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Folder: CC MINUTES AND AGENDAS 2003
Document: CC MINUTES 04082003
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 1
CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
2
3 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
4
5 April 8, 2003
6
7 CALL TO ORDER
8 Mayor Hodson called the meeting to order at 7:00 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 Mornson.
17
18 CONSIDERATION, DISCUSSION, AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON ALL OF THE FOLLOWING
19 ITEMS.
20
21 I. APPROVAL OF APRIL 8, 2003 CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA.
Motion by Councilmember Sparks to approve the City Council Meeting Agenda of April 8,
46 2003.
24
25 Motion carried unanimously.
26
27 II. PROCLAMATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS.
28 None.
29
30 III. COMMUNITY FORUM.
31 Mayor Hodson invited residents to come forward at this time and address the Council on items
32 that are not on the regular agenda.
33
34 Hearing none, Mayor Hodson moved forward with the agenda.
35
36 IV. CONSENT AGENDA.
37
38 1. Consider March 25, 2003 Council meeting minutes.
39 2. Consider licenses and permits.
40 3. Consider payment of claims.
41
42 Motion by Councilmember Faust to approve the Consent Agenda items with the removal of
43 Consent Agenda Item 1.
46 Motion carried unanimously.
46—
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 2
Motion by Councilmember Sparks to approve the City Council Meeting Minutes of March 25,
2 2003.
3
4 Motion carried with Mayor Hodson abstainine.
5
6 V. PUBLIC HEARINGS.
7
8 A. Board of Review
9 Mayor Hodson opened the public hearing at 7:03 p.m. and welcomed Hennepin County
10 Appraiser Tamara Doolittle to the meeting.
11
12 Ms. Doolittle introduced herself. She reviewed the method of assessment and the 2003
13 assessment information for the board of review process. She explained that the sale study price
14 that would prevail under competitive open market conditions was used. Ms. Doolittle stated that
15 there were 55 sales that occurred between October 1, 2001 and September 30, 2002 and
16 indicated these were used to assist in setting values for 2003.
17
18 Ms. Doolittle listed the adjustments for the 2003 assessments as being on average: Residential—
19 8.9%, Commercial/Industrial 3.3%, Condos— 10.8%, Townhouses—9.5%, Duplex — 17.7%.
20 She stated that a complete evaluation was done on the commercial/industrial properties this year,
21 as some were up and some were down. She noted that the value notices were mailed March 7.
16 Ms. Doolittle stated the assessor's office received 20 calls of which 11 of these were reviewed.
24 She explained that if you do not feel the 2003 valuation represents the fair market value of the
25 home and that this meeting gave the residents an opportunity to appeal. She explained in that
26 case, the County Assessor would then take the opportunity to do an interior inspection of the
27 home. She stated that the last day for this board to reconvene is April 28, 2003. She then asked
28 if there were any questions from the Board.
29
30 Mayor Hodson invited Anthony Kaczor to come to the podium.
31
32 Anthony Kaczor, 3008 —33`d Avenue, stated his property value has gone up $114,000 in the past
33 three years. He stated the house next door and behind him brings his value down, while his
34 home brings their values up. He explained the taxable value of his home went up 12% and the
35 estimated value went up only 9%. Mr.Kaczor indicated the housing market has hit the wall, in
36 his opinion, and stated his value shouldn't go up by 12%. He stated he feels like he just has to
37 let his house, including his roof, run down because they keep raising the value. Mr.Kaczor feels
38 that the estimated market value should stay at $231,000. He feels $200,000 should be the
39 taxable value and the assessor's office wants it to go from $206,000 to $231,000.
40
41 Ms. Doolittle offered to review Mr. Kaczor's value and do some review of sales in his area.
42
43 Councilmember Faust recommended that Ms. Doolittle review his property and stated that Mr.
Kaczor has now taken the necessary steps so that he can appeal to Hennepin County if he would
like to. Councilmember Faust said values are not raised to generate taxes. He advised that the
6 12%increase is mitigated by the State legislature.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 3
Theodore Swierczek, 2601 Kenzie Terrace, #530, came to the podium and stated the Kenzie
2 building he lives in has a crack that is 1/4 to 1 inch wide and 24 feet across where the plaster is
3 coming out and will need numerous repairs. He explained he is asking for a reinspection and
4 evaluation by the assessor's office. Ms. Doolittle stated that she can come out and review the
5 evaluation and if Mr. Swierczek was not happy he would be able to appeal to the Board.
6
7 Mayor Hodson asked if anyone else would like to be heard. Hearing none, Mayor Hodson
8 closed the public hearing at 7:16 p.m.
9
10 VI. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONS AND STAFF.
I 1 A. Update on Three Rivers Park.
12 Mayor Hodson welcomed Doug Bryant, Don DeVeau, and Rosemary Franzese to the meeting.
13
14 Rosemary Franzese stated in September of 2001 Three Rivers Park District acquired the
15 Salvation Army property and are now drafting plans along with an advisory board of St.
16 Anthony residents. Ms. Franzese then introduced Doug Bryant.
17
18 Doug. Bryant explained that Mr. DeVeau would go over the preliminary concept plan with the
19 Council. He stated that Three River Parks is one of ten regional park agencies in the Twin Cities
20 area and that they get a fair amount of funding from the State Legislature and Met Council for
21 Regional Parks. Mr. Bryant stated the acquisition of the land was just under$8,000,000 and
16 qualifies for a reimbursement grant.
24 Mr. Bryant indicated they would go to the legislature in 2004 to seek funding for Phase I of the
25 park. He explained when state funding was provided the Met Council would match the funds on
26 a 60/40 basis. He stated that the funds would be available in late 2004 or early 2005. He
27 explained if the dollars are allocated, the City go forward with construction as soon as possible
28 to be able to open Phase I in 2006.
29
30 Mr. Bryant explained that if the dollars are not allocated there would be a reevaluation of the site
31 to see what they can do with the existing facility. He stated they are also working with the City
32 of Columbia Heights regarding a small parcel to the west of the park that may be included (about
33 2.5 or 2.6 acres). He stated that Three Rivers will be talking to the City of Columbia Heights at
34 the end of the month. Mr. Bryant explained the Salvation Army has requested an extension of
35 their lease. He recommended the lease be extended until September of 2004. Mr. Bryant then
36 introduced Don DeVeau to go over the preliminary concept plan.
37
38 Don DeVeau explained Three Rivers Park's mission as promoting environmental stewardship
39 through recreation and education in a natural resources-based park system. He explained
40 environmental stewardship was important throughout the entire concept and Silver Lake was
41 classified as a special recreation feature. Mr. DeVeau noted there are three types of parks within
42 the system: a park reserve (at least 1000 acres), a regional park (to take pressure off of the park
43 reserves) and special recreation feature parks.
16 Mr. DeVeau reviewed the characteristics of special recreation feature parks and what the criteria
46 was for this classification. He stated there cannot be duplication between the special recreation
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 4
feature parks and services already offered by the regional parks. He explained that in the
2 development of the master plan, seven phases were identified. He stated meetings were held to
3 discuss various concept plans and preliminary plans, themes and outcomes were established. He
4 then showed an aerial view of the Salvation Army camp and stated there are 69 acres of land
5 available at the Salvation Army property. He stated the preliminary concept that was chosen
6 was for Silverwood—A Center for Arts and the Environment.
7
8 Mr. DeVeau indicated there would be two entrances with the main entrance on Silver Lake Road
9 (close to the existing roadway) and a second entrance on County Road E. He explained as guests
10 arrive there will be picnic areas on the eastern side of the property with some access for canoes
11 to the lake. He stated that this area will be open during park hours. Mr. DeVeau continued to
12 explain that as guests travel to the west, they would find the main parking lot and in the
13 southwest portion of the development a two story building that will be added onto and a new
14 building built specifically for arts and the environment.
15
16 Mr. DeVeau explained to the east there would be sculpture gardens for weddings and special
17 uses, including larger turf areas. He indicated to the south there would be an amphitheater close
18 to the water. He stated there would be a paved trail all the way through the park and also
19 woodchip trails. Mr. DeVeau noted this was just preliminary and that they are not sure how
20 many buildings would be needed. He stated that they may add some housing units for small
21 groups to be able to stay overnight. Mr. DeVeau explained the existing 23 buildings have been
examined and would be investigated for reuse within the project. He stated that the master plan
41 would be submitted to the Met Council by this Fall. Mr. DeVeau then asked for any questions
24 from the Council.
25
26 Councilmember Thuesen asked whether there are any other properties that Three Rivers Parks is
27 currently working on. Mr. DeVeau stated that there is an educational farm in Minnetrista. Mr.
28 Bryant added that there is a site called Murphy's Landing in Scott County, which will be a
29 historical preservation site.
30
31 Councilmember Thuesen questioned how high in the pecking order this property was. Mr.
32 Bryant explained it is in the five-year plan and the time line stated earlier was the time line that
33 has been approved. He explained that Three Rivers Park would receive $4-5 million dollars each
34 year and noted if that continues there was a good chance to open Phase I by 2006. Mr. Bryant
35 explained that if the funding levels continue as promised, the funds allocated in 2004 would be
36 available in early 2005.
37
38 Councilmember Thuesen asked Mr. DeVeau to address concerns about the amphitheater noise.
39 Mr. DeVeau stated this would be a small amphitheater utilized for displays and public
40 discussions, not of a size that would enable high school bands, etc. He agreed that it was close to
41 the lake and there may be sound issues that need to be addressed.
42
43 Councilmember Thuesen asked whether there would be someone working full time on site to
allow people to utilize the arts and environmental programs. Mr. Bryant explained how the
16 nature centers work in other cities and anticipated that there would be full time, part time and
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 5
volunteer workers. He explained that there would be public programs that can be attended and
2 also schools could utilize the facility.
3
4 Councilmember Faust questioned the hours of operation for this park. Mr. Bryant stated typically
5 hours are from 6:00 a.m. until sunset unless there were evening programs. He stated if there was
6 a building open on site, the hours could be from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. for the building
7
8 Councilmember Faust questioned who would be policing the park. Mr. Bryant stated they have
9 there own police staff, both certified and non-certified. He noted there would be some
10 coordination with the county and municipal law enforcement as well.
11
12 Mayor Hodson asked about the property the Columbia Heights property. He questioned whether
13 or not it would remain a beach. Mr. Bryant stated that the property qualifies as a special
14 recreation feature, which means that to get the funding they cannot duplicate services provided
15 by regional parks. He stated since there was a beach on Long Lake at the regional park it would
16 be their recommendation that there would not be a swimming beach at Silver Lake. Mr. Bryant
17 stated they would recommend a fishing pier and walking trails instead. He stated the playground
18 equipment may have to be removed as well. He added that the City of Columbia Heights does
19 have some say in this however, and noted he would report back to the Council after talking with
20 Columbia Heights, to give the final recommended plan.
21
41 Councilmember Sparks noted Village Fest would be held at the camp this year.
24 Mayor Hodson thanked Mr. Bryant, Mr. DeVeau and Ms. Franzese for coming.
25
26 B. Update from the Public Facilities Study Group.
27 Mayor Hodson welcomed Public Facilities Study Group Chair Paul Archambault to the meeting.
28
29 Mr. Archambault addressed Council and provided an update on the Public Facilities Study
30 Group. He proceeded with a PowerPoint presentation for the Council. He stated that there were
31 eighteen volunteers on the Study Task Force. Mr. Archambault stated that everyone who wanted
32 to join was invited to join and they studied the needs and developed recommendations for the
33 public works building and for a fire station facility. He noted they were given an open slate and
34 looked at every option. He mentioned that in 2001 an estimate was given for a new Public Works
35 Building at $5.5 million.
36
37 Mr. Archambault stated the task force was created in June of 2002. He stated that tonight they
38 will present an interim report to Council with a final report to follow in the upcoming months.
39 Mr. Archambault reviewed the public facilities study history and the scope of work that was
40 performed by the task force (tours, talking with various people, soliciting public comments, etc.)
41 He reviewed the public involvement done through open houses, newsletters, the city web site
42 and news releases. He stated that there has been feedback from hundreds of residents.
43
Mr. Archambault reviewed the history of the facilities. He showed slides to compare the fire
41 department services for 1955, 1958 and 1971 with regard to employees, calls responded to and
46 amount of fire trucks. He then compared the responsibilities of the fire department for 1950 and
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 6
now. He stated that the facility for the fire station and public works were not sufficient for
2 today's demands.
3
4 Mr. Archambault listed several deficiencies for the fire station sites as being: vehicles parked
5 too closely, inadequate space for training, no decontamination space, upgrading needed, no equal
6 facilities for both genders, and does not meet current ADA standards for access to the public. He
7 also noted the need for various repairs and the inadequate living quarters. Mr. Archambault
8 stated the quality of the facility was affecting the ability to retain employees. He mentioned that
9 currently the vehicles are split between two sites.
10
11 Mr. Archambault reviewed the deficiencies of the Public Works facilities. He compared the
12 services demanded in the 1960's to now. He listed the responsibilities of the Public Works
13 department and showed slides listing the deficiencies including some of the vehicles are stored
14 outside, there are structural issues, space issues, needed upgrades, no equal facilities for both
15 genders, no decontamination areas, air quality problems, that this impacts the ability to recruit
16 and maintain employees, and again, does not meet minimum ADA standards. He noted that the
17 snowplows have to be disassembled to allow them to be parked indoors.
18
19 Mr. Archambault reviewed the facility goals to be, looking at providing proper storage and
20 maintenance of vehicles, making sure the improved sites would accommodate for fifty years into
21 the future if possible, continuing to provide high level of service, making sure the improvements
are affordable, making sure the improvements are a good investment and assist in keeping good
employees.
24
25 Mr. Archambault reviewed facility options that were studied such as location, size, design,
26 materials, remodeling and additions, financing alternatives, affordability and useful life of the
27 facility. He explained there was discussion on the level of service provided, but the task force
28 determined it was not their mission to answer these questions; it was a staff and a Council issue.
29 Mr. Archambault stated they don't have the expertise to answer those questions.
30
31 Mr. Archambault reviewed the selection criteria for a new fire station site to include the land
32 acquisition cost, development cost, useful life, maintenance cost and best land use. He stated
33 one of the limiting factors at this time was in having two fire stations, fire fighters have to man a
34 truck before it can pull out and sometimes they have to get the fire fighters from one fire station
35 to the other station before a truck can leave.
36
37 Mr. Archambault listed the first station sites considered: the current site, Kenzie
38 Terrace/Bowling Alley, Sroga Towing, the tennis courts, Christen Property, American Monarch,
39 Northwest Quadrant, the current Public Works site and Tires Plus. He stated that a scoring
40 system was put into place and the two top sites were the tennis courts and the Christen
41 Properties. He stated that it was determined that there was a better use for the current site as a
42 retail/restaurant site and indicated there was already a buyer for that site.
43
Mr. Archambault stated that the task force believes one fire station would be best to improve
cleanup, response time and noted costs would also be saved. He indicated the proposed site
46 - would be adjacent to City Hall. He stated the fire station building preliminary findings include a
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 7
16,000 square foot building. Mr. Archambault mentioned that this is just preliminary and so
2 were the costs. He stated that the property address would be 3501/3505 Silver Lake Road. He
3 stated that this recommended site consists of two private homes and storage in the back. Mr.
4 Archambault indicated the use of this site would give the city a chance to get rid of an industrial
5 site in a residential neighborhood and clean up could be done. Mr. Archambault added that the
6 site lines are excellent from this property.
7
8 Mr. Archambault stated that the task for recommends a renovation of the public works site. He
9 stated the new proposed size would be30,000 square feet. He noted the administrative portion
10 would be removed.
11
12 Mr. Archambault stated the cost estimate would be $6-7 million for both facilities; this
13 compares to the $5.5 million estimate given in 2000 for just the public works building. He stated
14 that this is just preliminary and can be adjusted according to a desired budget.
15
16 Mr. Archambault stated that the funding mechanism recommended would be revenue bonds. He
17 noted the preliminary findings for proceeding at this time include: construction costs being
18 extremely low, bond rates are good, willing seller for new site and willing buyer for existing site.
19 He then showed a property tax cost impact chart. Mr. Archambault reviewed the next steps the
20 task force would take are to review the fire station preliminary plans and to study options for the
21 public works building. He announced a final open house would be held on April 22, 2003. Mr.
Archambault noted a final group meeting would be held on May 6, 2003 with the final
recommendation made to Council on May 13, 2003. Mr. Archambault thanked the Council for
24 their time and asked for comments.
25
26 Mayor Hodson asked if there were any questions at this time.
27
28 Councilmember Sparks asked how significant the concern was about the level of services. Mr.
29 Archambault responded that they had two or three people show up at a meeting asking why the
30 City even needs a fire department and asked questions that they didn't have the answers to. He
31 stated the task force referred the questions to staff. Mr. Archambault noted they invited public
32 comment at their meetings and presented answers to questions.
33
34 Councilmember Sparks mentioned that she stopped in at the last meeting and was impressed by
35 the level of detail and concern. She stated that she was glad to see the rating and how close it
36 was between the building sites. She asked Mr. Archambault to talk about how close it was
37 between the top sites for the fire station. Mr. Archambault explained why they did the rating and
38 that they would welcome any analysis of the information by the Council.
39
40 Mayor Hodson asked what the top four sites were. Mr. Archambault responded that the top site
41 was the Christen property, second was the tennis courts, third was American Monarch and fourth
42 was the public works site. He stated they didn't look at any of the sites being free, but
43 considered all of them with an acquisition cost. Mr. Archambault went over the negatives issues
16 that were considered for each site.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 8
Councilmember Faust commented that he realizes it was difficult to put a numerical value on
2 each,but asked whether it was Mr. Archambault's opinion that there was a strong consensus that
3 the Christen site was best. Mr. Archambault responded that all but one of the members of the
4 task force felt that the Christen site was the best choice.
5
6 Councilmember Thuesen asked what the mindset was as far as being long term. Mr.
7 Archambault responded that 90%of the people they talked to wanted to do something, but were
8 concerned that it be done well enough to last.
9
10 Councilmember Thuesen commented that it was very evident that sincerity has been put in by
11 the task force and he believes they have done an outstanding job. Councilmember Faust
12 concurred that the task force has been very thorough and lots of energy and time have gone into
13 their recommendations.
14
15 Mayor Hodson asked for any questions and requested that Mr. Archambault stick around in case
16 clarification was needed. He announced that there are three individuals who would like to come
17 forward and asked Mr. Gonder to come forward.
18
19 Michael Gonder, 2901 St. Anthony Boulevard, announced that he was a member of the task
20 force. He stated he feels there is haste in making this decision. He believes there needs to be
21 more discussion on why the 30,000 square feet of public works space are needed. He asked that
the Council address what needs we will have for the future. He suggested we need to study these
future needs and shouldn't rush. Mr. Gonder stated the revenue bonds allow no taxpayer vote
24 and that they cost the taxpayers more money even though there is no voter input allowed. He
25 stated we are loosing $250,000 in state aid and noted the Council is considering spending all this
26 money with no real need to do it. He indicated the services aren't going to improve and at this
27 time more medical is needed.
28
29 Lowell Ludford, 2813 Townview Avenue wished to complain that the plan by the task force was
30 not budget driven. He asked why didn't the public study group have a budget to work with. He
31 noted they had to determine size, location, etc. first and stated that was not budget planning. Mr.
32 Ludford urged Council to send the interim report back to the study group with a budget mandate
33 to show fiscal responsibility.
34
35 Bill Volna, 3501 Coolidge Street N.E. stated that he should have been on the task force. He feels
36 the proposed fire station was way too extravagant. He believes the budget had to be loaded way
37 up so that when cuts were made they would still have enough. Mr. Volna stated he feels the
38 people who questioned the facility were shouted down by the task force and fire department. He
39 noted that emergency calls are 75%medical with fire calls decreasing. He stated that an
40 ambulance is more important than another fire truck.
41
42 Mr. Volna asked why we need drive-through capability. He stated he was told the drivers have
43 problems backing into the station, but indicated the citizens will pay more in heating costs
because of the large drive through doors. Mr. Volna felt it would be dangerous for the fire
16 station to be near a daycare facility when the drivers can't back a truck up. He stated the
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 9
Christen property was home to a garbage facility and nasty spills may have occurred. He asked
2 who would pay for needed clean up or environmental impact study.
3
4 Councilmember Thuesen commented that he would like to ease the concerns about the daycare.
5 He stated that if the location was to go on the Christen site, there was no danger or negative
6 impact to the children.
7
8 Mr. Volna pointed out that the Christen site was located at the crest of the hill and may not be
9 the best location for safety.
10
11 Mayor Hodson asked for any further comments.
12
13 Mr. Archambault stated the task force has always invited dissenting opinions and Michael
14 Gonder can tell you that he was asked to be on the Task Force because he was a dissenting voice.
15 He noted they have thanked each of these people for their comments.
16
17 Mayor Hodson asked for any further comments.
18
19 Fire Chief Hewitt approached the podium and stated he would like to take exception to the
20 comment that they have incompetent, reckless drivers on the department. He stated they have
21 dedicated employees who serve all of the community and its residents.
6 Mayor Hodson stated that if there are no further comments, he would just say the price tag
24 concerns him a little in these economic times. He stated as the task force goes forward he'd like
25 to look at getting that number fine-tuned and he thinks that it is an issue. Mayor Hodson stated
26 that as Councilmembers they need to take a look at all of the costs coming to the residents.
27
28 Councilmember Thuesen stated he has no problem taking a look at fine tuning the process. He
29 would like to see a cost benefit analysis. He added he would like to get a better idea of what is
30 the cost benefit. Councilmember Thuesen stated that he wants to make sure we have two quality
31 buildings that meet our needs. He noted he doesn't want to short change either building or
32 neglect the future needs of the community.
33
34 Councilmember Horst commented that these facilities need to be looked at objectively. He
35 stated that anything would be better than what we have if the money is available. He stated there
36 is always criticism and issues have to be raised by the council.
37
38 Councilmember Sparks stated that she wanted to take a look at it further before she had anything
39 to add.
40
41 Councilmember Faust stated he thinks the task force did a good job. He hoped the public reads
42 the newsletter and comes to the open house to let them know what they think. He indicated he
43 doesn't have the expertise to tell any group what's good or bad at that cost.
46 Councilmember Horst stated he doesn't want the task force to feel he doesn't appreciate them.
46 He stated that he was grateful for what they've done.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
Apri18, 2003
Page 10
Mayor Hodson asked for a motion for a five minute break.
2
3 Motion by Councilmember Faust for a five minute break at 9:05 p.m.
4
5 Motion carried unanimously
6
7 Mayor Hodson reconvened the meeting at 9:10 p.m.
8
9 C. Public Works 2002 Report
10 Public Works Director Jay Hartman addressed the Council and provided an overview of the
11 Public Works Department and some of its accomplishments for the year 2002. He showed a
12 slide show to describe the various departments: Vehicle Maintenance, Street Department, Parks
13 and Water& Sewer. He explained that the Vehicle Maintenance department was responsible for
14 Police, Fire and Liquor vehicles. He explained the Street Department was responsible for
15 maintaining 24 miles of roadway, snow removal, ice control, crack sealing, curb and panel
16 replacement, street sweeping, crosswalk, centerline striping, boulevard tree trimming, tree
17 replacement, street reconstruction, etc.
18
19 Mr. Hartman stated the Parks Department was responsible for maintaining five city parks,
20 making sure the fields were ready for use, maintaining park shelters, storm water and retention
21 ponds. He explained the Water and Sewer Department was responsible for the utility
department, hydrant flushing, opening water, meter replacement program, storm sewer
46 inspection, updated utility maps, etc.
24
25 Mr. Hartman reviewed the 2003 reconstruction goals. Mr. Hartman listed the 2002 goals that
26 were accomplished and the capital improvements for 2003.
27
28 Mr. Hartman concluded that 2002 was a very successful year for the Public Works Department.
29 He attributed the success to the employees and then asked for questions from the Council.
30
31 Councilmember Faust asked what"jetted" meant. Mr. Hartman explained it was a way to clean
32 the sewer lines, kind of like Roto Rooter.
33
34 Councilmember Sparks asked for an explanation of the water meter replacement program.
35 Mr. Hartman explained that the department was changing the water meters over to a smaller
36 design. He stated the upcoming newsletter would show the three types and if residents have the
37 older model they can request a new meter by calling City Hall.
38
39 Councilmember Sparks asked a question regarding employee numbers. She questioned how
40 services have increased or improved with extra employees. Mr. Hartman said the best example
41 he could give was the parks system. He stated there was a lot more to do than cut the grass and
42 paint the fence these days. He noted more services are offered requiring more staff.
43
Councilmember Sparks asked about snow removal and how these services are improved. Mr.
46 Hartman commented that whether 2"or 10", the goal is to have the city cleaned within 6 hours.
46 He noted the department prides itself on this fast response.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 11
Councilmember Faust explained that in 1945 the City was incorporated, it took about 10 years to
2 build roads and then a low maintenance period elapsed and now there are in a road
3 reconstruction period. He noted they didn't have to do those things early on. Mr. Hartman
4 agreed that now the maintenance levels are higher than ever.
5
6 Councilmember Faust added that the expectations and level of service required by the residents
7 has gone up.
8
9 Mr. Mornson commented that there are now nine holding ponds that the public works has to take
10 care of which require a lot of time.
11
12 Councilmember Horst stated as the City ages, there was more work to be done. He asked what
13 future issues should be addressed and if street sweeping needs to be done as often as they do.
14 Mr. Hartman noted they sweep on average considerably more than some but stated that was
15 flexible.
16
17 Councilmember Horst stated that the City of Minneapolis leaves sweeping of sidewalks to
18 residents. He noted this could be considered for the future to reduce expenses for the public
19 works department. Mr. Hartman commented that ultimately the citizens may need to do that at
20 some point in the future.
21
Councilmember Thuesen commented that usually by 7:00 a.m. he sees the sidewalks being made
safe by the public works for the kids and the elderly. He thanked the department for their hard
24 work.
25
26 VII. GENERAL POLICY BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL.
27 None.
28
29 VIII. REPORTS FROM CITY MANAGER AND COUNCILMEMBERS.
30 Mr. Mornson reported that for two years the office staff and Public Works union has been
31 requesting a summer schedule change of four nine hour days and half a day on Friday. He stated
32 that it will save some money and that there will be an on-call person available. Mr. Mornson
33 stated they would open at 7:00 a.m. instead of 8:00 a.m., Monday through Thursday. He noted
34 that typically on Friday afternoons the office was not busy and that a lot of other cities offer this
35 summer schedule. Mr. Mornson stated staff wants to try this to offer more flexibility for staff
36 and residents.
37
38 Councilmember Horst explained it would help him to know what other cities are doing. Mr.
39 Mornson indicated that Arden Hills has summer hours and that he would get information and
40 report back to the Council. He stated that since the Police Department went to three 12-hour
41 days it has been successful.
42
43 Mr. Mornson also brought up the comp time issue. He stated that the City has allowed comp
time where the overtime hours can be taken as comp time instead of overtime pay. Mr. Mornson
16 indicated some staff members have accumulated a lot of comp time and we now know if it is not
46 used that it must be paid off by the end of the year. He stated that he would like an auditor to
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 12
find out what the liability is and find a way to pay it off so they can get it off the books. Mr.
2 Mornson stated they also still have the personal leave issue but he has dropped it until after the
3 union contracts have been negotiated this year because there has been some objection to it.
4
5 Mr. Mornson explained the Silver Point Park building bidding should open in June with bidding
6 for Kenzie Terrace and 27`h Avenue NE sewer project to begin in May. He noted construction
7 for the,2003 street improvement would be scheduled in May and the bid opening for the water
8 filtration was scheduled for August.
9
10 Mr. Mornson stated that the insurance for the Stonehouse was due May 31, 2003 and early
11 indications are that dram shop insurance will go up to $20,000. He stated that they plan to
12 continue the operation of the Stonehouse. Mr. Mornson explained they met with the
13 redevelopment company for the Stonehouse and noted Stacy would come to the May 13,2 003
14 meeting to go over preliminary plans. He noted that site plan reviews would be needed. Mr.
15 Mornson indicated the proposed restaurant will have to apply for a liquor license and a hearing
16 will have to be held. Mr. Mornson asked if there were any questions on the Stonehouse project.
17
18 Councilmember Horst commented he thought that the question wasn't whether we are getting
19 insurance, but if the rates would be too high. Mr. Mornson said he will get an analysis of the
20 increase in insurance and span it out to see the rate of return for the Council to review. He stated
21 we want to keep the charitable gambling going as long as possible.
0 Mr. Mornson stated the Autumn Woods owner would be presenting a plan to the council in June
24 for a 25-unit townhouse project. Mr. Mornson indicated the Northwest Quadrant was meeting
25 four or five times a week. He stated that they met with residents and there were many questions.
26 He stated the TIF district needs to be established and they may need to do some street level
27 inspections because some of the residents will not let them do interior inspections.
28
29 Mayor Hodson asked why businesses wouldn't let the inspection be done. Mr. Mornson
30 indicated that some don't want to move or relocate and some are afraid of what they will find.
31 Mr. Mornson reviewed the TIF standards and noted the tenants may have to look at
32 condemnation if they don't cooperate and could be assessed for improvements. Mr. Mornson
33 stated that this week there was a positive meeting with the owner of the real estate where CUB
34 Foods was located.
35
36 Mr. Mornson noted that April 9, 2003 was City Day at the Capital.
37
38 Mr. Mornson noted that he was checking on lease revenue bond exploration prior to May 31,
39 2003. He explained it may help with funding the proposed new facilities. Mr. Mornson noted he
40 would report back to the Council on this issue.
41
42 Mr. Mornson reviewed steps that would have to be followed if a Public Facilities Report was
43 something the Council wanted to follow up on. He suggested if a report was received on May
13, 2003 that they should put together a meeting with Jim Prosser. He reported $400-500 was
16 spent on getting an appraisal on the Christen property.
46
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 13
Councilmember Sparks asked what happened with the assessments. Mr. Mornson said they were
2 reduced about $700-800 or eight hundred dollars after an inspection was made.
3
4 Councilmember Horst reported that at the Community Services board meeting last week the
5 grandfather bill was discussed. He explained the history and mentioned that the Governor's bill
6 took it away and that it affects community services. He stated that Kathy Knapp and several
7 school board members talked to the legislature and indicated there will be a bill introduced to
8 keep that mechanism in place.
9
10 Councilmember Sparks stated that the Village Fest planning committee took a tour of the
11 Salvation Army site. She also stated that they are looking at changing the parade to Friday night
12 to begin at City Hall and head towards the Stonehouse if a 7:00 p.m. concert was going to be
13 held.
14
15 Councilmember Thuesen had no report.
16
17 Councilmember Faust indicated that he attended a sister city meeting and there are openings for
18 housing and sponsoring a student. He stated that people should contact Keith, the principal at
19 the high school if interested. Councilmember Faust noted the Chamber of Commerce meeting
20 was on April 16, 2003.
21
Mayor Hodson indicated that the North Metro Mayor's Association for the council has a meeting
April 16, 2003. He noted that on Saturday there would be a ribbon cutting ceremony for
24 Culvers. He added that the POPS Concert was on April 25, 2003 and April 26, 2003.
25
26 Mayor Hodson explained that May 1, 2003 was the State of the City event at the high school
27 auditorium and would include the Council scooping up ice cream.
28
29 Councilmember Sparks added that the Band Booster's garage sale was coming up. She indicated
30 donations were being excepted on April 14-16, 2003 with the sale held April 17-18, 2003 at
31 Apache Plaza.
32
33 Mr. Mornson asked for consensus on a work session date to discuss the public works facility and
34 proposed fire station. The Council agreed to meet on May 20, 2003 at 6:30 p.m.
35
36 IX. INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS.
37 None.
38
39 X. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATIONAL DOCUMENTS.
40 None.
41
42 XI. ADJOURNMENT.
43 Motion by Councilmember Faust to adjourn the meeting at 10:12 p.m.
6 Motion carried unanimously.
46
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
April 8, 2003
Page 14
Respectfully submitted,
2
3
4 Sandra Miller
5 TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
6 OUNA
7 Mayor Ho n
8 ATTEST:
9 City Clerk
10
•