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Folder: CC MINUTES AND AGENDAS 2003
Document: CC MINUTES 10142003
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
Page 1
CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
3 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
4
5 OCTOBER 14, 2003
6
7 CALL TO ORDER.
8 Mayor Hodson called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
9
10 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
11 Mayor Hodson invited the Council and audience to join him in the Pledge of Allegiance.
12
13 ROLL CALL.
14 Present: Mayor Hodson; Councilmembers Horst, Sparks, Thuesen, and Faust.
15 Absent: None.
16 Also Present: City Manager Mike Morrison.
17
18 CONSIDERATION,DISCUSSION,AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON ALL OF THE FOLLOWING
19 ITEMS.
20
21 I. APPROVAL OF OCTOBER 14, 2003, CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA.
22 Motion by Councilmember Sparks to approve the City Council Meeting Agenda of October 14,
0 2003.
25 Motion carried unanimously.
26
27 II. PROCLAMATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS.
28 None.
29
30 III. COMMUNITY FORUM.
31 Sara Berg, 2403 —33'Avenue NE, stated she wished to address Council regarding the 33`d and
32 Stinson housing project. She noted she had already sent a letter to the City Manager regarding
33 the project, as she was concerned the four townhouse units on two City lots contained too many
34 bedrooms, had no garages, had no basements and only four parking spots were proposed. She
35 indicated, in her opinion, traffic would be increased in the area and she felt building the
36 townhomes as proposed would lower the value of her home. She asked if the City Manager had
37 expressed concern to the Urban League and Paul Ostrow.
38
39 Ms. Berg asked that Council take a formal stand expressing its concern regarding how the
40 proposed townhome units would affect the quality of life in the surrounding area. She stated she
41 had been a social worker for 20 years and knew what problems this type of housing would bring
42 to the community.
43
44 Michael Gondek, 2901 St. Anthony Boulevard, stated he had called the City the previous week
to find out when work sessions were held and where the times were posted. He indicated he was
40 told the meetings were not held any longer; however, a special meeting had taken place that
47 same week. He suggested the meeting times should be posted, along with the agendas, as
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
Page 2
important business was conducted at those meetings and they were to be open to the entire
community. Mayor Hodson asked City Manager Morrison if it were possible to put the meeting
3 times and agendas on the City's website. Mayor Hodson added the meeting times were posted at
4 thee locations throughout the City.
5
6 Nancy Anderson, 3329 Skycroft Circle, stated she had recently talked with one of the Council
7 members regarding the public housing complex proposed on 33' and Stinson. She noted she had
8 heard about the complex from her parents, as they were upset it was to be built near their home.
9 She indicated she was involved with the Northeast Minneapolis/St. Anthony Joint Task Force.
10 She stated she and other members of the Task Force had been requesting residents sign their
11 petition and noted, at this time, over 200 signatures had been obtained. Ms. Anderson presented
12 the list of those signing the petition, along with the areas in which they resided, to Council.
13
14 Ms. Anderson stated the most common response she received was an immediate willingness to
15 sign the petition. She added people wanted to make sure the petition was not opposed to new
16 residents who had low incomes or were a minority but because the proposed units signified too
17 much crowding in too little space.
18
19 Ms. Anderson noted the plan was to obtain 500 signatures, as the Task Force had been told that
20 was the number that would indicate there was a conviction regarding the situation.
21
22 Ms. Anderson stated Mayor Hodson said he was a businessman and not a politician and his
residents/shareholders were upset about this project. She discussed the affected property and
indicated it had been vacant for three years. She noted the land market value was listed at
25 $40,400 and the building market value at $52,600; however, the listing price was $150,000,
26 which interested developers felt was too high. She indicated the Minnesota Public Housing
27 Authority had agreed to the listing price, however, and would be spending approximately
28 $175,000 by the time they had the property ready for use.
29
30 Mayor Hodson indicated he felt it was critical the residents had an opportunity to voice their
31 concerns. He noted Council did not have the ability to dictate to Minneapolis what they could or
32 could not do and its ordinances were different than the ordinances of the City of St. Anthony.
33 He added the crucial issue was that this project was in an area adjacent to the City and the
34 residents of St. Anthony had concerns regarding such issues as density and traffic.
35
36 Mayor Hodson thanked Ms. Anderson for working toward allowing residents to express their
37 concerns. He added, even though the City of St. Anthony did not have any say regarding what
38 happened in Minneapolis, it would help if the City's residents gave a voice to this issue.
39
40 Mayor Hodson displayed a flyer that had been created using the City's logo, which also included
41 the names of Mayor Hodson and City councilmembers. He noted Council could not endorse the
42 flyer, yet it appeared Council had endorsed it. He indicated the flyer had been referred to the
43 City's legal department, as it put Council in a compromising position.
44
Ms. Anderson stated she understood how there might be a problem with using the logo; —
however, Mayor Hodson had given her permission to use his name and the names of
47 councilmembers, along with their phone numbers. Mayor Hodson responded it was acceptable
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
• Page 3
to use their names and include the phone numbers; however, it was not acceptable to make it
2 appear as if Council were endorsing it.
3
4 Ms. Anderson asked if it would be correct to state Council or Mayor Hodson could be contacted
5 with any concerns and comments. Mayor Hodson replied that would be acceptable.
6
7 Councilmember Thuesen indicated residents had asked him when Council had endorsed this
8 petition.
9
10 IV. CONSENT AGENDA.
11 A. Approve September 23, 2003, Council meeting minutes.
12 Approve October 2, 2003, Special Council meeting minutes.
13 B. Consider licenses and permits.
14 C. Consider payment of claims.
15 D. Consider Ordinance 2003-012, re: Water/sewer connection fees Q d reading).
16
17 Motion by Councilmember Thuesen to approve the Consent Agenda items.
18
19 Motion carried unanimously.
20
21 V. PUBLIC HEARINGS.
22 None.
41 VI. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONS AND STAFF.
25 A. Northwest Youth and Family Services presentation.
26 Rachel Cain and Jerry Hromatka represented the Northwest Youth and Family Services. Ms.
27 Cain noted Executive Director Kay Andrews was ill and unable to attend. Ms. Cain added she
28 was the mental health manager at Northwest Youth and Family Services.
29
30 Ms. Cain gave a brief history of the Service and noted it was funded by a grass roots effort of
31 area communities, which included the City of St. Anthony. She indicated Northwest Youth and
32 Family Services had started with two employees and had grown to 27 full-time staff, three part-
33 time staff and many volunteers. She added they served over 5,000 individuals annually with a
34 mission to prepare youth and families for healthy lives.
35
36 Ms. Cain indicated the services provided by the Northwest Youth and Family Services were
37 mental health counseling, therapy youth diversion, senior chore services, youth run businesses
38 and community social work. She gave information regarding each service and listed the types of
39 problems addressed by Northwest Youth and Family Services. She noted staff was available to
40 give talks about various issues within the community, such as depression, dealing with divorce,
41 dealing with stress, etc.
42
43 Ms. Cain discussed the family community support services provided and indicated the involved
44 staff person went into the homes of families that had a child with severe emotional disturbances
0 and worked with both the child and parents.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
Page 4
Mr. Hromatka discussed the youth diversion service as it related to a variety of youth. He stated
a commitment had been made to stay with this service, even though there were budget concerns.
3
4 Mr. Hromatka indicated the thrift store in Mounds View was an example of the youth-run
5 business program. He noted the thrift store served those "who need a deal and those looking for
6 a deal." He explained the youth involved actually ran the store as part of the program and it was
7 good for building confidence and learning to work with the public. He added it was a place for
8 "kids to grow into,"as the newer participants wanted to be like those who had been involved for
9 a longer time.
10
11 Mr. Hromatka stated the senior chore services provided services for elderly residents so they
12 could live in their homes. He added some minor home repairs were also done. He explained the
13 youth and seniors were put together and then Northwest Youth and Family Services backed out
14 of the relationship. He noted some of the relationships between the young people and seniors
15 lasted a long time.
16
17 Mr. Hromatka explained that community social work was a program that received referrals and
18 basic services were provided so children had home issues solved, parents who needed jobs
19 received help, etc.
20
21 Mr. Hromatka noted Northwest Youth and Family Services had relationships with nine cities,
22 which provided stability and forced them to become good partners with everyone in the
community. He indicated the majority of revenues went into the programs, with overhead
running approximately 15%. He added there was also revenue obtained from the building
25 operation, as years ago the Board had made the decision to purchase the building. He noted that
26 purchase brought in revenue and also gave them a place to work.
27
28 Councilmember Faust stated he knew a lot of seniors in the City who needed help with raking.
29 Mr. Hromatka suggested the seniors call (651) 486-3808 and ask for the senior chore program.
30 He also noted the website was nyfs.org. He explained the seniors would need to fill out an
31 application and Northwest Youth and Family Services would look for kids within walking
32 distance.
33
34 Councilmember Sparks suggested the City put a link to Northwest Youth and Family Services on
35 its website.
36
37
38 Councilmember Sparks thanked Mr. Hromatka for the help he had given St. Anthony.
39
40 Councilmember Thuesen stated, as a current councilmember representative, he knew this group
41 was hard working and trying to create a lot of magic with very little money.
42
43 Ms. Cain announced the Northwest Youth and Family Services annual fall gala, which was held
44 to raise cash. She noted the event was called Monster Mash and would be held at Bandana
0 Square on October 24, 2003.
47 B. Clarence Ranallo reporting on the North Suburban Cable Commission.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
Page 5
Clarence Ranallo, North Suburban Cable Commission, noted the top item to report was the
North Suburban Access Corporation was suing Comcast. He explained, when cable first started,
3 the ten cities formed a commission asking the cable companies to pay a franchise fee for being
4 allowed to use City property and access to residents. He added the franchise fee had been quite
5 successful and was determined by the number of subscribers. He indicated the City had obtained
6 approximately$250,000 from franchise fees throughout the years.
7
8 Mr. Ranallo explained the reason for the fee was so money could be used for cable-related items,
9 such as all of the cable equipment in the Council Chambers. He added operating said equipment
10 was a tough job for one person and the point had been reached where one person could not
11 handle it alone.
12
13 Mr. Ranallo stated the lawsuit came about because the Internet came along and hooked up with
14 cable. He added, due to FCC comments, the cable companies quit paying the franchise fee;
15 therefore, the Commission began drawing down on their line of credit. He indicated Comcast
16 was now suing the City, commissioners and all who were involved in the draw down. He noted
17 the money from the draw down had been placed in an escrow fund.
18
19 Mr. Ranallo indicated the Access Corporation had provided many services in many cities, such
20 as the Village Fest parade, concerts, football games,basketball games, various programs,
21 Council meetings and School Board meetings. He added a video club in the middle school had
22 been started by one of the residents, which met every other Wednesday morning for students
40 who were interested. He stated there was also interest in getting high school students involved.
25 Mr. Ranallo stated volunteers were being sought from the adult population. He noted two young
26 people who had begun by running cameras were now working at radio stations. He added many
27 people were watching Council meetings and that was a good way to spread large amounts of
28 information.
29
30 Mr. Ranallo indicated that many residents did not understand that the hook up for the community
31 channels on cable was free, adding there was no installation charge or monthly fee.
32
33 Mr. Ranallo stated high definition and digital already was in use. He noted the City would not
34 require this equipment for approximately four to six years and, when it was needed, the money
35 received from the Commission should cover the costs. He asked if that money was kept in a
36 separate fund.
37
38 Mr. Ranallo suggested the City might need to hire a technician to address the current audio
39 equipment problems.
40
41 Councilmember Faust asked if Mr. Ranallo knew how many residents were hooked up to cable.
42 Mr. Ranallo responded 60% to 70%of the residents were currently using cable and the number
43 was increasing. He added Council would be surprised at how many people were watching the
44 Council replays and were well aware of what Council was doing because of cable.
0 Mayor Hodson thanked Mr. Ranallo for accepting the position at the Cable Commission.
47
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
• Page 6
Mayor Hodson asked if residents had the opportunity to go through the training, as well as
2 students. Mr. Ranallo responded absolutely. He added residents needed to "make contact, sign
3 up and come down and the training will be free." He noted it was "lots of fun."
4
5 VII. GENERAL POLICY BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL.
6 A. Resolution 03-086, re: Award bid for construction of a Public Works facility.
7 Gary Benson, Kraus-Anderson Construction Company, noted he was the construction manager
8 for the public facilities building projects.
9
10 Mr. Benson stated Council had approved the budgets for the two projects in May of 2003 and
11 design work went forward. He noted early bids on both projects for Bid Package 1 were taken in
12 August of 2003 and that work was well under way. He explained Bid Package 1 included items
13 such as utilities and earthwork. He indicated the balance of the building had subsequently been
14 put out for bids.
15
16 Mr. Benson noted the fire station had been bid on September 23, 2003, and the public works
17 building on September 25, 2003. He indicated 88 bids had been received on 22 divisions of
18 work for the public works building and 77 individual bids on 18 trade divisions had been
19 received for the fire station.
20
21 Mr. Benson indicated a large amount of unsuitable and contaminated soil had been encountered
22 at the public works site,which had generated an unexpected cost burden that was not within the
budget. He stated Resolution 03-086 recommended awarding the bids, along with a number of
q? deduct alternates, to the lowest responsible bidder.
25
26 Motion by Councilmember Thuesen to adopt Resolution 03-086 relating to construction of a
27 public works facility, awarding the bid for Bid Package No. 2 to the lowest responsible bidder
28 for each Bid Division.
29
30 Discussion:
31
32 Councilmember Horst asked if this only applied to the public works building and if this was the
33 building that came in on budget but had the additional needed soil correction.
34
35 Jeff Oertel, Oertel Architects, noted he brought a few graphic illustrations of the building and
36 site. He indicated the building had not changed much from the residents' point of view. He
37 explained the soil problems were major and would cost approximately$150,000 to correct;
38 consequently, virtually all of the deduct alternates had to be used, along with a few other items.
39 He cited purchasing a standard grade of hardware instead of the highest grade as an example of
40 cost-saving measures.
41
42 Councilmember Horst asked if the deduct alternate used had eliminated the storage area. Mr.
43 Oertel responded that was an issue for discussion. He noted the building's north addition was
44 equivalent to $150,000 in cost, which was approximately equal to the cost of soil correction;
therefore, that addition was the deduct alternate chosen. He added shops, storage, police
impound area, etc.,were located in that addition.
47
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
• Page 7
Councilmember Sparks asked if it was correct to say that addition was currently not part of the
2 plan. Mr. Oertel responded that was correct.
3
4 Councilmember Thuesen asked if the addition could be added on without great problems if, in
5 the future, the City decided the square footage was necessary. Mr. Oertel responded it could and
6 the intent was to set it up so at any given time the addition could be built without any serious
7 issues.
8
9 Councilmember Horst asked if this plan assumed the current facility would be torn down. Mr.
10 Oertel responded the ability to consider reusing a share of it should be considered. He indicated
11 a tale end of the building was retained, according to the base bids, and he felt retaining a bit
12 more of it should be considered, as he felt the budget could still be met.
13
14 Councilmember Horst stated he assumed no upgrades were planned for the exterior. Mr. Oertel
15 responded none were planned at this point. He noted a major upgrade had originally been
16 considered but that was no longer being planned.
17
18 Councilmember Horst asked if there was still a place for sand storage. Mr. Oertel replied it was
19 still a part of the project.
20
21 Councilmember Horst commented the City was getting what it sought without the storage on the
22 north side.
I? Councilmember Sparks noted it looked like that area was shop space and storage space. She
25 asked where the shop work would be done. Mr. Oertel responded it was hoped a part of the
26 existing building could be retained for shop space. He added some of the cities were using their
27 vehicle storage space for shop work. He indicated the lighting, ventilation, etc., would need to
28 be upgraded.
29
30 Councilmember Sparks asked if the employees would then need to go back to the old building
31 and work on a dirt floor. Mr. Oertel replied there would not be any dirt floors in the work areas.
32 He added it was likely most of the work done, especially in the winter, would be done in the new
33 building.
34
35 Councilmember Faust noted a sign shop had been planned for the eliminated area. He stated he
36 had been asking the City to put up more signs and wondered if it was wise to be"penny wise and
37 pound foolish"by eliminating the addition. He noted the addition would provide workspace for
38 both public works and the police department. He added the impound lot would be eliminated
39 and felt that would have been a secure area for chain-of-custody issues. He indicated the extra
40 $150,000 was an unforeseen problem and questioned if eliminating the space in the addition was
41 the right decision. He stated he was not convinced the City would receive the same output by
42 eliminating the addition to recapture the $150,000. He indicated the City would only get this
43 chance to do it right and added it would cost more than $150,000 if done at a later date.
44
Councilmember Thuesen stated he had initially thought it was wise to have the Public Works
Department and consultants decide where to shave $150,000 from the project. He agreed the
47 addition would cost more if it needed to be added in the future. He added City officials needed
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
Page 8
to get the most out of the dollars spent and cited the numerous criticisms that had been received
after the City Hall had been built. He indicated he was not convinced, over the long term, that it
3 was wise to eliminate the addition. He noted the extra$150,000 was due to needed soil
4 correction and not add-ons; therefore, he felt it was justified to consider keeping the addition as
5 part of the project.
6
7 Councilmember Horst asked if Package 3 would generate any additional surprises. Mr. Oertel
8 responded this was the last big package and the only remaining items were not biddable items.
9 He noted this basically was the project.
10
11 Councilmember Faust stated he would dig into his pockets and put the addition onto his home if
12 he were building a new house and the addition gave him needed space. He indicated there was a
13 lot of needed area in the shop areas and the secured area would also be of great value to the
14 Police Department.
15
16 Councilmember Horst asked if a fenced-in impound lot would still be located on the north side.
17 Mr. Oertel responded that would be where the squad cars were stored. He added the outside area
18 was secured by fencing.
19
20 Mayor Hodson asked Public Works Director Jay Hartman if he felt it was possible to eliminate
21 the space. Mr. Hartman responded he guessed they could do without it; however, eliminating the
22 space would have an impact on overall operations. He noted it would provide storage for the
maintenance facility, provide inside storage for squad cars and have an overall impact on the
public works operation.
25
26 Councilmember Faust asked if the squad cars would then need to be stored outside. Mr.
27 Hartman responded another place for storage would need to be found.
28
29 Councilmember Horst asked if the majority of the existing building would be torn down if the
30 storage facility were built. Mr. Hartman responded that was correct.
31
32 Mr. Oertel noted the original bid package planned the demolition of most of the old building;
33 however, if the addition was eliminated, a home would need to be found for the squad cars and
34 other equipment. He added the old building would not be needed if the City chose to keep the
35 northern addition.
36
37 Mr. Benson indicated the$150,000 problem was not because of a design issue but due to an
38 unforeseen soil problem. He stated the design probably would have been different had the soil
39 issue been known from the beginning. He noted the northern addition was easy to"chop off';
40 however, he stated he was hearing it was an important program item. He asked if it was correct
41 to penalize the item because of an unforeseen problem.
42
43 Councilmember Faust indicated the City should go back to the design"that is right," as it would
44 work for the long term. He felt the additional $150,000 should be spent to provide the addition.
9 Councilmember Thuesen stated he was also prepared to support the additional $150,000 so the
47 addition could be kept. He felt it was a smart decision for the long term, even though painful for
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
Page 9
the short term. He noted it was currently a tough time for taxpayers; however, he felt he should
support this.
3
4 Mayor Hodson asked City Manager Mornson about the bids he had mentioned that came in
5 lower than expected and asked if some of those savings could help solve this problem. Mr.
6 Mornson responded sewer and water bonds were issued in March of 2003 for several sewer and
7 water projects. He stated the bids came in $220,000 under and those savings could be
8 transferred to Public Works, as Public Works ran the Sewer and Water Department.
9
10 Councilmember Horst asked about the City's total cost for this part of the project. Mr. Benson
11 responded the total project was $3.2 million and reminded Council $6.5 million had been
12 discussed when the project was first presented. He stated he was happy the project could be
13 completed at such a substantial savings and indicated support for the transferring of money
14 between projects.
15
16 Councilmember Sparks stated she was concerned that the addition had been eliminated because
17 it was the easiest to delete. She asked if something other than the addition should have been
18 deleted. Mr. Benson responded the cutting of the north wing was an approved deduct. He noted
19 a rebid and redesign would be needed if$150,000 were to be eliminated throughout the rest of
20 the design. He added other things had been considered; however, a rebid would have been in
21 order to make those changes.
22
Councilmember Horst noted there was a motion and a second to adopt Resolution 03-086. He
41 asked Mr. Mornson how he could amend the motion so the additional $150,000 would be
25 included. Mr. Mornson replied the resolution could be approved with alternate deduct 10, which
26 would add the 4,300 square feet back into the project. He noted a second motion could be made
27 to transfer the funds from the sewer and water bonds or a resolution could be prepared in the
28 staff report from the Finance Director for the October 28, 2003, meeting. He added it must
29 appear in the minutes in some fashion.
30
31 Councilmember Horst indicated he withdrew his amendment to add the $150,000 and would like
32 a separate resolution written for the next Council meeting.
33
34 Councilmember Sparks asked if the resolution awarding the bids should be approved at the
35 present meeting. Mr. Mornson replied he thought it should, as that would enable work to begin.
36
37 Councilmember Faust suggested two resolutions be passed: one adding alternate deduct 10 back
38 to the resolution awarding the bids and a resolution accepting transfer of the funds to be passed
39 in two weeks.
40
41 Motion by Councilmember Horst to amend Resolution 03-086 to remove acceptance of alternate
42 deduct 10, as it should stay in the resolution.
43
44 Councilmember Thuesen accepted the friendly amendment.
9 Motion carried unanimously.
47
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
• Page 10
B. Resolution 03-087, re: Reject bids for construction of a Fire Station facility.
2 Mr. Benson noted the BP-2 bids, even with deduct alternates 6 and 7, for the Fire Station came
3 in at an amount that caused the construction budget to be exceeded by nearly 20%; therefore, it
4 was recommended the Fire Station bids be rejected and the project be rebid in order to meet the
5 approved construction amount of$1.7 million. He added the project team, including Kraus-
6 Anderson, Oertel Architects and City staff, had been working diligently to reduce areas of the
7 building, which would ultimately result in meeting the approved budget. He indicated the rebid
8 for the Fire Station would take place sometime in January of 2004.
9
10 Motion by Councilmember Sparks to adopt Resolution 03-087 relating to construction of a fire
11 station, rejecting any and all bids received for Bid Package No. 2.
12
13 Councilmember Horst asked if Mr. Benson felt the redesign would be ready to rebid in January
14 "in a better climate." He also asked when construction would begin. Mr. Oertel responded there
15 were advantages to rebidding in January. He indicated redesigning was needed, as the bids were
16 significantly higher than the budget. He noted the redesign would incorporate a square-footage
17 deduction with the result being a one-story building instead of two stories. He added those
18 changes would mean heating expenses would also be reduced.
19
20 Mr. Oertel stated it was a key time to bid, as people were looking forward to spring; therefore, if
21 a good bid was received, work could begin in the spring.
22
Councilmember Horst stated he assumed the message was received from the last work session
that the design needed to be an attractive centerpiece for the community. Mr. Oertel replied the
25 image was virtually identical to the two-story scheme. He noted, by removing the second floor,
26 two stairs, the elevator and high electrical costs had been eliminated.
27
28 Councilmember Horst asked if there was still adequate training room. Mr. Oertel responded
29 downsizing had taken place in that area; however, he still felt the scheme was workable. He
30 added the third bay was so important to staff that they were willing to sacrifice some of the
31 creature comfort areas to keep it.
32
33 Councilmember Horst asked if Council would get another look at the plan before it was rebid.
34 Mr. Oertel responded Council would see it one or two more times.
35
36 Councilmember Faust stated he appreciated the team effort to accommodate the community's
37 needs while monitoring the costs. He asked for a time line and if the plan was for a January/
38 February bid. Mr. Oertel responded the plan would be solidified over the next two to three
39 weeks, at which time the redesign would be completed. He stated bids would be put out in
40 January of 2004 and due in February of 2004. Mr. Benson added construction should begin in
41 April of 2004 and be completed around November of 2004.
42
43 Councilmember Faust stated he was concerned the project was falling behind because of the
44 rebid.
it Mayor Hodson indicated the original completion date was June of 2004 and now it was set for
47 November of 2004, which was only a difference of five months.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
Page 11
• Motion carried unanimously.
2
3 C. Resolution 03-090, re: Endorsement of ISD #282 Referendum.
4 City Manager Mornson noted this resolution was prepared by Councilmember Jerry Faust in
5 support of the St. Anthony School District#282 Levy Referendum, which would be held as part
6 of the November 4, 2003, local general election. He indicated the referendum was to address
7 financial challenges being experienced by the School District relating to ongoing school
8 operations.
9
10 Mr. Mornson explained representatives of the School Board met with the City Council on two
11 occasions to discuss the need for this referendum. He stated Council recognized the important
12 role that the community played in helping the school environment and its on-going operations
13 and noted the numerous successful partnerships already existing between the City and School
14 District.
15
16 Mr. Mornson indicated the referendum was a three-part question that would allow the revenue to
17 be used for technology and curriculum improvements, as well as maintain student programs and
18 services.
19
20 Councilmember Sparks asked Councilmember Faust to read the resolution, which he did.
21
22 Motion by Councilmember Faust to adopt Resolution 03-090 supporting the St. Anthony/New
40 Brighton School District#282 Levy Referendum.
25 Discussion:
26
27 Councilmember Faust noted this was the first time the City Council had endorsed a levy
28 referendum. He added the St. Anthony Chamber of Commerce had also endorsed the
29 referendum, which was also a first.
30
31 Motion carried unanimously.
32
33 D. Resolution 03-088, re: Community Services funding.
34 It was noted Finance Director Larson was asked to complete an analysis to determine the cost of
35 the City supporting the $54,000 Community Services levy versus the present cost of the School
36 District's levy.
37
38 A memo was provided from Mr. Larson indicating it was his understanding that effective July 1,
39 2004, the school could no longer levy the cost of Community Services and the School Board had
40 asked the City to absorb the levy. He added the question was asked "if the school reduced its
41 levy by$54,000 and the City increased its levy by$54,000, would the cost be the same to the
42 residents?" He explained the result was as follows, based on 2003 collectible taxes: a$200,000
43 St. Anthony home would realize an annual increase of$5.20.
44
Mr. Larson stated the City could not absorb this amount into its budget until January of 2005
because of strict levy limits in 2004. He noted this equated to a funding gap of$27,000 for one- _
47 half of the year 2004.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
Page 12
Mr. Morrison stated it was recommended the option to appropriate funds from the Tires Plus
Building Fund would be the most prudent financial alternative if Council opted to fund the gap.
3 He noted the remaining balance of the fund as of June 30, 2004, would be approximately
4 $316,108.
5
6 Mayor Hodson noted the school district did not have the ability to levy for this cost; however,
7 the City did have the ability to fund it. He indicated it was going from one portion of the tax
8 statement to another.
9
10 Councilmember Thuesen noted it was highly unusual that this type of funding came from the
11 School District, as many of these programs were usually funded through city park and recreation
12 departments.
13
14 Motion by Councilmember Sparks to adopt Resolution 03-088 relating to Community Services
15 and authorizing that $27,000 be transferred from the Tires Plus Building Fund to fund the 2004
16 Community Services deficit.
17
18 Discussion:
19
20 Councilmember Faust stated the City and Community Services had combined efforts to get the
21 best for the dollar. He added the City was filling the gap and being judicious in its cooperation
22 with the School and Community Services.
q? Councilmember Thuesen indicated the same people were being served, even though the funding
25 was coming from a different source. He noted the City would need to "get a grip"on how this
26 would work in the long term.
27
28 Motion carried unanimously.
29
30 E. Ordinance 2003-013, re: Heating licenses (151 reading).
31 It was noted, effective July 1, 2003, the State of Minnesota required all HVAC contractors to
32 have a bond in the amount of$25,000 filed with the State of Minnesota before being issued a
33 license or permit; therefore, the City must add Minnesota State Statute 326.992 (bond
34 requirement) to the City Ordinance, Section 615.06, Other License Fees.
35
36 Motion by Councilmember Faust to approve First Reading of Ordinance 2003-013 relating to
37 heating licenses, amending Section 615.06 of the St. Anthony Code by adding Minnesota State
38 Statute 326.992.
39
40 Discussion:
41
42 City Manager Mornson noted this was really not a change of the pricing but a change in State
43 law. He explained the letter from the State basically stated that effective July 1, 2003, anyone
44 who installed gas piping, heating, ventilation, cooling, air conditioning, fuel burning or
refrigeration (G/HVACR) equipment was required to post a$25,000 bond and file with the
Department of Administration, Building Codes and Standards Division, for the benefit of
47 persons suffering financial loss by reason of the contractor's failure to comply with the
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
• Page 13
requirements of the State Mechanical Code. He noted this was an act of cleaning up the
2 ordinance by referencing the State statute.
3
4 Motion carried unanimously.
5
6 F. Ordinance 2003-014, re: Council meetings (1"reading).
7 It was noted this proposed ordinance change deleted the portion stating the second Council
8 meeting of the month would be considered a work session, as both monthly meetings were
9 currently regular Council meetings.
10
11 Motion by Councilmember Sparks to approve First Reading of Ordinance 2003-014 relating to
12 regular Council meetings; amending Section 200.01, subd. 1, of the St. Anthony Code.
13
14 Discussion:
15
16 Mr. Mornson noted this deletion was a result of staffs review of the ordinances. He explained a
17 change had been made three or four years ago by Council indicating it would have two meetings,
18 no work sessions and the second meeting would be a work session. He stated Council had gone
19 back to the schedule of two meetings per month with extra work sessions. He indicated this
20 change was made to reflect how Council was currently operating.
21
22 Motion carried unanimously.
It VIII. REPORTS FROM CITY MANAGER AND COUNCILMEMBERS.
25 A. Quarterly Progress ss Report on 2003 Goals.
26 City Manager Morrison reported on the following goals for 2003:
27 Redevelopment of Apache Center Area Property—Public hearings were held in
28 September, PUD approved for commercial on September 23, Environment Assessment
29 Worksheet completed, Term Sheet approved and TIF Plan approved. Mr. Morrison noted
30 the Development Agreement would be presented at the October 28 meeting. Target
31 completion date: October of 2007.
32 Development of Public Facilities Plan—Groundbreaking was September 9. Mr. Morrison
33 indicated a great interest rate had been obtained, even though bids came in higher than
34 anticipated. Target completion date: May of 2004.
35 Preparation of Option to Redevelop Stonehouse Property—Public hearing was held on
36 July 22 and groundbreaking was on September 16. Mr. Mornson stated closing would
37 take place on Thursday, October 16, and demolition would probably also happen the
38 same day. Target completion date: May of 2004. Councilmember Sparks asked if the
39 work in the parking lot was related to the sewer improvement. Mr. Mornson responded
40 most of it was; however, the contractor for the Stonehouse redevelopment was given the
41 ability to go in and abate the asbestos, which needed to be done before demolition could
42 take place.
43 Development of plan for reduced state revenues—Hiring freeze was implemented and
44 expenditures were cut. Mr. Mornson noted four vacancies were currently not being
filled. Target completion date: August of 2003.
• Preparation of Plan for Infiltration and Inflow—Engineering update on-May 27. Mr.
47 Mornson indicated this was on hold at the request of the Metropolitan Council. He stated
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
Page 14
the City had a lift station in desperate need of repair and the Met Council had placed the
City on hold until it had a mandate to do the infiltration. He noted the City was now so
3 far ahead of the Met Council that it wanted to use the City as an example. He added the
4 Met Council was considering providing some funding for the City. Target completion
5 date: Ongoing.
6 Enhancement of community involvement in critical City issues–Three public open
7 houses were held, three newsletters on task force were distributed and Mayor Hodson
8 gave his State of the City address. Target completion date: Ongoing.
9
10 Mr. Mornson also presented a proposal from LCC International to lease the City's water tower
11 site for a telecommunications facility. He stated the lease, as proposed, would be for a year term
12 with four options to renew. He noted the rent received by the City would be $1,350 per month
13 or$16,200 per year.
14
15 Mr. Mornson indicated the City had rejected this type of use of the tower in previous years due
16 to the low amount of revenue received. He added proposed monthly revenue in previous years
17 was $600 and Council did not want to clutter the water tower with telecommunication apparatus.
18
19 Mr. Mornson explained that cuts in state aid funding had caused staff to explore additional
20 revenue options to fund operations. He noted, if Council was interested in exploring this
21 revenue source, staff could enter into negotiations with this company or the company could
22 make a presentation to Council first and then enter into negotiations.
0 Mayor Hodson stated he would like to give staff direction to move forward with negotiations.
25
26 Councilmember Horst stated the discussion had been regarding the aesthetics and Council
27 should see what was being proposed before negotiations began. Councilmember Sparks agreed.
28 Mr. Mornson noted negotiations had already begun and staff was coming to Council for further
29 direction.
30
31 Councilmember Horst stated he was not opposed but wanted to understand what was being
32 considered.
33
34 Councilmember Thuesen stated he felt this was worth exploring, as dollars were not the only
35 benefit. He noted this would be a benefit to those with cell phones.
36
37 Councilmember Sparks asked if the residents on 33`d could be notified that this was being
38 considered. Mr. Mornson replied this issue did not need to go before the Planning Commission,
39 as it involved City property. He added a public hearing was not needed for the same reason;
40 however, he suggested the neighborhood could be notified. Councilmember Sparks agreed the
41 neighborhood should be notified.
42
43 Councilmember Faust stated"in a previous life"he had access to all of the leases for the towers
44 and this appeared to be approximately 35%higher than normal. He explained how the leases
were calculated. He suggested Mr. Mornson consider putting in the escalators, which was —
typical in the contracts. He noted this was a valuable piece of property due to its elevation.
47 -
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
Page 15
Mayor Hodson indicated he agreed with the aesthetics concerns; however, electronics and
antennas had become smaller.
3
4 Mr. Mornson indicated City staff, along with the Minneapolis Council president, was planning to
5 attend a Windom Park neighborhood meeting regarding concerns over some of the projects
6 taking place on the border. He noted two of the projects causing concern were the sewer and
7 water projects just completed and the Autumn Woods expansion.
8
9 Mr. Mornson reported City staff, working with WSB, applied for two flood mitigation awards
10 for flood work that had been completed. He noted one project was Silver Point Park and the
11 other was the Harding Holding Pond. He stated WSB felt the City had a good chance of
12 receiving National and State awards being offered. He added the outcome would be known
13 sometime this coming winter.
14
15 Mr. Mornson handed out an Erosion Control Handbook for local roads. He noted the Harding
16 Holding Pond was referenced in the Handbook.
17
18 Councilmember Horst indicated he had attended a Board meeting of Community Services, which
19 had its first meeting the past week. He noted there was discussion regarding the cuts in State
20 funding in early childhood and the loss of the grandfather clause. He stated he was excited the
21 City had agreed to help handle expenses.
22
Councilmember Sparks stated she had attended the Parks Commission meeting the past evening
40 and the bulk of the meeting was spent discussing issues the Commissioners found unsatisfactory,
25 ranging from baseline to erosion problems. She added the Commissioners were trying to figure
26 out what would and would not be corrected. She noted the Parks Commission meetings would
27 be seen on cable soon. She noted the draft of the policy for future improvements was discussed,
28 which included conversation about how the School and City could work together to handle park
29 improvements. She added the Parks Commission also had some ideas regarding changing the
30 language. She indicated Council would see a redraft of the policy in the near future.
31
32 Mayor Hodson asked if Public Works Director Hartman had attended the Parks Commission
33 meeting. He added "no checks would be leaving St. Anthony"until the problems were
34 corrected.
35
36 Councilmember Thuesen stated he was happy to hear the Parks Commission meetings would be
37 on cable. He asked if any money came with the plaque if recognition was won from WSB. It
38 was noted there was a nominal amount of money involved.
39
40 Councilmember Thuesen noted this was the fourth year he had an opportunity to go to Wilshire
41 Park to talk about civics and government. He stated he was impressed with the youth and their
42 questions, as some were already"plugged into"what was happening in their community and
43 around the world.
44
Councilmember Faust commented if the City received the award, it would obtain recognition
through the League of Minnesota Cities, which would be very helpful when the City was looking
47 for assistance.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2003
• Page 16
Councilmember Faust stated he attended a September 29, 2003, Sister City meeting. He added
2 the annual meeting was scheduled for November 9, 2003. He noted people were invited to
3 attend, as more people were needed to work with the Sister City.
4
5 Councilmember Faust noted Council met with the School District on September 30, 2003. He
6 indicated discussion had been about projects done collectively and the community that was
7 served.
8
9 Councilmember Faust stated Mayor Hodson, Mr. Mornson, John Shardlow and he had attended
10 the Livable Communities Advisory Committee meeting the past Friday. He noted the City had
11 applied for a$900,000 grant for the park located in the redevelopment. He indicated Mayor
12 Hodson had done an excellent job presenting the City's application and he felt the City had a
13 "working chance." He thanked Mayor Hodson for an outstanding presentation.
14
15 Mayor Hodson responded it was a team effort and another example of how working together
16 allowed the City's projects to be completed. He noted $900,000 was a significant amount of
17 money and$6 million to $7 million had also been brought into the City for flood protection.
18
19 Mayor Hodson stated he met with the new Wilshire Park teachers the past week to give them an
20 update of what was happening in the City. He indicated he asked the teachers if they were able
21 to find housing and the teachers replied they were not having problems locating housing.
22
Mayor Hodson noted it was rumored the Chamber of Commerce would be working with the
41 developer on a Northwest Quadrant Gala Event.
25
26 Mr. Ranallo stated he would volunteer to help with the videotaping and audiotaping of the next
27 Council meetings. Mayor Hodson thanked Mr. Ranallo and asked him if he could identify a way
28 to help the problems being experienced, as they had been present for some time.
29
30 IX. INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS.
31 None.
32
33 X. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATIONAL DOCUMENTS.
34 None.
35
36 XI. ADJOURNMENT.
37 Mayor Hodson adjourned the meeting at 9:09 p.m.
38
39 Respectfully submitted,
40
41
42 Marjorie R. Jenkins
43 TimeSaver OffSite Secretarial, Inc.
44
Mayor
ATTEST: C'
47 City Clerk