HomeMy WebLinkAbout[04a] Minutes November 17, 2011
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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, November 17, 2011 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 Finance Director Lori Bartlett, Public Works Director Terry Thene,
Police Chief Pete Jansky and City Engineer Randy Sabart
Others Present: Thomasette Scheeler, Kara Hennes, Tom Klein, Michael McDonald, Jeff Bertram, Jeff
Gruenwald, Amy Kalenda.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
St Joseph Chamber of Commerce approached the Council with a donation of $1,000 for holiday
decorations. Weyrens formally thanked the Jaycees as well for their $1000 donation toward holiday
decorations. She stated the Chamber of Commerce, Jaycees and the City have pledged $5000 each
over 5 years for holiday decorations.
Symanietz made a motion accepting the $1,000 donation from the Chamber of Commerce for
holiday decorations. The motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously.
Approve Agenda: Loso made a motion to add the following to the agenda:
10 (a). Closed meeting to discuss the potential purchase of ROW for trail extension.
The motion was seconded by and passed unanimously.
Consent Agenda: Wick made a motion to approve the consent agenda as follows:
a. Minutes — Approve the minutes of October 17, 2011 and October 20, 2011
b. Bills Payable — Approve the check numbers 044695 - 044751 and EFT # 000605 - 000609
(payroll) and EFT #001556 - 001558 (Accounts Payable)
c. Treasurer Report — Accept the October Treasurer's Report
The motion was seconded by Loso and passed unanimously.
CITY ENGINEER REPORTS
Transportation Enhancement Funding: City Engineer Randy Sabart presented the Council with
information regarding Transportation Enhancement Funding, which is one source of federal grant dollars.
The project that had been considered by the Council would have been a component to the County Road
2 Trail. There were three phases of the County Road 2 Trail. The section from Country Road 2 to
County Road 3 is being worked on currently. The Council delayed the portion to connect from the trail in
town to Minnesota Street and the west extension to County Road 51. The City could make an application
for phase three in an enhancement application to the APO. Pre Application deadline is due tomorrow,
November 18, 2011, to the APO. Staff had prepared the pre - application for the County Road 2
Pedestrian Trail. The pre - application does not commit the City. The full application is due in January, but
to preserve the ability to apply we would need to submit the pre - application.
Loso questioned what the pre - application is determining. Sabart stated it is a screening application to
make sure the projects meet the minimum requirements and projects are not compared or contrasted at
this stage.
Wick made a motion authorizing staff to submit the pre - application seeking grant funding through
the Transportation Enhancement Fund for the possible expansion of the County Road 2 Trail
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extending from Minnesota Street West to the new County Road 2 alignment and east to County
Road 51. The motion was seconded by Frank and passed unanimously.
Transportation Study Update: Sabart reported that the Transportation Study Group recently met to
review the alternatives for updating the transportation plan. The committee looked at three alternatives
starting with a minimalist approach, updating key figures that would update the maps to include the
resolved corridor studies, such as Field Street and the West Metro corridor. The St. Cloud APO would
help with the study process. The other options include a much more detailed analysis. Option 1 does not
include reviewing and updating road classifications which will impact 4 Avenue SE and 12 Avenue SE.
The City can add the detailed analysis and the updating of the APO traffic model would be used to assist
this portion.
Frank stated that he does not quite understand the differences between the three options as they range
from $ 10,000, $ 23,000 and $ 40,000. The difference between option 1 and option 2 would be option 1
was more of a mapping exercise and option 2 would include the narrative portion. Wick stated the staff
uses the maps and it is an issue if we don't address the classifications. Wick was concerned that the
options are from engineering perspective, not from the residents' standpoint. Sabart stated the original
plan included a series of open houses and public input. That type of effort was not captured in option 1
which was more of a mapping and transportation modeling system. Loso stated we are not out to
reinvent the wheel. He stated the important task is to identify correctly the main road functions in the City.
Sabart stated the classifications are standard as far as definitions; it is how they fit the community.
Schultz stated that the Transportation Committee did not feel that many changes needed to be made and
the updating was more of a mapping exercise. He questioned Sabart if there is a fourth option that would
include reviewing the classifications.
Sabart stated people are creatures of habit; they will use the street that is closest. He states evaluating
the map at the same times as reviewing classifications makes more sense than doing each separately as
they go together. Sabart informed the Council that the APO has already started the modeling, updating
to 2035 traffic projections. Sabart will look at the analysis again with his staff and come back with an
alternate proposal.
Loso stated the streets are what they are and the analysis needs to be based on what we have now and
12 Avenue was designed to go all the way to Jade Road. One little narrow section changed because of
politics of the time. Schultz stated it would be more important to see what the new proposal would be.
He believes the transportation committee would not mind doing a little additional work. Wick stated the
Committee can be notified that the Council discussed adding a minor scope of work to the minimalist
approach and ask them if the feel they need to meet or not.
Wick made a motion to table the Transportation Plan Update until the next meeting in which
Engineer Sabart will come back with an alternate proposal. The motion was seconded by Frank.
Ayes: Schultz, Wick, Symanietz, Frank
Nays: Loso Motion Carried 4:1:0
CR 2 Re- alignment Update: Engineer Sabart stated Stearns County has gained title to the County Road
2 Corridor Right Of Way. The hearing for compensation is ongoing and may not be resolved until spring.
But from the County perspective, they feel they can move forward with bidding. Stearns County needs
direction to know if it is the Council's desire to move forward with the trail and advertise for bids. The City
has a small amount of Right Of Way that would have to be negotiated with property owners. The City's
portion will be bid as an alternate, so they would have the ability to add or remove plans from the
documents.
Loso made a motion to request the County Engineer to include the construction of a separated
trail along the CR 2 Re- alignment as part of the construction documents. The trail should be bid
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as an alternate allowing the City the ability to determine if the construction costs are feasible. The
motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously.
PLANNING COMMISSION
Ordinance Amendments - Business District: Weyrens stated that the Planning Commission recently
conducted a public hearing on the proposed amendment to the Commercial Zoning Districts to allow
Drive thru businesses as permitted uses. The proposed amendment for the B1 zoning district also
included removal of the provision requiring Planning Commission approval of landscaping and building
material prior to issuance of a building permit. The Planning Commission indicated that in a time when
people are looking for convenience a drive thru is necessary. The only reason a special use permit was
required for drive -thru business in B2 and B3 was to manage the pedestrian and vehicular movements.
The B1 zoning district did not allow for drive thru as the district is considered pedestrian and it did not
seem to be applicable in this district.
The B1 zoning district included a contradiction — under the development plan process a developer did not
need to secure Planning Commission approval for landscape and building material if the use is consistent
with the zoning district. However, under other provisions, Planning Commission approval is stated as
required for landscaping and building material. The proposed amendment resolves this conflict.
Wick made a motion to authorize execution of resolution 2011 -025 accepting the recommendation
of the Planning Commission amending ordinances 52.31, 52.32, 52.33. The motion was seconded
by Symanietz.
Discussion: Frank stated his concern with regards to residential properties next to the drive thru
areas. Weyrens stated that there is a buffer between the properties if commercial abuts residential
property.
The motion passed unanimously.
Wick made a motion to authorize execution of Resolution 2011 -26 allowing for summary
publication for the amendment of ordinances 52.31, 52.32, and 52.33. The motion was seconded
by Frank and passed unanimously.
Ordinance Amendment — 52.21 R1 Rental Provision: Weyrens stated that the Planning Commission
recently conducted a public hearing to consider an amendment to include a provision that allows for non-
owner occupied rental for those serving in the Military. The State of MN enacted legislation that allowed
those serving in the Armed Forces on active duty or deployed to retain homestead credit on their homes.
Since the legislature made an exception regarding homesteading the City has the ability to follow along
and allow non -owner occupied rental, allowing for an exclusion of the Ordinance for a specific sector.
The Planning Commission recommended the City Council approve the amendment to Ordinance 52.27 to
include a provision for non -owner occupied rental in an R1 Zoning District provided the property owner is
serving in the Armed Forces and is deployed or serving active duty. Schultz stated that the current rental
provisions are extremely stringent and he has been approached by the St. Cloud Realtors Association to
reconsider the current regulations. They have stated that the landscape for housing has changed and
property owners are facing hardships by not being able to rent their homes.
Schultz stated he is looking at establishing a committee to look at the Ordinance to see if modifications
need to be made to the Ordinance. He suggested that this group consisting of a member from the City
Council, Planning Commission, a realtor, and a person of the community. The group would collaborate
and come back to the Planning Commission with a recommendation. Frank states that he believes in
very stringent regulations in Single Family zoning districts. He stated we have tried to accommodate
rental units. Frank believes people who have purchased homes are expecting a certain lifestyle. He
questions the term "active duty" and what does that mean and it is not his intent to narrowing the
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provision. Wick clarifies that the Council should wait to get a definition of "active duty" before voting since
the definition would need to be introduced at a public hearing.
Wick made a motion to table amending Ordinance 52.27 until the Council is provided with a
definition of active duty. The motion was seconded by Schultz.
Ayes: Schultz, Wick, Symanietz, Frank.
Nays: Loso Motion Carried 4:1:0
Ordinance Amendment — Parking Front Lawn /Parking Pad: Schultz stated that the Planning Commission
recently discussed parking on front lawns as requested by the City Council. They expressed frustration
as twice before they have recommended a solution to the City Council only to have it denied. Schultz
stated that the Council needs to provide direction as to what they are looking for in an amendment so that
the Planning Commission can put closure to this matter.
Loso stated that he is uncertain about adding regulations for parking in yards as not everyone has an
alley to access their backyards. The original townsite has small setbacks and it is not possible to access
the back yards so residents have used the front yard. He further stated that it is his opinion that
restricting the use of residential property is not user friendly nor is it consistent with the needs of
residents. Many people have recreation vehicles that are parked outside and if restrictions are imposed
they will be subject to fines.
Frank stated he perceives a clash two competing values. Some people feel it is my property and I
should be able to do what I want. Many people do want the ordinance stating they don't want to look at
cars or RV's in neighbor's yards. Residents feel, right or wrong, that it detracts from their value or view.
He stated that he would oppose sending this back to the Planning Commission for consideration.
Schultz questioned Police Chief Jansky, as it stands today, is the ordinance enforceable? Chief Jansky
stated the ordinance is too vague. He cannot enforce it until there is a definition for parking pads. He
stated that people put crushed rock down and as time passes the grass has grown through. Is it a
parking pad or grass? We need a definition of what a parking pad is, not necessarily where a parking pad
is but what material it is.
Loso stated the argument years ago was about students parking on the front yards of rental properties.
No parking in the front yard could be an option. Chief Jansky stated he is looking for a clear direction
from the Council. He will enforce what the council decides as long as it is clearly defined and
enforceable. The Council agreed to discuss this further at a work session and not refer the matter back to
the Planning Commission. Symanietz requested of staff to get comparisons from other cities. Frank
added to that with asking if the different cities can be compared and broke down so the comparison is
made simple.
Ordinance Amendment — Variance Provisions: Weyrens stated that the Planning Commission conducted
a public hearing to consider amending the provisions for granting variances. The amendment is needed
to update the existing Ordinance to mirror the current MN Statute. Recent legislative actions have
necessitated this change, with the amendment the City is in violation of State Law. Loso made a motion
to authorize execution of resolution 20011 -027 accepting the recommendation amending
Ordinance 52.07, variances. The motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously.
Schultz made a motion to authorize execution of resolution 2011 -028 authorizing summary
publication for the amendment of ordinance 52.07. The motion was seconded by Wick and
passed unanimously.
Refuse Bids: Weyrens stated that the city solicited bids for refuse service in October and mailed notices
to the following vendors: Allied Waste, West Central Sanitation, Waste Management, Affordable Disposal
and Bueckers Sanitation. Four of the vendors submitted a bid for consideration with the lowest two
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bidders Allied Waste and West Central Sanitation. Both vendors offer similar services with Allied adding
a recycle bank program that has a separate fee. .
Frank stated that he was asked again by some residents if the City would go back to the bag system;
however he noticed that none of the haulers offered such. He believes the criteria for awarding is price,
single sort recycling, two city wide pick up dates, appliance, and Christmas tree pick up. Allied waste is
also starting pick up of electronics. If you look at price, they are the cheaper bid. Refuse bid is one of the
most competitive, bitterly fought in nearly every City. Allied has been the vendor for a long time and in his
opinion they have served the City professionally delivering the service they bid. Frank stated that the only
complaint has received is that with points through the recycle bank program but it is his understanding
that those issues have been resolved.
Schultz questioned if the City is comparing the bids as one vendor has the advantage of establishing their
recycling program through an additional fee that was charged. If that amount is removed, the bidding
results may change. Frank expressed frustration with last minute information presented by one of the
vendors and again stated that the contract is about economic value. Loso stated garbage is garbage;
personally he does not care about the points and the bid should be awarded on the lowest bid. In
addition, with Allied offering to add an Electronic recycling pickup twice a year, that is a large advantage
creating a larger gap in the bid tabulation.
Loso made a motion to authorize execution of the refuse contract between the City of St. Joseph
and Allied Waste for the period January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2014, accepting the service
to include Recycle Bank. The motion was seconded by Symanietz and passed unanimously.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Purchase of Property — 35 College Avenue N: Weyens reported that the City was successful in coming to
terms with the Credit Union to purchase the building at 35 College Avenue North. The Credit Union
agreed to pay the assessments with the City agreeing to pay $110,000 plus half of the closing costs. .
Schultz made a motion to authorize the purchase of the property at 35 College Avenue North in
the amount of $110,000 plus closing costs. The motion was seconded by Loso.
Discussion: Frank stated because of the necessity of closed meetings regarding this purchase,
he would like to have a brief discussion of what might occur with this property. Wick stated the facility
committee met a couple of times to talk about what this building can be used for. A community center
and city offices are an option that has been considered. The Council decided the City Hall should be
downtown. The City has a designated fund whereby those funds can only be used for the design of a
community center.
It is the recommendation of the facilities committee that the City authorize the solicitation of bids for
architectural design services. The RFP would request vendors to provide a concept of how they would
utilize the property knowing that the components need to include the current City functions and a
community center to seat between 200 -300 people.
Schultz stated that the City could consider leasing the space until the time at which the City is ready to
move forward with a construction project. Frank thanked Schultz, Wick, Symanietz, Weyrens and Bartlett
for doing a great job obtaining this property. He stated originally the offer to the city was for a couple
hundred thousand, and then the original bid price was $130,000. With the purchase of the building the
city gets all the contents, there are no clauses so the city can lease the building, or use it for other
opportunities. Frank states he believes that they did a great job looking down the road and looking
towards the needs and opportunities of the future at a very good purchase price.
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Weyrens clarified that purchase of the facility will be funded with Sales Tax revenue as a community
center was one of the eligible expenditures. If for some reason the property owned by the City, including
the existing property, is not designed to include a community center the sales tax funds will be restored.
The motion passed unanimously.
Loso made a motion to authorize the Facility Committee to solicit RFP's for design services of a
City campus center to include a community center, interviewing the same and providing a
recommendation for hire to the City Council. The design services will be funded through the
special Recreation Fund. The motion was seconded by Frank and passed unanimously.
MAYOR REPORTS
Board and Commission Minutes: Mayor Schultz requested that the packets include all boards and
commissions minutes to expand communication.
APO Executive Committee: The APO executive committee is making a recommendation to the full
board that the entire surplus federal funding $601,000 be reprogrammed to the Beaver Island Trail.
Two staff members have submitted their resignation form the APO and the personnel committee of the
APO will be meeting to discuss options for filling the 2.5 staff positions. The resignations came from
Cathryn Hansen and Michelle Muesser.
Mayors Breakfast: Schultz met Greg Hall, owner of DSI American Manufacturing at the Mayor's prayer
breakfast. It was at this meeting that he discovered that this company produced the parts to fee the
miners trapped in Chile. DSI American Manufacturing is growing and has increased employees from 8 to
40 and has offered to provide tours of his facility. Weyrens stated the invitation has been received and
the dates provided are December 7 or December 8t"
State Legislature: There has been a joint committee formed to study LGA with the hopes of revising the
formula to establish a need based system rather than the current modified grandfather system.
COUNCIL REPORTS
FRANK
Bus Transportation Committee: Frank reported that he attended the ad hoc transportation committee
meeting at which time it was confirmed that the existing two day a week bus service would be
discontinuing. In spite of funding from the Lions, City, Monastery, Tri Cap and MN Department the
economic conditions don't allow for continued funding. The ridership has gone from 1.3 to 1.9 from the
previous year. The bus service will be changing to a one trip per week schedule which will not be as
convenient.
LOSO — No Report
WICK
EDA: Moved meeting from November 23 to November 30 for the EDA Meeting.
SYMANIETZ — No Report
Adjourn: Wick made a motion to adjourn to a closed session at 8:45PM; seconded by Loso and
passed unanimously.
Judy Weyrens
Administrator
November 3, 2011
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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, November 3, 2011 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 Finance Director Lori Bartlett, Public Works Director Terry Thene,
Police Chief Pete Jansky
Others Present: Linda Brown
Approve Agenda: Wick made a motion to approve the agenda. The motion was seconded by
Symanietz and passed unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS — No one present wished to speak
Consent Agenda: Loso made a motion to approve the consent agenda as follows:
a. Minutes — Approve the minutes of October 6, 2011.
b. Bills Payable — Approve the check numbers 044655- 044694 and EFT # 000569 - 000573
(payroll).
c. Gambling Report — Accept the 3rd Quarter Gambling Report.
d. Donations — Accept the donations and stated purposes.
The motion was seconded by Frank with the removal of 4(e), Final Plat. The motion passed
unanimously.
Final Plat/Development Agreement St. Joseph Professional Plat: Frank questioned the status of the
planned use, fast food, that is anticipated to purchase one of the lots in the Professional Plat. Weyrens
stated that the development plan is a separate process from the platting and it is anticipated that the plat
will be developed in two phases with the first phase being located closest to CR 133. Frank expressed
concern that the City has not looked at creative ways to develop the site as far as signage and rain
gardens. Weyrens stated that there still is an opportunity as the site plan for any development requires a
separate review and Ordinance compliance check. Those items will be considered at the time of
development.
With regard to the plat, the only improvements that will be constructed with the first phase is enough of
the road section and utilities to serve the development plan being proposed and the reconstruction along
CR 133 to include the "pork chop" design to manage right in and right out traffic. The ponds illustrated on
the plat will be private and remain in perpetuity as private and the City will require construction of the six
(6) foot sidewalk along CR 133.
Symanietz made a motion authorizing the Mayor and Administrator to execute the Final Plat and
Development Agreement entitled St. Joseph Professional Plat. The motion was seconded by Wick
and passed unanimously.
FIRE BOARD MATTERS
Fire Truck bids. Weyrens stated that the City accepted bids for a replacement pumper truck and only one
bid was received and that was from Rosenbauer, General Fire Safety. The notice of bids was mailed to
the three truck builders along with the specifications. Fire Chief Jeff reported that the truck committee
and Fire Board has reviewed the bid and is recommending the City award the project to Rosenbauer,
General Fire Safety. The original budget for the truck purchase was set at $ 538,000 and the bid
received was in the amount of $ 479,591.
November 3, 2011
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Loso made a motion to authorize execution of the bid of the new pumper truck from Rosenbauer
at the bid price of $ 479,591. The motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously,
Purchase Agreement for 1995 Pumper Truck: Weyrens stated that previously the City Council declared
the current fire truck as pending surplus property to allow the City to solicit bids for sale of the truck. The
bid specifications required a minimum bid of $ 60,000 with 5% down and delivery to be within 30 days of
the City receiving the new truck. The terms of purchase were outlined in a purchase agreement prepared
by the City Attorney.
Frank made a motion authorizing execution of a Purchase Agreement between the City of St.
Joseph and the City of El Rosa for the purchase of the 1995 Freightliner Truck for a sale price of $
60,000. The motion was seconded by Symanietz and passed unanimously.
Pager Replacement: Taufen reported at the Fire Board meeting that the Department will be required to
switch radio frequencies to narrow band. Originally the Fire Department was of the understanding that
the switch would not occur until 2013 planning began for the conversion and funds were being designated
for the switch. However, Stearns County recently announced that the pagers must be updated by
December 31, 2011 as the County has already converted. The department has 18 pagers that are
capable of being re- programmed and 12 pagers that will not work. To continue Fire Services after
December 31, 2011 the Department will need to update 18 pagers and replace 12. The total cost for
implementation is $ 8,201.03. Weyrens stated that the Fire Board has designated funds for the
replacement and the Fire Chief is recommending using unspent budget funds for the expenditure.
Frank made a motion to approve the purchase and update of the pagers contingent upon shifting
the unused budget funds and equipment reserves as needed. Motion Failed for lack of a second.
Loso stated that the Fire Fund has sufficient funds in the equipment fund for the purchase and
does not support using unused budget funds for a purchase when monies have been set aside
for the same purpose.
Wick made a motion to approve the purchase and update of the pagers at an anticipated cost of $
8,201.03, utilizing the equipment reserve for funding. The motion was seconded by Loso.
Ayes: Schultz, Wick, Loso, Symanietz
Nays: Frank Motion Carried 4:1:0
2012 Preliminary Budget: Weyrens stated that the City has received the property tax impact for the
proposed budget and due to legislative changes in the tax credit program the impact to individual property
owners is greater than originally planned. The Council has until December 28, 2011 to finalize a budget
and levy with the budget hearing scheduled for December 1, 2011. At this time the Council should
provide direction to staff as to how to proceed with the budget in preparation for the public improvement
hearing.
Frank stated he is unsure of the goals of the council as he does not recall setting budget goals. However,
if he were asked for his budget goals it would be to provide basic obligations for police, fire and roads.
Mayor Schultz questioned the memberships that the City subscribes to such as the APO and League of
MN Cities and if the budget includes memberships currently not subscribed to such as the Coalition for
Greater MN Cities and the Greater St. Cloud Crop. Bartlett stated that the draft budget does not include
new memberships. Schultz stated that the City may want to consider the benefits of these two
organizations and what they can offer the City in exchange for membership. Schultz also stated that he
would like to start the process for request for proposals (RFP) for EDA services.
When questioned if the staff has prepared a revised budget, Weyrens stated the staff has not done more
with the budget because they think it is down to personnel cost. Mayor Schultz questioned if any
modeling has been done with loss of personnel yet. Weyrens stated they have not. Loso stated he
believes cutting more projects may not be acceptable versus some layoffs.
November 3, 2011
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Wick questioned what the fiscal effect is of employee layoff. Bartlett stated in the one year it is not a 1:1
effect because of unemployment and other miscellaneous factors. Loso stated he believes the budget
goal should be a $250,000 reduction. Symanietz questions how much would need to be reduced in order
to be at the level it was in 2011. Bartlett stated she estimates approximately $ 200,000 more than the
proposed budget.
Wick questioned how much of the 8% increase would be market value credit. Bartlett stated about 4%
with the balance a result of the legislative actions eliminating the homestead credit/exclusion. Loso
expressed frustration that the majority of the City budget is personal related expenses so the City does
not have funding for projects.
Frank stated that the city is a service organization and as such the majority of costs will be personnel
related. This is not unique to St. Joseph, all governmental agencies provide services. He also stated that
the Council has set some goals as to contracts and that may help alleviate some of the budget problem.
Frank stated the Council has to look at their goals. He stated one to two things need to be put into the
budget to target. Frank stated that he believes each of the departments need to look at their areas and
consider what the goal, target and basic needs are in staffing to accomplish them. Also what would the
possible implications be if the department lost one person?
Mayor Schultz stated that since the Council opted not to construct the needed improvements in Park
Terrace, staff will be faced with additional maintenance costs and those costs need to be included in the
budget. Wick stated that he would like to see the financial impact of reducing staff by one or two. He
would like to see the tax impact minimized. Loso questioned what the enterprise funds debt may look
like for rates for the next year or two as part of the budget as well.
The Council agreed to schedule a special meeting for the sole purpose of working on the 2012 Budget
and Tax Levy.
ADMINISTRATOR REPORTS
Surplus Property: Weyrens stated that the staff is working on preparing a list of surplus property that can
be disposed. Typically the City has sold surplus property in conjunction with Stearns County, but the
administrative cost charged versus the type of property the City of St. Joseph has to dispose, is not worth
the joint venture. Staff will be compiling a list of items to declare surplus along with a plan for disposal.
MAYOR REPORTS
Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee: Mayor Schultz stated the next Pedestrian and Bicycle
Advisory Committee meeting will be December 2, 2011. Discussion will be about the diamond
interchange by Highwayl5 and county road 120, complete streets and the Mississippi Trail.
CSB Joint Planning Administrative Council: Mayor Schultz stated he was requested to attend the Joint
Planning Council to provide an update on the Transportation Plan.
COUNCIL REPORTS
FRANK
Co Rd 2 Woebegone Trail Crossing: Frank reported that he has received a concern regarding the safety
of crossing CR 2 by the Wobegon Trailhead. He questioned whether or not additional signage could be
considered. Frank stated that he recognizes this area is in the Township as well.
Joint Planning District: Mississippi Urban River Task Force was made a permanent subcommittee.
Sustainability committee is developing a webpage with a floating logo. The cost is $100 and we made an
informal commitment. St Cloud is doing the legwork. Rockville, St Cloud and the three counties have
already committed along with the farm to market. The idea is to have a toolbox to be able see what is
going on in other communities.
November 3, 2011
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LOSO
County Road 2: Loso stated that he noticed that the survey work has started for the realignment of CR 2
and questioned the status. Weyrens stated that she contact the City Engineer for an update at the next
meeting.
Recreation Association: Loso stated that at the last Recreation Association meeting they discussed a
pump that failed for the watering system for the fields. The Recreation Association is questioning whether
or not the City will reimburse the Association this cost. The cost of the pump was approximately $ 3,770.
Thene stated that he was not made aware of the problem until after the pump was purchased and
installed. Originally he had been told that the pump also supplied water to the campground, but upon
investigation, the pump only waters the fields. Thene spoke to the president of the Recreation
Association to help with some guidelines on what they need to come to the city for approval before
making improvements on City property.
APO: Loso stated that he recently attended the APO Full Board and had an opportunity to discuss trail
funding through APO programming. The City does have some trails that would quality and requested that
staff pursue funding opportunities. Frank stated that he too was aware of APO funding through the
Legacy funding and questioned if St. Joseph could participate. Weyrens stated that this funding is what
was originally requested of the Council for the CR 2 re- alignment, but she will forward the request to the
City Engineer.
WICK
EDA: Wick reported that the EDA met with Katie Foley the new manager of the Main Street Market. The
EDA is trying to connect producers and users and the Market is looking for help in new customers. Wick
stated that they are also looking into grant opportunities through DEED for the various EDA projects.
SYMAN I ETZ
Stearns Electric Open House: Symanietz reported that she attended the open house for Stearns Electric
and encouraged others to take the time to visit the facility.
Closed Meeting: Schultz made a motion to close the City Council meeting at 8:50 PM pursuant to
Minnesota Statute 13D.03 subd 1,2 to discuss labor negotiation strategy. The motion was
seconded by Wick and passed unanimously.
Judy Weyrens
Administrator
December 1, 2011
14
Page of
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City Council for the City of St. Joseph met in regular session
on Thursday, December 1, 2011 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 Finance Director Lori Bartlett, Public Works Director Terry Thene,
Police Chief Pete Jansky and City Engineer Randy Sabart
Others Present: Tom Klein, Michael McDonald, Will Wittrock, Sr Kara Hennes, Eric Poissant, and Kara
Poissant.
PUBLIC COMMENTS -
No one present wished to speak.
Wick made a motion with the addition of the following to the agenda:
Approve Agenda:
7 c) Sidewalk on County Road 2 and Meetings with property owners
8 a) Settlement agreement for Liberty Pointe
8 b) EDA Request for Proposal
The motion was seconded by Loso and passed unanimously.
Symanietz made a motion to approve the consent agenda as follows:
Consent Agenda:
a. Removed
b. Bills Payable – Approve the check numbers 044752 - 044780 and EFT # 000610-000614
(payroll).
The motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously.
Liquor License Transfer - Loso’s Mainstreet Pub: Weyrens stated that the City Office has received a
request to transfer the liquor license for Loso’s Mainstreet Pub as they are in the process of selling the
business to William Wittrock. Weyrens stated that the background check has been completed and the
required paperwork is on file in the City Offices. Based on the background check, the Police Chief has
recommended the Council approve the transfer request. The new license will be effective January 1,
2012 under the new name “The Middy”. The new owner is aware the two violations that will remain with
the property. Both were minor consumptions; one expiring in 2012 and the other 2013.
Frank asked Wittrock what changes he intended to implement as the new owner. Wittrock stated he is
changing the name to “The Middy”. He is considering applying for the 2 AM closing but is unsure how to
go about the process or what the ordinance states exactly. He questioned the Council on what is needed
to obtain a 2 AM closing license. Weyrens stated the requirements for licensure is specified in the
Ordinance but include the use of a card reader for detecting minors and a provision to remove any debris
outside the establishment immediately following closing. Wittrock questioned, based on learning card
readers are not doing what they were expected to, would it still be imperative. Symanietz stated the card
reader is still part of the provisions. Loso stated being the card readers have been used in the area,
feedback would be available and it can be up for discussion at a later date.
Loso made a motion to approve the liquor license transfer from Loso’s Inc, dba Loso’s Mainstreet
Pub to the Middy, LLC; seconded by Symanietz and passed unanimously.
Public Hearing – 2012 Proposed Budget: Weyrens stated that previously the Council adopted a
preliminary budget with the anticipation of an approximate rate increase of 4%; however, due to
legislative changes regarding homestead exclusion, the impact is much higher. In addition to residents
seeing an increase in taxes, they also noticed a decrease in market value. What the statement did not
clarify is that the value on the tax statement is the value for tax purposes and the value of the homes did
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not decrease at that level. The purpose of this hearing is for staff to get additional input for the Council to
consider at a special meeting scheduled for December 14, 2011.
Mayor Schultz opened the public meeting at 7:10 PM.
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Mike McDonald, 213 13 Avenue SE, stated he had some suggestions for the City Council. The following
are recommendations he put forward:
Council needs to look at what was spent instead of what was budged for the last year since, in
McDonald’s opinion; the amount usually spent is less than what was budgeted.
City council members should only get raises after an election as that is the provision included in
State Statutes.
It is his opinion there is excessive bonding for items that he does not believe are necessary, such
as the fire truck and remodeling of cold storage for the police department.
There being no one further wishing to testify, Mayor Schultz closed the public hearing at 7:25 PM.
Frank asked Mike McDonald to summarize the points he discussed and any further ones he has and
email them to the Council members.
Frank reestablished the plan of the Council is the budget has to be submitted by December 28, 2011 and
cannot be increased but can be decreased before that date. The budget work shop is set for December
14, 2011 and all input of public and council will be well thought-out.
Frank questioned the comparisons of the budget in regards to McDonald’s recommendations and if the
comparison was budget to budget or actual to budget, etc. Wick stated the information they are using in
their packets are 2009, 2010, and year to date 2011 actual along with the 2011 budget and 2012 budget.
Symanietz stated that the comparison of budget to actual spending per year is not compared to see what
is over budgeted, if anything. Weyrens stated the capital improvement plan makes the budget difficult to
compare actual to budget of each year; however, a comparison can be made if the capital improvement
information is taken out of both.
Frank questioned the Council’s wage increases. Weyrens stated that at the time the Council
implemented the policy, it was reviewed by the Attorney and the League was consulted and at that time
the City could create a policy for wages.
Public Works Director Thene stated the work that was done on the main lift station created a substantial
savings for gas and electric according to the Total Energy Dashboard Report created by the State of MN.
The City received a $26,000 grant from the State of Minnesota and we are required to track the savings.
At this time Thene presented a graphic illustration of the savings.
Thene stated another project that generated considerable savings was the remodeling to the police
garage which included insulation of the north wall, closing the hose drying tower and replacing five
heaters from the 1960’s with one. Schultz stated it is projects like these that we want to incorporate into
the budget where it becomes a cost savings in time.
Schultz questioned if ladder truck that was purchased in 2001 for $365,000 is a necessity. When the
truck needs replacement in 2021, it will cost an estimated one million dollars. At the current rate of
budgeting, at the time of purchase less than $ 100,000 will have been set aside for a down payment
which will be less than 10% of the cost. The money could be reallocated for a piece of equipment that is
really needed or a project and the truck could be sold or used until the end of its life. The Mutual Aid
agreement will allow for equipment like this to still be available to our city. At the end of 2021 it would be
another debt service that the city would not need and would not have to bond. Loso stated he feels the
same way and talked about the necessity of a ladder truck at the board meeting, but they have not had
much conversation about it yet. Symanietz questioned if there are any requirements for the city to have a
ladder truck given that there are taller apartment buildings. Weyrens insurance rates would have to be
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checked as it would affect the City’s rate and the premiums paid by consumers. The rating received by
the City is based on the ability to fight fire and equipment and personnel that are available.
Schultz questioned Police Chief Jansky if, when the vehicle which is being leased for $1000.00 per month
comes due, it would be possible to only lease 3 versus 4 vehicles. Jansky stated they could take a look
at what the cost difference would be and the $1000/per month vehicle which comes due in 2013 may be
able to be extended. He clarified that the $1000 lease includes repairs and gas, regardless of gas prices
or volume. Therefore this vehicle is the most economical lease in the fleet. Currently the contract for the
newer vehicles is 4 year/90,000 miles and does not include fuel.
Schultz stated he asked City staff to address Park Terrace in what it may look like to pay for in two or
three years. Ideas of how do we cost it out so it is something planned for and not forgotten. He asked
Council to let city staff know of any other engineering projects that may be coming up so they are aware
of them.
Frank stated some cities and the county is starting to charge for some services previously free such as
sentence to serve who is not charging $100 for 6.5 hours of service. St Cloud has a street lighting fee.
He states an advantage of charging the fees is that the fee can be levied on people not paying taxes such
as non-profits, educational institutions, etc. These kinds of fees are getting a lot of support by
government in this area and by the League of MN cities. Instead of cutting always, looking at new ways
to generate income would be another option for the budget.
CITY ENGINEER/PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR REPORTS
Update – Transportation Study, cost revisions: City Engineer Sabart presented the Council with an
alternative work plan for the updating of the Transportation Plan. The work plan has been identified as
option 1a and builds upon the minimalist approach of updating maps along with re-evaluating minor and
major collective streets. An additional amount of time compared to the original Option 1 minimalist
approach should address the concerns regarding that component of the transportation plan. The project
costs for option 1a is $ 15,709. Schultz stated the revised information has been forwarded to the
Transportation Committee for comments and will be brought back to the Council for reconsideration
December 15, 2011.
APO Funding Designs: APO staff is preparing the submittal for the federal funds packet 2016-2017
transportation improvement program project solicitations. It is through this program that the City can
compete for funding for projects such as the north corridor, which is currently eligible for funding in 2014.
The project that could be eligible for 2016 – 2017 would be construction in the North Corridor East. The
application is due in January. The APO technical advisory meeting is December 15, 2011. Sabart stated
the Council should evaluate if they want to apply for the construction on North Corridor East or any other
projects that may be a priority. Sabart recommended that a discussion regarding if/what should be
applied for should be the next City Council Meeting given that the application is due in January. Wick
asked Sabart to provide the options and costs on paper for the next meeting.
Sidewalk on County Road 2 and Meetings with property owners: Sabart stated in regards to the right of
way temporary easement acquisition for the County Road 2 pedestrian trail, 3 of the 4 home owners
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have meeting set up for next week and the 4 has been contacted. Sabart stated he has given Weyrens
a packet that includes an application for wetland credits, which will be needed as the County Road 2 trail
progresses.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Settlement agreement for Liberty Pointe: Weyrens stated there is finally a resolution to Lakeland
Financial assessments for the Liberty Pointe Addition. About a year and a half ago the City filed a claim
for unpaid assessment for the Liberty Pointe development. The claim was in the amount of $ 92,000.
The development was financed through Lakeland Financial and they went in financial distress leaving
many Cities holding large debts. Compared to other communities the debt owed to the City was minor
and at a settlement conference claimants encouraged to use other means to collect the debt, due to the
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large debt of Lakeland. St. Joseph certified the remaining assessments and will receive those when the
lots are sold. At this time St. Joseph was offered a settlement of approximately $ 3,000 provided we
signed the agreement by December 1. The City Attorney signed the agreement to put closure to the
matter and the funds received will offset administrative costs. .
EDA Request for Proposals for Services: Weyrens stated that the EDA reviewed and approved the RFP
for EDA consulting services and unless the Council has any changes it will be posted on the League and
EDAM websites requiring submittals no later than December 30, 2011. Schultz asked that a timeline be
established for the continuation of the process.
MAYOR REPORTS
Mayors Meeting: Mayor Schultz stated he participated in the area Cities Mayors meeting at which time
they were presented with a program for revenue generating bonds and will forward the information to the
Council.
COUNCIL REPORTS
SYMANIETZ
Park Board Meeting: Symanietz stated she stood in for Loso at the Park Board Meeting. The Park
Board will be coming to the next meeting with a presentation and a request for new trails which could be
funded with the half cent sales tax.
The Park Board requested to use the meeting room in the City Hall so they could use the overhead for
their maps to save on copy expenses.
WICK – No Report
LOSO
All City Meeting: Loso stated he was surprised at how out of touch the legislators seem to be with the
budget. He stated during the Intergovernmental meeting the legislators indicated that the upcoming
economic information would identify a large deficit and when the news was released it was actually a
surplus.
Loso also stated that at this same meeting area legislators indicated that the new legislation should have
included inclusion on the tax statement to inform property owners that their property is not devalued, and
the value stated is for taxing purposes.
FRANK
EDA Meeting: EDA has been working as a catalyst for the Farm to Market movement and the EDA
conducted a portion of their meeting at the Minnesota Street Market. The goal of the Farm to Market
movement is to connect producers and schools and businesses such as the Market.
Frank also reported that the EDA reviewed their budget and has revised their budget by $ 16,500 and will
be presented for the December 14 meeting.
Loso made a motion to go into closed session pursuant to state statue 13(d) 03 at 8:07
Adjourn:
PM; seconded by Symanietz and passed unanimously.
Judy Weyrens
Administrator