HomeMy WebLinkAbout[04a] Minutes
September 5, 2013
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Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the St. Joseph City Council met in regular session on Thursday,
September 5, 2013 at 7:00 PM in the St. Joseph City Hall, opening the meeting with the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Members Present: Mayor Richard Schultz, Councilors Dale Wick, Renee Symanietz, Steve Frank, Bob
Loso and City Administrator Judy Weyrens
City Representatives Present: Finance Director Lori Bartlett, Police Chief Peter Jansky, City Engineer
Randy Sabart
Others Present: Tim Roos, Duane Schultz
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Frank made a motion to approve the agenda as presented; seconded by
Approval of the Agenda:
Symanietz and passed unanimously by those present.
Loso made a motion to approve the consent agenda as follows; seconded by
Consent Agenda:
Frank and passed unanimously by those present:
a. Minutes – Approved the minutes of July 31, 2013.
b. Bills Payable – Approved check numbers 046912-046965, payroll EFT # 000839-000843 and
accounts payables EFT #001626..
Discussion: Loso questioned the bill for the City Attorney regarding the Park Terrace
appraisal research as in his opinion the same information was presented to the Council
as was in 2011. Schultz requested that Weyrens provided the Council with the hours
included in the bill.
Public Hearing – North Central Truck Accessories: Weyrens reported that the City received a request
from North Central Truck Accessories to divide the property they own in Buettner Business Park 3. The
request to subdivide allows North Central Truck Accessories to add a 12,000 square foot addition and
create a second parcel that could be sold in the future. The current lot configuration would not allow
construction of an addition to the existing building due to the property line and utility and drainage
easements. The release of an easement requires a public hearing as the underlying property is
dedicated to the public. The property owner has agreed to relocate the 10 foot easements adjacent to the
proposed property lines. Mayor Schultz opened the public hearing.
Duane Schultz spoke on behalf of North Central Truck Accessories and questioned if the ten foot
easement was necessary. City Engineer Randy Sabart affirmed that the easement is needed and is
consistent with the plat for which the property is located. In additional the zoning district requires a ten
foot setback so the easement is not requiring additional real estate.
Loso made a motion authorizing the Mayor and Administrator to execute the Certificate of
Compliance severing Lot 3, Block 1 Buettner Business Park 3, requiring a ten foot drainage and
utility easement adjacent to the new property line. The motion was seconded by Symanietz and
passed unanimously by those present.
City Engineer Reports
2013 Bituminous Overlay: Sabart reported that the concrete work has begun on the 2013 Street
Improvement Project and he is waiting for confirmation when the bituminous work will begin. The
contractor has relatively short window remaining as the project completion date is September 15, 2013.
The project will not require much effort on the part of the contractor; therefore the deadline is feasible.
2013 Sidewalk Improvement: Sabart reported that the sidewalk improvements for 2013 are nearing
completion with some restoration work outstanding. He will continue to work with the contractor to assure
the project is completed.
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2014 Park Terrace Improvement: Sabart reported that his staff is working on the updated feasibility
report which will be ready for presentation later this month.
2011 CR 2 Re-Alignment: Sabart reported that the Stearns County Engineer has determined that the
intersection at CR 3 and CR 75 has meet federal warrant guidelines for installation of a signal light. It is
anticipated that construction will occur in 2014. Loso questioned the funding of the proposed signal light.
Sabart stated that he does not anticipate any City funding for the effort. Minnesota Street and CR 2 did
not meet the requirements for signalization but the County will continue to monitor. Loso stated that it is
his opinion that since the project has been completed the intersection has become safer. Sabart stated
that he did have some discussion with the Stearns County Highway Department about the length of the
turn lane and related stripping and if modifications would make the intersection safer. Stearns County
indicated that the turn lanes did not need modification. Sabart stated that as he or the City is approached
with concerns they are relayed to the County and while the City may not always achieve the results they
are looking for, the concerns are relayed.
Loso questioned the status of the spoil pile adjacent to Minnesota Street and CR 2. Sabart stated that he
would check with Stearns County but it is his understanding that since the project is complete the excess
topsoil will be removed. Loso stated that if they want to dispose of the topsoil, he is sure that the material
could be used in Millstream. Sabart responded that typically the top soil becomes the property of the
contractor but he will contact the County.
Symanietz questioned the status of the Park and Ride and if it is completed. Loso stated that the lights
have been turned on and it is very bright. Sabart stated that it is his understanding that the lights are
programmed to decrease when no activity.
Committee Reports
Park Board: Loso reported the Park Board is planning a 5K Run in conjunction with the Millstream Arts
Festival. The event will include a kid run as well through the College of St. Benedict. Schultz questioned
if the Lions have been approached for assistance to which Loso stated he is uncertain. The Park Board
is also planning the winter activity and it is still in the infancy. Loso requested clarification on the $ 6,000
2013 Park Board budget, as it was his understanding that the funds were for activities not tied to a capital
project. Weyrens stated that the funds he is referring to was budgeted through the CIP for Park
Development. The Park Board did not provide a separate budget for activities. Loso questioned if the
budget for 2014 includes funding to which Weyrens stated $ 3,000 is included in the budget; however,
that too is tied to the CIP.
EDA: Frank reported that the EDA met recently and discussed the following:
Hotel Market Study – Based on information received from Councilor Symanietz, the EDA Director
has been discussing the prospects of a hotel for St. Joseph with a development firm. The firm is
requesting the City/EDA complete a market study to help determine viability. The EDA is not
unanimous on this matter but on a 4-1 vote agree to solicit RFP’s for a market study. The EDA
Director has completed some research and the hotel industry is very lean and a tough economic
industry.
City Wi-FI service – One of the EDA Members discussed the possibility of creating a WI-FI for the
community. This was a recent topic of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. Frank stated that
areas that do not have internet provider competition, there may be an advantage for the
municipality. However, St. Joseph has competition, so it may not be a viable project. Schultz
questioned what the EDA intends on doing with the information? Frank stated it was an idea that
was explored and is laying by the wayside at this time. Schultz stated that if it is a prospect the
EDA wants to pursue they should assign tasks to advance the project, not just let it lay. Frank
agreed to bring the matter back to the EDA for resolution.
Downtown: Discussion on available properties and opportunities with the downtown business
district. Frank stated the EDA is waiting until the City has decided on the City facility and parking.
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Schultz stated that the decision has already been made to use the existing site so he is uncertain
as to why the EDA cannot move forward with the downtown footprint. Frank stated the EDA did
have some discussion on whether or not the EDA should purchase some property in the
downtown area. Schultz stated that the EDA needs to determine their goals for downtown, how
they see the downtown developing and what steps are needed. It is his understanding that the
City has a lack of shovel ready sites. Frank stated he would bring the matter back to the EDA.
Administrator Reports
Fire Department Grant: Weyrens reported that the Fire Department received funding form the MN DNR in
the amount of $ 1,500 to be used for the purchase of two backpack blowers, two pagers and six radios
with a charging station. At the same time the Fire Department is requesting two declare the existing
Symanietz made a motion to accept
backpack blowers as surplus allowing the same to be disposed.
the $ 1,500 Grant from the MN DNR for the stated purposes and to declare the existing backpack
blowers as surplus allowing for disposal. The motion was seconded by Schultz and passed
unanimously by those present.
Loso discussed the annual contribution of the College/Monastery of St. Benedict and how the funds are
recorded versus the Fire Fund and General Fund. Weyrens stated that 2012 was the first year the City
received and additional $ 15,000 which was placed in the General Fund. Loso questioned how the funds
will be divided in 2013. Weyrens stated that the City has not received the contribution for 2013 and when
the presentation was made in 2012 they indicated they would review the contribution annually. Therefore
when the City receives a donation, the Council will have to accept in the same manner in which the DNR
Grant was accepted and at that time the Council can have the discussion of the allocation.
Wobegon Grant Application: Weyrens reported that the Stearns County Parks Department is applying for
funding through the Legacy fund for the extension of the Wobegon Trail. As part of the application they
Frank made a motion authorizing the
are seeking a letter of support from the City of St. Joseph.
Mayor to execute a letter of supportseeking funding for the extension of the Wobegon Trail to be
included in the Stearns County Application for Legacy Funding. The motion was seconded by
Loso and passed unanimously by those present.
Mayor Reports
Joint Planning Commission Meeting: The Planning Commissions from the City and Township met to
continue the discussion on the updating of the Orderly Annexation Agreement. The three areas they are
reviewing include: 1) extending the period of pay back from five to ten years; 2) stop the use of zones on
maps; 3) protect the rights of the City to annex property. Loso stated it sounds one sided to which
Schultz stated that it has potential for the City. Weyrens stated that in 2017 the zones expire, per the
executed agreement. The discussion is can the agreement be modified to today to remove the zones
and allow the City to annex property provided the annexation criteria is satisfied. Schultz clarified that in
2018 the City will have the rights to annex as described by Weyrens. The Township is looking to extend
the tax base for a longer time span for financial stability and for planning purposes. Frank requested that
staff provided the pro and cons of the different alternatives as well as the financial impact.
Collegeville Properties: Schultz reported that he attended the open house for the assisted living facility
operated by Collegeville properties. He encouraged the Council to walk through the facility as well as
they are an asset to the City.
County Board – Golf Carts: Schultz reported that he watched the County Board meeting when they
considered allowing golf carts on County Roads. Both the Sheriff and Engineer had concerns on the
utilization of County Roads, but the Board directed the staff to draft an Ordinance. Frank stated that it
was his understanding the County is seeking input from each City as to what roads they would like to see
golf carts allowed to traverse.
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College/Monastery Meeting: Schultz stated that he recently met with representatives of the College and
Monastery is discuss items of mutual concern. They identified five areas of concern: 1) Water Tower
maintenance and whether that will be completed in 2014; 2) Downtown Parking alternatives as it relates
to angled parking; 3) Minnesota Street Turn back and the status; 4) Welcome Signs; 5) Street lighting fee
and review of allocation and alternatives.
St. Joseph Action Group: The St. Joseph Action Group has requested to approach the Council to discuss
their community outreach efforts and how they assist the City.
Council Reports
SYMANIETZ
Human Rights Joint Powers: Symanietz reported that she and Frank are members of the Joint Powers
Board for the St. Cloud Regional Human Rights Office. The Cities of Sartell, Sauk Rapids and St. Joseph
have partnered with the City of St. Cloud to manage a Regional Human Rights Office. The City of St.
Cloud has funded the office and offered partnership at no cost to the area cities for 30 months. The JPA
has recommended approval of the agreement which will be forwarded to the Council for execution.
Symanietz reported that she was also appointed as the chair for the JPA. Commissioner Lindsay was
present as well and discussed the allocation of funding. The JPA is also looking for four new members
for the Human Rights Commission.
LOSO – No Report
FRANK
Poverty Issues: Frank stated that he recently read an article on poverty and people that do not have
housing using parks for temporary housing. He questioned Police Chief Joel Klein if he has seen
transient housing at Millstream. Klein stated that the City maintains the campgrounds at Millstream and
require permits for all sites with the maximum stay seven days. They have had some issues, but the
department enforces the rules and politely move people along.
Loso made a motion to adjourn at 8:15 PM; seconded by Schultz and passed
Adjourn:
unanimously.
Judy Weyrens
Administrator
September 19, 2013
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Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the St. Joseph City Council met in regular session on Thursday,
September 19, 2013 at 7:00 PM in the St. Joseph City Hall, opening the meeting with the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Members Present: Mayor Richard Schultz, Councilors Dale Wick, Renee Symanietz, Steve Frank, Bob
Loso and City Administrator Judy Weyrens
City Representatives Present: Police Chief Peter Jansky, Public Works Director Terry Thene, City
Engineer Randy Sabart
Others Present: Bob Herges
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Frank made a motion to approve the agenda as presented; seconded by
Approval of the Agenda:
Symanietz and passed unanimously.
Symanietz made a motion to approve the consent agenda as follows; seconded
Consent Agenda:
by Loso and passed unanimously.
a. Minutes – Approved the minutes of July 18, 2013.
b. Bills Payable – Approved check numbers 046966-0470017, payroll EFT # 000844-000848
and accounts payables EFT #001627-001630.
c. Treasurer Report – Accepted the August 2013 Treasurers Report.
Bob Herges, Assessment Charges: Weyrens stated that Bob Herges has requested relief on the
delinquent charges for an assessment that was levied in 2005. The assessments in 2005 included the
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improvements to the Cloverdale area, reconstructing 7 Avenue SE, extending water and sewer to a
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newly annexed area adjacent to 7 Avenue and providing for future service to a portion of the subdivision
entitled Graceview Estates. When the property was assessed, there were two outlots labeled A and a
third outlot labeled B. During this same time period the Graceview Estates Development included two
partners, each with a separate interest in the outlots. In 2010 the City was contacted by one of the
developers, Bob Herges, questioning if the assessment were correctly levied. During this review staff
concurred with the developer and the assessments were moved between the outlots, leaving one of the
outlot A’s without an assessment. The following year it was determined the assessments were levied
correctly in 2005 and they were placed back on the appropriate lots. During this same time period
Herges purchased the interest in the Outlot where the assessments were removed, and at the time of
closing when an assessment search was completed no assessments were indicated. The property
closed and Herges was later notified of the past due charges.
Herges is requesting the City waive the delinquent on interest charges for the years 2011 & 2012 as he
was unaware the assessments had been moved back to this property. The relief his seeking is estimated
to be $ 10,245.17. Weyrens stated that he is not seeking relief of the principal as the City cannot change
a levied assessment. Loso stated that in his opinion the City erred and the request seems reasonable.
Frank stated that in reviewing the information presented to the Council, the request seems reasonable as
Herges was not notified when the assessments were changes between outlots. Weyrens stated that
Herges did have some responsibility as each year he would contact the Finance Director when the tax
statements came out and discuss the assessments. However, confusion was created during the moving
of assessments and all parties share in the blame. Schultz questioned if there are other assessments
where a similar circumstance has occurred and can this happen again. Weyrens stated that she is
unaware of any other similar circumstances. With regard to the future, assessments will not be moved
Loso made a motion to relief Bob Herges the
between lots unless approved by the City Council.
delinquent charges and Interest for the 2005 Assessment levied to Outlot. Relief is estimated at $
10,245.17. The motion was seconded by Frank and passed unanimously.
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City Engineer Reports
2013 Bituminous Overlay: Sabart reported that the contractor completed the overlay project over the past
weekend. The project is substantially complete with minor shoulder/restoration and sign work to be
completed. Loso stated that he was approached by one the businesses located on Cedar Street and they
indicated the street was under-milled. He questioned Sabart as to whether not this is accurate. Sabart
stated that it is not accurate. When completing on overlay a minimal amount of existing black top is
milled as to protect the integrity of the road. Typically approximately six feet of bituminous from the curb
is milled and the new asphalt is blended and matched to the curb.
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Schultz questioned Sabart on the height of the manholes as he noticed that on 7 Avenue there appears
to be a significant drop. Sabart stated that it is a balancing act between snow removal and vehicles. For
snow removal purposes, public works prefers the manholes reduced so they are not hit with the blades.
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They try and find a balance. Schultz estimated the drop on 7 is around three inches which seems fairly
pronounced. Sabart stated he would take a second look at the manhole heights.
2013 Sidewalk Improvement: Sabart reported that is still working with the contractor to finish the
outstanding items to close out the project. The contractor has indicated that they will finish the punch list
items by the end of the month.
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College 3 Addition: The contractor is preparing to install the final wear course for the Millstream
Development.
Engineer/Public Works: Sabart presented the Council with the draft Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for
Engineering/Public Works Projects. The CIP includes projects that are proposed for both short term and
long term. The summary sheet identifies all potential projects and he and Public Works Director Terry
Thene have prioritized the top six projects. At this time staff is looking for feedback on the CIP and if the
Council is an agreement with the prioritization and three year improvement schedule. Discussion
included:
Street Overlay: Based on the street maintenance plan, and after reviewing the condition of the
existing asphalt the overlay schedule for the next three years is as follows: 2014 – Northland
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Areas; 2015 Pond View Ridge and Clinton Village; 2016 Old Highway 52 and 4 Ave SE. All of
these areas have roads that are in excess of 20 years old. Due to economic conditions, the City
fell about two years behind on the maintenance schedule and the proposed schedule for the next
three years puts the City back on track. Schultz questioned if he has noticed additional wear or
deterioration of the roads due to the delay in maintenance. Thene stated that on Northland Drive
he has noticed that the cracking has required more material and he has seen an increase in the
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number of cracks. Sabart stated the using Baker Street and 7 Avenue as an example, the
streets did not have additional signs of wear as the crack filling and maintenance completed in
priors years help stabilize the surface. Loso questioned if there is a way to gauge from year to
year the additional wear so that when it comes to the assessment hearing visual data can be
display. Sabart stated that becomes difficult as sometimes it is not as visual, or to some a few
cracks are part of what happens to roads. Overlays are intended to extend the life of a road so a
road that has potholes and large cracks is not a candidate for overlay, it needs reconstruction.
Water Tower Maintenance: (Priority 1) The Council has been discussing the need to paint the
tower and complete some minor repairs. It is anticipated this project will be completed in 2014
and will require coordination with the College of St. Benedict for utilization of their water tower
during maintenance.
Park Terrace Improvements: (Priority 2) The Council has authorized the update of the feasibility
report which will be presented on September 23 with an anticipated public hearing in October
2013 for construction in 2014.
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Clinton Village: (Priority 3) The proposed projected will include a reclaim and pave, constructing
two new layers of asphalt. The next step in this project is commissioning the feasibility report,
initiating the improvement and public hearing process.
CSAH 2 Trail Extension: (Priority 4) This project has been added due to the federal funding
received by the City. This project will extend the trail for the current location on new CR 2, east to
connect to the sidewalk system on Minnesota Street.
Northland Drive Improvements: (Priority 5) This project is a combination of sidewalk and curb
and gutter. This project is higher on the list as it is a State Aid Road and the City can utilize the
existing funds. The City is at a position where out balance is high enough where the State may
negatively allocate funds. Regardless of State Aid Funds, the project would still be on the list and
needs attention. Loso questioned if Minnesota Street will be turned back to the City and if so
when. Sabart stated that cities can only have 20% of their roads designated for State Aid Funds;
however, when a City is part of a turn back process from the County and the road is part of the
County MSA mileage, the City is allowed to add that mileage above and beyond the limits. He
further stated there is no advantage to the City accepting the road before it is improved. Loso
questioned if there is a timeframe for the turn back, to which Sabart stated most likely in 2014.
CBD Alley Improvements: (Priority 6) The condition of the pavements have deteriorated and
give the discussion on the proposed improvements to the City facilities, it is contemplated in the
CIP that it would be timely to consider the improvements. Loso questioned the boundaries of the
proposed Alley Improvements. Sabart stated the proposed improvements include the alley’s
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between College Avenue and 1 Avenue and Minnesota Street and Ash street. Schultz
questioned the type of improvement as some alleys are already paved but have large holes or
cracking. Sabart responded that in those cases the alley would be reconstructed. Schultz
questioned if the alleys in the CBD such as those north of Ash Street or east of College Avenue
will be considered for improvement as well. Sabart reiterated that the alleys proposed at this time
are only included based on Council discussion of the improvements for the City facility, the
project can always be expanded to be more inclusive.
Sabart stated the projects and priority status described above are the recommendations of staff and
based on previous Council discussions. Certainly other projects on the CIP are worthy of completion, it
becomes a balancing act at this time. Schultz stated that some of the items such as the Water Tower are
already in process, so the priority of those items are already determined or is that not the case. Sabart
concurred with Schultz. Schultz further questioned if Sabart has any reason to believe that the cost of the
water tower maintenance will increase due to the delay in the project. Sabart stated they have reviewed
the condition of the tower and he does not anticipate costs. Thene stated that the condition of the mixer
will not be known until they start the project and that could have some additional costs. When questioned
as to the duration of the project, Sabart responded two to three months. Frank questioned the supply
and demand of the water in the event of a hot and dry summer. Sabart stated that the City is in a better
position this time as we have more capacity to pump and treat water. The City manages a water ban
year round for water conservation purposes.
Schultz questioned the street maintenance plan and if the Council approves the three year schedule
presented above, if that places the City back on schedule, to which Sabart stated yes. Wick questioned if
the Council is being asked to approve the CIP at this time. Weyrens stated that the information at this
time is to start the discussion. Based on the discussion at this meeting, the CIP will be updated and
discussed further. Loso questioned Sabart as to the project labeled 1437, Birch Street and if that could
be part of the Park Terrace Improvements. Weyrens stated that the project is Birch Street East and
affects the property abutting CR 75. Frank stated that in reviewing the CIP, he questioned the need to
move a monument just because the City limits change. The monument can stay in its current location.
Schultz stated that he has had some communication with a partner that is willing to look at a joint venture
for an advertising sign. Loso stated that while talking about signs, the City should consider amending the
sign ordinance to regulate digital billboards.
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Frank stated that the EDA has discussed the downtown and if they were to consider buying property or
looking at vacant property, how does that fit into the CIP. Schultz stated that the issue is the lack of
shovel ready sites and how is that impacted in the budget. Weyrens stated that it would either be
budgeted through the EDA or could be funded through a project and bonding. Wick requested that the
future CIP summary include City contributions separate from other funding sources.
Loso questioned the possibility of funding for a pedestrian bridge over CR 75. Sabart stated that those
types of projects do score well in grant competition, for St. Joseph it really comes down to the what and
where. The CIP does include a marker for a study to consider a crossing. Wick stated that it is his
understanding that recent improvements to the timing controls has helped pedestrian crossings on CR
75.
Mayor Reports
APO Executive Committee: Schultz reported that the APO Executive Committee recently met and they
are recommending a restructuring of the APO Policy Board. Rather than the Policy Board meeting
monthly, it is proposed that the Policy Board meet three times a year. Wick questioned the membership
of the Executive Committee to which Schultz stated one member from each County and City with St.
Cloud have three members. Frank questioned at what time the City will grow enough to have more
representation. Schultz was uncertain when or if that would happen. Wick questioned who will be
responsible for making decisions to which Schultz stated the Executive Board. Schultz stated that the
rationale for making the change is that most of the decisions were made at the Executive Board and
rubber stamped by the Policy Board. Symanietz stated she disagreed with the proposal and feels the
Policy Board has a role. Schultz stated that there are two sides to this decision and it will be discussed at
the policy board meeting.
Council Reports
SYMANIETZ
Facilities Committee: Symanietz stated that the Facilities Committee met recently and looked at Looking
at different plans, budgets
WICK – EDA will be meeting on Wednesday, September 23 at 5:00 PM.
LOSO – Park Board will be meeting on Wednesday, September 23 at 6:30 PM.
FRANK
Animal Control: Frank stated that he recently experienced a stray cat at his residence and was surprised
when he was informed by Weyrens that the City does not regulate or pickup cats. He called the Humane
Society and was able to resolve the matter and in fact, they have a trap that residents can rent to help
catch a stray animal. Frank stated that he encourages the City to help notify residents what options are
available when the contact the City. Weyrens stated that she did check with the area Cities and Waite
Park and Sauk Rapids will pick up a cat if it is captured and during business hours and Sartell will do
nothing.
Police Chief Reports: Chief Klein reported that the non-emergency phone line has been redirected to
Stearns County Dispatch as that is a recorded line and the phone is answered by dispatchers. When
residents call the non-emergency phone number they are given an option to speak to an office, the Chief
or the secretary. While the office staff does a good job answer the phones, dispatchers are trained to
handle the calls and there are times when it is important to have a recording of the call. Also the new
officers are fully trained and working on shifts.
Frank made a motion to adjourn at 8:15 PM; seconded by Wick and passed unanimously.
Adjourn:
Judy Weyrens
Administrator
September 23, 2013
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Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City Council for the City of St. Joseph met in special session
on Monday, September 23, 2013 at 5:00 PM in the St. Joseph City Hall.
Members Present: Mayor Rick Schultz. Councilors Dale Wick, Renee Symanietz, Bob Loso, Steve
Frank.
City Representatives Present: City Engineer Randy Sabart, City Attorney Tom Jovanovich, Finance
Director Lori Bartlett, Public Works Director Terry Thene.
2104 Park Terrace Improvement: Weyrens stated that the Council has been discussing the proposed
improvement for the Park Terrace Subdivision and in July authorized the City Engineer to update the
2011 Feasibility Report. At this time the report has been updated and the Council is in a position to
decide if the project will move forward to the public hearing phase. Loso questioned Sabart if the
proposed project cost has increased since 2011. Sabart responded that the prices were increased the
inflationary standard of 3%; however the total project cost has been reduced. The reduction is a result of
the removal of the costs for individual property service connections. The original project cost included a
budget of $ 150,000 for reconnecting residents who had to change their service location from the rear
yard to front yard. The Council had requested that this item be removed from the project costs. Schultz
questioned if it is anticipated whether or not the prices will keep increasing, to which Sabart stated that
the question is whether they will increase beyond the inflationary factor used to determine the probable
costs.
Frank questioned if the work in North Dakota reduces the contractors available in Minnesota or if the price
becomes escalated. Sabart stated that contractors generally have preferred to work locally due to the
cost of relocation.
Sabart stated that the project sill includes two options, one a complete reconstruction, replacing the sewer
lines in the back yards with new lines in the street. The other project is rehabilitation of the sewer line and
would include lining. Sabart discussed the different options within each project as well.
Sabart stated that the project is illustrated with a 60/40 cost sharing but when all the costs are considered
the City is assessing 43%, (for the option reconstructing the pipes in the street). Sabart presented
illustrations using the various options including 70/30 split, assessing 21.9% of the total project cost and
40/60, assessing 29% of the total project costs. Sabart also presented the same assessment ratios if the
Council opted for option 2, lining the sewer pipes. The assessments are based on a per front foot basis
for street and per unit basis for the water and sewer as has been the practice of the City. The only time
the City has assessed per unit for the street is if an area included disproportionate lot frontages and
square footage, such as on Ridgewood Court.
Frank requested Sabart elaborate on the merits of the project and what problem is being solved by
constructing the improvement project. Sabart responded that the project is being considered as the
streets in the Park Terrace Subdivision are 28 years old, showing extreme wear. The road conditions are
beyond what could be resolved through an overlay. Additionally, the water and sewer lines appear to be
inadequate and are in excess of 60 years in age. The water lines are between one and one fourth in
diameter and a typical water main is 8 inches. The small diameter piping does not provide for adequate
fire protection and residents experience low water pressure. The current water system in the Park
Terrace Subdivision do meet the current requirements of the Minnesota Department of Health. Areas of
the sewer line have been televised and cracking is visible. In addition, one section of sewer pipe is
located in the rear yard and the City does not have an easement for maintenance or repair. To answer
the question as to what is being accomplished by completing the project, Sabart stated the road is being
improved, the water and sewer system are being reconstructed to meet current requirements and provide
adequate access for public safety, the sewer system will be constructed within public right of way and the
drainage system will be enhanced.
Sabart reiterated that the section of sewer main parallel to Birch Street is located in the rear yards of
residents with dedicated easements. Residents have allowed staff to complete typical maintenance, but
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before the City could consider reconstructing the pipe in the current location, a dedicated easement must
be secured. He stated that the City in the past had attempted to secure easements without success. A
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second section in the project area near 4 Ave NW includes sewer lines in the backyard as well with
some existing obstacles. When questioned if the City would cover the costs for relocating the sewer
service, Sabart recommended the Council provide an allowance that residents can be reimbursed rather
than having the City complete the re-direction as part of the project. Weyrens stated that the City in the
past has included allowances for unique circumstances, such as the booster pumps on Hill Street.
The Council questioned if the sewer line is relocated, will the existing pipe be removed. Sabart stated
that the manholes would be filled and the pipes capped, abandoning them in place. The Council
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discussed the merits of televising the remaining portion of the water line between Old Highway 52 and 3
Ave NW. Schultz questioned what action is being requested of the Council. Weyrens responded that
staff has provided all the requested information regarding the proposed improvement and now it is time
for the Council to decide if they desire to move the project forward and if so, what cost sharing ratio will
be used for the public hearing.
Wick and Symanietz stated that it is their opinion that the Council needs to be consistent and the
residents should be assessed 60% of the cost as in past projects. Loso stated that the Council needs to
be able to show increased benefit and it is his opinion that the City cannot. The proposed project is twice
the size of most projects the City has constructed in the past, therefore the assessments are much larger.
Loso further stated that the assessment policy is just guide and the Council must be reasonable.
City Attorney Tom Jovanovich discussed the impact of inadequate services or failing services on home
values, particularly if a property is for sale. In talking to appraisers, this is already occurring, particularly
with septic systems. The City does have an area where it is documented that the water is inadequate
and some of the sewer lines are faulty, this does provide for benefit. Jovanovich stated that he has talked
to numerous attorneys and/or appraisers regarding benefit and they do assign a value to underground
improvements. The assessor used by the City in 2011 admittedly stated to the Council that if the sewer
line would fail, the City could assess 100% of the cost. The assessment process allows for residents to
appeal their assessment through district court and it is difficult to determine how a judge will rule. If the
City receives objections to the assessment and project, the City has the ability to delay the project until
the residents agree to the project. The Council is not committed to the project until the project is awarded
to a contractor. Weyrens stated that the City in the past has conducted the assessment hearing after
receiving the bids, but before awarding the contract to minimize financial risk. Jovanovich encourage the
Council to continue this process.
By consensus the Council agreed to schedule the Public Improvement Hearing for the proposed
reconstruction of street and utilities for the Park Terrace Subdivision on October 16, 2013 at 6:30 PM.
For the purpose of the hearing the assessments will be illustrated with a 60% resident participation,
assessing 43% of the overall project.
Sewer Extension – Sabart stated that he had been previously asked to evaluate the capacity of the sewer
pipes that would be used to serve the area adjacent to CR 2/Minnesota St W, known as the Gateway
area. The analysis has been completed and it was determined that a large portion of the Gateway
property could be served with a sewer extension project; however, if the Gateway property is served the
property south and east of the area (Monastery and College of St. Benedict), would not be able to receive
services without a significant expansion. Sabart stated that he along with members of the staff met with
representatives of the College and Monastery to discuss their future plans as it relates to the need for
sewer capacity. At this meeting they indicated that they did not have a need for sewer services for the
open space as the College does not intend to increase the student population and the expansion would
be academic buildings which could receive services internally and through the east. Therefore, Sabart
stated the sewer could be extended through Park Terrace to serve Gateway Commons.
Frank questioned what happens if a business located in Gateway area is a high water user, does that
change the amount of capacity that would be available. Sabart stated that a high user would limit the
capacity, but it is a large are that can be served. Sabart reminded the Council that extending the sewer
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through Park Terrace is a short term solution and at some point the main extension will be needed and
the City will have fewer property owners to cover the financial burden. He also stated that the City would
have some holding costs in the project that will eventually be absorbed by future development.
Water Main Break: Sabart reported that earlier this year the water main installed in Hill Street had a
significant break and it was determined that the pipe was pitted and thinned. The pipe that broke was
installed in 2005 and staff has been looking at reasons for the break as new pipe does not break. One of
the options that could have caused the break is a stray current from the main gas line. This phenomenon
is not unique to St. Joseph as other communities are experiencing the same issues. There is a Canadian
company that can complete an analysis to determine if there is stray current; however the cost for St.
Joseph to have the small segment tested is $ 14,000 to $ 15,000. At this point the City does not know if
there are additional leaks or faults and the only way to determine is to complete the testing. The testing
will determine the thickness of the wall of the pipe which is an indication of the condition of the pipe.
Unfortunately the City has a short window to respond as the City can take advantage of the Company
being in the area, avoiding additional travel costs.
Sabart stated that the gas industry does have standards for cathodic protection and depending on the
results the City could try and recoup the costs from the gas company. The City would have to complete
the testing before approaching the gas company. Jovanovich stated that he was worked with some
municipalities who are seeking relief from the gas company. If the testing indicates that it is not the result
of the gas line, the City could look at the pipe manufacturer. When questioned the time frame for
receiving the test results, Sabart responded three to four weeks.
Schultz made a motion authorize the acoustic testing of the water mail on Hill Street as presented
at a cost not to exceed $ 15,000. The motion was seconded by Loso and passed unanimously.
Meeting Schedule: Schultz stated that he would like Councilors to think about the meeting schedule of
the Council and if the Council meets too much or not enough, whether the day of the week the meeting is
held is the right night or the right time for the meeting to start. He is not suggesting that the Council
should eliminate or reduce their activity, rather how the Council can be more efficient. Would the Council
be better served with more workshops? Frank stated the he supports all meetings to be televised,
regardless how they are labeled. Symanietz stated that she thinks they should continue to meet twice a
month a meeting can always be canceled due to lack of business. Wick stated that if you have to cancel
a meeting people question why a meeting was canceled, so either way questions will arise. The Council
agreed to continue this discussion at a future meeting.
Adjourn: The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 7:15 PM.
Judy Weyrens
Administrator