Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout[04a] MinutesMarch 31, 2011 Page 1 of 2 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City Council for the City of St. Joseph met in special session on Thursday, March 31, 2011 at 4:00 PM in the St. Joseph Hall. Members Present: Mayor Rick Schultz. Councilors Dale Wick, Steve Frank, Bob Loso, Renee Symanietz. Administrator Judy Weyrens. Others Present: Police Chief Peter Jansky, Public Works Director Terry Thene, Finance Director Lori Bartlett, City Engineer Randy Sabart, EDA Director Cynthia Smith - Strack, City Attorney Tom Jovanovich. Rick Schultz stated the purpose of the meeting is to have discussion regarding transparency and public information. He stated that during his many conversations with residents and members of the Community, there seems to be a perceived notion that the City is not as open as they should be. He is not sure if there is a problem or if it just a perception. Weyrens addressed the concern and stated that the word "transparency° has been used in many different contexts and the staff has previously expressed frustration over the use of this word. Sometimes information that is requested is not public information all /requests for public information have been fulfilled. Staff would encourage the Council to define /what, #hey are looking for or what deficiencies they are aware of. Schultz stated that it is probably more of a perceived concern and questioned how; applications for development or assistance are processed. Smith - Strack stated that when a developer requests financial assistance, an application is submitted and alternative resources are discussed. Not all of the information included on an application is public information-so staff reviews the application and data that is available is released to the EDA and Council. Thestaff has -to balance the open meeting law, data practices while providing the Council with the most complete, information possible. Schultz stated that for him transparency is an action word, the ability to share. He would like to see as much information available to the public and Council as,possible. In addition he would like to see all Board and Commission meeting minutes available on the website. f=rank stated for him transparency is a process of communication. It is not.directing staff; rather it is providing the same information to all. An example, Schultz stated is the rental housing work group. The general public is unaware of what they are working on as there are no minutes of the meeting or'`packet information. Wick stated that he is part of the housing work group and the Council will receive a report after an open house is conducted with the landlords. At this time the working group has completed a brain storming session and prioritized the ideas and is ready to share them with the property owners. It is important to determine if the property owners are interested in converting their properties and if so, what is there intent or interest. Schultz stated that he would prefer that the working group report at the next Council meeting to provide an update and what they have accomplished and the future direction. By consensus it was agreed that the Council would receive an update after the study group conducts an open house with the landlords. Schultz stated that he would like to see the website improved as it is marketing tool for the City and he has heard complaints that the.site is difficult to maneuver. Frank stated that the he receives comments from users that they cannot always access the information due to a user limit. Weyrens stated that in an effort to increase communications beween departments and the City Council, each department head will prepare a monthly report that will only be transmitted to the Council, similar to the one that she prepares. The Council requested that the EDA submit a quarterly activity report to the Council in an effort to increase communications between non EDA members of the City Council. Schultz stated that he would like to discuss at a future the foot print of the City with respect to city facilities, both present and future. He stated that the Council needs to discuss if the City facilities are going to remain downtown as the City grows and if all functions will operate from one facility. They Council also need to discuss if the vacant building adjacent to the City Hall should be purchased for March 31, 2011 Page 2 of 2 expansion. Weyrens stated that typically the City each year discusses short and long term goals which could be another meeting topic. Adiourn: The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 6:30 PM. Judy Weyrens Administrator June 2, 2011 Page 1 of 6 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City Council for the City of St. Joseph met in regular session on Thursday, June 2, 2011 at 7:OOPM in the St. Joseph City Hall, opening the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Members Present: Mayor Rick Schultz, Councilors Dale Wick, Renee Symanietz, Steve Frank, Bob Loso and City Administrator Judy Weyrens City Representatives Present: City Engineer Randy Sabart, Finance Director Lori Bartlett, Public Works Director Terry Thene, Police Chief Pete Jansky Others Present: Tom Klein, S. Kara Hennes, Chad Carlson, S. Paula Revier, Steve Torborg Mayor Schultz opened the meeting with an announcement. He Acting Mayor Dale Wick will run the meeting. PUBLIC COMMENTS TO 4WRMI Steve Torborg, 142 6th Avenue NW, approached the it and stated a waterline issue on his property. He has been wo ith staff on this advised Torborg that it will be discussed under A trator Reports. Approval of the Agenda: Frank made a motion to ap the R add itions /deletions: Add 8e /f Grac �tates Spe et inf Add 8g Cable e Remove 4c Liquor L ved for s, The motion was second Consent Agenda: Los4 a. Bills Pay 000542 (Pay b. Work Comp The mollIlLwas second e a m to apprlj Approv eck num 00015 Accounts In c a $2, the F lws — for dis , due to his receding health, has some concerns about kLtwo months. Wick with the f1j§Qring Request on is as follows: and EFT numbers 000537- occurrence deductible and extend Commission and Park Board. unanimously. 4(c) — Li quo N chultz tionedlub License presented for the American Legion. He questioned t they m he quali ications. Weyrens explained that the City sent the Legion both the Clud Off sal uor License application and they were asked to submit the completed ahe lice r which they qualify. The Legion submitted their application for the Club Licens d ns as to who regulates that to which Weyrens responded that the City is the licensing autho sible for enforcement. Weyrens suggested that the Council invite a representative from the Ame Legion to the next meeting and ask them to present information showing them how they meet the qualifications of a Club License. Loso stated that he believes that they operate under the full liquor license. Frank made a motion to authorize the Mayor and Administrator to execute the On /Off Sale Intoxicating, Wine as requested by the license holders. The motion was seconded by Loso and passed unanimously. Public Hearing, Delinquent Accounts: Weyrens stated that the purpose of the hearing is to consider, and possibly adopt, the proposed assessment for delinquent City invoices. Adoption by the Council of the proposed assessment may occur at the hearing. June 2, 2011 Page 2 of 6 The proposed assessment role is on file for public inspection at the City Clerk's Office. The total amount of the proposed assessment is $3,335.31. Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting. No appeal may be taken as to the amount of an assessment unless a written objection signed by the affected property owner is filed with the City Clerk prior to the assessment hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. The Council may upon such notice consider objection to the amount of a proposed individual assessment at an adjourned meeting upon such further notice to the affected property owners, as it deems advisable. To date, Weyrens stated that staff hasn't received any objections. The proposed assessment includes 6 outstanding invoices, all of which are service related. Weyrens stated that staff is efficient in collecting fees and the City has a relatively low delinquent rate. Since the notice was printed, one account was paid. As a result, the amount listed on the public hearing notice is grgapr than the proposed assessment role as presented. Wick opened and closed the public hearing at 7:07PM as th one present wishing to speak. Frank commented that it was pointed out to him that if Ufte lty is a h of a financial institution, the bank is ultimately responsible for any outstanding ch artlett advis ank that she notified the property owners on record with Stearns County a d that some of th tified were financial institutions. Loso made a motion authorizing the Mayor and A xecute Res n 2011 -012 adopting the final assessment roll fo tstanding ig a $40 certifi n fee to each assessment to accounts not paid in my 5, 2n was seconde by Symanietz and passed unanimously. Developer Coordinator for recent relief on paymen requested the same p be paid in full at the ti developer of Rivers Ben the remaining balance is d comes firs to one contractor it created an unfair ;ration. He stated that other cities have the time of the issuance of the Certificate of eration for all vacant lots in the Northland Loso stated that he of see blem with doing that, provided it is paid within one year. Frank added that he would lik ee a City Policy, rather than the developers coming back to the Council to request the del xpressed his opinion that he would like each developer to come before the City Council to re relief than to approve a blanket policy. Schultz questioned whether this would need to be made a part of the developer agreement. Weyrens responded that it would not; rather it would be best to have it tied to the review of the fee schedule. Frank made a motion to approve the request of Lumber One Avon to delay the WAC /SAC fees for the remaining lots in the Northland Developments with on 1/3 of the WAC /SAC fee paid at the time of building permit issuance and the balance paid in full within one year or at the time of the Certificate of Occupancy, whichever comes first. Approval for delay of full WAC /SAC payment shall be applied to building permits issued through December 31, 2011. The Council will review the policy at this time to consider extension. The motion was seconded by Symanietz and passed unanimously. June 2, 2011 Page 3 of 6 The Council clarified that approval.for the delay in WAC /SAC is only applied to Rivers Bend and Northland. In the event that other contractors are requesting the same provision, they must request such from the City Council. Each request will be considered separately by the City Council. CITY ENGINEER/PUBLIC WORKS REPORTS Water Tower Update: Sabart reminded the Council that, back in March, they discussed the suggested repairs to the water tower. The tower was last evaluated in December, 2006. He stated that time has passed since the initial evaluation of the tower and there is a chance that additional or advanced corrosion or wear and tear on the tower coating has occurred. Based on the 2006 analysis, Sabart stated that the wet well exhibited advanced corrosion; however, the outside was in good condition. Sabart added that, looking at the tower now, the exterior chalking has advanced a e coating is getting brittle. He stated that an adhesive test was done and it ranked at a 1. The IV adhesive to stick would be between 3 and 5. Sabart advised the Council that it is prudent to plan for thee) Na,.n for repairs to the exterior coating. He is recommending that the repairs to the bo a Fel y rall coating of the tower be completed in the next 2 -3 years. Bartlett stated th as behowever, it has been pushed up due to the delay of the new water towe questionost of the proposed repairs. Sabart stated that an estimated ballpark i 0,000. He t that would include the mural to which Sabart replied yes. Sabart stated tha duration fo e repars be approximately 8 weeks. By planning for this now, it gives the City eno ime t and coordi a repairs. right -of -way. The esti cost of S the east of County Road This se time, the APO is continuing 'ngjj Weyre Ned hat the s Co Approxi ur (4) prop caner, the Board orward with ick County to •,title; however, e intends to ect this fall alignment does no de active i e Council th recently held a conference call with Corridor The majority of the environmental without a al from the Federal Hwy en ntai mpone a section west of CR 133 to CR Ime road is icipat in the near future and will )pm he r ast R 133 is more likely to :viously and ridor purchase to preserve the iring righ is $1.5 mi n and that would be for the area to ant of road will require an environmental assessment. At this and M to put closure to the study. :d for a the proposed alignment to County Road 2. S d wil right -of -way at their next regular meeting. not accepted the land offers and the Engineer is requesting ocess. By doing the quick take, that would allow the " ditional issues related to settlement. The Council still ork may begin during the winter months as the new at this time. 16 "' Avenue Im rovem da bart advised the Council that he recently met with the Contractor and they began looking at epairs. It is their intent to do some landscaping work within the next week. He stated that the con r has communicated with the affected residents. He concluded by stating that the final lift will be completed in the next two weeks as well as repairing some driveways that have developed cracks since the construction. Dale Street — Repair: Thene explained to the Council that there is a portion of Dale Street that needs to be repaired due to the concrete heaving. 53' of curb and 3' of pavement 8' up a driveway will need to be replaced. This repair is necessary as it will be a plow issue this winter. Wick stated that the repair is needed in front of his house. The concrete heaved up about 4 -4 1/2 ". Thene stated that the estimated cost of the repair is $4,000 which can be funded through the CIP by shifting the street sweeper project. He has scheduled this to be repaired next week. June 2, 2011 Page 4 of 6 Frank made a motion to authorize the expenditure of $4,000 for the repairs to Dale Street E. The motion was seconded by Symanietz and passed unanimously. ADMINISTRATOR REPORTS Sewer Ordinance: Weyrens advised the Council that, during the process of reviewing the St. Ben's Sewer Use Agreement, it was determined that the Sewer Use Ordinance was old and needed to be updated. She stated that the changes were so significant that staff is recommending repealing the current Ordinance and adopting a new Sewer Use Ordinance. Briefly, Weyrens stated that the current Ordinance talks about the different kinds of funds, definitions, etc which are already addressed in a different Ordinance. The new Ordinance would memorialize the process for which rates are determined, taking in to account the current billing practices. Ak Frank made a motion to authorize the following: • Execution of the Amendment to Ordinance 43, be published • Execution of Resolution 2011 -013 AuthorizijA The motion was seconded by Loso and St. Benedict Sewer Use Agreement: Weyrens prese he Cou between the City of St. Joseph and the College /Monas f St. the Council previously reviewed but th was waiting executed agreements. Since then, the nt has been agreement and puts it aside. The new s for calcu sewage. Meters have been installed and t it en recei% each party's responsibilities. Previously, th as nceri needing approval from St. for to chan the Se t� only applies if the City the Sew to the Sewer Use Agree . All Da gree tha air ag Frank made a motion to Ordinance, causing the same to with the fin er Use Agreement ict. This is 1111ftme agreement Fntil St. BenedictlWrded two d. The new agreement takes the old to be based on actual flows of kadings. The agreement details a lause in the agreement about Or e. Weyrens clarified that that its er which is inconsistent with 3nd4EKrninistrator to execute the Sewer Use d St. edict. The motion was seconded by than e Fe for 91 all their work on getting this completed. ,n if they re dorms. Weyrens stated that all applicable 11 be calculated and due and payable with the issuance of the ent applies only to property located west of CR 121 so the n er, billed as all other units in the City. Schultz questioned roug this process again. Weyrens replied that all parties would and come to an equitable resolution. Hopefully the process rms of the new agreement. Assessment Policv: Weyrens advised that this item will be brought back at the next meeting. Easement Acknowledgement: Weyrens stated that she has been working with a property owner in the Clinton Village neighborhood that has an issue with a garage constructed over the water main that services the Hollow Park and Clinton Village Addition. The property owner has provided the City with a Permanent Drainage and Utility easement and has requested the City execute and record the document. The document has been reviewed by the City Attorney and he has advised against signing the document as the City assumes all liability for any damage. Further, the City could not authorize execution without first conducting a public hearing as the document is removing rights of a publicly dedicated easement. June 2, 2011 Page 5 of 6 In an attempt to help resolve the situation, Weyrens stated she stated that she has contacted an abstract attorney who handles such issues and was informed that if the City executed a easement acknowledgement certificate, the property owner should be able to avoid title issues. The agreement would acknowledge the structure is constructed over the water main and the City would not require the structure to be removed unless more than 50 percent of the building is destroyed. This method is a simple process with Council approval for the Mayor and Administrator to execute such an agreement. By executing the Acknowledgement of Easement, the City is assuming no liability. With regard to the liability of the City for a building permit issued in error, the City Attorney has indicated that case law supports that City's are not liable for building permits issued in error, carrying immunity. Loso made a motion to authorize the Mayor and Administrator to execute an acknowledgement of easement for the property located at 142 — 6th Avenue NW. The tion was seconded by Symanietz and passed unanimously. Graceview Estates & Special Meeting: Weyrens advised the at she received an email from a representative from the Graceview Estates Homeowners ti uesting a special meeting. It was noted that they have been meeting with several o<IwA Memb ividually on the issue. The City has spent approximately $9,000 already and a first she h hat the terms of the agreement were not acceptable. Frank stated tha th them. They d him that they would like Stearns County present at the meeting as we d that parking se be one of the issues. According to Loso, none of these issues should bdue to t e fact that t s developed as a PURD. Weyrens explained that Liberty Point was a y and the s received almost all of the executed waivers and ,Mpd that y to conduct a p hearing. According to Schultz, the City has bent rds to ma m happy and they remain unhappy. He suggested gathering all of the docume n ing the em with a deadline. He added that the City doesn't need to do anything. At the me maniet under the impression that Weick was to schedule the next It was sug ed tha al wo ession be held at which the Council Liaisons report uncil on roc ative to for the work session is June 23. SYMANIETZ Councilftt the computer in the Cable Access Room has a e at meetings is day by day. As a result, he may need ngs. COUNCIL REPORTS APO Full Board: Syma ep hat she attended the APO Full Board Meeting. She advised the Council that there will be s in June or July. At their last meeting, they reappointed the same officers. She stated that the gon Trail is #5 on the list of trails for a possible study. They also listened to a presentation on complete streets. Complete streets are those that accommodate multiple modes of traffic. Joint City Meeting: Symanietz stated that she attended the Joint Cities Meeting at which they discussed the half -cent sales tax and the process for talking to the State Legislators for extension. They discussed cooperative efforts. Some cooperative efforts that the area cities have discussed include the Gang Strike Task Force, Seal Coating as well as talk of a regional compost site. She added that she will contact Richard Cousins of the Human Rights Office and request a presentation to be brought to the next meeting to provide an overview of the regional office. June 2, 2011 Page 6 of 6 LOSO Park Board: Loso stated that the Park Board met and they discussed the proposed sidewalk extension along the alignment of County Road 2 bypass, but no decision was made as to whether or not they want to support the project. Reports: Loso questioned the Water Reports and the Police Reports. Weyrens replied that she would get that information to the Council. Compost: Loso stated that he recently used the compost site and was alarmed at the boundaries. Currently, we are encroaching on someone else's property and there is no place to go. He added that St. Cloud is interested in being a part of a regional compost site. Schulti&ded that Waite Park may be interested as well. Adhoc Transportation Group: Frank reported that the key people couldn't be there. The representative fro to be steady. In hopes of increasing awareness, free service within the City on June 9, 2011. In a 2011 at the St. Joseph Community Fire Hall. It is u on transportation and the budget for 2012. EDA Update: Wick reported that he attend) meeting was to review opportunities availa member has a project thatWMJJI@pply. Frank added that they for such. The purpose although some of the ridership as it appears isportation event offering Lecisions ouse on June 9, will have in Foley. The purpose of the EDD and determine if any stated that there will be an event Commission ding, St. Joseph Township Hall ; seconded by Loso and passed June 16, 2011 Page 1 of 7 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the St. Joseph City Council met in regular session on Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 7:00 in the St. Joseph City Hall; opening the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Members Present: Mayor Rick Schultz, Councilors Dale Wick, Steve Frank, Bob Loso and City Administrator Judy Weyrens City Representatives Present: City Engineer Randy Sabart, Finance Director Lori Bartlett, Police Chief Pete Jansky, Public Works Director Terry Thene Others Present: Chuck Kern, Norm Hanson Public Comments: No one present wished to speak. IAL Agenda: Loso made a motion to approve the agenda with Remove (4a) Minutes , Discuss (4b) Bills Payable Remove (4c) Joint Powers Agreement Discuss (4d) Treasurer Report The motion was seconded by Frank and Consent Agenda: Frank questioned the following: (4d) Treasurer Report - Frank d that he woo money to the City. He thanked aste for thei well as the anonymous donors d at the M golf course. 4(b) Bills Payable port indica hat a utility bill. Bar nk that th 'ty d but this er m ut of the Loso made a motion tol a. Removed b. AgMbbmble — 1), isurer Kel ations for nt agelM as follows: ayable). changes: nowledge thos have donated :)n to the trees at leinfelter Park as Campground as well as at the disc refund an overpayment for a refunds for overpayments, and EFT numbers 000548- May Treasurer's Report as presented and their The motion wa onded by and pasTSed unanimously. St. Joseph American n #328 1/2012 Liquor License: Previously, the Council considered the annual liquor licenses, NwIch Amey removed the Legion's application. There was some discussion about whether or not they ing as a "Club" or whether they should be applying for a full liquor license. The Council request at the Legion appear before them to discuss their operations. Norm Hanson approached the Council, on behalf of the American Legion, to discuss their Liquor License application. He stated that they applied for a "Club License ", as they have in the past, as they believe that they operate in the spirit of the regulations. Hanson stated that, at times, there may be patrons in the club that are not members, but that is a rare occurrence. They are asking the Council to consider issuing a club license as that is what they have budgeted for; however, they would like the City to pass a City statute with less stringent regulations for "Club Licenses ", recognizing that they are a service organization serving the veterans of the area and the community citizens in general. In conclusion, he requested that, if the City is unable to issue a "Club License ", the City issue the standard liquor license with a "Special License" fee to recognize their unique status and service that separates them from the other establishments in town. June 16, 2011 Page 2 of 7 Loso stated that this issue was addressed last year as well and, at that time, they verified that they were operating as a club. After hearing Hanson's presentation to the Council, Loso commented that they are not operating as a "club ", rather they are operating as a "bar ". Hanson responded that they do not advertise as an open bar, rather those who use the establishment are, for the most part, boni fide guests. According to State guidelines, they do not meet the requirements for a "Club License ". Schultz verified with staff that the City follows the MN Statute for all of the other establishments in town. Hanson stated that they are asking the Council to weaken the restrictions for the Legion. According to Weyrens, the City cannot be less restrictive than State Law. She stated that the City has the ability to issue an "Off Sale Liquor License" based on a different fee structure. Hanson reminded the Council that they do not operate "for profit" like the other liquor establishments in the City. Schultz commented that not having an American Legion in St. Joseph would create a big hole in the community. Hanson re- stated that they feel that they operate in the spirit of the law as a "Club ". Wick questionel&anson as to their procedure for guests. He questioned whether or not guests sign in which Ha nso nded that they currently do not, but they could. Weyrens advised the Council that, two years ago, the Cou ok members from the Legion and they were advised that the City would be phasing them full liq ense. Hanson explained that they cannot guarantee that every person will be a m r a boni fide t. Staff included, as part of the packet, a form that the City of Waite Park forw o their American L Frank questioned whether or not that was incorporated into their Or ces. Weyrens explaine the form was sent along with their liquor license application and they. sked to si it acknow that they understand the rules of having a "Club License ". Wick d tha ut performi mpliance checks, the City has no way to verify if they are rating under t Frank stated that he would like to make a suggest t the City try an Interim Classification with the Legion signing the form regardin ub es ". Wey dvised the Council that the City can be liable and we do not want to expose City iability. on stated that it would be hard for them to comply with th ments, da nd da ey w ther have a less restrictive than a "Club License ", b t request full ' e. Fr questioned staff as to whether or not there i thing tween ". r plie a has not researched such. Frank suggested that Hanso to the St ' omman ee how oth American Legion Clubs are handing this issue. Schultz sta may n b e in the near future, but that doesn't change the pred' is with, c uestioned whether or not having the Legion track t ests, solve roble so quests ow the City could check compliance. He stated that the r License re q nts aight forward and added that the City has the ability to make the require" s more restric an S w, but cannot make them less restrictive. Weyrens advised the it that they w have th portunity to issue the "On Sale" Liquor License at a reduced rate an rch for other W rnatives. Weyrens questioned Hanson as to whether or not they would be willing to y h the Statem regarding a "Club License" to which Hanson stated that they would be hesitant to do so. stated t as with other liquor establishments, the bartenders would be held accountable for who wo e a y. in the establishment. Wick made a motion to au t a the issuance of the "On Sale Liquor License ", with the exception of holding the charges for 30 days, allowing staff to find a charge that is appropriate. The motion was seconded by Loso and passed unanimously. College of St. Benedict — Request to Initiate Hearing: John Greer, Hughes & Matthews Law Firm, along with Ann Obermann, Controller for the College of St. Benedict were present to request that the Council initiate a public hearing for rezoning the property CSB owns east of CR 121 from the current Agricultural to E & E and to amend the Comprehensive Plan to accommodate the same. He stated that this does not include the property that may potentially be sold to Mr. Petters. Greer explained that the Chapter 4 of the Comprehensive Plan includes a Future Land Use Map which identities the property in question as "Medium Density Residential" which is inconsistent with the June 16, 2011 Page 3 of 7 College's plans for that property. He added that Section 4 of the Plan also divides the City in to Planning Districts and this property is in Planning District 12 which suggests that this property contain a mixed use. By a broad definition, they would meet the intended use as they plan to construct a welcome center, student housing and athletic fields. The applicable zoning districts would be either R2 or R4, both of which would not allow for the proposed welcome center or athletic fields. As a result, they would like to rezone the entire property as one unit. Greer concluded by stating that they are requesting that the City order the public hearing to amend the Future Land Use Map to accommodate the College's plans. Frank questioned whether or not those within 350' would be notified of the hearing. Greer stated that all of those in Graceview Estates would be notified. If the Council is unwilling to initiate the hearing, the alternative is to have a representative from the College get a petition from those within the 350' to initiate the process. An amendment to the Comprehensive Plan can only beAdiation by a decision of the Planning Commission /City Council or a petition from those within Staff has advised the College to provide the City with more i and if the required information is received, the matter could be considered by the Planning ss August 1 and the Council on August 4. Staff also suggested that they present a con p n to the Wing Commission and City Council in a joint session. Greer explained that they y discussing roperty that the College intends to continue to own. He added that athletic ave been on the e's master plan for a long time and they now need that to happen. Gre ted that they are reque to re -zone the entire property as EE. Wick questioned whether residents also be le to use th etic fields as a park to which Greer responded that the College's policy ha ys b at there faci re open for public use, if they are scheduled. He wg� expect that t Id be able to us fields. The motion passed unanimously. blic he process. By making this motion, whethe amendment to the s s,,N Wick. enter. Greer responded that elcome center with maps, etc at th ), conference rooms, and meeting orms to wh Greer replied that they will be space, kitchen facilities and two bathrooms. They 16DaCitV of 128 students. ng the a nning process. Greer responded that the oncept to anning Commission and City Council, in a joint '7. en questioned whether or not the Council should wait to until hey see the proposed plans. Greer stated that, regardless ve Plan Id need to be amended to allow for their plans. Weyrens reparin plans the staff requested the Planning Commission and sure that the development meets the intent of the City Planning fat they meet with the Park Board as well and there is a Park Board ,sure evening. Schultz stated it would be a good idea to get everyone ncil and Planning Commission will meet jointly on June 27 at 5PM. Loso clarified that notices will go out to the affected property owners, notifying them of the public hearing. Weyrens stated that they would and added that the meeting notice will be posted on the webpage as well as at City Hall. ENGINEER/PUBLIC WORKS REPORTS 2011 Seal Coat Project: Thene reported that the City of St. Joseph will be bidding jointly with the Cities of Waite Park, Sauk Rapids and Sartell for 2011 Seal Coating as a way of lowering costs. Staff has identified 133,000 square yards to be seal coated in 2011. He is requesting approval of up to $135,000 to complete the project. June 16, 2011 Page 4 of 7 Frank made a motion to approve the expenditure of up to $135,000 as well as authorize the solicitation of bids for seal coating in 2011. The motion was seconded by Schultz. Discussion: Frank commented that the surface cracks in Clinton Village are getting bigger. Thene stated he is aware of that and advised the Council that some of these areas will be brought forth through the budget process as a possible mill and overlay as there are some areas that are beyond repair. Wick reported that the map illustrating the affected areas includes seal coating in the Graceview Addition; however, based on a tentative agreement, the association will be reimbursing the City for the seal coating of the private streets. If they choose not to accept the agreement or to reimburse the City, that area will be reallocated or removed from the bid. Thene advised the Council that they have already adverti bids and the bid opening will be in Sartell on July 7. He stated that they will try to compl seal coating prior to the students coming back to town. He added that the Fire Hall P ill be completed as well. Frank questioned how much the City will save by bidding or eratively to which Thene replied we will find out when we receive the bids. St. iGavrKs lookin eal coat 133,000 square yards. The total being bid is 500,000 square The motion passed unanimously. Street Sign Reflectivity Project Update: Thene reporte the NEEL in one of the old signs and one of the n igns to show % original street signs were purchased b s. The City Avenue and Minnesota last year and wil at placing that the new signs are made of the same n e new I signs will be recycled for the old metal. POLIC ventory is u ay. He brought The difference. Fr@Wted that the the street signs along College sr order. Jansky advised the Council Lplates. According to Thene, the old Frank made tion to autho the re ment of two laptop computers from MINCO at a cost of $7,842.67. otion was s ded by ick. Discussio nk questio the fact that the operating systems are outdated. Jansky replied that some o tate an unty programs only work with certain operating systems. Jansky suggested repl the a four year rotation; however, the warranty is only for three years. Schultz questione would keep it for the additional year. Jansky stated that they generally do not encounter pro s until the 5�h or 6�h year, so four years seems to be a good timeframe. Wick questioned what is done with the old ones to which Jansky stated that they are used as replacements within the City, as needed. Loso questioned why they are not funded only through forfeiture funds to which Jansky replied that he likes to keep funds in the forfeiture account to be used in emergency situations. If the fund is depleted, they do not have any funds to work with. The motion passed unanimously. Emergency Siren: Jansky reported that the Federal Government is in the process of changing to narrow band width for the VHF radios and sirens. He stated that the backup system at the Fire Hall is not working properly and we need to update the system. As a result, he is recommending that the City move forward with updating the current emergency sirens. He presented the Council with a quote from Frontline Plus June 16, 2011 Page 5 of 7 for the update as they are the company that originally installed the siren and the sirens contain proprietary devices. Schultz made a motion to authorize the project to move forward and accept the quote from Frontline Plus in the amount of $20,676 plus tax. The motion was seconded by Frank. Discussion: Frank stated that the sirens are not meant to alert people inside their homes. He commented that he envisions a day with people will be notified of emergencies through email, smart phones, etc. Jansky stated that there is a need for redundancy. Some communities have the ability to break in to their cable access channel to alert residents. Schultz questioned the need for multiple quotes to which Jansky stated that the equipment is proprietary and thus that is not needed. Schultz questioned timeline for the update. Jansky replied that he hopes to have it up by winter. They will no with the sirens until after tornado season. The motion passed unanimously. Police Report: Jansky provided the Council with the report for 20 oken down by the various violations. The Councilors questioned the followin • Park on Grass: Frank questioned why th ber of tickets for parkin he grass was considerably less in 2010. Jansky replied th are curr tly not en that as the Planning Commission and City Council are wo on t finance to de parking pad. • Driving after revocation: Frank Xmos d why th f tickets for drivin er revocation was about half of the number sued in pr years. Jansky advise the Council that his leading ticket writer is now e Cities. • Agency Assists: Loso questio e City of seph. The report indicates those that we assist, but he would liw our de ent. Jansky stated that Stearns County and Waite,�Qrk th the . Jose Assessment Policy: WeyrAkresenti PO CouncilIM a final amended version of the Assessment dded t1ftch type of project. He also stated that he does icy. IWould rather have the percentages removed s MIEWMe goal is 60 %; however, a market analysis asses t rate. Sabart added that staff needs a arting point. Wick stated that the percentages should remain 6 determined otherwise. Loso expressed oncerns abo a life expectancies as presented. Sabart explained that there are some regional di s for the li xpectancy of certain improvements, based on climate and design. He added that the an ed life ctancies are consistent with the City of St. Cloud. The purpose of indicating a life expecta to mine at which time the full assessment rates will be applied. Surface life does not mea ust be replaced at that time. Frank stated that other cities have deferrals and hardships included in their document. Some include an income test. He suggested possibly amending the ordinance to include an income test as well as military and physical disabilities. Weyrens stated that the Ordinance relating to seniors and disabilities could be expanded. Frank requested that Weyrens explain the purpose of the assessment policy. She replied that the purpose is to solidify past practices, illustrate what residents can expect if they are part of an improvement, and identify that the City acknowledges that the assessment must increase market value. She advised the Council that the corrections will be made and it will be brought back as a consent item at the next meeting. Loso stated that he would like the word "shall' to be replaced with "may ", throughout. June 16, 2011 Page 6 of 7 Schultz stated that "may" is more objective and "shall" is more subjective. Weyrens stated that those changes may cause the policy to seen wishy- washy. Performance Measures: Bartlett stated that, in 2010, the State Legislature passed a statute allowing cities to participate in a standard measures program to provide communication to its residents on an annual basis. By participating in the program, the City could receive an incentive of approximately $917.76. She stated that although it is an optional item at this time, it may be mandatory in the future. Weyrens added that staff could come up with some ideas and measures. In order to receive the per capita incentive, the City must declare ten standard performance measurements as determined by the State. Those items are included on a resolution that must be passed if the City wishes to participate. Loso questioned whether the $917 would be enough to cover the co f conducting such a survey and questioned how this would benefit the City. Bartlett responded th Id be a good way for citizens to provide feedback and the City to gain an idea of the priorities o payers. Frank stated that he is intrigued by the idea of doing such a survey, but stated he d t to be the first City to participate. He does; however, feel that it would be best to do this soo n If the City does participate, Frank added that he would like to add other measures as well s com tion patterns, openness, etc. Wick stated that he would like to a more qualitative s e question at the City would then do with the information that is gathered. Bartlett advis Council that Woo and Minneapolis have done these types of surveys in the past, so there ther examples out ther nk stated that this would be a good tool to use to measure how we are and tomake sure tha re accountable. Schultz added that feedback is important. An In addition to the financial incentive, B ted that the uld then be exempt from levy limits for 2012. Loso expressed that he likes levy oes not su this initiative. Frank made a motion to approve Resolu 201 eclarin oseph's participation in the State Program's regard i rmance m ures. t!on w conded by Wick. Ayes: Frank, Nays: Loso Motion Graceview Estates: Wey emind a Council they will meet in a workshop setting on June 23 at 6:30PM to discuss the is el Grace Estates Homeowners Association. She stated that no de c' made er th ill discuss the issues that have been address ious sions w ub mmittee. the City Council. Joint Planning Board: st at the Joint Planning Board met at the Township Hall. They approved a rezoning requ erine Klein - Rausch to rezone from Industrial to Commercial. Weyrens added that the pro retail use includes the sale of formal wear, a hair salon as well as a photography studio. She added that, once a rezoning request is considered by the Joint Planning Committee, it must be presented to the City Council and the Township Board for approval. That meeting will take place on June 23, 2001 at 8PM. APO Executive Meeting: Schultz reported that he attended the APO Executive meeting at which they discussed a recommendation for staff salary adjustments. They also reviewed the material for the annual DC trip and the KDV audit. Their audit indicates that they have a 12 month cushion of reserves. Meeting with Bachmann Staff: Schultz advised the Council that he will be meeting with Michelle Bachmann's staff on Friday regarding issues of concern relating to St. Joseph. COUNCIL REPORTS VIW4 1 June 16, 2011 Page 7 of 7 EDA: Wick stated that the EDA will meet next week to begin working on the 2012 budget as well as get an update on the CEDS process. Fireworks: Wick reported that he was recently approached regarding the fireworks display. The Jaycees and the Chamber have decided to scale back their donation to the 4 th of July fireworks for next year. Wick stated that there are other potential options for raising revenue such as gambling money, winter recreation and donations. Coborns is making a match as well. LOSO — No Report FRANK Cone Castle: Frank questioned the status of the Cone construct this year, but they have been experiencing s EDA: Frank advised the Council that the EDA will budget for the former Economic Development Pai into the General Fund requires a super majority v of more than $1,000 requires approval from the C had any ideas for those excess funds. TALCham suggested putting those funds into the Adjourn Judy Weyrens Administrator replied that they plan to on the property. previously in the it the money back at any expenditure ther or not they Loso and passed unanimously.