HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Packets - 2005/11/14
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
NEW BRIGHTON CITY HALL
Monday, November 14, 2005
7:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Gunn, Flaherty, Thomas
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PUBLIC INPUT:
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.
6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
7. COUNCIL BUSINESS
A. 7:05 pm Public Hearing to Consider the First Reading and Introduction of Ordinance
766, an Ordinance Authorizing the Vacation of a Drainage and Utility Easement
Associated with the Belting Development.
B. 7:10 pm Public Hearing to consider Resolution 6657 Adopting a Special Assessment
Levy for Delinquent Public Utility Accounts.
C. 7:15 pm Public Hearing to consider Resolution 6658 Adopting a Special Assessment
Levy for Diseased Tree Removals.
D. 7:20pm to Consider Resolution 6661 Approving an On-Sale Wine and an On-Sale 3.2 Malt
Liquor License for Taiko Sushi Bar located at 2394 Highway 10 in Mounds View.
E. Resolution 6673 Approving an Agreement between SYSCO Minnesota and the City of
Mounds View regarding Land Exchange and Easement Rights.
F. Resolution 6674 Approving a Letter Agreement with the firm of Bonestroo Rosene, Anderlik
and Associates to assist the City with the Random Park Building Replacement Project
G. Consideration of Actions Associated with the Medtronic CRM Development:
1. Resolution 6635, Medtronic CRM Final Plat Approval
2. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance 764 Rezoning Medtronic Site from Industrial
(I-1) to Planned Unit Development (PUD)
3. Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance 765 Vacating Excess Right of Way and
Easements Associated with the Medtronic CRM Development
4. Resolution 6632, Medtronic Wetland Alteration Permit Approval
H. Resolution 6659 Calling for Redemption of Outstanding Gross Revenue Golf Course
Bonds, Series 1994A, Dated January 1, 1994.
8. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Resolution 6669 Authorizing the Execution of the 2005 Oak Wilt Grant Agreement with the State of
Minnesota
B. Resolution 6670 Approving the Purchase of a Skidsteer Fork Grapple Attachment
C. Resolution Number 6672 Electing to retain the statutory tort limit on liability for the 2006 insurance
policies.
D. Resolution 6656 to terminate the Public Works Garage Facility Policy and strike it from the
Personnel Manual.
E. Resolution 6668 Appointing MMKR to Provide Auditing Services for the Year Ended December 31,
2005.
F. Resolution Number 6671 Approving a Contract with AIM Electronics to retrofit the existing
electronic message board with an LED lighting System
City Council Agenda
November 14, 2005
Page 2
8. CONSENT AGENDA continued….
G. Resolution 6666 Temporarily using the City of New Brighton for Cable Tech Support.
H. Resolution 6677, Rescinding Resolution 6600 and 6612, to change Restaurant, Tobacco and On-
Sale Intoxicating Liquor License ownership back to Jake’s Sports Café, Inc.,
I. Resolution 6678, Changing Dental and Life Insurance Providers
J. Resolution 6623 Approving the Renewal of the 2005-2006 School Resource Officer Agreement
Between the Cities of Mounds View and New Brighton and ISD #621
K. Resolution 6675 Amending Personnel Policy in Regard to Educational Reimbursement Amounts
L. Resolution 6676 Authorization to Advertise for a Temporary Full-Time Building Inspector
M. Resolution 6679 Approving a Restaurant License for Taiko Sushi Bar located at 2394 Highway 10
in Mounds View.
N. Licenses for Approval
9. JUST AND CORRECT CLAIMS
10. AP PROVAL OF MINUTES
A. October 24, 2005 City Council Minutes
11. REPORTS
A. Reports of Mayor and Council
B. Reports of Staff
1. Police Department 3rd Quarter Report
2. Review 2006 Budget Items
C. Reports of City Attorney
12. Next Council Work Session: Tuesday, December 6, 2005, 7:00pm
Next Council Meeting: Monday, November 28, 2005, 7:00pm
Item No. 07D
Type of Business: CB
Meeting Date: November 14, 2005
City Administrator Review: ______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Desaree Crane, Assistant to the City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Public Hearing to Consider Resolution 6661, Approving
an On-Sale Wine and 3.2 Malt Liquor License for Taiko
Sushi Bar located at 2394 Highway 10 in Mounds View
Section 502.08 of the City Code requires that:
No issuance of a new license or transfer of an existing license for the sale of
intoxicating liquor on-sale, off-sale, club, Sunday sales or on-sale wine shall
be hereafter granted by the Council until a public hearing has been
conducted by the Council after published notice in the official newspaper at
least ten (10) days in advance of the hearing.
Pro Association, Inc., dba Taiko Sushi Bar, has bought the property at 2394 Highway 10
(formally known as the Donut Connection). Pro Association, Inc., (dba Taiko Sushi Bar)
has submitted the city liquor license application materials and the applicable fees. The
following investigations have been conducted to determine whether there is a cause for
the City to deny Taiko Sushi Bar’s On-Sale Wine and On-Sale 3.2 Malt Liquor License:
Police Inquiry and Investigations
The report from the Minnesota Department of Criminal Apprehension for Dong Soo Suh,
President of Pro Association, Inc., has not been received. The licenses would be
approved pending a satisfactory report.
Utility Billing Inquiry (City of Mounds View)
No outstanding bills.
Fire Inspection (City of Mounds View Fire Marshal)
The President of Pro Association, Inc. (dba Taiko Sushi Bar), has submitted building
permit applications to transfer the property into a Sushi Bar. When construction is
complete, then the establishment will be inspected. Mr. Suh has been in regular contact
with our Building Inspector/Fire Marshall.
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the City Council approve Pro Association, Inc. (dba Taiko Sushi
Bar) On-Sale Wine and On-Sale 3.2 Malt Liquor License pending a satisfactory Fire
Inspection and satisfactory report from Minnesota Department of Criminal
Apprehension.
Respectfully Submitted,
Desaree Crane
RESOLUTION 6661
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Resolution Approving an On-Sale Wine and 3.2 Malt Liquor License for Pro
Association, Inc. (dba Taiko Sushi Bar)
WHEREAS, Pro Association, Inc., d.b.a Taiko Sushi Bar, has bought the
property located at 2394 Highway 10 ; and
WHEREAS, Pro Association, Inc., d.b.a Taiko Sushi Bar, has submitted
applications materials for an On-Sale Wine and 3.2 Malt Liquor License to operate a
restaurant located at 2394 Highway 10 in Mounds View; and
WHEREAS, all City of Mounds View business licenses must be approved by the
City Council; and
WHEREAS, staff recommends approval of Pro Association, Inc., d.b.a Taiko
Sushi Bar, On-Sale Wine and On-Sale 3.2 Malt Liquor License with the condition that a
satisfactory report from the Fire Marshall and background check from the Minnesota
Department of Criminal Apprehension is received.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mounds View City Council
does hereby approve an On-Sale Wine and On-Sale 3.2 Malt Liquor License for Pro
Association, Inc., d.b.a Taiko Sushi Bar, subject to receiving a satisfactory report from
the Fire Marshall and a background check from the Minnesota Department of Criminal
Apprehension.
Adopted this 14th day of November, 2005.
________________________________
Rob Marty, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
(seal)
Bridges Golf Course Clubhouse
DISCLAIMER: This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information and
data located in various city, county, state and federal offices and other sources regarding the area shown, and is to be used for reference purposes only.
SOURCES: Ramsey County (September 29, 2005), The Lawrence Group;September 29, 2005 for County parcel and property records data; January 2005 for commercial and residential data; April 8, 2003 for color aerial
Random Park Property
DISCLAIMER: This map is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey and is not intended to be used as one. This map is a compilation of records, information and
data located in various city, county, state and federal offices and other sources regarding the area shown, and is to be used for reference purposes only.
SOURCES: Ramsey County (September 29, 2005), The Lawrence Group;September 29, 2005 for County parcel and property records data; January 2005 for commercial and residential data; April 8, 2003 for color aerial
Item No. 7F
Meeting Date: November 14, 2005
Type of Business: CB
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business
City Administrator Review _______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item Title/Subject: Resolution 6674 Approving a Letter Agreement
with the firm of Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik, and
Associates to assist the City with the Random
Park Building Replacement Project
Background:
At the October Work Session, Staff presented a proposal to replace the existing
Random Park Building by relocating the Golf Course Clubhouse to Random Park
(see attached report).
Discussion:
On October 13, 2005, the City met with representatives of the engineering firm of
Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik, and Associates (BRAA) to discuss determining the
feasibility of replacing the Random Park Building with the Golf Course
Clubhouse. It was determined that the best approach would be to have BRAA
submit a letter proposal outlining the services that they could provide to assist the
City with this project. Attached is a copy of that proposal letter.
BRAA’s proposal entails providing engineering services related to removing the
existing Random Park shelter building, relocating the existing Clubhouse
structure to the Random Park site, and the associated park site improvements, at
an estimated cost of $42,650.
Costs for the Random Park Building Replacement Project can be derived from
three possible funding sources. The cost associated with moving of the Golf
Course Clubhouse is eligible for Tax Increment Fund. The remaining work can be
financed utilizing the Special Project Fund and the Park Dedication Fund.
Consultant Selection – There are several engineering consultants within the
City’s “consultant pool” from whom services could be obtained. The engineering
firm of Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik, and Associates (BRAA) has ample
knowledge, experience, and expertise pertaining to assisting cities and other
clients with structural related projects and site development. Staff recommends
that the Council retain the services of the engineering firm of BRAA to assist in
the preparation of the preliminary engineering report and other aspects of this
project.
Recommendation:
It is recommended the City Council adopt a resolution to approve a Letter
Agreement with the firm of Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik, and Associates to assist
the City with the Random Park Building Replacement Project.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
RESOLUTION 6674
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
APPROVING A LETTER AGREEMENT WITH THE FIRM OF BONESTROO,
ROSENE, ANDERLIK, AND ASSOCIATES TO ASSIST THE CITY WITH THE
RANDOM PARK BUILDING REPLACEMENT PROJECT
WHEREAS, At the October Work Session, Staff presented a
proposal to replace the existing Random Park Building by relocating the Golf
Course Clubhouse to Random Park; and
WHEREAS, the engineering firm of Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik,
and Associates (BRAA) has submitted a proposal letter for assisting the City with
the Random Park Building Replacement Project; and
WHEREAS, costs associated with the activities identified in the
submitted proposal letter is estimated to be $42,650.00; and
WHEREAS, costs for the Random Park Building Replacement
Project can be derived for three possible funding sources: Tax Increment Fund,
Special Project Fund, and the Park Dedication Fund; and
WHEREAS, there are several engineering consultants within the
City’s “consultant pool” from whom services could be obtained; and
WHEREAS, Staff recommends that the Council retain the services
of the engineering firm of Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik, and Associates (BRAA)
to assist the City with the Random Park Building Replacement Project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the
City of Mounds View, Ramsey County, Minnesota as follows:
1. The services of the engineering firm of Bonestroo, Rosene,
Anderlik, and Associates (BRAA) shall be retained to assist the City
with the Random Park Building Replacement Project.
2. The proposal submitted by Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik, and
Associates (BRAA) is hereby approved.
3. The estimated cost for the activities included in the proposal letter
is estimated to be $42,650.00. Funds for which are to be derived
from the City’s Tax Increment Financing District Number 5 (Account
450-4650-3030-040), the Special Project Fund, and the Park
Dedication Fund (251-4470-3030).
Adopted this 14h day of November 2005.
(ATTEST) ____________________________________
Rob Marty, Mayor
(SEAL)
____________________________________
Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
Item No. 4B
Meeting Date: October 3, 2005
Type of Business: WK
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business
City Administrator Review _______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item Title/Subject: Park Building Review and Recommendations
GROVELAND PARK BUILDING
Background:
Bids for the Groveland Park Building Replacement Project were received on
Thursday, July 14, 2005 at City Hall. The bids were composed of the base bid to
perform the construction of the building and a bid alternate for the air conditioning
of the building.
A total of two (2) bids were received for this project. The low bid of $289,700.00
was submitted by Unicorp, Incorporated of Saint Paul Minnesota. The bid
alternate for air conditioning was $7,000.00.
A complete bid summary follows:
BIDDER’S NAME BASE BID BID ALTERNATE
Unicorp, Incorporated $289,700 $7,000
Meisinger Construction $302,000 $5,500
The engineer's estimate was $227,000 -- 27.6% less than the lowest actual bid.
On July 25, 2005, the bids were presented to the City Council. It was
recommended that, should the City Council wish to proceed with this project, the
City should utilize the construction services of TKDA to oversee the project and
ensure that the contractor adheres to the plans and specifications. TKDA had
submitted a letter of agreement in the amount of $14,000.00 to provide these
services.
Based on the bids received and the estimated construction services, the
following estimated total project cost summary was presented on July 25, 2005:
TKDA Plan Preparation $19,600
Construction $289,700
AC – bid alt. $7,000
TKDA construction services $14,000
TOTAL ESTIMATED COST $330,300.00
As per resolution 6558, Sixty-five percent (65%) of the total project cost would be
financed utilizing Park Dedication Funds (Account No. 285-4470-3030), and the
remaining 35% would be derived for the Special Project Funds (Account No. 280-
4180-7050).
$214,695 - 65% financed by Park Dedication Fund
$115,605 - 35% financed by Special Project Fund
At the July 25, 2005 City Council Meeting, the City Council rejected the bids
citing that the project was too expensive and asked the Parks, Recreation, and
Forestry Commission to look at alternatives.
Discussion:
On July 28, 2005 the Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Commission began
discussing and exploring alternatives for the replacement of the Groveland Park
building. Discussions and investigation have continued over the past several
months. The following is a brief summary of several options were explored:
Public Works crews to do the demolition
The Public Works crews could do demolition if necessary. However, this may not
represent that great of a savings. Having limited labor resources may also be an
issue. The demolition would most likely occur in late winter/early spring. This is
when other, perhaps more critical, activities such as spring park duties, street
repair, street sweeping, and boulevard repairs occur.
Review Bid Items
The Commission requested a list of line items associated with this project from
the low bidder. Unicorp, Incorporated submitted a list they used to develop their
bid. This list is attached for the City Council’s review. There were no items that
were easily identifiable that could be reduced or eliminated to save costs.
Identify Fixed Costs
The Commission was concerned as to how the project was presented to the City
Council on July 25, 2005. A list of all project related costs was presented. These
costs totaled $330,300. The Commission suggested that a more equitable way to
view the cost is to identify fixed costs and remove them from consideration –
essentially identifying the increased cost from the “do nothing option” to replacing
the Groveland Building.
Two such costs that were identified were the demolition costs and plan and
specification costs. These costs have been or will be incurred, regardless of what
option is selected. Since the City will need to remove the Groveland building at
some point in time regardless of whether it is replaced - should the demolition
costs be removed from the overall costs?
The demolition cost is estimated to be $8,000 to $10,000 and the cost to develop
the plan and specifications amount of $19,600 has already been expended.
Need to look at what items are needed
The Commission went through an exhaustive review of the proposed building to
see if there were items that could be eliminated in an effort to reduce the overall
cost of the building.
The restrooms were discussed. The question was raised -- ”Is a restroom
needed?“ Lambert does not have a restroom. However, it is also not being used
to any great extent. When looking at shrinking /eliminating amenities in this
building, the Commission also looked at the impact of the usefulness of the
building. The Commission recommended that the building continue to retain
restrooms.
The question of whether the building should be heated was raised. With the
recommendation to retain the rest rooms, it was also unanimously recommended
to heat the building.
The Commission looked at the need to have two restrooms. Could one unisex
restroom be created? This is a possibility. The plan would be to simply not
include the fixtures and retain the second bathroom as storage. To eliminate the
room would require a redesign of the building plans. The Commission discussed
that it could be included as a bid alternate. However, it should be pointed out that
the removal of a toilet and sink may not be that great of an overall cost savings.
Reducing the building’s overall square footage was reviewed. This is a fairly
basic space. It was suggested by the Commission that the proposed building
retain the space as planned to be used for its current functions. It was also stated
that this is a public building – not private. Because of this, there are additional
requirements such as restroom floor space that need to be compliant with the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Commission recommended
unanimously to maintain the planned floor space.
There is double door to the mechanical room. Is there a need for this second
door and is there a savings to reduce to one door? It was determined that the
opening could be reduced to require one door. However, it was also determined
that it is beneficial to retain the double doors and that the reduction to a single
door does not represent a cost savings due to the additional cost of material
needed to fill in where the second door would be.
The firm of TKDA was contacted to get their recommendations for reducing
costs. TKDA stated that this is a very basic building and that there are no real
“extras” on it. When asked if lower quality materials could be used, TKDA stated
that the materials specified are the “middle of the road” and they would not
recommend lesser material in a public building.
There was a consensus from the Committee not to change the plans and lose
any amenities in the building at this time. The Commission felt that this is a very
basic building without any unnecessary amenities but would still serve the public.
A comparison was made to New Brighton’s buildings, which have fireplaces,
knotty pine walls and ceiling, dividers, very nice restrooms, etc.
Masonry construction versus “stick construction”
The Commission asked, “Would TKDA need to start over with plans and specs
with a stick building?” It was determined that TKDA would not need to start over
since there are many shared design construction features of the two. However,
how much re-work of the plans is needed to develop a stick design is uncertain at
this time.
The line item bid list that was submitted by Unicorp, Incorporated showed the
Concrete/Masonry line item to be $59,800. This cost would include a concrete
floor, which would also be specified in a stick building construction. Also,
considering that wood material would need to be added to the bid list, there
doesn’t appear to be that great of a savings for substituting stick construction
over masonry. Given the minimal cost difference, the overall durability, the
increased longevity and maintenance reduction cost, the Commission
recommended that masonry construction be considerer.
As a note, the existing Golf Course Clubhouse was constructed in 1995. It is a
“stick” constructed building with a total square footage of 1380 sq. ft. The total
cost to construct Golf Course Clubhouse including construction, inspection, and
engineering was $231,657.98 in 1995. The ENR Construction Cost Index from
July 1995 was 5484. As of July 25, 2005, the ENR CCI is 7422. Therefore, to
convert a project cost from July 1995 to July 2005, the 1995 cost should be
multiplied by 1.3534. Doing this the current estimated cost to construct the Golf
Course Clubhouse is $313,525.91
Groveland Clubhouse
Total Cost $330,300 $313,525.91
Square Footage 1217 1380
Cost per sq. ft. $271.41 $227.19
Construction options: Volunteers
The Commission looked into whether high schools, trade schools, vocational
schools or colleges would be capable of building the Groveland Park Building. It
appears that it is possible. A great deal of coordination would be needed. There
was also the issue - can this be done legally? The City's legal counsel and the
City's insurance agent were contacted. In summary, the City could allow a
volunteer group to construct a park building with few legal or insurance issues
involved. The main problem would be that if a volunteer group were to be
covered under the City's insurance policy, the City would need to supervise the
project. Given this, and the fact that the material cost would remain the same,
there probably would be little advantage to this option.
Other options - Prefab construction
This is an option. However, the issues of maintenance costs, durability, and
longevity exist.
Bidding / Contract Options
There are three possible bid revision options:
1.) Revise the plan – this was reviewed and discussed by the Commission.
There are little recommended changes other than perhaps having a single
bathroom as a bid alternate (and keep the AC unit as a bid alternate).
2.) Increase the construction timeframe by revising the specifications to allow
for construction any time during the 2006 construction season. This option
was also recommended by TKDA
3.) Increase the number of potential bidders – develop an information
campaign and target smaller bidders who typically do not use the
Construction Bulletin to know of potential projects and those contactors
who do not typically bid on government projects.
Commission Recommendation
A motion was made to direct Staff to bring this issue back to the City Council with
a summary of the options that were reviewed, discussed, and investigated by the
Commission; also, to present the Commissioner’s recommendation to re-bid this
project in an effort to obtain more favorable bids. This would done by changing
the specifications to give the contractor the entire 2006 construction season to
complete the project – have a December 1, 2006 substantial completion date.
There would also be an advertisement campaign to reach the smaller contractors
who typically do not bid on public contracts. The bid would also include a bid
alternate for the air conditioning unit it be installed.
RANDOM PARK BUILDING / GOLF COURSE CLUBHOUSE
Background:
In 2002, the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) indicated that the
Random Park Building was scheduled for replacement in 2006. However, due to
budget restraints this project was later moved back in the CIP schedule to the
year 2013.
Discussion:
With the closing of the Golf Course, the City has been investigating the feasibility
of moving the Golf Course Clubhouse to a new site within the City. There are
two feasible relocation sites for the clubhouse: Groveland Park and Random
Park. The Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Commission have been discussing
and exploring these two sites.
Assuming that both the existing Groveland and Random Park buildings were in
the same condition and were both scheduled for replacement at this time, the
Random Park building would make a much better choice for replacement with the
Golf Course Clubhouse.
The Random Park building is used exclusively for classroom style and similar
type activities. Conversely, the Groveland Park building is used for social
gatherings during the spring and summer months and as a warming house in the
winter. A stick constructed building, such as the Golf Course Clubhouse, would
be subjected to far greater wear and abuse at the Groveland site versus the
Random site. This would certainly affect its longevity.
The City has received four (4) quotes to move the clubhouse. They ranged from
$28,500 to $96,000. The quotes did not include tree trimming, power lines work,
or intersection help/removal. These would be additional costs. Moving expenses
for the clubhouse may be Tax Increment Financing (TIF) eligible. The City’s
Economic Development Coordinator will continue to look into this possibility.
There would also be costs associated with the setup of the Clubhouse on a new
site. These include: removal of any existing building ($8,000 - Groveland or
Random), utility work ($5,000), foundation construction ($52,000), removal and
replacement of interior surfaces ($50,000). The total estimated cost could be
around $115,000. Total project including moving the building is estimated to be
$150,000.
The Commissioners had questions regarding the doors (entry and interior) of the
Golf Course Clubhouse. The interior doors are hollow wood doors and would be
susceptible to damage – especially in a warming house setting with ice skates.
The Commissioners were concerned that the clubhouse is not a park building
type of structure.
There are three general options regarding the fate of the clubhouse:
1.) The clubhouse is demolished by Medtronic – no expense to the City.
2.) Remove the clubhouse and relocate it somewhere within the City – the
Commissioners should provide recommendation as to the preferred
site and identify any associated issues.
3.) Remove the clubhouse and sell it– is there a salvage value?
Commission Recommendation
After exhaustive study of the options pertaining to the fate of the Golf Course
Clubhouse, and detailed evaluation of park needs at Random Park versus
Groveland Park, the Park and Recreation and Forestry Commission voted
unanimously to recommend that, should the City retain the clubhouse, that it be
relocated to Random Park. Furthermore, there was a consensus of the
Commission that should the Random Park site be selected as the preferred
relocation site of clubhouse, a neighborhood meeting should be conducted
to present the proposal to the community and allow them the opportunity to
provide comments before final City Council resolution.
It was discussed and concluded that it would not be economically feasible to
move the existing Random Building to Groveland Park.
Recommendation:
Parks and Recreation and Forestry Commission, along with Staff, is looking for
direction on this matter. Specifically, the Commission is looking for Council input
on re-bidding the Groveland Park Building Replacement Project and input on the
fate of the Golf Course Clubhouse.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item No. 8D
Meeting Date: November 14, 2005
Type of Business: CA
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business
City Administrator Review _______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item Title/Subject: Resolution 6656 to terminate the Public Works
Garage Facility Policy and Strike it from the
Personnel Manual
Background:
On April 4, 1988, the City adopted a policy regulating the use of the Public Works
Garage Facility. This policy is currently included in the City’s Personnel Manual
(See attached policy).
Discussion:
The Public Works Department has reviewed this policy and has determined that
such a policy undermines the goal of the Public Works Department to develop
and foster an environment of dedication and trust in the community.
It has also been determined that this policy represents a liability to the City in
regards to workers compensation in the event that an employee was to be
injured while taking advantage of this policy.
For these reasons the Public Works Department recommends that this policy be
terminated and removed from the City’s Personnel Manual.
Recommendation:
It is recommended the City Council adopt a resolution to terminate the Public
Works Garage Facility Policy and strike it from the Personnel Manual.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
RESOLUTION 6656
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
TERMINATE THE PUBLIC WORKS GARAGE FACILITY POLICY AND
STRIKE IT FROM THE PERSONNEL MANUAL
WHEREAS, on April 4, 1988 the City adopted a policy regulating
the use of the Public Works Garage Facility; and
WHEREAS, this policy is currently included in the City’s Personnel
Manual; and
WHEREAS, the Public Works Department has reviewed this policy
and has determined that such a policy undermines the goal of the Public Works
Department to develop and foster an environment of dedication and trust in the
community; and
WHEREAS, the Public Works Department recommends that this
policy be terminated and removed from the City personnel manual.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the
City of Mounds View, Ramsey County, Minnesota as follows:
1. The Public W orks Garage Facility Policy adopted on April 4, 1988 is
hereby terminated effective as of this date.
2. That said policy is to be removed from the Personnel Manual.
Adopted this 14th day of November 2005.
(ATTEST) ____________________________________
Rob Marty, Mayor
(SEAL)
____________________________________
Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
Public Works Garage Facility
The City of Mounds View's Public Works Garage may be used by regular, full-time
employees of the City.
Procedure For Using Public Works Facility
• Employees receive approval for use of the Public Works Garage facility from the
Public Woks Foreman or Public Works Director.
• Approval must be obtained prior to using the facility and shall be granted on an
availability and first come, first serve basis.
• Employees are responsible for cleaning up the garage area after they have
completed their work. No alcoholic beverages are permitted, nor persons, other
than City employees, are allowed in the Public Works Garage.
When Facility May Be Used
• Anytime between the hours of 4:00 p.m. to Midnight weekdays and 8:00 a.m. to
Midnight on weekdays and holidays, for periods not to exceed four hours per
day.
• All work shall be completed within the time allowed, no vehicles shall be left on
the City premised beyond the time allotted.
• Approval to use the facility shall be canceled during emergencies as declared by
the City.
Permitted Uses
• The facility shall only be used for cleaning vehicles and light maintenance
(service station maintenance) work and used only for shall for cleaning and
maintenance of personal vehicles registered to the employee.
• No work shall be done for individuals other then City employees.
Materials and Equipment
• Employees must furnish all necessary hand tools and materials, i.e. oil, filter,
soap, rags, parts, etc.
• Employees will not use City equipment other than the wash rack, hoses, and
waste oil dump.
Enforcement and Discipline
• The first violation of any of the above procedures by any City employee shall
result in the loss of this privilege to all City employees.
• Employees obtaining approval and receiving a key for the facility shall be
responsible for the cost of replacement of keys and locks should the key they are
assigned be lost or misplaced.
• The procedures shall be enforced by the Public Works Director and Public Works
Foreman, however, all employees are responsible to report violations which they
may witness.
Effective: 4/19/1988
Item No. 08F
Meeting Date: November 14, 2005
Type of Business: CB
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business
City Administrator Review _______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Tracy Juell, Administrative Assistant
Item Title/Subject: Electronic Message Board
Retrofit with an LED Lighting System
Resolution Number 6671
Background:
On December 13, 1999, City Council authorized the purchase of the Daktronics
electronic message board in the amount of $40,741.00 from AIM Electronics. At
the time of the purchase of the electronic message board incandescent, white
lighting was the “in thing” and LED red lighting was just at its beginning stage.
On February 7, 2005 a staff report was presented to Council with different
options for repairing the message board. At that time, Council directed Staff to
replace the bulbs as opposed to retrofitting the message board with an LED
lighting board.
On September 12, 2005 Council did not approve the bid alternate for the City
Hall Rehabilitation Project for the “tower style” front entry and stated they’d rather
apply the money towards retrofitting the message board with an LED system.
On October 6, 2005 a quote was solicited from 3 companies to retrofit the
message board to an LED lighting board.
Discussion:
LED Lighting
As mentioned in an earlier staff report, at the time of the purchase of the
electronic message board, LED lighting was just at its beginning stages. The past
5 years have seen dramatic strides in LED lighting, some of which follow:
• The current incandescent bulbs have an operational life of approximately
5,000 hours each. Because the City operates the electronic message 24
hours/7 days a week, bulbs last for only approximately 29 weeks. For LED
lighting, the hours increase to 100,000 hours for each lamp bank (LED are
not individual bulbs like the current bulbs: instead they are in lamp banks
and instead of “burning out” they will just fade to a lighter shade of red,
thus the sign will always be readable- unless there is a major part that
needs to be replaced).
• Power consumption is approximately 75% less than incandescent lighting.
AIM Electronics has estimated that the current message board
electricity costs are $6,500.00/year or $549.00/month.
It will cost approximately $630.00/year or $53.00/month in electricity
costs for a LED sign (On an average, the monthly electricity costs for
City Hall in the year 2004 were $1,311.25).
• Direct sunlight visibility will be improved with the LED lighting.
• The design of the LED sign will allow for the hot air to rise and escape out
of the top instead of relying on fans (4) to keep it cool. This design will
eliminate the use of fans and filters, again reducing parts and labor costs.
• The display will have the same features and character heights.
Quotes
Staff solicited quotes from 3 vendors on October 6, 2005 to retrofit the existing
message board to an LED display. There are limited companies that distribute,
install and locally service the larger Daktronics electronic message boards in
Minnesota. Following is the quote information:
Vendor Quote Comments
AIM Electronics $34,980.57 The quote received in
December of 2004 was
$33,139.00
Attracta Sign None Company is no longer in
business. (This company
bid on the electronic
message board originally
along with AIM
Electronics.)
Hi-Tech Signs, Inc. None Did not submit a quote.
Further Discussion:
AIM Electronics informed Staff of a possible rebate from Xcel Energy. The rebate
program is an incentive for businesses to reduce their electricity usage by
upgrading their equipment. Because the City’s electronic message board
operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the City does qualify for a rebate of
$1,133.00 from Xcel Energy.
This rebate is valid until February 8, 2006 (The retrofit must be completed by this
date in order to receive the rebate).
Recommendation:
Staff recommends that the City Council accept AIM Electronics’ quote of
$34,980.57 to retrofit the existing incandescent electronic message board with
LED components. This LED retrofit will enable the City to reduce the amount of
maintenance (parts and labor) on the sign and will reap the benefits of lower
monthly electricity costs to operate the sign. This will be funded from the City Hall
Rehabilitation fund of 280-4180-7050-100.
Respectfully Submitted,
Tracy Juell, Administrative Assistant
RESOLUTION NO. 6671
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
APPROVING THE RETROFIT OF THE EXISTING ELECTRONIC MESSAGE BOARD
TO AN LED LIGHTING SYSTEM
WHEREAS, the existing electronic message board is not functioning; and
WHEREAS, at the Council Meeting on September 12, 2005, Council did not
approve the bid alternate for the City Hall Rehabilitation Project for the “tower style” front
entry and stated they’d rather apply the money towards retrofitting the message board
with an LED lighting system; and
WHEREAS, power consumption for an LED lighting system is approximately
75% less than incandescent lighting and it is estimated that the current message board
electricity costs are $6,500.00/year or $549.00/month.
WHEREAS, it will cost approximately $630.00/year or $53.00/month in electricity
costs for a LED sign; and
WHEREAS, 3 vendors were solicited to submit quotes to retrofit the existing
electronic message board to an LED system; and
WHEREAS, 1 quote was received by AIM Electronics; and
WHEREAS, it is recommended that the City contract with AIM Electronics in the
amount of $34,980.57; and
WHEREAS, the funds for this purchase would be derived from the City Hall
Rehabilitation fund of 280-4180-7050-100; and
WHEREAS, Xcel Energy, Business Solutions, sponsors a rebate program as an
incentive for businesses to reduce their electricity usage by upgrading their equipment.
Because the City’s electronic message board operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
and is being considered for an LED lighting system, the City qualifies for a rebate in the
amount of $1,133.00
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Mounds View City Council
does hereby approve a contract award with AIM Electronics in the amount of $34,980.57
for the retrofit of the existing electronic message board with an LED lighting system and
that the purchase will be derived from the City Hall Rehabilitation fund of 280-4180-
7050-100.
Adopted this 14th day of November 2005.
(ATTEST) ____________________________________
Rob Marty, Mayor
(SEAL)
___________________________________ Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
Item No: 08G
Meeting Date: November 14, 2005
Type of Business: CA
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Resolution 6666 Temporarily using the City of New Brighton for
Cable Tech support
Background
Mr. Ken Gammell resigned as City Cable Coordinator on August 15, 2005. The hiring
process for a permanent part-time employee is still on going.
The City of New Brighton is currently supporting the City of Mounds View for Cable Tech
support and it is the intention of Staff to continue using their services until a Mounds View
Cable Technician is hired.
Discussion
Attached is Resolution 6666 approving an agreement with the City of New Brighton to
provide interim cable coordination services for the City until a person is hired for the
position as a regular part-time employee.
The City will pay the amount that the City of New Brighton pays for their cable technician.
The City of Mounds View is currently using the services of David S. Dean to schedule
and coordinate cable production and programming during this period. He is currently
being paid $13.31/hour with the City of New Brighton. The anticipated number of hours
for the contract is 10-15 hours per week, but in no event shall hours worked be in excess
of 20 hours per week without prior written authorization by the City Administrator.
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Council approve Resolution 6666 approving an
agreement with the City of New Brighton to provide interim cable coordination
services as indicated.
RESOLUTION NO. 6666
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AGREEMENT
WITH THE CITY OF NEW BRIGHTON INTERIM
CABLE COORDINATION SERVICES
WHEREAS, the Cable TV Technician for the City of Mounds View had resigned
on August 15, 2005; and
WHEREAS, staff has requested authorization to continue to fill the position on a
temporary basis until a Cable TV Technician is hired; and
WHEREAS, the City will be utilizing the services of New Brighton Cable
Technician, David Dean.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mounds View City Council
authorizes staff to enter into an agreement with the City of New Brighton for cable
coordination services until the Mounds View Cable Technician position is filled.
Adopted this 14th day of November, 2005.
Rob Marty, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
(seal)
Item No. 08H
Type of Business: CA
Meeting Date: November 14, 2005
City Administrator Review: ______ City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Desaree Crane, Assistant to the City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Resolution 6677 Rescinding Resolution 6600 and 6612
to change Restaurant, Tobacco and On-Sale Intoxicating
Liquor License ownership back to Jake’s Sports Café,
Inc., located at 2400 Highway 10
On September 26, 2005, City Council Meeting, the City Council passed Resolutions
6600 and 6612 to transfer ownership of an On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License,
Restaurant, and Tobacco License from Jake’s Sports Café to City Tavern. Staff was
notified by the owners of Jake’s Sports Café that the sale was not able to be finalized,
and Jake’s Sports Café will continue to operate with the same name and ownership as
in the past. (see letter dated November 4, 2005). City Tavern will not be taking
ownership.
Attached is Resolution 6677 rescinding all business licenses of City Tavern. Staff
contacted the Minnesota Gambling and Alcohol Enforcement. It was the
recommendation of the Board that a resolution be passed by the City Council revoking
all business licenses of City Tavern and to state that the ownership will continue to be
Jake’s Sports Café.
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the City Council approve Resolution 6677 Rescinding Resolution
6600 and 6612 to change Restaurant, Tobacco and On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License
ownership back to Jake’s Sports Café, Inc., located at 2400 Highway 10.
Respectfully Submitted,
Desaree Crane
RESOLUTION 6677
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Resolution Rescinding Resolutions 6600 and 6612 to Reinstate Jake’s Sports
Café’s On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License, Restaurant License
and Tobacco License
WHEREAS, transfer of ownership from Jake’s Sports Cafe’s to City Tavern was
approved by the City Council on September 26, 2005 for an On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor
License, Restaurant License and Tobacco; and
WHEREAS, Staff was notified that the sale of the property was not finalized; and
WHEREAS, Jake’s Sports Café stated in a letter dated November 4, 2005 that
they will continue to operate as Jake’s Sports Café located at 2400 Highway 10; and
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Gambling and Alcohol Enforcement recommended
that the City pass a resolution stating that the On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License
located at 2400 Highway 10 will no longer be owned by Thomas Stuart of City Tavern
and ownership be transferred back to Jakes Sport’s Café; and
WHEREAS, City Tavern’s On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License, Restaurant
License and Tobacco License is hereby revoked; and
WHEREAS, Jake’s Sports Café’s On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License,
Restaurant, and Tobacco License is hereby reinstated.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Mounds View
authorizes revoking all business licenses of City Tavern, and authorizes the
reinstatement of Jake’s Sport’s Café’s On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License, Restaurant
and Tobacco license.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Jake’s Sports Café’s
On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License, Restaurant and Tobacco Licenses will expire on
June 30, 2006.
Adopted this 14th day of November, 2005.
________________________________
Rob Marty, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
(seal)
Item No. 08I
Type of Business: CA
Meeting Date: November 14, 2005
City Administrator Review: ______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Desaree Crane, Assistant to the City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Resolution 6678 Approving new Dental and Life
Insurance Providers
Over the past year, the City of Mounds View has purchased employee dental
insurance with HealthPartners. It was brought to Staff’s attention by Johnson
McCann, the city’s broker and consultant, that Delta Dental is a more cost
effective dental insurance for the City. Attached is a competitive analysis for your
reference.
For many years, the City has purchased life insurance with UNUM. Staff and
Johnson McCann researched to see if there were better options for City
employees in regard to life insurance. Attached are a competitive analysis and a
proposal from Ochs, Inc., for your reference. Staff feels that Ochs, Inc., is the
most cost effective life insurance for the City.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends that the City change the dental insurance provider from
HealthPartners to Delta Dental. In addition, Staff recommends that the City
change life insurance providers from UNUM to Ochs, Inc.
Respectfully submitted,
Desaree Crane
RESOLUTION NO. 6678
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION APPROVING NEW DENTAL AND HEALTH INSURANCE
PROVIDERS FOR 2006
WHEREAS, the City has purchased HealthPartners Dental and UNUM
Life Insurance in 2005; and
WHEREAS, the City utilized Johnson McCann to survey the market for
2006; and
WHEREAS, the apparent low rate for dental insurance is Delta Dental;
and
WHEREAS, the apparent low rate for life insurance is Ochs, Inc.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of
Mounds View that a contract with Delta Dental for dental insurance and Ochs,
Inc., for Life Insurance is hereby approved and the Mayor and City Administrator
are authorized to sign the agreement.
Adopted this 14th day of November, 2005.
__________________________________
Rob Marty, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
(seal)
Item No. 08K
Meeting Date: November 14, 2005
Type of Business: Consent City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Resolution 6675 Amending Personnel Policy in Regard to
Educational Reimbursement Amounts
Background:
This item was reviewed at the Council work session of November 7, 2005.
Due to the fact that educational costs have been rising year after year, and Staff looked into
the City’s Educational Reimbursement policy. According to Section 1.53 of the Personnel
Manual in regard to Educational Reimbursement it states:
The City encourages its employees to improve job performance in their present position and
to prepare for advancement with the City through self-development. The City may share
the cost of education which directly relates to the performance of the employee in the
employee’s present assignment or which prepares the employee for advancement with the
City in the foreseeable future. The City may reimburse eligible regular full-time employees
upon presentation of their final grades.
In order for a class to qualify for reimbursement, the following conditions must be met:
A. The class must be job related. An employee may be reimbursed for 50%
of the costs, for courses which are directly relevant, 25% if somewhat
relevant and 0% if not relevant. The determination of relevancy shall be
made by the Department Head and City Administrator.
B. The class must be taken from accredited institutions of higher learning or
vocational-technical schools.
C. The employee must receive a passing grade of C or equivalent in order to
qualify for reimbursement.
D. The employee must complete a Tuition Reimbursement Form prior to
class registration. The maximum amount the City of Mounds View will
reimburse is 50% of the total cost of tuition for the course or courses
being requested with a maximum amount of $750 1200 annually, if
sufficient funds are available. The City Administrator City Council may
grant an exception on the $750 limit on a case-by-case basis (reflects
changes recommended by Council at 11/07/05 work session).
E. The Department Head is responsible for reviewing the request and making a
recommendation to the City Administrator with an explanation of approval or
denial. The City Administrator has the final authority in approving or denying
the request. An explanation of approval or denial shall be provided.
F. After the class has been competed, the employee must provide a photocopy
of the grade sheet and the original receipt for tuition.
G. Participation in the program shall be on a voluntary basis, i.e outside normal
working hours. However, in certain circumstances, a Department Head may
allow an employee to attend class during normal working hours. In order to
do so, the employee is to use personal or vacation leave or flex or
compensatory time.
H. If the employee wishes to not use personal or vacation time or flex or
compensatory time, unpaid leaves may be granted to attend class. The
tuition reimbursement program may not reimburse the employee for those
hours of the normal working day during which he/she is in class. However, all
Department Heads are encouraged to schedule work time to assist
employees with a flexible work schedule.
An employee may not receive assistance from other sources and receive tuition aid
reimbursement from the City for the same courses taken. The City may reimburse
individuals for selected job-related non-accredited courses at its sole option. This program
does not apply to seminars, mini-courses or other training authorized through the normal
training budget.
Staff researched many educational institutions in the twin cities area to include, Hamline
University, Metropolitan State University, University of Minnesota, and the University of St.
Thomas. Below are some pricing for undergraduate and graduate programs:
COLLEGE UNDERGRADUATE GRADUATE (Masters)
Hamline University, St.
Paul, MN
Approx. $723 per credit
hour if a part time student.
If a full lime student, you
pay a flat rate per year
which may cost upwards
of $20,000 per year
depending on degree
program
$300 - $500 per credit
hour depending on degree
program.
Metropolitan State
University – St. Paul, MN
Approx. $164.43 per credit
hour
Depending on degree
program b/t $250-$380
per credit hour
University of Minnesota,
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Approx. $274.62 per credit
hour
Depending on degree
program b/t $780 and
$890 per credit hour
University of St. Thomas –
St. Paul, MN area
$715 per credit hour if
going during the day and
$570 per credit hour if you
are going at night
Depending on degree
program b/t $625 to $760
per hour
Recommendation:
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the attaché Resolution 6675, Amending the
City Personnel Policy in Regard to Educational Reimbursement Amounts.
RESOLUTION 6675
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
AMENDING PERSONNEL POLICY
IN REGARD TO EDUCATIONAL REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNTS
WHEREAS, the City Council reviewed this item at the Council work session of November 7,
2005, and
WHEREAS, due to the fact that educational costs have been rising year after year and the
current reimbursement amounts have not kept pace with tuition rate increases, and
WHEREAS, the City encourages its employees to improve job performance in their present
position and to prepare for advancement with the City through self -development.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Mounds View City Council does hereby
approve Resolution 6675 approving Amending Personnel Policy Section 1.53 in Regard
to Educational Reimbursement Amounts as follows:
D. The employee must complete a Tuition Reimbursement Form prior to class
registration. The maximum amount the City of Mounds View will reimburse is
50% of the total cost of tuition for the course or courses being requested with
a maximum amount of $750 1200 annually, if sufficient funds are available.
The City Administrator City Council may grant an exception on the $1200 limit
on a case-by-case basis).
Adopted this 14th day of November, 2005.
___________________________________
Rob Marty, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
(seal)
Item No: 08M
Meeting Date: November 14, 2005
Type of Business: CA
City Administrator Review: _____
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Desaree M. Crane, Assistant to the City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Resolution 6679 Approving a Restaurant License for
Taiko Sushi Bar located at 2394 Highway 10 in
Mounds View
Taiko Sushi Bar is requesting a restaurant license to operate at 2394 Highway 10 in
Mounds View. Taiko Sushi has submitted all required application and fees.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the Restaurant License for Taiko Sushi
Bar located at 2394 Highway 10 in Mounds View.
Respectfully submitted,
Desaree M. Crane
RESOLUTION 6679
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
COUNTY OF RAMSEY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
A Resolution Approving a Restaurant License
for
Taiko Sushi Bar
WHEREAS, all City of Mounds View businesses wishing to operate
certain types of businesses must apply to the City for business licenses; and
WHEREAS, Taiko Sushi Bar has applied for a Restaurant License; and
WHEREAS, Taiko Sushi Bar has submitted the proper paperwork and
fees; and
WHEREAS, all City of Mounds View business licenses must be approved
by the City Council.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mounds View City
Council does hereby approve a Restaurant License for Taiko Sushi Bar located at 2394
Highway 10.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the licensing
period shall be from November 15, 2005 to June 30, 2006.
Adopted this 14th day of November, 2005.
Rob Marty, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kurt Ulrich, City Administrator
(seal)
Item No: 08N
Meeting Date: November 14, 2005
Type of Business: CA
City Administrator Review: ______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Barb Benesch, Administrative Assistant
Item Title/Subject: CONTRACTOR LICENSES FOR APPROVAL
Please consider the following contractor licenses for approval. All contractor licenses will
expire on December 31, 2005. All applicants have submitted appropriate fees and proof of
insurance. Those companies that are “new” include applicants that have never been licensed
with the City or they may have been licensed with the City in the past, but were not licensed in
2004. Those companies renewing their license were licensed, at a minimum, in the year 2004.
The type of license they are applying for follows the company name.
Action Heating & Air Conditioning HVAC New
Allied Blacktop Company Asphalt New
Assured Heating & Air Conditioning HVAC New
Dave’s Heating & Air HVAC Renewal
HPMD Enterprises, Inc. HVAC New
Select Mechanical Services, Inc. HVAC New
Staff Recommendation: Approve license applications as requested.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE MOUNDS VIEW CITY COUNCIL 1
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW 2
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA 3
4
Regular Meeting 5
October 24, 2005 6
New Brighton City Hall 7
803 Old Highway 8, New Brighton, MN 55112 8
7:20 P.M. 9
10
11
1. MEETING IS CALLED TO ORDER 12
13
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 14
15
The Flag was a presented and Pledge of Allegiance lead by Cub Scout Pack 367, Den 2. 16
17
Mayor Marty thanked the Cub Scouts for providing this ceremony and leading the Pledge. 18
19
3. ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Gunn, Flaherty, and Thomas 20
21
NOT PRESENT: None. 22
23
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 24
25
A. Monday, October 24, 2005 City Council Agenda 26
27
Mayor Marty noted the addition of Item 7J, Resolution 6667, Amending Proposal for Auction 28
Services. 29
30
MOTION/SECOND: Gunn/Flaherty. To Approve the Monday, October 24, 2005 agenda as 31
revised 32
33
Ayes –5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. 34
35
5. PUBLIC INPUT 36
37
Barbara Haake, 3024 County Road I, referenced Agenda Item 11b4. She reported on the 38
quarterly Anoka County/Blaine Airport Advisory Committee meeting that she and Mr. Jahnke 39
attended. She stated they are representatives to the Anoka County Advisory Committee. Ms. 40
Haake stated she also provided a memorandum for the Council’s review. She explained that 41
because of Case File 849, the “Haake Law,” that was adopted while she served in the Legislature, 42
all minor airport runways were limited to 5,000 feet. At that same time Mounds View was 43
involved with a lawsuit. A letter was written that if the City agreed to drop the suit, the 44
Metropolitan Airport Commission (MAC) agreed to not expand the north/south runway to 5,000 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 2
feet. The Commission could just expand the east/west runway to 5,000 feet and install an 1
Instrument Landing System (ILS) so airplanes could come in with a one-half mile out approach. 2
MAC does not have to put any money into this, which they normally would, but Northwest 3
Airlines has a lawsuit for that because they think MAC should be paying money for a reliever. 4
So, Anoka County will bond for that additional 1,000 feet and MnDOT will pay $800,000 for the 5
ILS. The additional hangers will be built on the northwest corner with a public/private 6
partnership. 7
8
Ms. Haake reported a Blaine resident attended the meeting because she has been woken up at 9
2:30 a.m. because of cargo planes. She lives on northern side in The Sanctuary in Blaine, 10
brought a neighbor with her, and may become active to get people involved. Ms. Haake stated 11
this is what she has been asking for, citizens from other cities to get involved. She stated she 12
thinks Lino Lakes, Lexington, and cities on the western side should also become involved. 13
14
Ms. Haake noted the City is five years into the 20-year agreement during which time MAC will 15
not make a 5,000 runway north/south. However, that does not mean planes won’t go that 16
direction. 17
18
Ms. Haake stated the Mounds View Citizens Taxpayers Association will become involved in 19
things to help the community but also pay attention to the Charter. They will also work with the 20
Legislature because they feel there should be some changes to the TIF law. She stated that 21
citizens can also be involved with the airport noise. 22
23
Councilmember Gunn stated the Sun Focus had a big article about the east/west runway 24
groundbreaking and talked about the new 100 hangers, an Applebees 300-seat restaurant, and 25
800-seat convention center that will be out there. 26
27
Ms. Haake stated there is a discussion about something happening in the southwest corner 28
including a restaurant and convention center but that’s not yet firmed up. She stated the City has 29
to expect this to happen and she would like citizens involved to make MAC understand. She 30
thinks MAC wants this to be an intermediate but she would suggest they leave this a minor and 31
look at the St. Cloud corridor or towards Rochester for an intermediate. 32
33
Councilmember Flaherty asked what types of planes can use a 5,000-foot run way. Ms. Haake 34
stated corporate jets that have quieter engines and the ILS system but also cargo planes. She 35
noted right now it has been weekend flyers but those could come in. Ms. Haake stated she has a 36
list of the type of planes. 37
38
Councilmember Gunn noted the article stated the planes wouldn’t be any smaller or bigger. 39
40
Councilmember Flaherty asked for a copy of the list of planes. 41
42
Mayor Marty stated he has heard that a fighter jet uses the airport but it uses a lot of fuel so 43
maybe with the higher fuel cost it won’t be flying as much. He suggested Mr. Haake, Mr. 44
Jahnke, and the Taxpayers Association contact The Sanctuary residents and suggest they attend 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 3
the Blaine City Council meetings. He stated Mounds View has tried to get the Blaine Council 1
involved but they want a larger airport. 2
3
Ms. Haake stated that is correct and she has made the suggestion for residents to attend the 4
Blaine Council meetings and talk to their building inspector about what is required for home 5
construction to increase sound proofing. 6
7
Mayor Marty stated he was encouraged that the Blaine Lakes Development, which includes 8
expensive homes and is located in that area. He stated if people pay big money for homes, there 9
may be a lobbying effort by them. 10
11
David Jahnke, 8428 Eastwood Road, stated they emphasize they can fly in at any time of the 12
night; it’s like a public highway. He stated there is no curfew and he wants people to know that’s 13
the policy for a public airport. 14
15
Mayor Marty thanked Ms. Haake and Mr. Jahnke for their report. 16
17
Richard Sonterre, 5060 Red Oak Drive, stated if it was not for this item he would be at home 18
watching the Council telecast because the sound quality is better than if broadcast from the 19
Mounds View City Hall. He stated he hopes the Mounds View City Hall renovation includes 20
some upgrading to their cable telecasting equipment. 21
22
Mr. Sonterre reported that this Fall the Sunnyside Safety Committee had a Speed Awareness 23
Program for three weeks. It was very successful and a nice article was published in the St. Paul 24
Pioneer Press. Mr. Sonterre stated his goal was to bring speed awareness district wide. 25
26
Mr. Sonterre stated the Mound View Police Department has been fantastic in supporting this 27
effort, above and beyond. He stated Police Chief Sommer has been cooperating through the 28
campaign and at the school on a daily basis. Mr. Sonterre explained that drivers coming to or 29
from the area will see a Mounds View police officer almost every day and it has made a definite 30
difference on how they drive on County Road H. He stated he talked with the Police Chief about 31
how this has accelerated a State-wide effort and he hopes the Council will support the Police 32
Chief in that effort. Mr. Sonterre extended his appreciation to all Mounds View Police Officers 33
and Chief Sommer. 34
35
Mayor Marty stated he and Public Works Director Lee met with Ramsey County officials and the 36
Principal from Sunnyside School about a traffic light at Silver Lake Road and County Road H. 37
Mayor Marty stated he had commented about the police squad being in the Sunnyside area and 38
both mentioned that the presence has increased as well as New Brighton’s and they echoed the 39
same sentiments that speeding has been deterred and a more safe environment created for the 40
children. Mayor Marty asked Chief Sommer to extend the Council appreciation to the Mound 41
View Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department as well. 42
43
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 4
6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUISNESS 1
2
None. 3
4
7. COUNCIL BUSINESS 5
6
A. 7:05 p.m. Consider Resolution 6657 Adopting a Special Assessment Levy for 7
Delinquent Public Utility Accounts 8
9
Mayor Marty noted that this public hearing for the special assessment levy for delinquent public 10
utility accounts needs to be rescheduled to November 14, 2005 at 7:05 p.m. 11
12
B. 7:10 p.m. Consider Resolution 6658 Adopting a Special Assessment Levy for 13
Diseased Tree Removals 14
15
Mayor Marty noted that the public hearing for the special assessment levy for diseased tree 16
removals needs to be rescheduled to November 14, 2005 at 7:10 p.m. 17
18
C. 7:15 p.m. Public Hearing to Consider the Second Reading of Ordinance 763, 19
an Ordinance Authorizing the Vacation of an Excess Drainage and Utility 20
Easement Associated with the SYSCO Plat 21
22
Mayor Marty noted that due to actions beyond the control of the applicant, this item and all other 23
SYSCO items previously rescheduled for review tonight have been put on hold pending review 24
of the project by the Rice Creek Watershed District, Ramsey County, the Metropolitan Council, 25
and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 26
27
Director Ericson recommended the Council cancel the public hearing to consider second reading 28
and adoption of Ordinance 763. Once all of the issues are addressed, it will be rescheduled, 29
renoticed, and return for the Council’s consideration. 30
31
D. Resolution 6662 Supporting to Accept Alternatives for Contracts 2.20 and 32
2.60 in Bid Package #1 for New SBM Fire Station #3 33
34
Fire Chief Zikmund stated this is part of the discussion for the new fire station, for an alternate 35
they requested of the construction manager and architect. He explained the Fire Department 36
spends the most money on fixing the parking lot and roofs. This alternate was received at the 37
same time as the bids but staff didn’t have enough time to research whether it should be 38
considered. Staff is now recommending the Council act on this item. The alternate would 39
increase the parking lot base from 9 inches to 12 inches and adds a geofabric into the bituminous. 40
This method of construction will significantly increase the durability, wear, and strength of the 41
parking lot. Fire Chief Zikmund recommended approval since this Fire Station is a training 42
location and receives heavy truck use. He advised that the Spring Lake Park Council acted on 43
the alternate last Monday and the Blaine Council will act on it November 7, 2005. 44
45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 5
Fire Chief Zikmund advised that this add alternate will put the project over budget, technically, 1
but that’s a theoretical target at this point since the second bid package was just authorized to be 2
advertised and went out today. The second bid package contains the largest part of the project 3
and will allow latitude to stay within the budget. 4
5
Councilmember Flaherty asked why this add alternate was not in the original bid package. Fire 6
Chief Zikmund responded that it was in the original first bid package but the timing got 7
compressed by Blaine working on final adoption but to meet the deadlines and get it before the 8
three councils, staff didn’t feel there was sufficient time for review. Also, staff felt the add 9
alternate was such that it could wait to allow further study of this option. Staff talked to 10
geotechincal engineers to get more information because they wanted to be judicious with the 11
taxpayer’s money. Fire Chief Zikmund stated it has now been analyzed, discussed, and 12
recommended for approval. 13
14
Councilmember Thomas asked if this bid package is more important to the Fire Department than 15
other things included in the second bid package that may have to be dropped if this is added. Fire 16
Chief Zikmund answered in the affirmative. He noted the fire trucks weigh 49 tons and the u-17
shaped fire station requires the trucks to make a turning movement, which is very hard on the 18
bituminous surface. 19
20
MOTION/SECOND: Thomas/Stigney. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6662 21
Supporting to Accept Alternatives for Contracts 2.20 and 2.60 in Bid Package #1 for New SBM 22
Fire Station #3. 23
24
Ayes-5 Nays-0 Motion carried. 25
26
E. Resolution 6660 Approving a Charitable Gambling Permit to the Mounds 27
View Lion’s Club to Conduct Charitable Gambling at The Mermaid 28
29
Assistant to the City Administrator Crane advised that the Mounds View Lion’s Club, a non-30
profit charitable organization, would like to renew their Charitable Gambling Permit to hold 31
charitable gambling at The Mermaid, located at 2200 Highway 10 in Mounds View. 32
33
Assistant to the City Administrator Crane explained that the Mound View Lions Club currently 34
does hold a charitable gambling premise permit for The Mermaid and their permit will expire on 35
January 31, 2006. The Mounds View Lions Club has been in existence for more than three years, 36
and has at least 30 active members, as required in Ordinance 691, which has been provided to the 37
Council. 38
39
Assistant to the City Administrator Crane noted the Gambling Control Board requires that the 40
local unit of government pass a resolution specifically approving or denying the Premises Permit 41
Application. The Lions Club has always submitted the required paperwork to staff. Staff 42
recommends approval of the Resolution and permit. 43
44
MOTION/SECOND: Stigney/Flaherty. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6660 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 6
Approving a Charitable Gambling Permit to the Mounds View Lion’s Club to Conduct 1
Charitable Gambling at The Mermaid. 2
3
Mayor Marty stated there have been discussions in the past about Ordinance 690 because it 4
contains some “gray areas” that possibly should be addressed at a work session. 5
6
Ayes-5 Nays-0 Motion carried. 7
8
F. Resolution 6663 Amending Resolution 6626 Designating No Parking Areas 9
on Edgewood Drive from County Road H to Woodale Drive 10
11
Police Chief Sommer reviewed that on September 26, 2005 the City Council approved 12
Resolution 6626, which granted approval of prohibition of parking on Edgewood Drive from 13
County Road H to Woodale Drive and created a drop off and pick up zone for students. At the 14
October 10, 2005 City Council meeting, residents along Edgewood Drive expressed concerns 15
regarding the parking prohibition that was established by Resolution No. 6626. To address these 16
concerns, the City Council directed Staff to conduct a neighborhood meeting in an effort to seek 17
a parking plan that would be agreeable to the residents and still provide public safety and meet 18
the needs of the City and School District. 19
20
Police Chief Sommer reported that a neighborhood meeting was conducted on Tuesday, October 21
18, 2005 and a workable solution was agreed upon. The signage in the drop off and pick up zone 22
established by Resolution 6663 will read “ No Parking - drop off and pick up zone only.” An 23
additional sign would be added below this sign, which would contain the stipulation that reads 24
“School Days – 6AM to 4PM.” 25
26
Mayor Marty invited interested residents to speak to this issue. No one responded. 27
28
MOTION/SECOND: Flaherty/Gunn. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6663 29
Amending Resolution 6626 Designating No Parking Areas on Edgewood Drive from County 30
Road H to Woodale Drive. 31
32
Ayes-5 Nays-0 Motion carried. 33
34
Mayor Marty thanked Police Chief Sommer for meeting with residents and thanked residents for 35
working with staff. He asked Public Works Director Lee to address the parking issues at 36
Sunnyside that were discussed at the meeting this morning. 37
38
Public Works Director Lee stated staff talked with Ramsey County who has jurisdiction in that 39
area. They are looking at restricting parking on the south side of Sunnyside and to extend 40
restricted parking to Silver Lake Road. 41
42
G. Resolution 6665 Approving the Terms of Proposal for the sale by the City of 43
Blaine of its G.O. Capital Improvement Bonds, for SBM Fire Department 44
Improvements 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 7
1
City Administrator Ulrich stated that this resolution approves the terms of the bond sale for the 2
joint Spring Lake Park-Blaine-Mounds View Fire Department. As part of the agreement, the 3
cities have agreed to build and equip a fire station in Blaine to replace two fire stations that are 4
currently operating and would be removed from service. The resolution asks the City to approve 5
the issuance of the bonds and affirm its obligation under the joint powers agreement to pay its 6
proportionate share, which is 17% of the debt service on the bond. This has been provided for in 7
the City’s 2006 budget and will be provided for in future budgets. Final action would be to 8
approve the resolution as amended in the total dollar value by the Blaine Council. He introduced 9
Bob Thistle, Springsted, who is the City’s financial consultant. 10
11
Bob Thistle, Springsted, stated the action the Council is being asked to take is to authorize the 12
issuance of bonds for the Spring Lake Park-Blaine-Mounds View Fire Department station and 13
equipment. The resolution would authorize Blaine to issue the bonds. They are proposing to sell 14
the bonds on November 17 and report the results to the Blaine City Council that evening. Mr. 15
Thistle advised that the Blaine Council took action on Thursday evening authorizing to proceed 16
with the sale and to reduced the principal from $8,400,000 to $8,050,000 by removing the 17
command vehicle from that action. He advised the Mounds View Council has the choice to 18
leave the amount at $8,400,000 or reduce it to $8,050,000. 19
20
Mayor Marty asked the Fire Chief why the command vehicle was removed. Fire Chief Zikmund 21
explained that none of the staff had prior knowledge to why it was removed. He stated he 22
thought it would come back for further discussion but it was in their purview to make that 23
decision. 24
25
Mayor Marty stated he felt a command vehicle would be very beneficial to the community should 26
there be a catastrophic event such as a tornado that could result in the loss of life. He stated that 27
is one reason he has been in support of the command vehicle. 28
29
Fire Chief Zikmund agreed and stated it is his professional opinion that it is a critical piece of 30
equipment that the Fire Department needs and is the first piece of new additional equipment he 31
has recommended while the Fire Chief. He advised that the Blaine motion indicated the Council 32
was not opposed but felt the timing was not right and it may be considered next year. 33
34
Councilmember Thomas reviewed that the Council had a significant discussion about the 35
proposal and it was decided the Council would support the Blaine Council if they chose to reduce 36
the dollar amount. That was specifically discussed with bid alternates and gave Blaine the ability 37
to cut things out if they wanted to make cuts. It was also determined that Mounds View would 38
support the Blaine Council in their decision. She stated she will not back down from that prior 39
decision and will support the Blaine Council in their decision. 40
41
Councilmember Stigney stated his agreement. 42
43
Mayor Marty noted the Spring Lake Park Council supported the command vehicle and he was 44
under the impression that if Blaine wanted to make a cut it might be to reduce the command 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 8
vehicle from the “Cadillac” version down to a vehicle without all the “bells and whistles.” He 1
stated he can see where Councilmember Thomas is coming from but he has been in contact with 2
the Mayors of Spring Lake Park and Blaine and would support including the command vehicle. 3
4
Councilmember Flaherty stated this is a joint powers agreement and he concurs with 5
Councilmember Thomas. He asked how a command vehicle could be financed if it is not 6
included in the bond referendum and put off for a year. Fire Chief Zikmund stated there are a 7
number of options for that debt. 8
9
Mr. Thistle advised that it could be financed by equipment certificates for 10 to 20 years. The 10
rates could be the same or different but the credit rating would be the same. 11
12
Mayor Marty noted the Mounds View bond rating has recently been increased. Mr. Thistle 13
advised that Blaine is a rated a very strong AA3. 14
15
Councilmember Gunn stated her concern, if it is delayed, is the increase in cost to purchase it 16
next year. Fire Chief Zikmund stated they are seeing 5-11% equipment cost increases, however 17
it is hard to say. He explained one of the things driving that increase is FEMA grant money that 18
has placed more money into the market. 19
20
Mr. Thistle stated another issue is that putting it off even two weeks would push this bond issue 21
into next year. In order to keep the bonds bank qualified, Blaine delayed all of their other debt to 22
next year. If this bond issue is pushed into next year, it would become non-bank qualified and at 23
a higher interest rate. 24
25
Councilmember Thomas stated no one is considering delaying this resolution, but the discussion 26
has been about the delay in the command vehicle. She noted there is really no decision to make 27
because it is up to Blaine, they are issuing the bonds, and they cut the command vehicle. She 28
noted that Mounds View discussed the possibility of cutting costs and she will support the Blaine 29
decision. She stated she does not want there to be confusion that Mounds View can now do the 30
command vehicle. 31
32
City Administrator Ulrich stated he spoke with the Blaine City Manager and learned this is a 33
budget issue. He agreed it is best to support Blaine in their decision but the Mounds View 34
Council could have a separate document, perhaps along with Spring Lake Park, asking Blaine to 35
reconsider for next year. That could also be addressed at a joint workshop meeting with the other 36
cities. He agreed with the importance of supporting the City of Blaine in their decision. 37
38
Councilmember Gunn stated her agreement. 39
40
Mayor Marty agreed that is the diplomatic thing to do. He suggested a joint three City meeting 41
be scheduled to discuss this and other issues. 42
43
City Administrator Ulrich stated staff and administrators discussed scheduling such a meeting 44
and that perhaps two Councilmembers from each City should attend along with staff. 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 9
1
Councilmember Thomas suggested that be delayed until January of next year, after the election. 2
3
MOTION/SECOND: Thomas/Flaherty. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6665 4
Approving the Terms of Proposal for the sale by the City of Blaine of its G.O. Capital 5
Improvement Bonds, for SBM Fire Department Improvements, as amended to reduce the bond 6
amount to $8,050,000. 7
8
Councilmember Stigney drew the Council’s attention to the last Now Therefore Be it Resolved 9
paragraph, noting the extract of minutes shows a member introduced the motion and it was 10
seconded. He asked if it should be included in the same document, noting this is a different 11
format. 12
13
City Attorney Riggs advised that the document follows the standard format of bond consultants 14
and while not typical, is no different from what is adopted. He assured the Council this format 15
change is not a significant concern. 16
17
Ayes-5 Nays-0 Motion carried. 18
19
H. Resolution 6654 Approving New Health Care Insurance Provider for 2006 20
21
City Administrator Ulrich explained that over the past year, the City purchased employee group 22
health insurance with HealthPartners through Johnson McCann, the City’s broker and consultant 23
since January of 2005. Johnson McCann started the bid process again for 2006. In conjunction 24
with the annual renewal process, Johnson McCann was able to get more competitive rates from 25
other insurance companies, much better than the current health insurance provider whose rates 26
would be increasing rates by 18% in 2006. 27
28
City Administrator Ulrich stated the City sought proposals from five insurance companies but 29
Medica and Preferred One did not submit a proposal. Proposals were received from existing 30
carrier Health Partners and Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and BCBS in the Cooperative. As 31
far as coverage, all groups were bidding on the same package for the same coverage. He 32
explained that the difference in premiums is reflected in the staff report. BCBS provided a more 33
comprehensive package than Health Partners for the same coverage so Staff recommends the 34
Council approve BCBS. The second decision whether is to go with them as an independent or 35
cooperative. A number of cities have bid BCBS through the cooperative; the administrative 36
company is known as Appletree Institute. They serve a number of cities, schools, and counties, 37
primarily in southwest Minnesota but now more in the metropolitan area. City Administrator 38
Ulrich explained the advantage of a co-op is that it provides stability of rates. In looking at this 39
number over time, the indication was that rather than going up and down each year, it is more 40
stable and predictable for budgeting each year. 41
42
City Administrator Ulrich stated there would be a 7.76% increase in the rate with the cooperative 43
compared to 18% if the City stayed with Health Partners and somewhere in-between if going 44
with BCBS as a separate entity. Staff checked with several metro communities including Anoka, 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 10
Lake Elmo, Lakedale, Oakdale, Plymouth, and Stillwater, all larger or comparable with Mounds 1
View. Anoka had the worst experience with the cooperative and didn’t necessarily recommend it 2
but felt it was a beneficial program. He stated Anoka was not sure rates were as competitive as 3
they could be each year. Another disadvantage is that it hooks the City into staying with them 4
and if you want to bid on a year-to-year basis you would have to leave the cooperative. If the 5
City stays and bids within the cooperative then the City can be booted out of the cooperative and 6
be required to seek coverage elsewhere. He advised the commitment, once you enter 7
cooperative, is to not leave and bid the process every year. 8
9
City Administrator Ulrich noted that if you look at the long run and series of years, like the last 10
six years, the co-op offers better long-term rates. He advised that due to the significant 2006 cost 11
savings of $18,846 for the same coverage, and positive feedback from other cities, staff 12
recommends the Council approve the draft resolution approving Service Cooperative (Appletree) 13
as the City’s 2006 health care insurance provider. He noted the City will need to monitor rates 14
on an annual basis and be prepared to leave the co-op if rates appear to be non-competitive. He 15
advised that one of the items that came up in staff research is that the State audited cooperatives, 16
found some were not competitive because they represent a lot of rural communities, and BCBS 17
provides better coverage to rural communities compared to Health Partners. 18
19
City Administrator Ulrich stated a number of urban communities have utilized a cooperative and 20
after research staff is confident it would be a good way for the City to go. 21
22
Finance Director Beer stated one of the reasons the co-op is very competitive is because they 23
consist of 20-25% of Blue Cross-Blue Shield’s business and have clout in getting better rates. 24
25
Councilmember Thomas stated the report mentioned other cities had, in the past, problems 26
getting timely information and answers. She asked what is the City’s recourse should that occur 27
and the City feel they are not getting proper service. 28
29
City Administrator Ulrich stated one of the most important points is that the co-op is member 30
driven so it would behoove the City to get involved with the annual meetings as things move 31
along. As a member, the City has the right to file complaints, go to the Management Board, or 32
direct policy at the annual meetings. He pointed out that with a co-op, there is both opportunity 33
and responsibility to be sure it is properly managed. He noted the pattern of responsiveness was 34
from several years ago and has now improved. 35
36
Councilmember Flaherty pointed out that four of the five cities polled give high endorsements 37
with Lake Elmo being only on since October 5th. He commented that typically co-ops practice a 38
solid business plan, is a low cost provider, which may not mean the cheapest, but they do assure 39
clientele for future years, which helps with budgeting purposes. He stated this is a sound 40
business plan and they have consciously said this is what they want to follow. He stated he has 41
no problem going with this co-op plan and would support staff’s recommendation. 42
43
Finance Director Beer stated staff looked at where are we in regard to health care as far as usage. 44
Mounds View is average to above average usage so the co-op will benefit them more than if we 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 11
were a healthy bunch. 1
2
MOTION/SECOND: Stigney/Thomas. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6654 3
Approving New Health Care Insurance Provider for 2006. 4
5
Mayor Marty stated he thought it was looking good when he first started his review even though 6
he had a few questions. He stated he found it enticing that it would save the City almost $19,000 7
but by the time he got back to Exhibit B, Page 1, it states the City will pay 80% under Health 8
Partners, 85.3% under Blue Cross Blue Shield, and 88.8% under Blue Cross Blue Shield Service 9
Co-op. Finance Director Beer explained that is the City’s share of the family insurance if 10
continued at the current budget. That identifies how much the City’s contribution would cover. 11
12
City Administrator Ulrich stated with current contracts they are negotiable and it would be 13
unusual for the City to go beyond 80% so that savings would come back to the City. 14
15
Mayor Marty referenced the June 24 article about irregularities that were found during an audit. 16
He stated that raised “red flags” for him and while there were arguments on both sides, the issue 17
of where the money was going was being looked at and found it was Recognition Programs for 18
kids (spelling bees). He stated he does not know what spelling bees for kids has to do with 19
health insurance unless it has to do with some form of lobbying. 20
21
Mayor Marty noted the State Auditor looked at public access to information and the investigation 22
found that they would not reveal the terms of the agreement without the written consent of the 23
Blues, which is in violation of the Minnesota Data Practices Act. It also indicates the 24
cooperatives must increase transparency of their operations; these are public dollars and should 25
be subjected to the same scrutiny as other governmental agencies. Mayor Marty stated he is in 26
full agreement with those statements. 27
28
Mayor Marty referenced Page 5, Exhibit D, third and fourth bullet points, indicating: “Several of 29
the reserve accounts maintained to support health insurance costs are under-funded and are not 30
monitored adequately by some of the cooperatives…” “The secrecy to which the cooperatives 31
have agreed in their contract with the Blues is inconsistent with the Minnesota Government Data 32
Practices Act…” 33
34
Mayor Marty stated that it is a $19,000 savings to the City but it seems to start falling apart under 35
investigation by the State Auditor as far as he is concerned. He stated as he reviewed this 36
information he was leaning to the Blue Cross/Blue Shield plan, which was in-between but save 37
some money. Due to the questions raised about the co-ops, he stated he has doubts about that 38
program. 39
40
City Administrator Ulrich stated staff included this research because it was very reflective and, in 41
a number of ways, shines a “bright light” on co-ops and makes them safer because it brought 42
these issues out and they will work to correct them. He stated that will give them confidence 43
moving forward. In addition, Mounds View has a former State auditor on staff who can bring 44
perspective to the audit. 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 12
1
Finance Director Beer stated he did not work on this audit but was aware of it. He stated when 2
they met with the Appletree representative, he was asked if they had taken steps to address the 3
State auditor’s report. He noted they no longer have the same consultant and are taking steps to 4
be more competitive in their bidding process. 5
6
Mayor Marty stated if the Council approves going with the co-op, the City would have to take 7
responsibility to follow the Board but if there are problems, the State Auditor already has a file 8
on them. He asked if the City seeks bids during the time contracting with the co-op, would it 9
justify them to kick out the City, 10
11
City Administrator Ulrich stated that is correct. 12
13
Mayor Marty asked if the City can get kicked out if they register a complaint about the level of 14
service. City Administrator Ulrich stated the members of the co-op have the right to register a 15
complaint if the level of service is not being met without reprimand. He noted this group should 16
not be allowed to represent themselves and should rely on member leadership. 17
18
Mayor Marty asked if the City should appoint someone to serve on the Board. City 19
Administrator Ulrich answered in the affirmative. 20
21
Finance Director Beer noted the annual meeting is in August. He explained that if the City 22
markets for bids and get kicked out, the City could go with BCBS, at a 4% increase. 23
24
Ayes – 4 Nay – 1 (Marty) Motion carried. 25
26
I. Resolution 6653 Setting an Interest Rate and Administrative Fee for Special 27
Assessments Certified During 2005 28
29
Finance Director Beer advised that certification of special assessment levies for delinquent utility 30
bills and diseased trees will come up next month. These need to have a designated interest rate 31
to be paid over the life of the assessment and a one time administrative fee to cover the initial 32
cost of certifying the assessment. The assessments for 2004 was 5% and an administrative fee of 33
$25 as established in Resolution 6354. Finance Director Beer advised this continues to be a fair 34
rate and staff recommends that the interest rate on all special assessments in 2006 be set at 5.0% 35
and an administrative fee of $25 per parcel. 36
37
MOTION/SECOND: Gunn/Flaherty. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6653 Setting 38
an Interest Rate and Administrative Fee for Special Assessments Certified During 2005. 39
40
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. 41
42
J. Resolution 6667 Amending Proposal for Auction Services 43
44
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 13
City Administrator Ulrich explained that time is of the essence if the Council wants to move 1
forward with the auction. The auctioneer stated the earliest date is Wednesday, November 9, 2
2005. There is a notification requirement to be published and the auctioneer sends out mailings 3
to interested parties so a lead time is needed. 4
5
City Administrator Ulrich stated marketing costs were incurred for the October 20th auction date 6
and will be incurred again for a November 9th auction. He noted the new agreement allows the 7
City until March 31 to dispose of golf course items so the auction could be held next spring. 8
Staff recommendation is there are enough good days left in the season to an hold auction this 9
year on November 9, 2005. 10
11
Mayor Marty noted that if the greens are not “put to bed correctly,” they won’t grow in the spring 12
because it is highly sensitive grass. If marketed this fall, the City may still be able to recoup and 13
sell the expensive green sod. 14
15
Councilmember Thomas agreed and noted if the auction does not proceed now, the City will lose 16
the value of the greens or have to pay to maintain them through the winter. 17
18
MOTION/SECOND: Stigney/Thomas. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6667 19
Amending Proposal for Auction Services, to occur on Wednesday, November 9, 2005. 20
21
Councilmember Stigney stated he strongly believes the auction should have been held on 22
October 20, which was a beautiful day, and he is concerned that the City may now “take a 23
beating” but this is the best option at this point. 24
25
Ayes – 4 Nay – 1 (Marty) Motion carried. 26
27
8. CONSENT AGENDA 28
29
Councilmember Gunn asked to remove Item 8B. 30
31
A. Resolution 6655, Authorization to Enter into a Grant Agreement with the 32
Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Traffic Safety Safe and 33
Sober Project 34
B. Resolution 6664 Authorizing Entering into Grant Agreement with Minnesota 35
Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) in the 36
Amount of $1,635,500 Removed for discussion and separate vote. 37
C. Licenses for Approval 38
D. Set a Public Hearing for Monday, November 14, 2005 at 7:05 pm to Consider 39
the First Reading and Adoption of Ordinance 766, an Ordinance Authorizing 40
the Vacation of a Drainage and Utility Easement Associated with the Belting 41
Development 42
E. Set a Public Hearing for Monday, November 14, 2005 at 7:10 p.m. to 43
Consider Resolution 6657 Adopting a Special Assessment Levy for 44
Delinquent Public Utility Accounts 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 14
F. Set a Public Hearing for Monday, November 14, 2005 at 7:15 p.m. to 1
Consider Resolution 6658 Adopting a Special Assessment Levy for Diseased 2
Tree Removals 3
G. Set a Public Hearing for Monday, November 14, 2005 at 7:20 p.m. to 4
Consider Resolution 6661 Approving an On-Sale Wine and an On-Sale 3.2 5
Malt Liquor License for Taiko Sushi Bar located at 2394 Highway 10 in 6
Mounds View 7
8
MOTION/SECOND: Stigney/Gunn. To Approve the Consent Agenda A and C through G. 9
10
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. 11
12
B. Resolution 6664 Authorizing Entering into Grant Agreement with Minnesota 13
Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) in the 14
Amount of $1,635,500 15
16
Councilmember Gunn stated that with the activity and dollar amount, she would like a staff 17
report to inform the public what this relates to. 18
19
Mayor Marty read the Cooperative Agreement, Page 4, Item 13, last sentence, indicating: 20
“Notwithstanding termination of this Agreement by the County due to the City’s inability to 21
obtain funds from the State of Minnesota, the City shall remain liable to reimburse the County 22
for all funds expended or owing to the consultant for work done prior to termination by the 23
County of its contract with the consultant.” He asked what happens if the City does not get the 24
money expected from the State. 25
26
Economic Development Coordinator Backman advised that Ramsey County does expect to be 27
reimbursed for the services they incur. He explained that the City does have money earmarked, a 28
$5 million appropriation that was put in the redevelopment account. The Council has a copy of 29
the draft agreement his office received the last week of September. He stated he believes the 30
City is protected that way. 31
32
Mayor Marty read Page 1 of the Design Grant, first line, indicating: “This agreement shall be 33
effective as of April 12, 2005...” He stated this is the first he has seen this document. 34
35
Economic Development Coordinator Backman explained staff has had lengthy discussions with 36
DEED on this agreement. The April date is included because there was work by Ramsey County 37
pertaining to this but they knew there were no dollars until approved by the State, which occurred 38
during the session. 39
40
Councilmember Thomas asked if it is retroactive. Economic Development Coordinator 41
Backman answered in the affirmative. 42
43
Mayor Marty questioned the comment in Section 2.03, Completion of Predesign Stage, 44
indicating: “The Public Entity shall diligently pursue and complete, or cause to be completed, 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 15
the Predesign Stage and pay all of the costs related thereto.” 1
2
Economic Development Coordinator Backman explained the City has an understanding with 3
Ramsey County that they will be the lead entity. The process is usually reversed but in this case 4
the City has received the funds. Ramsey County is the lead agency because of the number of 5
entities involved. 6
7
Councilmember Thomas stated the other stipulation is that the grant agreement had to be 8
between DEED and the City of Mounds View due to restrictions in the legislation. Economic 9
Development Coordinator Backman stated that is correct. 10
11
Mayor Marty referenced Pages 14-15, Article 4, Events of Default and Remedies, Subsection C, 12
indicating: “If the Public Entity fails to comply with any provision, term, condition, covenant or 13
warranty contained in the G.O. Compliance Legislation, or the Commissioner’s Order, as such 14
apply to the Real Property, and if applicable, the Facility.” He then read Section 402, Remedies, 15
Subsections A-C, indicating: “A. The State Entity may refrain from disbursing the Grant; 16
provided, however, the State Entity may make such a disbursement after the occurrence of an 17
Event of Default without thereby waiving its rights and remedies hereunder. B. The 18
Commissioner of Finance, as a third party beneficiary of this Agreement, may demand that the 19
portion of the Grant already disbursed to the Public Entity be returned to it, and upon such 20
demand the Public Entity shall return such portions to the Commissioner of Finance. C. Either 21
the State Entity or the Commissioner of Finance, as a third party beneficiary of this Agreement, 22
may enforce any additional remedies they may have in law or equity.” Mayor Marty stated some 23
of this may be basic language but it sounds quite stern. 24
25
Councilmember Thomas stated this may be standard bonding boilerplate language. 26
27
Attorney Riggs agreed with Councilmember Thomas, noting the footer reference indicating this 28
document is the “Generic GO Grant Agreement for Pre-Design or Design Grants.” 29
30
Economic Development Coordinator Backman stated the City does not intend to own the road. 31
The default would be if the City received monies and did not make the reimbursement to Ramsey 32
County. 33
34
Councilmember Thomas stated this agreement is binding on both sides so the language is also 35
binding to DEED. She explained it will assure the bonds receive a good rate, when sold. 36
37
Attorney Riggs stated that is correct and this documentation will also keep the bonds tax exempt. 38
39
MOTION/SECOND: Gun/Thomas. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6664 40
Approving a Grant Agreement of $1,635,500 with the Minnesota Department of Employment 41
and Economic Development (DEED) as part of a Cooperative Agreement with Ramsey County 42
for County Road J Reconstruction and other Public Improvements necessary for the Medtronic 43
Project in Mounds View. 44
45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 16
Ayes – 4 Nay – 1 (Marty) Motion carried. 1
2
In response to Councilmember Gunn, Economic Development Coordinator Backman advised of 3
the location of the Taiko Sushi Bar. 4
5
10. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 6
7
A. City Council Minutes, July 25, 2005. 8
9
The following corrections were requested: 10
11
Correct spelling of “Belmier” to “Velmeir” throughout. 12
Correct spelling of “Mr. Prose” to “Mr. Perrozzi” throughout. 13
Correct spelling of “Dezinski” to “Dazinski” throughout. 14
Page 2, Line 2, should read: “with Director Ericson about this and asked if they could rent…” 15
Page 2, Line 26, should read: “…with the new buyers from CVS adding…” 16
Page 2, Line 38, should read: “Kirstin signed off…” 17
Page 4, Line 1, should read: “…money goes into a fund and we take it out…” 18
Page 5, Line 13, should read: “Pat Rie , Vice President of Operations,…” 19
Page 5, Line 29, should read: “…referenced the low enrollment in some classes and asked…” 20
Page 6, Line 17, should read: “Acting Finance Director Tatarek, asked Council to let…” 21
Page 6, Line 31, should read: “Public Works Director Lee stated that on July 14, 2005…” 22
Page 7, Line 6, change “Shorewood Road” to “Sherwood Road” 23
Page 7, Line 17, should read: “conditioning. He stated that if they want to do something…” 24
Page 7, Line 44, change “Dale Auke” to “Dale ?????” 25
Page 10, Line 31, should read: “…City could also consider utilizing volunteers…” 26
Page 13, Line 15 and 16, should read: “…leasing space within the Long Lake Road Commerce 27
Building or is would he prefer…” 28
Page 14, Line 8, should read: “office building that will provide the City…” 29
Page 14, Line 24, should read: “…Stigney stated that if Dr. Belting could find some…” 30
Page 17, Line 29, should read: “Acting Finance Director Tatarek explained that at this point in 31
time…” 32
Page 21, Lines 9 and 21, change “Sherri Gunn” to “Sherry Gunn” 33
Page 23, Lines 12 and 13, should read: “…that the Festival in the Parks Golf Tournament is 34
scheduled for August 20, 2005 and the Festival in the Parks is scheduled to take place…” 35
36
MOTION/SECOND: Thomas/Stigney. To Approve the July 25, 2005 City Council meeting 37
minutes as corrected above. 38
39
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. 40
41
B. Executive Session Minutes, October 10, 2005 42
43
MOTION/SECOND: Gunn/Marty. To Approve the October 10, 2005 Executive Session 44
meeting minutes as presented. 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 17
1
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. 2
3
C. City Council Minutes, October 10, 2005 4
5
These minutes will be presented at the November 14, 2005 City Council meeting. 6
7
10. JUST AND CORRECT CLAIMS 8
9
Councilmember Thomas asked about Page 11, radio service for the third quarter. Police Chief 10
Sommer explained it is the City’s dispatch fee to Ramsey County. Councilmember Thomas 11
asked if that is paid four times a year. Police Chief Sommer answered in the affirmative. 12
13
Councilmember Gunn noted there are several costs for golf course merchandise and asked if that 14
is coming to a close. Finance Director Beer stated there will be on-going bills until they are 15
canceled, such as the telephone bill and internet bill. 16
17
In response to Mayor Marty, City Administrator Ulrich stated there was a dispute with the 18
scorecard contractor. The most recent action was that the City Attorney’s office found the City is 19
not responsible for the $22,000 claimed in lost advertising because the contract provisions were 20
not broken by the City. 21
22
Councilmember Stigney questioned Page 13, Twin Cities Golf and US Internet for advertising. 23
He asked if both have been canceled. Finance Director Beer stated not at this time because the 24
Council has not yet directed staff to cancel those items. 25
26
MOTION/SECOND: Stigney/Thomas. To direct staff to cancel on-going expenses for the golf 27
course. 28
29
Ayes – 4 Nay – 1 (Marty) Motion carried. 30
31
MOTION/SECOND: Gunn/Marty. To approve the Just and Correct Claims as Presented. 32
33
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. 34
35
11. REPORTS 36
37
A. Reports of Mayor and Council 38
39
Mayor Marty reported on the meeting held this morning and that Ramsey County realized there 40
was a need for a stoplight and it was warranted at County Road H and Silver Lake Road. The 41
New Brighton City Manager and Mayor were in attendance and had no problem with it. Ramsey 42
County wanted to hear if there was a safety concern on behalf of the school. At this time they 43
don’t have any money for it and the stoplight is not in the budget but Ramsey County will 44
proceed with the design. Ramsey County does not want Mounds View to pay for the project up 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 18
font, and suggested the County Board are the ones that make these decisions. He stated if 1
residents want to contact Ramsey County Commissioners Jan Parker or Tony Bennett and talk 2
about the stoplight, it may help speed the issue along. 3
4
Mayor Marty stated continuing the sidewalk in Mounds View along Silver Lake Road north to 5
Highway 10 would also give it more impetus and Ramsey County and New Brighton were 6
encouraged by that. He explained there were some questions about traffic concerns on Long 7
Lake Road and County Road H but the School Board and Mounds View felt Long Lake Road 8
and County Road H didn’t pose as much of a problem as with Silver Lake Road. 9
10
Councilmember Gunn stated it appears the EVPs are being installed on the poles. Public Works 11
Director Lee advised they have not yet started with that installation but the reflectors were 12
already in place in some locations. He stated it does not look probable they will start EVP 13
installation this year but staff has requested a schedule. 14
15
Mayor Marty stated that Ramsey County was impressed with the EVP contractor the City is 16
using and indicated they do good work. 17
18
Councilmember Flaherty requested an update on the Premium Stop awning. Community 19
Development Ericson reported Premium Stop was issued a cease and desist gas sale order on 20
Friday and the area under the canopy was cordoned off. A letter was sent to the business owner 21
indicating correction needed to occur. Staff has not received a structural or engineering report to 22
indicate the canopy is sound. The Building Official, with a Police escort, closed off their gas 23
sales. 24
25
Councilmember Gunn stated it looks like there is no glass in the car wash. Director Ericson 26
stated he will look at that tomorrow. 27
28
Director Ericson stated staff hopes they will fix the canopy but until it is fixed, they will not be 29
allowed to sell gas. 30
31
Councilmember Flaherty asked if they have stopped renting U-Haul trucks. Director Ericson 32
stated staff will have to address that issue. 33
34
B. Reports of Staff 35
36
1. Finance Department Quarterly Report 37
38
Finance Director Beer presented the September 30, 2005 Third Quarter Financial Report, noting 39
the more significant trends and events. He pointed out that revenues are $2,418.028 compared 40
with $2,291,495 for 2004, a 5.52% variance. Year to date expenditures are $3,316,784 compared 41
with $3,160,109 for 2004, a variance of 4.96%. He advised that most departments are under 42
budget, which allows the City to absorb higher energy costs the latter half of 2005 and into 2006. 43
The City is targeted to achieve a balance for 2005 in the General Fund and possibly have a small 44
surplus. 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 19
1
Finance Director Beer advised that the Cable TV Fund is benefiting from higher franchise fees 2
and should have a net increase. The Economic Development Fund received an initial 3
reimbursement during the quarter from Medtronic to cover costs of The Bridges development 4
project. The Street Lighting Fund and Storm Water Fund are both on track and there appears to 5
be no need to increase fees at this time. 6
7
Finance Director Beer noted the Community Center operations have some issues that may need 8
to be addressed fairly soon. The banquet facility revenues are under and capped at the current 9
level. The City will be responsible for the remaining allocation of operating expenditures as a 10
result of the City Hall construction project. He advised the City will need to make a larger than 11
expected transfer to maintain balance in this fund at the end of the year. 12
13
Finance Director Beer stated the Street Improvement Fund has reported the remaining costs for 14
the 2003 Street Improvement Project and is currently preparing for future street projects. The 15
three TIF Funds will all have a positive balance and be able to make the needed transfers to the 16
EDA fund to continue that work. Revenues of about $500,000 came into the MSA Construction 17
Fund to reimburse for the cost of the 2003 Street Project 18
19
Finance Director Beer noted with the Sanitary Sewer Fund, revenues are down 6% from the 20
previous year and expenses are up about 9% from the previous year. This is saying that instead 21
of going to a revenue neutral with a two-tiered fee system, it was not revenue neutral so the City 22
should look at an increase in fees. He advised that to make up that deficit there would have to be 23
an increase of 8.37% in fees 24
25
Finance Director Beer advised that major activity for the Finance Department during the third 26
quarter was the 2006 budget preparation and certification of preliminary levy and budget. He 27
stated this is an ongoing process and will conclude in December with the Council’s final 28
approval of the budget. 29
30
Finance Director Beer stated staff is evaluating financial software and will visit Roseville to 31
demo their Springbrook software package, which has received positive reviews and is being used 32
by many metropolitan cities. He stated he will obtain more software quotes for the Council’s 33
future consideration. 34
35
Finance Director Beer stated staff has been looking at the general liability package and will be 36
filling out an application necessary to convert the policy to a December 31 year end to take 37
advantage of premium reduction by accepting a higher deductible as recommended by the City’s 38
insurance agent. 39
40
Finance Director Beer stated in the fourth quarter staff will be completing certification of 41
delinquent utility bills and diseased tree removal charges. 42
43
Councilmember Gunn noted the City does not have Community Education as shown in the 44
report. Finance Director Beer explained that should indicate the “Chamber.” 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 20
1
Mayor Marty stated the income from the Chamber appeared to be relatively low. Finance 2
Director Beer explained it is low but not when compared to the relatively small square footage 3
they use. 4
5
Mayor Marty stated with the Sanitary Sewer Fund, the former Finance Director had mentioned 6
last year to wait and see how it goes but it appears the rates set do not cover the cost. He stated 7
he would like to address that issue during the budget process this year. 8
9
Finance Director Beer explained that the cost paid to the Metropolitan Environmental Services 10
actually went down slightly for 2006 because the flow data caught up with the sump pumps. It 11
went from a .4728% share down to .45047% of the total Environmental Services or a savings of 12
about $16,000 to the City. 13
14
Councilmember Stigney requested staff provide a report on the cost for that whole project. 15
16
Councilmember Stigney questioned TIF District #3 being below the expected for the year. 17
Finance Director Beer stated TIF District #1 is ahead and TIF District #2 is behind because of 18
certifications. He thinks TIF District #3 is okay and there is nothing to cause alarm. 19
20
Councilmember Stigney stated his impression there was only one more payment and then it could 21
be closed out so he was surprised to see the revenue was less than expected. Finance Director 22
Beer stated he would have to research why that is occurring. 23
24
2. Budget 25
26
Mayor Marty suggested, because of time constraints, that the Council spend 20 minutes on this 27
topic tonight and if there are additional concerns, Councilmembers can meet with staff at their 28
convenience. 29
30
Council consensus was reached to discuss the budget for 15 minutes at tonight’s meeting. 31
32
Finance Director Beer suggested the Council address funds other than the General Fund. 33
34
Councilmember Stigney asked about special tax levies and operations of $76,000. Finance 35
Director Beer stated one of the special tax levies relate to the additional police officer. He noted 36
it has been in the budget since 2004. 37
38
Mayor Marty stated it does not show up in the budget summary until 2005. Finance Director 39
Beer stated it may have been lumped into taxes. City Administrator Ulrich stated staff wanted to 40
show it separately since it is a special levy and not subject to levy limits. 41
42
Mayor Marty asked about Cable TV part-time salaries and personnel costs that went from 43
$17,000 to $25,573 for this year and $26,343 for next year. He stated that seems to be rapidly 44
moving up and asked if it will start over when a new cable coordinator is hired. City 45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 21
Administrator Ulrich stated as you look at the progression, a larger amount was budgeted in 2005 1
and advised that the Cable Commission wanted to add a few more hours for special feature 2
programs and added programming. 3
4
Mayor Marty referenced contractual services and other professional services and asked if $1,700 5
is for a part-time person who is taking over for Ken Gammell. Finance Director Beer answered 6
in the positive. 7
8
Mayor Marty referenced capital under equipment of $17,500 but noted that Page 48 does not 9
have anything to do with sound equipment. He stated there has been a sound problem for years 10
and he has received complaints from residents. 11
12
Councilmember Stigney stated he does not think the problem is the equipment but who is setting 13
the levels. 14
15
Mayor Marty stated the microphone for the City Attorney appears to be broken. 16
17
City Administrator Ulrich stated as part of the transition, CTV will look at the equipment and 18
make recommendations. They recommend the sound mixer board be cleaned, which may be one 19
reason why sound quality has suffered. Staff will check operations and see if new equipment is 20
needed. 21
22
Councilmember Stigney stated the problem may be over cleaning as much as under cleaning. He 23
cautioned the Council about taking a recommendation from someone who is selling equipment. 24
25
Mayor Marty asked about revenues from fines for the DARE Fund and stated it seems like the 26
budget projects high. He asked what type of fines are included. Finance Director Beer suggested 27
the Police Chief be asked that question. Mayor Marty noted the police grants and Forfeiture 28
Fund relate to the Police Department but the Police Chief is no longer in attendance. 29
30
Mayor Marty asked about the laser recorder cost of $730, which he thought was cheap. Finance 31
Director Beer stated he is unsure but it may be for a hand-held radar gun. 32
33
Mayor Marty noted regular salaries are down and asked if that is due to the fact it is coming from 34
the General Fund instead of TIF. Finance Director Beer stated the auditor recommended that the 35
City reduce the allocation for several individuals to this fund. 36
37
Mayor Marty referenced Line 3030, contractual services, showing from 2002 the actual was 38
$75,000 and next year is $85,700 or an increase of $10,000 in the last year. He asked if this was 39
due to the Medtronic development. 40
41
Director Ericson pointed out that the next page shows the detail for professional services and the 42
$10,000 is reflective of the housing resources fee that was not in there the year before. That’s the 43
difference between the $75,000 and $85,000 figures. 44
45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 22
Mayor Marty thanked staff for including $750,000 earmarked for Highway 10 redevelopment. 1
2
Councilmember Stigney asked if grants have been looked at for that highway corridor. Director 3
Ericson advised that three grant requests were submitted and the City should receive an answer 4
some time in January of 2006. 5
6
Mayor Marty questioned capital outlay, business subsidies, and partnership loans. Director 7
Ericson explained the City has had this program since 1995 and it was adopted to provide for 8
funding assistance for business if they meet certain criteria, some of which would be 9
underwriting a loan or providing reduced interest on loans. He recalled the City doing that 10
program twice. The City continues to offer that program to the community; however, at this 11
point with low interest rates, not a lot of people are coming forward to request the subsidy. 12
13
Mayor Marty noted it is only budgeted for this year and next year and asked if this cost was 14
located somewhere else in the budget for previous years. Director Ericson stated it may have 15
shown up as a different line item but has been in the budget for years. 16
17
Councilmember Thomas noted the line item for training and conferences should show the new 18
name of the agency. 19
20
Mayor Marty stated the Council will review the budget again at the next meeting. He suggested 21
the Council’s questions be directed to staff. 22
23
3. Storm Damage Report 24
25
Public Works Director Lee distributed a report and cost estimates associated with the September 26
storm. He stated all pickup was completed ten days ago. The total cost is estimated to be 27
$95,750. Staff is currently working on the stump grinding estimate and for a contractor to do that 28
service. Another item is park tree cleanup at Silverview Park where there are still 35 trees down, 29
plus trees in other parks. 30
31
Public Works Director Lee stated trees that resulted in a hazard for people using the park were 32
pulled aside with the aid of a skidster grappler attachment that was leased with the option to 33
purchase. He advised that the cost to rent was $150 per day and the City had it for over 20 days 34
so the cost of renting exceeds the purchase amount. He stated this is a great piece of equipment 35
and will come back as a separate item since it was not budgeted and the cost is over $2,500. 36
37
Public Works Director Lee stated another line item is the cost of using City forces to clean up the 38
storm debris. Public Works was assigned to properties north of Highway 10 and then moved to 39
assist the contractors south of Highway 10. That cost estimate is not included but it means that 40
City crews were not doing other fall activities. 41
42
Mayor Marty stated they may not have done other fall activities but did save the City a lot of 43
money by not having to contract out more cleanup costs. 44
45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 23
Public Works Director Lee stated the report of the City Forester enforced that and indicated he 1
was very appreciative for their assistance. 2
3
Councilmember Thomas asked what is the plan for Silverview Park; how many trees will be left 4
and how many will be replanted. She noted a lot of private property lost very large trees so there 5
may be hydrology issues. Public Works Director Lee stated he talked about this with the City 6
Forester who plans to revitalize that area and has money budgeted so that is his area of focus. 7
8
Mayor Marty stated he signed letters of commendation for employees. He noted that many 9
Public Works employees were called in and were on the streets during the bad weather while 10
others were down in their basements. He stated he is proud to sign those letters which will be 11
placed in the employee’s files. 12
13
Councilmember Stigney asked if residents still have brush, can it be delivered to the New 14
Brighton site. Public Works Director Lee stated that is correct. 15
16
Mayor Marty asked staff to post that information on Channel 16 including the hours of operation. 17
Director Ericson stated that information is on the City’s website and can be updated. 18
19
City Administrator Ulrich commended Public Works Director Lee for the fine work he did to 20
pull together the clean up operation. He noted that under the direction of Public Works Director 21
Lee, the City saved tens of thousands of dollars by the efficient cleanup operation he organized. 22
City Administrator Ulrich stated it was done fast, effectively, and cheaply. He offered his 23
commendation to Mr. Lee. 24
25
Mayor Marty concurred and noted Public Works Director Lee acted right away to have the City 26
crews pick up the smaller debris. 27
28
City Administrator Ulrich reported that the City closed today with Medtronic on the golf course 29
property and a check has been received by Finance Director Beer. 30
31
4. Anoka County / Blaine Airport Advisory Committee Update 32
33
City Administrator Ulrich noted the October 20, 2005 memorandum from Barb Haake reporting 34
on the quarterly Anoka County/Blaine Airport Advisory Committee meeting that she and Dave 35
Jahnke attended. 36
37
City Administrator stated the I-35W Coalition met last week and welcomed Anoka County as a 38
new member. Their contribution is to bring in $60,000 for federal lobbying for the 35W 39
corridor, which will be effective to get monies assigned. He stated they welcome Anoka County 40
and their efforts to improve 35W. 41
42
Mayor Marty stated Blaine has also expressed more concern as time has gone on. He noted they 43
have a longer stretch of 35W than does Mounds View. 44
45
Mounds View City Council October 24, 2005
Regular Meeting Page 24
Director Ericson stated the issues raised at the last meeting of drainage and silt fence at 7769 1
Pleasant View Drive have been addressed and all corrections have been made. A member of 2
Public Works inspected the property and found a dual silt fence has been correctly installed so 3
that issue is resolved. 4
5
Director Ericson reported that the blighted property at 2617 Sherwood Road was posted “do not 6
occupy” by the City and an appraisal was authorized. An offer to acquire the property was sent 7
to the owners through the attorney’s office and the offer to purchase was based on the appraisal 8
price and contingent upon the EDA’s authorization. If the property owners are willing to 9
consider the offer, it will be back for the EDA to consider for authorization. 10
11
Director Ericson reported that Staff received three bids to demolish the property at 7861 12
Groveland Road, an EDA owned house. That issue will be considered at the November 14, 2005 13
EDA meeting. 14
15
Mayor Marty stated this summer the Fire Department had a controlled burn at a house by Fire 16
Station #1. He suggested the property on Groveland Road and the Random building may be 17
considered by the Fire Department for a controlled burn. Director Ericson stated staff will 18
explore that option, which also can be economical and provide training for Fire Department 19
personnel. 20
21
C. Reports of City Attorney 22
23
1. Report on Premium Stop Compliance 24
25
This item was addressed previously by Director Ericson under Agenda Item 11A. 26
27
12. Next Council Work Session: (New Brighton City Hall) Monday, November 7, 2005 28
at 7:00 p.m. 29
Next Council Meeting: (New Brighton City Hall) Monday, November 14, 2005 at 30
7:00 p.m. 31
32
13. ADJOURNMENT 33
34
MOTION/SECOND. The Council agreed by consensus to adjourn the City Council Meeting of 35
October 24, 2005 at 10:00 p.m. 36
37
Ayes – 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. 38
39
Transcribed and recorded by: 40
41
42
Carla Wirth 43
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. 44