HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 1999/07/12r~
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CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
MEETING MINUTES
• MONDAY, JULY 12,1999
7:00 P.M.
1. MEETING IS CALLED TO ORDER
APPR04'tD
2. ROLL CALL: Coughlin, Marty, Quick, Stigney, and Thomason.
NOT PRESENT: None
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A. Monday, July 12, 1999 City Council Agenda
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Mayor Coughlin asked the Council if anyone would like to add items to the agenda.
Mayor Coughlin requested the addition of Item 10-G, Consideration of Appointments to the
Parks and Recreation Commission, to the present agenda.
No additional items were considered.
MOTION/SECOND: StigneylMarty. To accept the July 12, 1999 City Council Agenda as
presented with the addition of Item I O-G.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Monday, June 28,1999 City Council Minutes
Council Member Marty requested that Page 7, fifth paragraph, first sentence indicate the correct
spelling of the name John Theis.
Council Member Marty requested a correction to Page 8, first paragraph, fourth line, to indicate
"...executed June 4, 1999 with Fran and Sons,"
MOTION/SECOND: Marty/Thomason. To accept the June 28, 1999 City Council minutes as
corrected.
Ayes - 5
Nays - 0 Motion carried.
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5. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
None.
6. REPORTS
Council Member Quick had no report.
Council Member Marty had no report.
Mayor Coughlin extended his thanks to the Festival in the Park Committee. He stated that he had
attended the festival and the fireworks display, and that the Committee had done a very good job.
He commended all those who participated in planning the event.
Council Member Thomason stated that she had also attended the Festival in the Park, and
commended all those involved in the planning for a great festival.
Council Member Stigney reported that he had attended the previous Planning Commission
meeting. He stated that there was discussion of the Thrifty Car Rental proposal to operate at the
former Quik Lube site, which was scheduled for discussion that date, and that the public hearing
for the proposal had been set for the July 26 Council meeting. He stated that the Planning
Commission had discussed a variance request for a reduced front yard setback, and a proposal by
MSP Real Estate to develop an assisted living facility to be located behind the SuperAmerica
station. Council Member Stigney stated that there was discussion of a proposed ordinance
amending the City Zoning Code pertaining to permitted uses within the B-2 Limited Business
Zoning District, as well as discussion of the Mounds View Municipal Code relating to billboards.
He stated that he also had attended the Festival in the Park and remarked that the fireworks
display was great.
City Administrator Whiting stated that the new Highway 10/610 opening would be celebrated on
Saturday, June 17 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., in the park next to the Blaine City Hall. He
noted that the public was invited to attend the event, and walk, bicycle, roller blade and run on
the new freeway. He stated that the ribbon cutting ceremony would be held on July 21, at 10:00
a.m.
City Administrator Whiting extended his congratulations to his assistant, Cari Schmidt on her
new position as City Administrator for the City of St. Joseph. He stated that, at this time, he had
no proposal for filling the position vacated by her departure, and added that the Council might
wish to discuss this matter at their next meeting or Work Session. He stated that Ms. Schmidt
would do well in her new position, and that the City's loss would be the City of St. Joseph's
gain. He noted that Ms. Schmidt's last day with the City of Mounds View would be August 6,
1999.
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Mayor Coughlin stated that Ms. Schmidt brought great skill and talent to her position with the
City, and added that she has done a great job. He stated that through her skills and abilities, she
has helped make the City of Mounds View a better place.
Council Member Marty stated that they all wished Ms. Schmidt the very best, and that she would
be missed. He stated that the Council would like to have her input, in regard to how her position
would be best filled. He suggested that the Department Heads and staff provide
recommendations regarding the matter, and attempt to address the issue at soon as possible. He
noted that this would be a difficult position to fill, in light of Ms. Schmidt's capabilities. He
added that Ms. Schmidt had much insight, and that he respected her for that.
Mayor Coughlin stated that it was the consensus of the Council to direct staff to research the
matter of filling the upcoming vacancy, and provide their recommendations at the next Work
Session.
Council Member Quick extended his congratulations and best wishes to Ms. Schmidt, and added
that she would be missed.
Council Member Thomason stated that she had attempted to convince Ms. Schmidt to reconsider
and remain with the City of Mounds View. She stated that the decision was a difficult one for
Ms. Schmidt, and that this was a great opportunity for her. She stated that Ms. Schmidt would be
missed, and extended her best wishes. She added that the City of St. Joseph would be gaining a
terrific person.
Assistant to the City Administrator Schmidt thanked the Mayor, Council, and City Administrator
for their kind words, adding that it had been a difficult decision, but a great opportunity that she
did not want to pass up. She added that her predecessor would have a great City to work for.
Ms. Schmidt reported that the City's custodian, Richard Kujawa had given his notice, his last day
being the second of July. She commented that the matter of hiring a new janitorial service would
normally be discussed at the Work Session, however, in light of the current situation, staff felt it
was necessary to address the matter as soon as possible. She stated that staff had announced the
position in the Focus Newspaper and sent the advertisement to all metropolitan cities, and had
received no responses. She stated that staff had solicited bids from four different cleaning
business, and that Coverall's was the lowest bidder. She stated that staff requested direction
concerning how to proceed.
Ms. Schmidt stated that the majority of the cleaning companies who submitted bids did provide
their own supplies which, until this point, have been furnished by the City. She stated that this
would represent savings to the City.
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Council Member Marty stated that the Council should act upon this matter as soon as possible
and asked for staffs recommendation. Ms. Schmidt stated that staff would accept the lowest bid,
. as presented by Coverall's cleaning service.
Council Member Stigney inquired regarding the length of the contract. Ms. Schmidt stated that it
was amonth-to-month contract requiring athirty-day notice, should the City reconsider.
Council Member Marty asked how soon they could start. Ms. Schmidt stated that they could
start within the week, if they were notified immediately.
MOTION/SECOND: Marty/Thomason. To accept the lowest bid as submitted by Coverall's
Cleaning Service at $1,200 per month.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
Council Member Marty stated that he would like to acknowledge the recent passing of Leon
Burton, adding that he would be missed.
No further reports were considered.
7. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approve Just and Correct Claims
B. Set a public hearing for 7:05 p.m., Monday, July 26,1999, for the
consideration of Resolution 5348, a resolution contemplating the issuance of
a conditional use permit for an over-sized garage at 8059 Red Oak Drive.
C. Set a public hearing for 7:10 p.m., Monday, July 26,1999, for the
consideration of Resolution 5349, a resolution contemplating the issuance of
a conditional use permit for Thrifty Car Rental, to be located at 2975
Highway 10.
D. Set a public hearing for 7:15 p.m., Monday, July 26, 1999, for the
consideration of Resolution 5351, a resolution contemplating the issuance of
a conditional use permit for the outdoor produce sales stand at 2732
Highway 10, requested by Holiday Station store.
E. Consideration of Chip Seal bid.
Mayor Coughlin asked the Council if anyone would like to remove Items for discussion.
Council Member Marty stated that he had learned about Items C and D in the newspaper, and
inquired if the Council might learn about the Items prior to their publication.
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Council Member Stigney stated that the Items are discussed at the Planning Commission
Meetings, and posted in the newspaper as required.
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Council Member Marty requested that Item E be removed from the Consent
Agenda for further discussion.
Council Member Marty asked Director of Public Works Ulrich if Allied Blacktop Company had
submitted the only bid for the Chip Seal this year, and if this was also the low bidder of the
previous year.
Director of Public Works Ulrich stated that this was correct.
MOTION/SECOND: Quick/Stigney. To accept Items A, B, C, and D of the Consent Agenda as
presented.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
MOTION/SECOND: Quick/Marty. To accept Item E of the Consent Agenda as presented.
Ayes- 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
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None.
9. RESIDENTS REQUESTS AND COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR
There were no requests or comments from the floor.
COUNCIL BUSINESS
A. Public Hearing and Introduction (First Reading) of Ordinance 632, an
ordinance amending Chapter 1113 of the Zoning Code pertaining to
permitted uses within the B-2, Limited Business Zoning District
Mayor Coughlin opened the Public Hearing at 7:30 p.m.
Planning Associate Ericson stated that this was an ordinance which amended the Zoning Code in
regard to the B-2, Limited Business Zoning Districts, to permit private educational facilities as
an allowed use within the Zoning District. He stated that the ordinance had been reviewed by
legal staff and would require one change prior to Second Reading, that is that all of the permitted
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uses be listed under Subdivision 1, as well as the addition of private education facilities. He
stated that staff would present a revised ordinance for the Second Reading.
Ericson stated that the City has received an application from Calvin Academy to operate a
private education facility within Silver View Plaza, located at 2540 Highway 10. He stated that
while the intent of the Zoning District does present that this type of use would be permitted, the
Code does not specifically allow for it. He stated that, in an effort to eliminate any questions
regarding this type of use, staff proposes that it be added to the list of permitted uses, adding that
if no action is taken, Calvin Academy would operate and function by virtue of an administrative
Code interpretation.
Mayor Coughlin closed the Public Hearing at 7:34 p.m.
Council Member Marty asked if the applicant, as an educational facility, would be tax-exempt.
Ericson stated that this was a lease operation, noting that the owners of Silver View Plaza would
pay taxes, regardless of who leased from them.
Council Member Stigney stated that, in light of the effort to clean up the Code, the present
language maybe limiting. He suggested the phrase "private educational or instructional
facilities." Ericson agreed that this was the intent of the amendment, and they could utilize this
wording to make it more explicit.
• Council Member Quick asked if this would prohibit the Mounds View Public School District
from leasing a space m the distract, and utihzmg rt for instructional purposes. Encson stated that
it would not. Mayor Coughlin suggested the omission of the word "private," and to simply
indicate "educational or instructional facilities."
City Attorney Long stated that this broader definition of the use would be preferable, so as to
prevent a question of interpretation in the future.
Mayor Coughlin stated that it was the consensus of the Council to amend the language of the
ordinance to indicate "educational or instructional facilities."
MOTION/SECOND: Stigney/Marty. To Waive the Reading, and Approve First Reading of
Planning Commission Resolution No. 585-99, a Resolution Recommending Adoption of
Proposed Ordinance 632, and Ordinance Amending Chapter 1113 of the Mounds View Zoning
Code Pertaining to Permitted Uses Within the B-2, Limited Business District; Special Planning
Case No. SP-082-99, as amended.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion Carried.
B. Public Hearing regarding the Street Committee Policies Report.
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Mayor Coughlin opened the Public Hearing at 7:38 p.m.
• Director of Public Works Ulrich stated that this was the second time this matter had come before
the Council for discussion. He reviewed the Streets Policies Committee recommendations as
follows:
The standard from which to start considering a street improvement should be based on the
current design of the street.
2. Streets should be designed to provide a safe driving surface, but no wider than necessary
to minimize the amount of impervious surface. The City will consider all drainage
options.
3. Determine the concerns of the residents who are involved in the project through aCity-
sponsored questionnaire and follow up with additional informational meetings with those
residents before Council approves action. The feasibility study is to incorporate the
residents' issues and concerns.
4. The City integrates a flexible 18 to 36 month time schedule for street reconstruction
projects.
5. Integrate certifying the MSA road system as complete into the City's overall project
improvement plan.
6. The City considers bonding and/or creating interest-bearing-only funds to contribute
toward the City's share of reconstruction costs.
7. Reduce the property owners' assessment from 50 percent to 20-25 percent of the
reconstruction project costs.
House Representative Barbara Haake extended her appreciation to all those who assisted in the
preparation of the Streets Policies Committee Report. She stated that they had done a wonderful
job, and that the recommendations were very good. She stated that, as they moved forward, the
recommendations would the provide the community the opportunity to communicate their
desires as to the kind of streets they desired in their neighborhoods, and that the citizens of
Mounds View would come to feel a sense of ownership in that regard. She thanked the Council
for their consideration of the issues. She noted that the street she resides upon is currently being
resurfaced, and added that Spring Lake Road and County Road I should be completed in
approximately one week. She thanked Director of Public Works Ulrich for his assistance in this
area as well.
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Jim Schmidt, 5446 Ericson Road, stated that he appreciated the opportunity to participate with
the Committee. He stated that he believed the policies and recommendations they had made
i were sound. He expressed his particular appreciation to City Administrator Whiting for his role
in mediating the different parties' concerns. He noted that it was important to relay to the public
the necessity of addressing the street issues. He commented that the streets were not currently in
very good shape, many having been paved years ago. He stated that Director of Public Works
Ulrich had the responsibility of maintaining these streets, and the expense is probably more than
it should be, given the age of the facilities. He stated that the contemplation of awarding a Chip
Seal at this time of year results from this preparation, noting that many communities do this type
of work in May and June. He stated that it was very important to maintain the streets in the
community, in consideration of the property values. He stated that the informational exchange,
questionnaires and participation of the community in the projects that will impact them would
ultimately communicate the necessity of addressing the street issues. He expressed his
appreciation to the City staff for their efforts in this regard.
City Administrator Whiting stated that the next step would be to direct staff to review the
existing ordinances and resolutions that have guided the City's policies for street improvements
in the past, and draft the changes that reflect the policies that the Street Policies Committee and
Council have reviewed. He stated that these revisions could be adopted sometime thereafter,
adding that the timing is such that they will be able to get some of this done by late summer to
early fall, and the plans for future projects could be made at that point.
Mayor Coughlin closed the Public Hearing at 7:43 p.m.
Council Member Marty stated that he thought the reduction of the immediate assessment to the
citizens from 50 percent to 20-25 percent was a big step. He stated that everyone would notice a
little change, but that when it came time to redo his or her particular street, it wouldn't be so
difficult to swallow as prior City policy. He extended his appreciation to the Committee for all of
their hard work.
Mayor Coughlin stated that it was the consensus of the Council to follow the recommendation of
the City Administrator, and direct staff to research the previous resolutions and policies to
determine all of the possible impacts of adoption of all or some of the Street Policies Committee
recommendations. He stated that the matter be would be brought forward for further discussion
at a future Work Session.
C. Public Hearing and Second Reading for Ordinance 634, an Ordinance
implementing a franchise fee on Reliant Energy Minnegasco Natural Gas
Operations within the City of Mounds View.
Mayor Coughlin opened the Public Hearing at 7:46 p.m.
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There was no public input.
Mayor Coughlin opened the Public Hearing at 7:46 p.m.
Council Member Stigney explained that this ordinance was to allow the City to implement a
franchise fee upon Reliant Energy Minnegasco who is currently serving Zep Manufacturing and
the City golf course, and nothing else within the City of Mounds View at this time.
City Attorney Long advised the Council to direct staff to fill in the blank space in Subdivision 2
of Ordinance 634 to indicate "July," and that the blank space in Subdivision 6 reflect the same
date as the expiration of the Northern States Power franchise fee agreement.
Mayor Coughlin stated that it was the consensus of the Council to follow the City Attorney's
advisement.
MOTIONJSECOND: StigneyJThomason. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Ordinance 634, an
Ordinance Implementing a Franchise Fee on Reliant Energy Minnegasco Natural Gas Operations
within the City of Mounds View.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
D. Legislative Report -House Representative Barbara Haake
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House Representative Haake stated that it was very good to be out in the public again. She stated
that she had attended the Festival in the Park and the parade, which were wonderful, and that the
following day she assisted the Lion's with their hot dogs, brats and nachos, and she enjoyed that
very much as well. She stated that the people who work so hard on the Festival in the Park
always do a wonderful j ob.
Representative Haake congratulated Mayor Coughlin and Council Member Marty on their new
roles in fatherhood. She stated that Assistant to the City Administrator Schmidt would be
missed, adding that having her own position as a City Administrator was a fabulous opportunity
for her. She stated that Ms. Schmidt, with a law degree behind her, had great things in store for
her, and would go far.
Representative Haake reported on the recent Session Update. She stated that there was presently
a surplus of 2.9 billion dollars within the state budget. She stated that she was aware that the
City had wanted the levy limits lifted, however, the House had decided to continue those limits
for another year. She stated that she was aware that this would be difficult for communities, and
that she understood that. She noted, however, it was done in consideration by the Leadership in
the House of Representatives. The Senate and the Governor desire to provide that the people
realize the property tax rebate, or at least a reduction in taxes. She added that this would
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continue for another year. She stated that there may have been concern, in regard to lifting the
levy limits, that this might absorb the property tax relief, and that their intent was to indicate to
the people that they had a little bit of a break.
Representative Haake reported that the state currently had a 24 billion dollar budget, and of that,
approximately one third, 7.9 billion dollars, would be set aside for schools, which represents
approximately fifty percent of the property tax assessment. She remarked that the state does pay
a large amount for schools. She reported that they had recently passed an 80 million-dollar levy
on a bonding issue, for maintenance within the Mounds View School District. She stated that
this issue was not only a concern in Mounds View, and is still being discussed in the legislature
in regard to other school districts, which were not so fortunate.
Representative Haake stated that there was a 7.9 billion-dollar budget for education, with an
increase of 14 percent over the next two years. She stated that this translated into an additional
512 dollars per pupil aid, as compared to the current 370 dollars per child. She noted that both
Republicans and Democrats in the House of Representatives had desired to change the
educational profiles to revert to the previous more rigorous standards, however, no action was
taken by the Senate or Governor in this regard, and therefore the profiles would continue
unchanged.
Representative Haake reported that the state's 2.9 billion-dollar surplus had been consolidated
into a tax relief package, and that 1.3 billion would be given back to the taxpayers in a one time
sales tax rebate, which was scheduled for sometime in August or September, October at the
latest. She stated there would be an additional 1.6 billion m permanent income tax cuts, which is
the largest income tax cut in state history, and the largest tax rebate ever. She noted that the
average family would receive approximately 700 dollars in the sales tax rebate. She cited the
statistics of the rebate amounts from a table that she would be distributing within the community.
Representative Haake reported that the House of Representatives had provided an amortization
process, which would phase out undesirable businesses within two years. She stated that this
would apply to such businesses as adult bookstores, theaters, and similar adult-only types of
businesses, and that this would require no payment to the owner for their particular business, but
is approached as a property purchase. She stated that any other undesirable businesses would
require such measures as eminent domain, TIF District, Conditional Use or the Comprehensive
Plan as a means to eliminate them from the community. This, she noted, was in consideration of
the determination that the owner should be compensated for their business if they are asked to
leave the community.
Representative Haake stated that Tax Increment Funds, if put into place three years ago, would
have applied to the Mounds View Community Center, as they may not be utilized for community
centers or recreational activities anymore. She stated that, in regard to property tax reform, there
has been an increase in state aid to offset the reduction of commercial, industrial and personal
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property taxes. She stated that additional monies would be provided to local governments, to
help pay for the increased spending they have incurred. She stated that, in an effort to counteract
a shifting in those property taxes, they have established an Education Homestead Credit, which
in 1999 will amount to 145 million dollars. She stated that the 1999 Omnibus Tax bill would
provide an additional 116.9 million dollars for the next biennium. She added that they had
projected into 2002 and 2003 with another 268.3 million dollars to offset that shift created by the
third phase of the property tax reform.
Representative Haake stated that they had received comments from some cities indicating it
appeared as if the House of Representatives did not trust them. She stated that she had learned
there are "seven sides to an issue," and that this was what was occurring at the state level. She
commented that she was aware that the state was making it difficult for city government, but
noted that she had learned, according to the State Auditor's Report, spending by cities has
increased nearly 2.5 times the rate of inflation between the years of 1985 and 1996. She stated
that this represents a 90.8 percent increase, compared to the inflation xate of 39 percent over that
eleven-year period, adding that this goes to the theory that "if we're going to give the people
breaks, they don't want the cities coming back for more."
Representative Haake reported on the issue of State Emission Testing. She noted that 7 of every
8 dollars collected for these tests, goes to the emission tester. She stated that they have seen a
steady decline of 6 percent in carbon monoxide levels, since 1987. She stated that in July of
1991, they had been told they would see a 25 to 30 percent decrease in carbon monoxide
emissions in the twin city area, and that the actual decline does not represent that amount. She
noted that only 20 percent of the emission testing process applies to hydrocarbons, which are
produced through evaporation, and that a different testing process would be required to properly
assess those emissions. She stated that, as it is, the ozone layer will not be an issue for five to ten
years, and therefore carbon monoxide emission testing will be phased out pursuant to a bill that
she has authored, on March 1, 2000, subject to approval of the Environmental Protection
Agency.
Representative Haake reported on the Airport Bill, noting that she had found this to be one of the
most controversial issues introduced at the House of Representatives. She stated that it had been
suggested she present the issue on a regional basis, rather than an issue of concern to the City of
Mounds View which it has been for the past 30 to 40 years. She stated that the bill consists of
two parts. One component indicates that they establish in number, 4000 feet as a minor airport,
and that anything above that would be an considered an intermediate or higher designation. The
other component of the bill is that it be on a regional basis, which requires that the determination
of the matters concerning runway length and size, and airport sizes, should be a legislative
decision, and not that of the Metropolitan Airport Commission. She stated that the Metropolitan
Airport Commission is an appointed body, as they don't believe they should make these
determinations which impact so many people.
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Representative Haake stated that she had been to the Anoka County Airport, and had
communicated with pilots, and received many letters from the public regarding their concerns.
She stated that they had emphasized their desire for 5000-foot runways with an ILS, to assist in
landing and safety concerns. She noted that this would also bring in slightly larger aircraft,
adding that the local airport was already slated for four runways. She stated that she was
attempting to communicate to the pilots that although they are in favor of the larger runways,
they would have to understand, if they are allowed, they would no longer be considered a
"pasture" airport. She stated that when the Metropolitan Airport Commission acts upon
something they generally have a "grand plan," and if they agree to allow the larger runways, the
Anoka County Airport will probably end up being the intermediate airport for the Twin Cities.
Representative Haake stated that Metropolitan Council and Metropolitan Airport Commission's
Aviation Guide of 1986 indicated a plan that involved researching another reliever airport site in
the northwest portion of the Twin City area. She stated that this was not noted in the new plan,
which indicated to her that they believed they would have their way, and that the site will
probably be the Anoka County Airport. She stated that they had offered a compromise to this
possibility, however, it was rejected.
Representative Haake stated that amidst the negotiations, her bill is still alive, and will come
back for consideration in the February Session. She stated that it has progressed to the Rules
Committee, and that Speaker of the House Sviggum, and Majority Leader Pawlenty had
promised they would provide assistance to her in regard to the bill, however, not until next year.
Representative Haake stated that she had always believed that the word "politics" stood for
"people, principle and policy." She remarked that she had recently learned that politics is power,
and that politics were involved in the decision making process on this issue. She stated, however,
that this would not deter them from their goals. She stated that City Attorney Long and Attorney
John Choi had worked very diligently to get this bill passed, however, by the time it got to the
Transportation Committee, it was subject to a straight party line vote. She stated that she
believed the decision was made based upon power, and not the good policy of the bill.
Mayor Coughlin expressed his appreciation to Representative Haake for her leadership in the
airport issue, and numerous other issues not as well known. He added that he thanked her very
much for the tenacity she has shown in the airport issue, and that it was fascinating to have been
a participant in the process in a small way, testifying with her and working closely with her. He
stated that it has been an honor and a pleasure to work with her on this and other issues.
Mayor Coughlin inquired regarding the process that determined that City purchases are still
subject to sales tax.
Representative Haake stated that the process was in consideration of the entire tax cut menu, and
that they had wanted to see how they could reach the most people, most effectively. She stated
that the underlying consideration was if they made cities purchases exempt from tax, they would
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possibly make five people on the Council happy, and that this would not be enough impact on
the citizens. She stated that this issue would continue to be researched and would be revisited in
the future. She noted, however, that the closest they came to this type of policy, was to allow
counties to be exempt from sales tax on the purchase of equipment for road maintenance, which
was rejected in the end as well.
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•
Representative Haake commented on the affects of unicameral broadcasting upon the political
process, indicating that she would like to see it in anon-partisan format, as was utilized at the
state level, prior to 1972, at which time the members were simply labeled conservative or liberal.
She stated that the partisanship is probably the most difficult roadblock to the political process.
She stated that she was in favor of unicameral broadcasting, but believed the State of Minnesota
would not accept it. She stated that there were 201 members in the House of Representatives and
that she did not believe that many were necessary. She stated that they were presently organizing
a task force of thirteen appointees, to research such issues as budgetary items, privatization, and
duplication of services,
Council Member Marty commended Representative Haake for her energy and tenacity in
following through with what she presented in her election platform. He expressed his
appreciation for her representation of the Mounds View area and their concerns, noting that he
did not feel this in the past representative. He noted her comment regarding "seven sides to an
issue," and stated that upon his election to the Council, he had learned that there were at least
five sides. He added that her experience was somewhat disheartening to him.
Council Member Marty requested clarification of the Education Homestead Credit.
Representative Haake stated that the Education Homestead Credit was a result of the reduction of
commercial, industrial and personal property tax, and was created to offset the decrease of funds
in that area. She stated that, as educational services are probably the highest assessment upon
property taxes, they had established this Credit to provide additional monies to be utilized by
cities as required in this area.
Council Member Stigney commented on Representative Haake's statement regarding the
definition of politics, noting that he would like to add persuasiveness to the list, and that she
certainly possessed the power of persuasion. He added that she represented his views.
Representative Haake thanked Council Member Stigney for his compliment, and added that she
couldn't have done it without the support of the Mayor, Council Members, City Attorney Long,
and City Administrator Whiting. She added that she does fight for what she feels is right, and
enjoyed doing that. She stated that she really wants to win on the airport issue.
Mayor Coughlin thanked Representative Haake for her update, reiterating that it was a pleasure
to work with her.
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E. Setting a Special City Council Work Session regarding the Year 2000 Budget
Priorities for Monday, July 26,1999 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers.
Mayor Coughlin stated that this Special Session was scheduled prior to the Council Meeting on
July 26.
City Administrator Whiting requested that the Session include discussion of the addition of a
staff person to fill the vacancy created by the departure of Assistant to the City Administrator
Schmidt.
Mayor Coughlin agreed, stating that they should do this as soon as possible so that they might
utilize Ms. Schmidt's input for this discussion.
MOTION/SECOND: Thomason/Stigney. To Approve Setting a Special City Council Work
Session Regarding the Year 2000 Budget Priorities for Monday, July 26, 1999 at 6:00 p.m. in the
Council Chambers.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
F. Council approval of the hiring of William Clark for the position of Police
Chief.
City Administrator Whiting stated that pursuant to discussion at the prior Council Meeting, Mr.
Bnmeyer had spoken with Mr. Clark regarding the question of the starting wage which had come
forward. He stated that this has been reformulated to reflect the beginning salary of the existing
Step 2, which is $57,730. He stated that there would be a performance evaluation at six months,
whereupon Mr. Clark would advance to the next step, with advancement to step 4 by the end of
one year. He stated that wage increases after that point would be according to the pay plan,
which was a bit less than the Council had agreed to. He stated that some language changes had
been discussed at the prior meeting, and they had been incorporated into the proposal. He stated
that he had a brief conversation with Mr. Clark who indicated that he is awaiting word from the
City Council regarding the matter. City Administrator Whiting stated that once Council action is
taken, he would notify Mr. Clark, who would then submit his 30-day notice to the City of
Benson. He stated that Mr. Clark's starting date would be August 16,1999.
Council Member Stigney stated for the record, that this agreement says in effect, Mr. Clark will
be subject to all the management policies of non-union police members, and not those of union
members.
MOTION/SECOND: Marty/Thomason. To Approve the Hiring of William Clark for the Position
of Police Chief.
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Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
Mayor Coughlin requested that City Administrator notify Mr. Clark as soon as possible.
G. Presentation of the appointments of Dawn Little, Theresa Lexcen, and Rich
Sonterre to the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Mayor Coughlin presented the Council Members with the names of the following residents for
their consideration for appointment to the Parks and Recreation Commission. He stated that as
previously noted, Pamela Starr and Scott Dentz have both resigned from the commission
recently, and two of the three recommended appointments were to fill those unexpired terms. He
stated that the final seat on the commission is a newly created position to round out the seats to
nine members, adding that upon closer inspection of the appointment records, there were eight
members appointed to a seven member commission. The expansion to nine members was to
keep the present membership, yet have the membership be an odd number so as to prevent any
possible tie votes.
Mayor Coughlin stated that the recommended appointments are as follows:
Dawn Little -Term to expire December 31, 2000 (unexpired term of Pamela Starr)
Theresa Lexcen -Term to expire December 31, 2000 (unexpired term of Scott Denz)
Rich Sonterre -Term to expire December 31, 2001 (new position)
Mayor Coughlin requested that, for continued record keeping, the Council reconfirm the seated
members of the commission along with their respective terms as follows:
Terms expiring December 31, 1999:
Mary Benz
Gary Stevenson
Frank Silvis
Dave Long
Sherry Gunn
Terms expiring December 31, 2000:
Stan McDonald
Council Member Marty stated, as reflected in the prior Council Meeting minutes, that the City of
Minnetonka had revised their previous policy of appointment to commissions by the Mayor, and
voted on by the Council, to require all people applying to different commissions to apply to the
Council directly. He stated that they would then be interviewed at a Work Session, and voted
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upon by the Council. He stated that this was done so as to provide the entire Council familiarity
with the applicants, and their reasons for applying to the commissions. He suggested that this.
matter be discussed at a future Work Session.
Mayor Coughlin stated that it was the consensus of the Council to address this issue at a future
Work Session. He requested City Administrator Whiting add the item to the Work Session
Agenda for further consideration.
MOTION/SECOND: Marty/Thomason. To Approve the Appointment of Dawn Little, Theresa
Lexcen, and Rich Sonterre to the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
11. Next Council Work Session: Monday, July 26, 1999 - 6:00 PM
Next Council Meeting Monday, July 26,1999 - 7:00 PM
12. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Coughlin adjourned the meeting at 8:40 P.M.
Transcribed and recorded by:
Trish Pearson
• Timesaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
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CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
MEETING MINUTES
MONDAY, JULY 26,1999
7:00 P.M.
1. MEETING IS CALLED TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL: Coughlin, Stigney, Quick, and Thomason.
NOT PRESENT: Marty.
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A. Monday, July 26,1999 City Council Agenda
Mayor Coughlin asked the Council if anyone would like to add items to the agenda.
No additional items were considered.
MOTION/SECOND: 5tigney/Quick. To accept the July 26, 1999 City Council agenda as presented.
Ayes - 4 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Monday, July 12, 1999 City Council Minutes
MOTION/SECOND: Stigney/Thomason. To accept the July 12, 1999 City Council minutes as
presented.
Ayes - 4 Nays - 0 Motion carried.
5. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
None.
6. REPORTS
Council Member Quick had no report.
Mayor Coughlin reported he had attended the Highway 610 Corridor Coalition, where he and other
Mayors spoke regarding the project. He stated that the new highway would be opening very soon,
and that a stretch from Highway l 18, truncating at Highway 65 and extending to Highway 10 had
been completed. He stated that he had attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new highway,
and had spoken with many of the people associated with the project.
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