HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Packets - 2014/02/03j
MA 1114M
MOUNDS VIEW CITY `'
ROLL CALL: Flaherty, Gunn, Hull, Meehlhause, Mueller
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight's agenda. Before speaking, please give your
full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to three minutes.
1. Commercial Vehicle Discussion
2. Review Economic Development Specialist Position
3. Review Engineering Project Manager Position
Next Work Session: Monday, March 3, 2014, at 7prn
Next City Council Meeting: Monday, February 10, 2014, at 7pm
Item No: 01
014
MOUNDtSVVffiW Meeting Date: February 3, cion Type of Business: Work Session
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: James Ericson, City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Review of the City Code Pertaining to Commercial Vehicles
Introduction:
At the January 6th work session meeting and at the Council meeting on January 13th, the
City Council discussed the possibility of reviewing that section of the City Code that
regulates the parking of commercial vehicles in a residential district.
Discussion:
The pertinent section of City Code can be round in Chapter 607, Nuisances, as follows:
607.06: OUTSIDE PARKING AND STORAGE:
Subd. 1: Declaration Of Nuisance: The outside parking and storage on residentially -zoned
property of vehicles, materials, supplies or equipment not customarily used for residential
purposes in violation of the requirements set forth below is declared to be a public nuisance
because it: a) obstructs views on streets and private property, b) creates cluttered and otherwise
unsightly areas, c) introduces commercial advertising signs into areas where commercial
advertising signs are otherwise prohibited, d) decreases adjoining landowners and occupants'
enjoyment of their property and neighborhood, and e) otherwise adversely affects property values
and neighborhood patterns.
d. No person owning, driving or in charge of any vehicle with a gross weight classification higher
than "E" (6,001 — 9,000 pounds) as identified on the license plate and specified in Minnesota
Statutes, may cause or permit that vehicle to be parked outside or stand continuously for more
than two (2) hours on residential property or public street within a residential zone in the City.
e. No person owning, driving or in charge of any vehicle with more than one (1) rear axel chassis
design may cause or permit that vehicle to be parked outside or stand continuously for more than.
two (2) hours on residential property or public street within a residential zone in the City.
Commercial vehicles have always been prohibited from being parked in residential districts,
although an attempt was made in 1981 to change that. After numerous complaints from
truck owners, the'City Council adopted Ordinance 303 which served to eliminate the
prohibition against commercial vehicles. Residents were opposed to the potential influx of
commercial vehicles in their neighborhoods however and circulated petitions against the
ordinance. As a result of their efforts, a special election was held on August 18, 1981 to
vote on the issue, and the ordinance was over -turned by more than a two -to -one margin.
Commercial Vehicle Report
February 3, 2014
Page 2
The (Nuisance Code underwent a rewrite in 2002, and as a result, two specific references
regarding commercial vehicles were added for clarification purposes. The first amendment
redefined a commercial vehicle to be any vehicle bearing a weight classification greater
than "E". Prior to the amendment, if the license plate exhibited ANY weight classification, it
was considered commercial. The second revision added a reference to vehicles with more
than one rear axle.
Craig Swalchick, Mounds View's Code Enforcement & Housing Inspector, collected photos
of commercial vehicles for the Council's information, each with the vehicles corresponding
license plate weight designation, for reference. These are attached at the end of the
report. Mr. Swalchick also inquired with our neighboring communities to ascertain how
others deal with this issue. He writes:
When I made contact with the neighboring communities, I found that most were
allowing vehicles of 9,000-12,000 lbs --up through a Class "F" designation. The City
of Roseville had the most restrictive requirements, allowing only four wheels on a
vehicle and nothing more, prohibiting "dually" pick-up trucks and multi -rear axle
vehicles. The City of Coon Rapids allows one vehicle over 9,000 lbs GVW to be
parked in a residential zone. This was to allow for semi drivers and owner/
operators to park their trucks at their home as long as the parking of that semi was
in compliance with all other vehicle ordinances. The cities of Spring Lake Park,
Arden Hills and Fridley all allow up to a 12,000 lbs truck to be parked on the
property. New Brighton based its restrictions on length and types of activities at the
home for which the commercial vehicle was parked.
While it is understandable to want to work with a resident who has a commercial vehicle
parked at home, changing the Code to be more permissive opens the door to any and all
vehicles bearing the same weight classification. To address this, the Council could elect to
allow one (1) commercial vehicle bearing a weight designation of "F" or "G" by annual
permit, subject to the vehicle not causing, creating or becoming a nuisance or eyesore.
The problem with such a provision however, is, who determines what would constitute a
nuisance? For purposes of enforcement, City Codes function better with explicit,
unambiguous language.
Another problem is that vehicles with similar weight classifications are not necessarily
similar in appearance. Some may look more like vehicles one would expect to find in a
residential district while others may take on more of an industrial or heavy duty
appearance. Many commercial vehicles also double as de facto mobile billboards, either
advertising the owners' business or another business that paid to be on the side of the
vehicle. Is the City Council comfortable introducing such additional signage within the
neighborhoods?
The last point, which has been made by residents whenever the issue is addressed by the
City Council, is that owners often leave diesel -engine trucks running all night long. Would
this be a permitted practice?
Commercial Vehicle Report
February 3, 2014
Page 3
Review the attached information and provide direction to staff.
Respectfully submitted,
James Ericson
City Administrator
Attachments:
1. Memo from May 24,1999
2. Staff report from Feb 7, 2005
3. MN Statutes Weight Classification Schedule
4. Photographic Documentation
Ank 1 1-3=
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Jim Ericson, Planning Associate
RE: Commercial Vehicles in Mounds View -- A Historical Overview
DATE: May 24, 1999
Introduction: Recently, I received a call from an unhappy resident of Mounds View who was sent
a letter regarding a commercial vehicle (semi) parked at his residence on Hillview Road. In
responds to his threats of a class-action lawsuit, I did some research concerning commercial
vehicles in the City and thought to forward to you the results of this research.
Background The City Code has always stated that Commercial vehicles (e.g., those with a
weight classification as determined by Minnesota Statues) are not allowed to be parked on public,
or private property for more than two hours continuously in the City's residential districts. In
1977, after numerous complaints frorn truck owners, public hearings were held regarding the
appropriateness of this code restriction. In 1981, the Council adopted Ordinance 303 (last page
of this packet) which repealed the section of code that prohibited trucks and commercial vehicles
from residential districts. The community as a whole, however, was not in favor of this ordinance
and a petition was circulated that gathered 1,215 signatures in an effort to put the ordinance to a
vote of the residents by referendum. The special election was held on August 18, 1981, at which
time the ordinance was voted down by more than a two -to -one margin.
Current Practice: The policy of the City with regard to Code Enforcement has been to respond to
violations on a complaint basis. This past year, staff has begun to enforce the commercial vehicle
Code requirement more proactively, as the number of complaints regarding commercial vehicles
and trucks has increased, and also in response to issues of fairness to those property owners
singled -out for their own commercial vehicles. One such property owner sent a letter on Clifton
Drive approached the Council late in 1998 and asked for a special use permit or allowance to
continue parking his commercial vehicle at home. The Council denied his request, citing
Community's desire to not see trucks and commercial vehicles in their residential districts.
So just in case you begin to get calls regarding commercial vehicles, this will provide you with a
bit more background into the situation. Please call me if you have any thoughts regarding this
issue.
Item Pia:2
Meeting Bate: February 7 2005
Type of Business: Discussion
Administrator Review:
To: Mounds View City Council
From: Kristin Prososki, Planning Associate
Items Tifle/Subiect: Review Potential Code Amendment Regarding Commercial
Vehicles; Special Planning Case 5P-Va�--
Currently, Sections 607.06 and 802.04 of the Mounds View Municipal Code allow commercial
vehicles to be parked on a public street for up to two (2) hours per day. This regulation can be
difficult and time-consuming to enforce. Staff is seeking input from the Council as to whether or
not an amendment to the regulation would be appropriate.
Discussion:
There are two areas of the Code that regulate outside parking. Section 607.06, Subdivision 2d
of the Mounds View Municipal Code states:
"No person owning, driving or in charge of any vehicle with a gross weight classification
higher than "E° (6,001 — 9,000 pounds) as identified on the license plate and specified in
Minnesota Statutes, may cause or permit that vehicle to be parked outside or stand
continuously for more than two (2) hours on residential property or public street within a
residential zone in the City."
Section 802.04, titled Oversize Vehicle Parking, states:
"No person shall allow any recreational equipment, recreational vehicle or truck to
remain parked on a public street or highway within Mounds View for a period of more
than two (2) hours per day."
In Chapter 800, a truck is defined as, "A motor vehicle which exceeds a one ton chassis design".
It should be noted that recreational vehicles can be parked on residential property, as long as
they are parked on an improved surface, such as a driveway.
Currently, enforcing the two hour limit typically means responding to a complaint as soon as it is
placed, marking the tires of the vehicle to show where it was parked and then coming back two
hours later to check if the vehicle is gone. If the vehicle is still parked there, a ticket can then be
issued. However, if the vehicle is gone within the two hour limit, but then returns later, the clock
must start all over again because Staff would not know how long the vehicle had previously been
parked at that location.
t,
Staff is suggesting that the code be amended to state that oversized/commercial vehicles shall
not be parked on a public street or highway except for the purposes of loading, unloading or
rendering a service. This would allow commercial vehicles to be present when needed and
would eliminate the need for Staff to spend time checking on vehicles; if the commercial vehicle
was there for the occasional need, such as for furniture deliver, then it would not be necessary to
enforce the code, but if a commercial vehicle was there repeatedly and was causing a nuisance
situation, Staff would have the ability to issue a ticket immediately, which would hopefully deter
the driver of the commercial vehicle from returning with R.
In most cases, the use of commercial vehicles Is occasional and generally does not disrupt the
neighborhood, however, when the vehicle is owned by a resident and used for business
purposes (which is usually the case), it can be very disruptive. Staff has received complaints
regarding commercial vehicles, specifically about the noise and vibration caused by the
oversized vehicle.
Staff is seeking input from the Council as to whether or not to proceed with a code amendment:
regarding commercial vehicles. if the Council feels it is appropriate, please direct Staff to begin
writing a code amendment.
Respectfully submitted,
Kristin Prososki
Planning Associate
16II.013, 2013 Minnesota Statutes
Page 1 of 1
Subd. le. Truck; tractor; combination; exceptions. (a) On trucks and tractors except those in this chapter
defined as farm trucks, on truck -tractor and semitrailer combinations except those defined as Farm combinations, and
011 commercial zone vehicles, the tax based on total gross weight shall be graduated according to the Minnesota base
rate schedule prescribed in this subdivision, but in no event less than $120.
Minnesota Base Rate Schedule
Scheduled tares include five percent
surtax provided for in subdivision 14
TOTAL GROSS WEIGHT IN POUNDS
A
0 -
1,500
B
1,501 -
3,000
C
3,001 -
4,500
D
4,501 -
6,000
B
6,001 -
10,000
F
10,001 -
12,000
G
12,001 -
15,000
H
15,001
18,000
1
18,001 -
21,000
J
21,001 -
26,000
K
26,001 -
33,000
L
33,001 -
39,000
M
39,001 -
45,000
N
45,001 -
51,000
0
51,001 -
57,060
P
57,001 -
63;000
Q
63,001
69,000
R
69,001
73,280
S
73,281
78,000
T
78,001
80,000
haps://www.revisor.mn. gov/statutes/?year=2013xic1=1.63.013
TAX
15
2.0
25
35
45
70
105
145
190
270
360
475
595
715
865
1015
1185
1325
1595
1760
1/8/2014
Photographic Documentation of Commercial Vehicles
(Weight designations noted under each photo)
Weight designation "E"
Weight designation: T"
Photographic Documentation of Commercial Vehicles
Weight designation "G"
Weight designations "I"
Photographic Documentation of Commercial Vehicles
6
—5
Weight designation "J"
Weight designation "K'
Weight designation T"
A
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Photographic Documentation of Commercial Vehicles
Item No: 02
Moms �. V TfE Meeting Date: Feb 3, 2014
Type of Business: Work Session
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: James Ericson, City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Review the Economic Development Specialist Position
Introduction:
The City's former Economic Development Specialist resigned on October 31, 2013, taking
a new position in another community. Since that time, the position has remained vacant.
The 2014 Budget includes funding for the position at half time hours.
Discussion:
The primary responsibilities of this position are as follows:
• Business recruitment and business retention activity
• Economic development marketing and communication
• Coordination and oversight of economic development programs
• Liaison to Economic Development Commission, works with the EDA
• Maintain available property database
• Assist in the submission of grant applications and identification of funding
opportunities
The job description for the position (attached) is much more detailed regarding the
essential duties and could perhaps be modified to be more clear as to what the City's
expectations are, but ultimately, the stated responsibilities all tie back to the six listed
above. A few minor revisions are shown for Council consideration.
I have spoken to other economic development professionals and all of them agree that a
part time position could be a perfect fit for a qualified individual looking for a flexible work
schedule, or perhaps a seasoned or recently retired economic development specialist
looking to ease into retirement or ease back out of retirement. We have discussed job -
sharing the position with another community, but this type of position is less conducive to
such an arrangement.
Given the expiration of the remainder of the City's older TIF districts by December of 2015,
the Council may want to discuss whether it believes a need exists to maintain the position
beyond such time. Despite the older district decertifications, the City will continue to
receive 5% of the increment generated from the Medtronic district, which would almost be
enough to cover a half-time position, with the remaining funds potentially transferred from
the general fund. MN Statutes allows cities with an EDA or HRA to levy funds in support of
those activities, which is another option as well. Finally, any revenues received from the
sale of the Crossroad Point properties could only be spent on TIF eligible activities, such as
staffing an economic development position.
Econ Dev Position Discussion
February 3, 2014
Page 2
I remain confident that there is a need for this position, although at present I believe a part
time position may be more appropriate given the limited funding available. I have been told
by others in the profession that full-time work could be justified in Mounds View on an
ongoing basis but I am presently unconvinced on that point.
If the City Council concurs, I will bring back for Council approval a revised job description
and an authorization to advertise for the part-time position. If the pool of applicants does
not result in a suitable number of viable candidates, we could revisit the part-time vs full-
time component, however I'd like to think a part time position would generate a sufficient
number of well qualified applicants.
Respectfully submitted,
JaWA9 d
James Ericson
City Administrator
Attachments:
1. Job Description, with proposed revisions
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
POSITION DESCRIPTION
POSITION TITLE: Economic Development Specialist
DEPARTMENT: Administration Gornmunity Development
ACCOUNTABLE: City Administrator
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
Primary Objective of Position
Assists the City Administrator GGm with economic
development and redevelopment activities and the coordination of those activities with
quasi -public groups in the community.
Performs a variety of routine and complex administrative, technical and professional work
in the preparation and implementation of economic development and redevelopment plans,
programs and services.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Works under the general supervision of the City Administrator Gemm nity Devel,......en
D+reet r.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
►(•C7'i�
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Coordinate the activities of the
Development Authority and Economic Development Commission (EDC) and assist
with matters of the Economic Development Authority (EDA).
Provide technical and professional advice and support to other staff members, by
noluding t e Economic Develement Authority, EconemiG_ Development
Commission, local development corporations, Ramsey County and relevant State
agencies._, ..orking-Mith appropriate GGrnrniSSi9Rs and Also, develop stFategies f
task fE)FGes as needed.
Develop and maintain a Business Retention Program via regular contact with
business owners, property owners, and economic development related community
organizations.
Assist with the negotiation and implementation of Negotiate_and-+mplenqe+�
development agreements for redevelopment projects including coordination of
property acquisition, relocation efforts, site clearances and related actions.
Coordinate economic development marketing and promotional activities aimed at
attracting new development and investments to Mounds View.
• Assist in the administration of the City's Tax Increment Finance (TIF) program and
districts. Review and score TIF applications submitted by businesses or
developers.
• Assist in the administration of the City's Tax Rebate Finance (TRF) program.
Review and score TRF applications submitted by businesses or developers.
• Develop short and long range economic development and redevelopment plans;
gathers, interprets, and prepares data for studies, reports and recommendations,
needed.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive database of the inventory of available
buildings and sites in the community for economic development purposes.
• Prepare and maintain information on utilities, taxes, zoning, transportation,
community services, financing tools, etc.; responds to requests for information for
economic re/development purposes; prepares data sheets and other information.
Responds to local citizens inquiring about local economic development activities
and opportunities.
• Monitor local, state and Federal legislation and regulations relating to economic
development, and reports findings, trends and recommendations to City
Administrator.
• Assist in the application and submission of grants and other outside funding
opportunities to further the economic development goals of the City.
PERIPHERAL DUTIES
Attends professional development workshops and conferences to keep abreast of trends
and developments in the field of economic development and tax increment financing.
Other duties as assigned by the City Administrator Community Development n,reGtGF .
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
(A) Must have a B.A. degree in urban planning, business or public administration,
economics, marketing, finance, or a related field and a minimum of one full year of
experience in economic/community development and/or redevelopment, TIF,
economic development authority activities, and/or, business retention programs.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
(A) Masters Degree in urban planning, business or public administration, economics,
marketing, finance, or a related field.
Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
(A) Considerable knowledge of tax increment financing law and TIF district
administration
(B) Knowledge of business retention programs and economic development
and redevelopment principles.
(C) Working knowledge of municipal zoning and infrastructure and planning
programs and processes.
(D) Skill in the operation of the listed tools and equipment.
(E) Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with architects,
contractors, developers, owners, supervisors, employees, and the general
public; Ability to establish effective working relationships.
(F) Perform work in a timely and thorough manner.
(G) Demonstrate initiative and excellent problem solving skills.
(H) Demonstrate an ability to effectively handle a wide variety of city projects
and problems in an effective and professional manner.
(1) Maintain a positive image of the city through effective handling of
problems and sound coordination of multi -department programs.
(J) Anticipate communication needs of public, Council and staff and
effectively acts to meet those needs.
(K) Develop a work schedule for carrying out assigned tasks and meet the
schedule in a timely manner.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Valid State Driver's License or ability to obtain one.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
Personal computer, including Microsoft Office software, motor vehicle; calculator; phone;
copy and fax machine.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an
employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable
accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the
essential functions.
Work is performed mostly in office settings. Some outdoor work is required in the
inspection of various land use developments and construction sites. Hand -eye coordination
is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand or
sit; walk; use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach
with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; stoop,
kneel, crouch, or crawl; speak or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move
up to 10 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color
vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an
employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable
accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the
essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works in outside weather
conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, or
airborne particles.
The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet in the office, and moderate in the
field.
SELECTION GUIDELINES
Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check;
job related written tests may be required.
The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that
may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them
from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer
and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and
requirements of the job change.
Approval:
Approval:
James Ericson Joe Flaherty, Mayor
City Administrator
Effective Date: February 10, 2014 FebFuaFy 24 1095
Revision History: 02/10/2014 (minor revisions)
03/07/2012 (revised as nonunion position— effective Dec 31, 2011)
05/14/2007 (per AFSCME Union Contract)
04/2006
09/2001 (375 Hay pts)
01/09/1998
01/14/1994
Item No: 3
Meeting Date: February 3 2014
Tyke of Business: Work Session
Administrator Review
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Nick DeBar, Director of Public Works
Item Title/Subject: Review Engineering Project Manager Position
Background
Public Works is proposing a restructuring of staffing in the department to address deficiencies
in personnel and to increase the effectiveness in providing, the many essential services
devolved upon the department. The proposed restructuring involves the following:
1. Add a full-time (Parks) Maintenance Worker position in the Maintenance Division.
2. Eliminate Parks Supervisor position and replace with non -supervisory position focused
on project management in the Engineering Division.
This restructuring plan was discussed and supported by the City Council at their December
2013 work session. The City Council authorized staff to advertise for the Parks Maintenance
Worker position on December 9, 2013 and staff anticipates presenting a final candidate to the
City Council at their February 24, 2014 regular meeting.
Discussion
A position description has been drafted for the project management position proposed in the
Engineering Division of Public Works (see attached). The proposed title for the position is
"Engineering Project Manager" and would be exempt (i.e., salaried) from the Fair Labor
Standards Act (FLSA) and not eligible for overtime hours worked. No supervision is exercised
over other City personnel. Rather than a supervisory position managing people, the
Engineering Project Manager is supervising projects and performing professional duties related
to various capital improvements throughout the project cycle, including project conception,
design, bidding, construction, and closeout phases.
Duties and Responsibilities
The "Essential Duties and Responsibilities" section of the position description is heavily focused
on project related work. Specific duties include project scoping, estimating, scheduling,
consultant solicitation/negotiating/coordination, plan reviews, bid and construction
administration, and closeout activities. The project manager would coordinate with regulatory
agencies, property owners, businesses, and other local government units regarding project
matters. This position will work closely with consultants hired for outsourced projects but will
also prepare construction documents for internal projects. The position would prepare staff
reports, attend City Council meetings to obtain project approvals, and track assigned project
expenditures against budgets, and act as project liaison to those affected.
The `Other Duties and Responsibilities' section includes work activities related to "program"
responsibilities of the Engineering Division, including infrastructure asset management, life-
cycle cost analysis, condition ratings and field evaluations, permitting/inspections, right-of-way
management, engineering standards, mapping/GIS, and private development review to name a
few. The intent to include these program duties to the position description is to keep the
position dynamic and broad in all areas of Engineering functions. It is anticipated that the
Review Engineering Project Manager Position
Page 2
Public Works Director will shift more of his time and focus to these programming items, which
includes many core responsibilities of the Engineering Division. The new position will alleviate
workload now being performed primarily by the Public Works Director and Supervisors, but it is
expected that the director (and supervisor for maintenance projects) will still perform project
management activities.
Minimum and Desired Qualifications
Minimum qualifications include a bachelor degree in civil engineering (desired) or construction
management (or other closely related field) and a minimum of four years experience in project
engineering and construction management of public works and facilities. In addition, an EIT
(Engineer -in -Training) certificate or CPC (Certified Professional Constructor) certificate is
required. Registration as a licensed (Civil) Professional Engineer (PE) is highly desired.
The EIT certificate is obtained by engineering graduates while the CPC certificate is obtained
by construction management graduates. The EIT certificate and four years experience is a
prerequisite of the PE examination, which is only obtained by having an engineering degree.
While a background in civil engineering is desirable, a construction management graduate is
typically better prepared for project management and construction administration than a civil
engineer graduate since their coursework is more "practicable" than the "theory" taught in many
engineering curriculums. In addition, many civil engineering firms employ construction
management graduates in similar capacities as civil engineering graduates early in their
careers. For this reason, it is recommended that those with a construction management
background meet minimum qualifications.
Compensation
Compensation for the Engineering Project Manager position is similar to a "Project
Engineer/Manager" or "Civil Engineer II" positions. These positions match up similarly with
education and experience requirements for other Engineering Divisions of Public Works. A
survey of comparable cities used in the recent compensation study has compensation ranging
from $58,130 to $76,247 annually, with a maximum average of $75,493. These positions are
compensated less than "Assistant City Engineer" positions which range from $72,027 to
$90,038 for the comparable cities. Using the maximum average of $75,493 for the comparable
Engineering Project Manager positions, the proposed 2014 pay range for Mounds View's step
structure is $60,394 to $75,493.
Funding
Monies for the position is proposed to be funded by the utility enterprise funds and general fund
as follows:
Water (700-4823-0100) — 25% Sanitary (730-4823-0100) — 25%
Storm (745-4415-0100) — 25% Pavement Management (100-4470-0100) — 25%
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Council review the position description and ask for any clarifications. If
Council is supportive of the position, staff will present a formal resolution to approve the position
description and authorize advertisement for employment applications at a future Council meeting.
Respectfully submitted,
1 � r
Nick DeBar — Director of Public Works
***'**DRAFT"***FOR REVIEW ONLY***** 01®28-2014
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Position Title: Engineering Project Manager
Department: Public Works — Engineering Division
Accountable to: Director of Public Works/City Engineer
FLSA Status: Exempt
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE OF POSITION
To perform project management involving the planning, development, engineering, administration,
and coordination for all phases of capital improvements and public works projects involving the
drinking water supply, treatment, storage, and distribution system; wastewater collection system;
stormwater conveyance, ponds, and treatment systems; streets, trails, and sidewalks; parks and
recreation facilities; and buildings and grounds. Assists and participates in other Engineering
Division functions including infrastructure asset management, permitting, inspections, engineering
standards, and private development reviews.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
General supervision is provided by the Director of Public Works/City Engineer.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Responsible for overseeing municipal contracts with private consultants and contractors performing
work related to capital improvements and public works projects. May provide general guidance and
review work of other Engineering Division staff when assigned by Director of Public Works/City
Engineer.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Serve as project manager for various City -funded capital improvements and public works
projects throughout their duration including planning, preliminary and final design, bidding, and
construction phases. Projects are typically planned improvements that involve rehabilitation,
reconstruction, new construction, and major maintenance, replacement, or modifications to the
municipal infrastructure.
Assist and participate in development of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Identify
project needs and document justification, calculate project costs and time schedule, and
coordinate with the City's budget process.
Act as liaison for assigned projects with City personnel, elected officials, consultants,
contractors, regulatory agencies, utility companies, property and business owners, the public,
cost participants, and other stakeholders.
Manage and oversee project goals, objectives, costs, and deadlines. Develop project scope,
cost estimates, budget, schedule, and staging for assigned projects.
Oversee and maintain extensive coordination with private consultants hired by the City to
perform professional services related to outsourced project development. Provide guidance and
information of project requirements to consultants during completion of their professional
services and activities, including responding to inquiries, problem solving and collaborating, and
reviewing contract deliverables.
Prepare plans, technical specifications, bidding documents, contract requirements, and other
work associated with internal project development. Perform design calculations and estimated
quantities. Administer quote and public bid solicitation by answering contractor questions,
issuing clarifications and addendums, and obtaining quote and bid proposals. Evaluate quotes
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and bids received, prepare bid tabulation, investigate contractor qualifications, and recommend
contract award.
• Develop requests for proposals and qualifications (RFPs/RFQs) for professional services on
projects outsourced to consultants. Determine scope of work, work tasks, and deliverables for
RFPs/RFQs. Evaluate consultant proposals and qualifications. Negotiate fees, make
recommendations for hire, and prepare professional services agreements.
• Prepare staff reports and resolutions for City Council consideration of various project approvals.
Present staff reports and project updates at City Council meetings.
• Conduct public information meetings to present planned improvements and solicit public input
and feedback. Prepare and mail notices and background information to affected property
owners. Develop presentation materials, exhibits, and handouts.
• Administer construction contracts and negotiate contract modifications. Review and recommend
contract award, pay applications, change orders, certificates of completion, final acceptance, and
other construction related documents.
• Attend and participate in design meetings, pre-bid conferences, public bid openings,
preconstruction conferences, construction progress meetings, and final inspections.
• Conduct site inspections and monitor construction activities and progress. Verify construction
work and materials are compliant with contract documents and department standards. Record
observations, site conditions, test results, field orders, and construction progress. Remediate
noncompliant work and construction issues with appropriate project staff and parties.
• Coordinate acquisition of project right-of-way, permanent and temporary construction
easements, and permissions from affecting property owners.
• Assist and participate in reviewing plan submittals and inspecting construction for public works
related portions of private development projects to ensure compliance with department
standards and regulations.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Assist and participate in infrastructure asset management activities of the division including
pavement and stormwater management, life -cycle cost analysis, infrastructure condition ratings
and evaluation, capital equipment, and wellhead protection planning.
Assist and participate in other division activities and responsibilities including
permitting/inspections, right-of-way management, engineering standards, records management,
mapping, code enforcement, budgeting, grant applications, and private development reviews.
Coordinate activities and attend meetings related to capital improvements and infrastructure
projects of other government agencies that affect City infrastructure, operations, and other
interests. Provide project updates to elected officials and other interested City personnel.
Investigate and respond to a wide variety of public inquiries, concerns, or complaints related to
projects and other public works matters.
Attend meetings of and participate as staff liaison to Parks and Recreation and Forestry
Commission and other City advisory groups when assigned by Director of Public Works/City
Engineer.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as apparent or assigned by the Director of Public
Works/City Engineer.
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MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Civil
Engineering (desired), Construction Management, or other closely related field.
Experience:
Four (4) years of increasingly responsible project engineering and construction management
experience with planning, designing, bidding, and constructing public works and/or facilities
infrastructure and capital improvements.
Licenses and Certificates:
• Possess a valid Minnesota Class D driver's license or equivalent.
• Minimum qualifications include an active designation as a Certified Engineer -In -Training (EIT)
issued by a State Board or a Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) issued by the American
Institute of Constructors.
• Current registration as a Licensed (Civil) Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Minnesota or
ability to obtain within six months of employment is highly desired.
NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
• Principles and practices of project management, construction administration, municipal
engineering, and public works and facilities design and construction.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, rules, regulations, and design standards.
Skill in:
• Reading, interpreting, and comprehending a variety of engineering, architectural, and other
technical documents including drawings, specifications, maps, schematics, technical evaluations
and recommendations, calculations, product data, shop drawings, and design standards.
• Calculating estimated quantities and cost estimates for public works and facilities improvements.
• Preparing and presenting clear and concise technical reports and correspondences directed to
wide variety of audiences, individuals and groups.
• Organizing resources and establishing priorities for work assignments.
• Keeping and managing accurate records of project costs, schedules, inspections, evaluations,
modifications, time sheets, and other documentation in hard copy and electronic formats.
• Negotiating professional services fees and construction costs related to contract modifications.
• Proficient use of computers and software programs; experience with Microsoft Office Suite,
Microsoft Project, Adobe Acrobat, AutoCAD, and ArcGIS preferred.
• Assessing in -field conditions and problems and determining workable solutions to resolve them.
Ability to:
• Attend evening meetings and work extended hours and weekends as necessary for completion
of assigned duties and responsibilities.
• Perform complex decisions in interpreting plans and specifications related to contract disputes
and modifications. Make recommendations to resolve disputes and coordinate with design
professionals to resolve plan discrepancies and construction problems related to contract
documents.
• Manage multiple projects and work assignments concurrently during various phases and stages.
• Set realistic goals and deadlines for project development activities and construction schedules.
• Recommend projects to be outsourced to consultants or performed internally based upon
division workload, project complexity, and professional expertise required.
• Obtain and keep current all licensures and certificates required for position.
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Make recommendations to Director of Public Works/City Engineer on project development and
engineering matters involving personnel, equipment, procedures, policies, etc. that will improve
division and department functions.
Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of
work, including co-workers, other departments, other agencies, consultants, contractors,
vendors, and the public.
Communicate effectively, in English, both verbally and in writing.
Operate a motor vehicle.
Pass a background check.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
• Common office tools and equipment including telephone, personal computer, printers,
photocopier, and facsimile machine.
• Hand-held equipment and devices including mobile telephone, camera, calculator, GPS devices,
tape measures, and infrared thermometers.
• Construction safety equipment including hardhat, safety boots, safety vests, hearing protection,
eye protection, and gloves.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described herein are representative of
those physical demands that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential
functions of this job and those work environment characteristics that an employee encounters while
performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to
enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers
to handle, feel, and operate computers, phones, and other peripheral objects. The employee is
frequently required to talk, hear, see, stand, walk, and sit for extended periods of time, and
occasionally climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, taste, and smell during inspections
and construction monitoring. Audio-visual acuity sufficient to observe, evaluate field conditions,
reading and writing, and communicate orally in person and over the telephone. Specific vision
abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision,
depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. The employee may frequently lift and/or move up
to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.
Work Environment:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee primarily works indoors in a typical office
environment that is well lit and has controlled indoor air HVAC system. However, the employee
also makes frequently field/site visits warmer months between March and November, and
occasionally during winter months, requiring exposure to varying outdoor weather conditions and
construction areas with dirt, fumes, noise, confined work spaces, high work spaces, tripping
hazards, and vibration. The employee is required to wear proper safety equipment during field/site
visits including hard hats, safety shoes, safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves.
SELECTION GUIDELINES
Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job
related tests may be required.
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The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be
performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if
the work is similar, related, or logical assignment to the position.
The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and
employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements
of the job change.
Approval:
Department Head
Effective Date: Month XX, 2014
Approval:
City Administrator
Revision History: Mon. 2014
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