HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-18-08December 18, 2008
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Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City Council for the City of St. Joseph met in regular session
on Thursday, December 18, 2008 at 6:30 PM in the St. Joseph City Hall.
Closed Session: Wick made a motion to close the public meeting to consider and discuss strategy
for labor negotiations and review negotiation proposals pursuant to Minn Stat Sec 179A.01 to
179A.25(the Public Employment Labor Relations Act) and pursuant to Minn Stat Sec 13D.03, Subd
1 (b)(the Open Meeting Law)." The motion was seconded by Frank and passed unanimously.
The meeting was opened at 7:00 PM.
Members Present: Mayor AI Rassier, Councilors Renee Symanietz, Dale Wick, Rick Schultz, Steve Frank
City Administrator Judy Weyrens
Citv Representatives Present: Finance Director Lori Bartlett, Public Works Director Terry Thene, Police
Chief Pete Jansky City Engineer Randy Sabart
Others Present: T. Schuler, Irene Reber, Mariterese Woida, Ellen & Bob Wahlstrom, Brian Andersen,
Brent Walz, Mark Zimmer, Paula Revier, C Smith-Strack, Joe Walz, Nelda Dehn, Kenny Loso
Public Comments - No one present wished to speak.
Agenda: Symanietz made a motion to approve the agenda with the following changes/additions:
Move Items 4g j for discussion after approval of the consent agenda
Add 12e - Graceview Update
The motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously.
Consent Agenda: Wick made a motion to approve the consent agenda as follows:
a. Minutes -Approve the minutes of November 20, December 2 and December 4, 2008.
b. Bills Payable -Approve check numbers 041066-041107 and EFT numbers 040429-040435.
c. Application for Payment -Authorize the Mayor to execute Pay Application #5 (Final) for
the 2006 8th Avenue NE Improvements and authorize payment to C 8 L Excavating in the
amount of $7,957.89.
d. Acceptance of Gifts -Accept the donations and their purposes as presented.
e. Treasurer's Report -Accept the November 2008 Treasurer's Report.
f. NightCAP Program -Approve and authorize the Police Chief and Administrator to execute
the Grant Contract for Operation NightCAP.
The motion was seconded by Schultz and passed unanimously
4(g) -Fire Resort: Frank stated that he reviewed the 6month fire report and noticed that there were a few
addresses at which the fire department was called several times. For example, there is anon-profit group
home on 6'~ Avenue which was listed 12-15 times. He questioned the possibility of charging for fire calls
after a certain number of false alarms or incidences. Jansky advised Frank that many of those calls are
for medical situations. Weyrens stated that, according to the League, the City cannot charge for those
types of calls and the City does not want to discourage residents from calling for help. Frank replied that
when looking at cuts, the City should look at everything and suggested a sliding fee for false alarms.
Jansky stated that the City has not had a lot of problems with false alarms. Frank requested that staff look
at how this is handled in other cities. Weyrens stated that she would forward the memo from the League
addressing this issue.
Frank also stated that he did not realize that the bars hold events at which they are so packed that people
cannot walk around. He also was not aware of the fact that the City does not follow the fire code as to the
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number of people allowed in an establishment and that they are not inspected. He stated that this is a
catastrophe waiting to happen. Weyrens stated that the City can required a Class A fire inspection in
conjunction with a liquor license, but the requirements may not be accepted by the license holders. In an
effort to provide information on the impact of Fire Inspections, the Building Official will make a
presentation to the Council in February.
4(h) -Vehicle Lease: Frank questioned Jansky about the leasing of the Police vehicles. He stated that St.
Joseph has a very tight budget for the Police Department, but he asked the Chief to consider the
following:
• Does the City really need the car as we just purchased the SUV? Jansky stated that, yes; the
vehicle is needed as the SUV is not used for daily patrol. In the past, the City has leased 4 cars
with 30,000 miles per year. Currently, there are 8 officers and they are paired up by squad car.
Jansky added that he has looked at the cost differences between leasing and purchasing. The
main difference is major repairs. Leases cover everything except tires and wipers.
• Is the Crown Victoria the right car for the City? According to Jansky, it is the right car as there are
some larger officers that are already squished in the current vehicles. He also stated that with a
smaller car, there is less room for equipment. He feels that the Crown Victoria is the right vehicle
as it works best for the community.
4(i) -Investment Policv: Wick questioned the following:
• Page 2 "It will be the responsibility of the City Council +^ °^^^~^+ .,,, ~.,.,^~+.,,^.,+ r^.,,.,,;++^^ to
direct the...." He questioned why it is not the responsibility of an Investment Committee to direct
the Administrator and Finance Director on how to invest the City's funds. Bartlett replied that a
committee has not been established. According to Weyrens, an investment committee has not
been used for a number of years rather the City uses a ladder system when determining how to
invest City funds.
• Does the City Council need to approve all investments? Bartlett stated that they do see all
investment activity with the quarterly reports.
Bartlett added that the City tends to invest more money in money markets for cash flow purposes. Wick
stated that it may be better to have an outside person help the City with investment decisions. Weyrens
agreed that sometimes that is a good idea. Currently, they receive quotes from local banks, but it would
be possible to re-look at an investment committee. Frank questioned who would be a good candidate to
help the City with its investments. Weyrens stated that it should be someone with a strong financial
background. Two of the previous members of the investment committee were local residents.
Wick made a motion to table the approval of the amendment to the investment policy until an
investment committee is created.
Discussion: Bartlett advised the Council that this can wait to be approved until January. Frank
addressed some questions raised by Mike McDonald to which he was advised they were
previously approved in the Treasurer's Report.
The motion was seconded by Symanietz and passed unanimously.
4(i) -Refuse Contract: Frank stated that he pulled the refuse contact for further discussion. He stated that
he is an advocate of the contract and the recycling program. He understands that it may cost a dollar or
so a month more; however, he is concerned with the phrase "rates to be negotiated". Currently, the City
offers a 30, 60 or 90 gallon container with 60 gallon being the most common. Weyrens advised Frank that
the monthly rate for the 60 gallon container is $15/month. Frank questioned what the increase will be.
Weyrens stated that currently the City subsidizes the senior rate and the question is whether that rate
should stay at 50% or not. Realistically, the new rate will be $15-20/month. Frank questioned what will
happen if the bottom goes out of the recycling market and there is no money for recycling. He then
questioned whether the contract could be renegotiated if they cannot offer the coupons. Weyrens
suggested adding a clause stating that if the coupons are not $20 or greater, the contract should be
renegotiated.
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According to Rassier, more people may start recycling which is good even if they are not receiving a
benefit. Residents will still see a benefit for the increase. Frank stated that one of the reasons why this
contract was approved was the benefit. Weyrens stated that the City receives a better rate by approving a
3 year contract. Based on how the recycling bank program is set up, it would not work for the City to add
a clause requiring a minimum benefit of $20/month.
Wick addressed some items that needed correcting in the contract:
• Page 1 3`~ Line -'part of the second part' should read "part of the second party".
• Page 2 (g): This should be reworded to clarify that there will be a large item pickup on two
consecutive weeks in both the spring and fall.
Frank stated that when made his pitch for this particular vendor, he said there were no complaints that he
had received. Since then, he received a call from a resident in Graceview who stated that he has had an
issue with trash flying out of the truck and not being picked. He suggested that there be more follow
through with these types of issues.
Wick made a motion to approve the following:
• 4(g): Fire Report -Accept the fire report for the period June 1 through November 30, 2008.
• 4(h): Vehicle Lease -Authorize execution of the lease agreement fora 2009 Crown Victoria
for a period of four years at a monthly rate of $908.21.
• 4Q): Refuse Contract -Authorize the Mayor and Administrator to execute the contract
agreement between the City of St. Joseph and Allied Waste for the contract years 2009-
2011.
The motion was seconded by Frank and passed unanimously.
St. Joseph Action Group -Comprehensive Plan: Ellen Wahlstrom409 8~' Avenue NE, approached the
Council representing the St. Joseph Action Group Preserving Special Places. They are looking to give
input regarding 2008 comprehensive plan. They are requesting that the City delay the approval of the
Comprehensive Plan. She stated that wanted to express their appreciation to the Planning Commission
and Cynthia Smith-Strack for their work on the document. They; however, believe that there are some
issues that still need more discussion.
Wahlstrom stated that the Action Group became involved in the process in the beginning and have
watched the process and gave input. A lot of serious consideration was given to the Plan. Their
understanding of the plan is that the Comprehensive Plan is an envisioning process of what the City will
be in 20 years. It provides a framework to be used to guide planning for future growth. It also takes into
consideration the idea of balance between the economy, environment and the health, welfare and
wellbeing of the residents and visitors. They also looked at the societal changes that may take place.
Wahlstrom stated that there are five items that need more attention: (some of them have been addressed
further since their memo was presented to the City.)
1. Density and Conservation Design: In Chapter 11, this was put into the implementation. In Chapter
24, it was put in the commitment to education for those involved in the planning process. They
would have liked to see more attention to this. This should not make it more difficult to
development, but allows for as many houses as in the older standard designs, but does so in a
manner that provides more livable, healthier environments for families and natural resources. She
added that the City needs to start thinking differently about development. On behalf of the Action
Group, they would like more attention to this item.
2. Surface Water -The implementation section requires that a Surface Water Management Plan be
in place prior to proposed developments and subdivisions. She stated she is concerned about
this because it is not only for development, but to understand surface water patterns in the City
and how to protect and utilize them. She is concerned because there is nothing in the budget for
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a Storm Water Management Plan for the City. This doesn't have to happen this year, but the City
should get started on this so the City can afford one at some point. Based on the responses from
Cynthia, there was some mention of a hydrological cycle. Wahlstrom stated that this is very
important to the groundwater. She added that they are concerned about the language relating to
wetlands as well.
3. Downtown Revitalization: Wahlstrom stated that there is no proactive language to say that the
City should get going on the downtown revitalization. There are lot of qualified people in the
community with good planning and ideas for downtown. Business owners have to be involved in
the process as well.
4. Agricultural Zoning: Wahlstrom stated that there is a good definition about why the City should
have agricultural land. The purpose being to establish and preserve land in the City for
continuation of viable agricultural operations. She brought up the fact that the whole landscape is
going to change in food production. There will be more local food production. Future land zoning
shows nothing for agricultural zoning. When land comes in to city, it is zoned agricultural as a
transition state until it is zoned according to future land use zoning.
5. Comprehensive Plan Maps: Sister Katherine Kraft approached the Councilors to discuss the need
for some of the maps to be brought up to date. According to Kraft, planning for roads is critical.
On November 15, 2007, the Mayor and City Council extended the WSB contract to find different
alternatives for Field Street. On July 29, 2008 during the MN Section 106 Review, WSB agreed to
further amend several new proposed alternatives such as G2a and G4 as directed by MN Dot.
She added that the two latest alternatives meet the joint efforts of WSB and other agencies.
There has been lots of effort put into other alternatives that are not shown on the maps. She
stated that it is true that City Council has not accepted any alternatives for the Southern Corridor
nor have they accepted any alternatives for the northern corridor. Kraft stated that the southerly
alternatives should be shown as well. She also added that some of the maps (maps 4-6 and 4-
6a) are being adjusted. She stated that the Comprehensive Plan should be as accurate and up to
date as possible for the Cities protection. This was evident in the recent Graceview controversy
where documentation of roads not up to date. Kraft stated that there may be some costs
associated with updating the maps. If they choose not to update the maps, she suggested that
the City add footnotes explaining the status of the maps. This also needs to be done to benefit
any new City Council and Planning Commission members as well since they don't have all of the
complicated information and history of changes.
Wahlstrom stated that they are asking that the Council delay action on the Comprehensive Plan.
2AM Bar Closing: Weyrens stated that the Council was provided with a draft ordinance which includes
language to be consistent with state statute as well as the following:
• Device scanners to be used and there must be proof of use.
• Liquor licenses fees to be increased
• Length of time for closing
• Removal of garbage and debris
With the current matrix, it takes two incidents to make one aggravating factor; however with the use of the
device scanners it would only take one incident to make an aggravating factor.
Frank brought the Mankato matrix for discussion. He stated that St. Joseph's fees are lower and there are
more items on their matrix. Not all of the items on their matrix were negative as there were some financial
incentives for some of the items. He would like to see some things added to the matrix, similar to
Mankato. Frank stated that he is not in favor of the change unless it is tied to the matrix. Weyrens stated
that the matrix in Mankato is tied to the Ordinance whereas St. Joseph's is not.
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Wick questioned the following:
• Page 71-3 Subd. 5 "...to be used at a point of sale or entry..."
There are some establishments that have more than one entry. Weyrens stated that they were
looking at using the devices at the main door. Jansky stated that most of the establishments only
enter through one door. Rassier stated that it would be the policy of the establishment to have
someone at each door.
• Page 71-9 Subd. 5 "...through Saturday,- between 2:00..."
Wick clarified that there is a connector word missing.
• Closing at 2AM
Wick questioned why the establishments would not be allowed 30 minutes after bar closing to
leave the establishment. Jansky stated that it would help with issues resulting from the 2-7 am
parking ordinance. He also added that it would get people moving sooner.
• Can the matrix be tied to the Ordinance as they are now requiring the establishments to use the
device scanners? Weyrens stated that not all are being required to use them. The cost to
purchase the equipment is approximately $500.00. The proposal before the Council provides an
incentive for using the device.
Rassier stated that changes to the matrix and Ordinance should be approved separately. Weyrens stated
that Liquor License holders have not yet been able to comment on the proposed changes. Schultz
clarified that they could be tied together at some point in time.
Mark Zimmer, La Playette, approached the Councilors as a bar owner in St. Joseph. He stated that he
would have appreciated the opportunity to give some input. There is the City approach, the Police
Department approach and the License Holder approach. If you adopt the law at 2AM and have the
provision of having everyone out by 2AM, they have to do last call at 1:30. St. Joseph is an island. We will
have an ordinance that no one else has. It is a 2AM law, but it really isn't a 2AM law. If there is someone
in there after 2AM, they would be in violation of City Ordinance. The local Ordinance would be tough to
follow. It would only gain the establishments an extra'/ hour. Neighboring cities have until 2:30 to have
the establishment vacated.
With respect to the Matrix, he spent many meetings reviewing the matrix. He stated that if the matrix were
to be revisited, it should include the business owners as well. He questioned whether there were any
huge problems with the current matrix. Frank continues to address the Mankato matrix. Zimmer stated
that they have a larger population and have other issues to deal with. To compare the two is not
comparing apples to apples. Rassier stated that the matrix was put into place to give all liquor license
holders a level playing field.
Zimmer stated that he is unaware of what the capabilities are of the scanners as there are so many
different ones. The ones that he has seen in the past were approximately $1500. He also questioned
what the standard would be.
Frank stated that they originally stated that they were an island. People would start here and go to Waite
Park. With the proposed Ordinance, they would have reason to go to Waite Park. Zimmer stated that if
they have to do last call at 1:30, people are less likely to even stop at their establishment.
Wick suggested waiting for information on scanners and getting some input as there are a lot of
outstanding concerns. Rassier stated that the Council has a lot of things to look at. Frank stated that he
would like to have some incentives rather than just negatives.
Schultz questioned Jansky about the shifts in the police department. Jansky stated that St. Joseph is
unique in that there are 4,000 students that are only residents for 9 months out of the year. When the
weather is nice, there are a considerable amount of young people on the streets after the bars let out. If
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there are people on the streets after 2:30, there may be some overtime issues. Jansky also stated that
there are some special events that would cause problems. Currently, they have a grant to help with extra
officers in the spring; however, he does not see that happening next year due to budget cuts. There are
two issues that Jansky stated they have to deal with:
• Staffing resources
• People in the neighborhoods later at night
Schultz questioned if they can track the gaps. Jansky stated they cannot as this is a moving target and
times change. The busiest times are between 7-9AM and 5-7PM. Weyrens suggested waiting to make a
decision and look into devices and where they are at with technology and prices.
Schultz made a motion to table action on the proposed 2 AM Bar closing so that staff along with
the liquor license holders can look at a more reasonable time to leave the bar, gather additional
information about the scanners and possibly look at tying the matrix to the Ordinance. The motion
was seconded by Wick.
Discussion: Weyrens questioned whether they want to create a sub committee to look at the
matrix. Rassier stated that the matrix seems to be working well. It should remain independent
similar to the license fees.
Ayes: Rassier, Wick, Symanietz, Schultz
Nays: Frank Motion Carried 4:1:0
Frank stated that although people say to not fix things if they are not broken, he said it is important to look
at things to make sure they are working. He stated he was surprised to see that the portion of the fire
code relating to occupancy codes is not enforced.
Facility Study: Weyrens stated that previously the City Council authorized SEH to completion a Facility
Study. Since that time, SEH has met with all the departments and had an opportunity to meet with City
Staff and the Sales Tax Committee. In addition, City staff prepared and mailed 1334 surveys regarding
the communities' idea of a Community Center. The City received 534 responses of which the summary
has been included in the Facility report. .
Duane Day, SEH, approached the Council to give a summary of the facility study. This is a Christmas
wish list and now it needs to be determined what is practical for the City. There were two goals:
1. What is the City going to need in terms of community space from now and 15 years from now?
What types of spaces and how big do they need to be?
2. How might the old Kennedy School satisfy some of those needs?
To determine the general requirements, they interviewed elected officials, City Administration and City
Staff. There was a citizen survey and an open house. He commended the residents and stated that there
were a large number of surveys received. They also met with the sales tax committee and they have
determined, ideally, in a perfect world, what the City needs for its civic functions.
When the new Kennedy School was designed, it was designed to help with some of the community space
needs for the City. He spoke with the Kennedy Principal, Diane Moeller, and they have some spaces that
will be available for public use. Those include:
• Meeting Rooms
• Exercise Area
• Theatre
Based on state law or school policy, the following would not be available for public use:
• Kitchen
• Library
• Gymnasium (because of vast amount of use already receiving)
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They looked at the spaces that were determined to be needed and then put together a cost estimate
based on the square footages. If all of those spaces that were identified were constructed, it would cost
the City over $20 million. He suggested a building committee to look at what is practical for the City at this
point.
They looked at the Old Kennedy School and reviewed the building assessment and final conclusion of
value. He stated that that must be taken in context as it was completed on February 25, 2008. Day stated
that the building was assessed at 3,500,000. He stated that the site is almost 17 acres with a gross
building area of 54,600 square feet. The Sales Tax Committee toured the facility with EI Haus and he
provided them with the floor plans for the building as well as a Maintenance Schedule starting in 2005
and ending in 2020. He stated that there were four major items that were listed on the Maintenance
Schedule.
1. Re-roofing the entire building
2. Replace boilers
3. Add air conditioning
4. Bring the building into ADA compliance
According to Day, the estimated cost of repairs is $1,200,000. That figure; however, does not include any
renovations or additions to the building. He mentioned that the old school site could satisfy a large portion
of the needs identified in the survey and by staff. SEH would recommend that the City form a building
committee made up of citizens, administration and TAC member to prioritize those spaces. Once those
spaces are identified, they could put together a floor plan with interior and exterior renderings to help
explain to the community what may be furnished. Frank clarified that they did not look at the maintenance
facility or the fire hall. According to Day, the Fire Department has a place available for public use. Frank
questioned whether or not there is space to rent at the new WTP. Weyrens stated that staff uses that
meeting room; however, it isn't large enough for public space.
He also advised the Council that the Old Kennedy site was appraised at $3.5 million. According to Day,
house valuations have decreased and he is sure that this value has decreased as well. If the City was to
decide to use the building for a City facility, they would need to revamp the inside. According to Rassier,
the biggest plus for this site is the 17 acres that it sits on. On behalf of the Sales Tax Committee, Weyrens
stated that ideally this is not the best spot, but is the most practical as it meets all the needs except the
pool. She added that if the City were to move forward with this site, we would have a new appraisal done.
The $3.5 million is not a solid number. Frank stated that as we move into the second wave of
foreclosures, there may be some impact. Day agreed.
Wick questioned the 54,600 feet included the temporary rooms as well. Day stated that yes, they were
included and they were approximately 2,000 square feet each. The School owns the two remaining
temporary buildings and would like to sell them along with the building. Without the temporary structures,
there would be 50,000 square feet. Weyrens stated that, currently, the City hall is approximately 9,000
square feet.
Frank made a motion to accept the report. The motion was seconded by Schultz
Discussion: Schultz questioned if the City were to build the building from scratch would it be
similar to the cost associated with building a new facility. Day stated that the City could not
purchase that much square footage for that cost. Schultz stated he would have liked to see a
comparison of what Kennedy has to offer and what could be built and the costs associated with
such. Day stated it would be in'esponsible to build a building that could not be added on to.
Weyrens stated that, if the Old Kennedy were to be used for the gymnasium, it could be used
right away.
The motion passed unanimously.
December 18, 2008
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Comprehensive Plan Update 2008: Wick stated that the Planning Commission has been meeting once a
month over the past year to review the Comprehensive Plan. The Park Board has reviewed the Park
portion of the plan. They have received a lot of input from the Public, business owners and land owners.
Wick stated that he and the Commissioners attended some training at St. Ben's dealing with planning
which was helpful. He stated that there was some discussion about having items in the Comprehensive
Plan be required rather than recommended; however, there are some changes taking place with the DNR
and the Sauk River Watershed District. They will need to wait until those changes are completed. Wick
stated that the Planning Commission unanimously approved the Comprehensive Plan and has requested
that the Council approve the document as well.
According to Weyrens, there was lot of discussion and the Planning Commissioners tried to incorporate
all of the public comments. Wick stated that it is hard to determine where the Comprehensive Plan stops
and the Ordinances begin. He added that after the plan was amended in 2002, the Ordinances were
revised then in 2003. This may happen again in 2009.
Frank questioned how much money has been spent so far on the Comprehensive Plan Amendment.
Weyrens stated that she did not have those exact numbers. From his perspective, it may be better to
delay the approval of the plan until a future meeting as he still has several questions. Wick stated that
there have been a lot of hours spent on this and the City Council was involved throughout the process.
He agreed that the maps should include some type of footnote or disclaimer to state that some of the
roadways are still in the study phase. If the City were to delay the Comprehensive Plan until all items
were addressed, it would take forever as there would always be something that would be on the table for
discussion. He also stated that the Planning Commission is open to look at different items that were
addressed throughout the process when there are funds available to do so. Rassier agreed.
Wick made a motion to approve the Comprehensive Plan based on the recommendation of the
Planning Commission. The motion was seconded by Rassier.
According to Rassier, the Comprehensive Plan has always been a work in progress. Schultz stated that,
in his opinion, things went well until November and then there was an increase in public input which led to
a rush at the end. He stated that there was a lot of information given to the Planning Commission and
people who have those concerns want to know how to have those questions addressed. He stated that,
as things change, this document needs to be reviewed and maps should be modified as they go along.
Wick responded by stating that the previous version of the Comprehensive Plan had been amended 3-4
times. He added that the Planning Commission wants to review the transportation plan. Weyrens stated
that this will be part of an ongoing discussion and the Ordinances will be reviewed as well. As the City
moves forward, Rassier stated that items can be brought forward for possible addition to the
Comprehensive Plan or the Ordinances. Schultz questioned the suggestion of adding the water section to
the plan. Wick stated that the Storm Water Management Plan is already included in the Comprehensive
Plan.
Frank stated that he is one who does his homework and it seems as though there was a lot of information
distributed in the past few weeks. He questioned Weyrens about the possibility of, at a minimum, adding
footnotes to the maps. Most people realized that the future roadways that are imprinted on the current
maps will not happen. Strack agreed with Frank and stated that it would be a good idea to add footnotes
stating that there are other alternatives. It was also agreed upon that the maps should be updated once
new roadways and alternatives are approved.
Rassier restated that the Planning Commission will be reviewing the Transportation Plan. Wick stated that
when the Transportation Plan was approved, he did not vote in favor as he had some issues. Frank
stated that it has nothing to do with the Transportation Study rather it is a map in the Comprehensive Plan
and it has symbolic value for those with different views. He also stated that this is not the only map as
there are other alternatives as presented by WSB and the State of Minnesota. Strack suggested adding
similar language to that of a prior future land use map which states "Land Use adjacent to road would
December 18, 2008
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shift in the event that the location of the roadway shifts". She stated that this would be a simple change to
the legend of the map. Wick agreed that this would be a legitimate request to add the footnotes. Rassier
also agreed and stated that until the studies are complete, all maps should have footnotes. Strack stated
that they would not be added to the Transportation Plan at this time as a public hearing has not yet been
held.
Schultz questioned the issue of "ag" zoning. This was addressed at the public hearing held on November
12 and then later addressed by the Planning Commission on November 26. She stated that the Planning
Commission will look at this over the next 12 months and they plan to look at open space planning. The
potential "ag" uses in Section 1 (other side of 194) will be part of their discussions. They will decide
whether the area should be zoned "ag" or commercial. She restated that this is on the work list for 2009.
Frank clarified that the Planning Commission voted unanimously in favor or the Comprehensive Plan.
Amended motion: To approve the Comprehensive Plan based on the recommendation of the
Planning Commission with the understanding that footnotes be added to the legends on the
maps.
The motion passed unanimously.
CITY ENGINEER REPORTS
Update on Stimulus Projects: Sabart stated that the APO Staff is working in preparation for the proposed
economic stimulus package as discussed by President Elect Obama. They are trying to be prepared with
a list of projects that may be eligible for some funding. Eligible projects are those that can be delivered in
90-120 days which limits the types of projects to resurfacing or safety projects. Based on the City's
Maintenance Plan, the City submitted a list of projects. Many of these projects may not fit the bill as it is
all projection at this point. Frank questioned whether any of these projects will have regional impacts to
which Sabart stated they do not as each APO Member City was asked to look at local projects.
Frank then questioned whether the Water Tower would be an eligible project for funding with the
economic stimulus. Sabart stated that there are questions as to whether the Parkway Business Center
may be an eligible project. He added that the APO is to apply for regional projects as well. Wick also
questioned whether the City could ask for help with infrastructure. According to Sabart, there are other
entities looking such funding. Rassier suggested running the Sewer and Water to the potential bypass if
it is possible with the stimulus money as that would help to develop that area. The only issue with that is
that the City is unsure as to exactly where the road will be.
Sabart restated that they are looking at quick projects that can be delivered fast. Schultz questioned the
possibility of adding the construction of sidewalks along 2"d Avenue NW as previously requested by
Councilor Frank. Sabart stated that they looked at projects in more heavily travelled areas such as 4`h
Avenue, 12~' Avenue and Cedar Street.
CR 2 Reali4nment Design: Sabart advised the Council that Stearns County Staff recently began working
on design of CR2 realignment and they are asking for guidance from City. Sabart gave a brief overview of
the proposed alignment of CR2. They are proposing to realign Minnesota Street with CR2 and there is a
proposed 8' trail along that section and connecting to the Wobegon Trail. Wick suggested moving the trail
to the opposite site of the roadway which Sabart stated they are looking at. The proposed roadway will be
a two lane road with no curb and gutter. On behalf of the EDA, Wick suggested adding directional signs
for St. Joseph along CR2. Sabart advised the Council that the City is not being asked to relocate the
Water Main at this time. Rassier questioned who would be responsible for tearing up the current CR2 to
which Sabart stated it is part of the realignment project. From Minnesota Street, CR2 will continue to the
North. At that intersection, they had originally discussed a roundabout. The current plan is showing a free
right rather than a roundabout.
December 18, 2008
Page 10 of 11
Wick made a motion to extend the City Council meeting until 10:30PM. The motion was seconded
by Schultr and passed unanimously.
Sabart then stated that the new CR2 to the North would cross the Bechtold Farm. At the intersection of
CR75 near CR2, it is anticipated that there will be a signalized intersection. The current CR3 will become
abandoned as it will tie into CR2 and there is discussion of this being a local street to service the abutting
properties.
Sabart restated that the County is looking for some direction from the City. He discussed the proposed
street widths which will vary in different sections of the proposed alignment. The City is being asked
whether they want this to be an urban or rural section. If the City chooses to have an urban section, they
would be required to pay any costs. Rassier clarified that there will be variable widths along the proposed
CR2 realignment. Sabart stated that the travel lanes will remain at 12', but the curbs will change. The
question is the subject of rural versus urban such as storm sewer and right of way. Rassier stated that if
this area is developed it may be better to have this as urban; however, it may be better to construct it as a
rural section and change it in the future if needed. Frank questioned the issue of pipes being built under
roadways. Sabart stated that they are all made of the same materials, but some are required to be in
steel cases. Rassier stated that the City would like the urban roadway but cannot afford to build such.
Wick questioned the trail along CR2. Sabart stated that there was some discussion about the trail and a
possible connection to CR51. He added that the County anticipates that they will rebuild CR51 with 8'
shoulders, but they would not be designated as a trail. If there was a trail connection, it would be an on-
shoulderconnection. County does refer to this trail as the City's trail. The other question is whether or not
the City wants to build the trail as part of this project.
Weyrens stated that there are no park funds available, but it could be paid for through Sales Tax funds.
The Sales Tax Committee discussed this as to whether or not this was a regional trail. The County has no
desire to build this as part of their project. Sabart stated that the estimated cost of the trail from Minnesota
Street to CR75 is $150,000 not including any wetland mitigation that would need to be purchased for
right-of-way. Rassier questioned if the ROW purchased by the Council would be sufficient to contract a
trail or whether additional ROW would be needed. Thene questioned whether drainage needs to be
designed into this to which Sabart stated they would. There is some additional right-of--way which may
need to be purchased at a later date if the trail is not constructed at this time. In response to Schultz,
Sabart stated that, yes; Stearns County may need to get involved in connecting these trails as a regional
trail. The additional grading and right-of-way is not required to build the road.
Frank addressed the speed limit on County Road 2 and questioned if the City could change the speed
limit after the construction. Jansky stated that a speed study would need to be completed as speed limits
are set by the State and the Department of Transportation. Thene questioned whether speed is part of
the reconstruction project. Sabart stated that MN Dot would put it back to its current speed limits.
MAYOR REPORTS - No Report
COUNCIL REPORTS
SYMANIETZ - No Report
WICK
St. Cloud Economic Development Partnership -Wick reported that the attended the recent meeting of the
Partnership and he stated that he dropped off their annual report at City Hall.
EDA -Wick stated that they have been working on a technical inventory of all the student rentals in the
City to create a plan for transitioning them into commercial.
SCHULTZ - No Report
December 18, 2008
Page 11 of 11
FRANK - No Report
ADMINISTRATOR REPORTS
Liability Insurance -Weyrens stated that the City is in the process of renewing the general liability
insurance policy and as part of that review the Council must formally consider the tort limits. The City has
elected to not waive the torte limits established by Statute allowing a damaged party to sue the City for
excess of 1.2 Million. If the City waives the tore limits, the Insurance Trust adds an additional premium
which is estimated at $ 1,200/year. The City in the past has not elected to waive the limits.
Schultz made a motion to not raise the torte limits. The motion was seconded by Symanietz and
passed unanimously.
Assessor Services -Weyrens stated that the City has contracted with Stearns County for assessor
services for the past 3 years. She stated that they have served the city very well. It is very difficult for the
City Council to serve as board of review. As a result, staff is recommending continuing to have Stearns
County serve as the assessor for the City.
Symanietz made a motion to continue to contract with Stearns County to serve as the City
assessor. The motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously.
Graceview Estates: Weyrens reported that she recently met with Attorney from the League that will be
representing the City. Similar to the Meadowvale Lawsuit, the City is being asked to have two Council
members as part of the team to meet with the attorneys. Wick stated that he would be willing to be part of
this team. Weyrens agreed that it would be better to not have Symanietz on the team as possible conflict
of interest. Rassier suggested himself and one Council member. The team will consist of Rassier and
Wick; however, all decisions will be directed by the entire Council.
Closed Session: Schultz made a motion to close the public meeting to consider and discuss
strategy for labor negotiations and review negotiation proposals pursuant to Minn Stat Sec
179A.01 to 179A.25(the Public Employment Labor Relations Act) and pursuant to Minn Stat Sec
13D.03, Subd 1 (b)(the Open Meeting Law)." The motion was seconded by Symanietz and passed
unanimously.
Adiourn: The meeting was re-opened at 10:35 PM with Wick making a motion to adjourn; seconded
by Symanietz, passing unanimously.
udy Weyre s
Ad rnistrator