roberts, that goes back three years, and Staff is looking
for direction from Council as to how to proceed with the liquor license revocation.
Council Member Mueller indicated that Council was assured that compliance checks were
finalized when the approval was before Council.
• Community Development Director Ericson explained that Staff sent out a letter to the
Department of Revenue and did not get any response, so Staff has changed the procedure to
require checking online and with the County.
Mounds View City Council August 13, 2007
Regular Meeting Page 22
Council Member Mueller indicated that she would like Staff to check to see if the Mermaid is on •
a payment plan to bring the taxes current. Council Member Mueller asked Staff to contact the
owner to inform them of the delinquency of the taxes, and tell them that this jeopardizes their
liquor license.
Staff will add suspension of the liquor license for Roberts to the next Council Agenda and
contact the other license holders as directed by Council.
Community Development Director Ericson indicated that there are two interviews scheduled next
week for the Economic Development Specialist position.
Council agreed to start at 6:00 p.m. on August 27, 2007 to allow time for budget discussions.
Council asked Staff to have department heads look into ways to make cuts to the budget prior to
the next Council Meeting.
Finance Director Beer said that the City has not considered any levy increase or a transfer from
the levy reduction fund at this time.
C. Reports of City Attorney
None. •
12. Next Councii Work Session: Tuesday, September 4, 2007, at 7:OQ p.m.
Next Council Meeting: Monday, August 27, 2007 at 6:00 p.m.
13. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 p.m.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Clerk
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
•