HomeMy WebLinkAbout[04a] Minutes-November 13
November 13, 2014
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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 13, 2014 at 7:30 PM in the St. Joseph City Hall.
Members Present: Mayor Rick Schultz, Councilors Dale Wick, Steve Frank, Bob Loso, City Administrator
Judy Weyrens
City Representatives: City Engineer Randy Sabart, Public Works Director Terry Thene, Police Chief Joel
Klein, Finance Director Lori Bartlett
Others Present: Tom Klein, Jon Petters
Public Comments
Loso made a motion to approve the agenda, pulling out items 4e, 4g, and
Approval of the Agenda:
4f and adding item 8g, Holiday Decorations. The motion was seconded by Frank and passed
unanimously by those present.
Loso made a motion to approve the consent agenda. The motion was seconded
Consent Agenda:
by Wick and passed unanimously by those present.
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a. Minutes – Approved the minutes of October 2 and October 22 2014.
b. Bills Payable – Approved check numbers 048400-048574, Payroll EFT # 000984-000997
and accounts payable EFT #001667-001673.
c. Application for Payment – Authorized execution of application #4 for the 2014 Park
Terrace Improvements and payment to Kuechle Underground, in the amount of
$261,919.55.
d. Application for Payment – Authorized execution of application #3 for the 2014 Main
Pump Station Improvements and payment to Geislinger & Sons Inc, in the amount of
$291,919.55.
4e, Treasurer Report: Frank questioned an expenditure coded to the sales tax fund as he thought all
expenditures had to be approved by the City Council prior to expenditure. Weyrens stated that the
expenditure he is referring to was mis-coded and should have been expended from the general fund.
4f, Donations: Frank believes that the donations should be acknowledged at each meeting they are
presented at rather than being on the consent agenda. Weyrens stated that is why the agenda has been
changed to list individually each donor so they are recognized.
4g, Liberty Pointe: Weyrens stated that in underdeveloped developments, the State allows a City to plow
the streets. Based on the state statute, the area would be considered underdeveloped. Loso stated that
properties in Liberty Pointe pay property taxes like everyone else. Weyrens stated that foreclosed
properties do not and some of the properties at Liberty Pointe are in foreclosure. Weyrens clarified that
this is the last year the City will provide snow removal services.
Frank made a motion to approve consent agenda items 4e, 4f, and 4g. The motion was seconded
by Schultz and passed unanimously by those present.
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e. Treasurer Report – Accepted the September and 3 Quarter Treasurer Report as
presented.
f. Donations – Accepted the following donations: Anonymous-Disc golf-$ 25.00; Archery
Range $ 81.71; Millstream Camping $787.00; Archery Country – Targets ($874.90)
g. Liberty Pointe – Authorized execution of Resolution 2014-032 allowing for snow removal
on Jefferson Lane.
Bayou Blues, Preliminary Plat, Rezoning, PUD, and Street Closure: Weyrens stated the Planning
Commission conducted a public hearing for the project entitled Bayou Blues. The project is complex and
includes a street closure, rezoning, preliminary/final platting and approval of a PUD covering the entire
development. The PUD development allows for mixed density uses facility with the lower level of the
facility retail, the second level a combination of office and residential and the third floor residential. The
November 13, 2014
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existing garage on the site will remain and be converted to a studio. A third building, a 4 unit
condominium will also be located within the PUD. The condominium unit will not be constructed until three
of the four units have been sold.
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Developer Jon Petters clarified that some of the 2 floor units may be home offices that would not include
public traffic; rather a home office type of business. Weyrens stated that there will be 14 units total on the
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2 and 3 levels. Petters stated that all entries will have secured access. The office will only be allowed
on the second floor.
Weyrens stated that the PUD requests closure of the north/south to help manage pedestrian traffic safety
and to prevent a traffic barrier. The PUD also will convert the existing east/west alley to one way traffic
allow for movement to the east. Again this provides for pedestrian safety. Wick questioned if there were
any outstanding items from the engineering standpoint. Sabart stated that another plan submittal was just
received today and he was unable to look in detail if certain areas had been met. From a quick glance a
number of the items have been resolved.
Loso questioned if there are purchase agreements with other parcels in the area. Petters stated there are
purchase agreements for two other properties which alleviate the alley placement issue.
Weyrens questioned if there were any outstanding items regarding the PUD that need to be discussed.
Loso questioned if the parking requirements have been met. Weyrens stated that both the Planning
Commission and City Council have the authority to deviate from parking requirements in the Central
Business District. For this project, 10-12 parking spaces will be sacrificed in order to make the alley way
safer for residents. The Planning Commission raised the issue of running out of parking. Weyrens stated
that there is a portion of the lot on Ash Street that could be turned into additional parking. Petters stated
that he would like to focus on the current project and to not be locked into any potential items. Weyrens
felt the potential parking issue should be brought to the Council and that there should be a potential
solution developed.
Schultz questioned if the traffic coming out on the east side of the alley is safe. Weyrens stated they
believe so, and residents would have easy access to CR75. When questioned if the building meets the
height requirement Weyrens responded that the building will not exceed the maximum height of 40 feet.
Loso made a motion to approve the Bayou Blues PUD with any engineer corrections that need to
be met. The motion was seconded by Schultz and passed unanimously by those present.
Schultz made a motion authorizing the mayor and administrator to execute the developer’s
agreement for the Bayou Blues PUD provided that the standard development agreement terms are
included. The motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously by those present.
Wick made a motion to approve the preliminary and final plat entitled Bayou Blues contingent
upon final City Engineer Approval. The motion was seconded by Schultz and passed unanimously
by those present.
Wick made a motion to approve the street closure of the north/west alley. The motion was
seconded by Schultz and passed unanimously by those present.
Schultz made a motion to rezone the property from R1 residential to Business. The motion was
seconded by Wick and passed unanimously by those present.
Discussion: Weyrens stated that notices were sent to all residents within 350 feet and there was
no feedback on the hearing.
Petters thanked the Council for approving the development.
November 13, 2014
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City Engineer Reports – Project Updates
Rivers Bend 3: Sabart reported that as a follow-up to the previous meeting where oversizing was
discussed, he wanted to provide a map of the holding pond that would be created. The pond would also
be a source of materials needed to create the pads for the lots in the area. The cost for the pond and
storm sewer south of Jade Road as well as the temporary holding pond would be around $600,000.
The concern was brought up on how much the construction of the pond would be if the City had to build it.
The estimate is based off of assumptions in that the material will be staying close to the site and will not
have to be transported elsewhere. Sabart added that the placement of the pond was strategic in that the
dirt and soil being removed to form the pond is better than the soil that is currently on the lots.
Schultz questioned if it is possible that no one will develop phase 4 due to construction costs of the pond.
Sabart stated that if the cost for it was put on a lot by lot basis and will be spread out that way, however it
will be a larger fee for those lots.
Loso questioned if it would be advantageous for other developers to develop small areas with multiple
temporary ponds. Sabart stated it would be harder to manage multiple different developments that have
been re-platted with their own ponds rather than the developments with one large pond. Weyrens added
that developers in this area also have to work with the Sauk River Watershed to meet their requirements.
The developers are seeking City assistance of approximately $30,000 that would cover the cost of
material for oversizing the storm water infrastructure. Schultz suggested waiting on deciding whether to
approve the oversizing and to further discuss the costs being possibly distributed among the lots. He
would like to Arcon be involved in the discussions as well.
Frank questioned about the WAC/SAC extension and feels it should be brought back to the EDA for
discussion first. This year there is $35,000 left over and the City is able to extend into 2015. Frank
questioned if people are going realize that just because houses are being built does not mean that it will
be more tax money into the City. In some instances Cities never make money from developments.
Feasibility Report, CBD Alley: Sabart reported that staff had met with downtown business owners of the
100 block of Minnesota Street W regarding potential improvements to downtown alleys. The consensus
was recognition of deteriorating streets and that improvements should be made. There was
acknowledgement that parking was being utilized in the back of the alley which will continue to be used.
Overall those at the meeting felt it would be necessary to take the next step to conduct the feasibility
report. There were differing opinions on whether to include beautification in the project, or to just pave the
alley.
Wick questioned what the feasibility study would all include. Sabart responded that it could include
impervious improvements, storm water, and could include a range of alternatives regarding beautification
and aesthetics. The cost of the study would be around $7-8,000, which would include the different
alternatives.
Frank added that the downtown alley running east/west is a mess and questioned if turning it to a one
way would be beneficial. Sabart stated that because alleys are not as wide as streets it is much harder to
accommodate two-way traffic.
Schultz attended the meeting with the downtown business owners. He suggested making the parking lot
along that alley public parking, that anyone would be able to park in no matter which business they would
go to.
Wick made a motion authorizing the mayor and administrator to execute resolution 2014-035
ordering preparation of report on improvement for the 2015 alley project to include the 100 block
of Minnesota Street W. The motion was seconded by Schultz and passed unanimously by those
present.
November 13, 2014
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Discussion: Frank questioned what will be done in the feasibility report. Sabart stated they will be
looking at parking, and beautification options.
Committee Update
EDA: Wick reported that staff had a meeting with the bank that owns land adjacent to the existing
Industrial Park formerly referred to as the Parkway Business Center. The property is being held for
collateral and the EDA has an interest in working with the bank to develop shovel ready lots. The bank
agreed to continue the discussion and felt a cooperative effort would be feasible.
Park Board: Loso reported that the Park Board met to discuss the Klinefelter Park bathroom project.
Additionally discussions were had regarding the installation of mile markers on the Wobegon trail. In
January there will be a public meeting held for residents to come and give feedback or suggestions on
park improvements. Plans are also in the works to have pickleball in the park.
Planning Commission: Weyrens reported the Planning Commission discussed the sign ordinance that will
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be brought to the Council at the meeting on November 20. They developed a billboard corridor on 75
from east to west with the minimum spacing being 1500 feet. Additionally the sign corridor was kept along
MN Street for off-premise signs. Frank questioned if there were any exclusions for digital signs. Weyrens
stated they were not excluded.
Regional Human Rights: Frank reported that the St. Cloud is working with the state to change the
arrangement in order to continue funding the human rights. They are trying to get the state to put a
permanent office in St. Cloud to serve a regional area.
Schultz questioned what would happen if the funding is not granted. Frank responded that in some cities
that don’t receive funding, they have Regional Human Rights Commissions that serve on a voluntary
basis, however they are not that effective.
Administrator Report
Antenna Lease Amendment: Weyrens stated that Verizon had submitted a request to modify their
equipment on the water tower. Verizon has agreed to compensate the City an additional $250 per month
for the new technology.
Frank questioned how long Sprint will take to get their antennas back on the tower. Sabart stated that the
installation of the current antennae will be next Wednesday; however their upgrade will not happen until
into December.
Wick made a motion authorizing the Mayor and Administrator to execute amendment #2 to the
Verizon Antenna Lease Agreement providing for the placement of additional equipment and
additional compensation of $ 250 per month. The motion was seconded by Frank and passed
unanimously by those present.
Ordinance Amendment, PUD Provisions: The Planning Commission held a public hearing for an
amendment to the PUD Ordinance. The ordinance only required 50% of the main level be commercial in
order for the above levels to be residential. The amendment changes it to 100%.
Loso made a motion authorizing the Mayor and Administrator to execute resolution 2014-033
amending Ordinance 52.09 PUD. The motion was seconded by Frank and passed unanimously by
those present.
Wick made a motion authorizing the Mayor and Administrator to execute resolution 2014-034
authorizing summary publication of Ordinance 52.09 PUD. The motion was seconded by Schultz
and passed unanimously by those present.
November 13, 2014
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Canvas Election Results, November 4, 2014: The City is required to canvas any elections that occur in
their boundary declaring the winning candidates for the City of St. Joseph Mayor/Council positions as well
as any local sales tax question. Weyrens presented the following summary for the General Election held
November 4, 2014.
Precinct 1 Precinct 2 Total Vote Percentage
Mayor
Rick Schultz 319 798 1117 63.68 %
Bob Loso 210 413 623 35.52 %
Write-in 0 14 14 0.08 %
Councilor
Dale Wick 175 577 752 27.29 %
Matt Killam 170 551 721 26.16 %
Steve Olson 141 414 555 20.14 %
Stephen Frank 249 464 713 25.87 %
Write-in 6 9 0.54 %
City Question 1 (Sales Tax)
Yes 385 842 1227 71.71%
No 107 377 484 28.29%
Loso made a motion to accept the election results and declare Rick Schultz as the Mayor Elect
and Dale Wick and Matt Killam as Councilors Elect and approval of collection of an additional area
½ percent sales tax. The motion was seconded by Frank and passed unanimously by those
present.
Joint Planning Board: Weyrens stated the Joint Planning Board will be meeting on Tuesday, November
21 at which time a rezoning application will be considered. Based on the Memorandum of Understanding
between the City and Township, the Joint Planning Board is advisory to the City Council and Township
Board for all rezoning. Therefore, in addition to the members of the Joint Planning Board, all members of
the City Council need to be present at the meeting as well. In order to utilize technology, the Joint
Planning Board meetings have been moved to City Hall.
The meeting will include two applications for rezoning, both of which have been submitted by Cory Ehlert.
The first one is for Property North of CR 75, known as the Notch Property. A portion of this property has
already been developed by Ehlert as Sunset Ridge Phase 1 and includes 12 large lot single family lots.
The current application is requesting similar zoning, allowing for four individual lots. The City has to
determine the best interests of the city. Does the rezoning to R10 coincide with current zoning in the City?
There will be big lots in close proximity to urban areas.
Questions arose about the road that would be going through the property from east to west (North
Corridor). Sabart stated that the potential road is illustrating to try and bypass any buildings or
homesteads that may be in the path. If that is not a concern, the road layouts can change.
Weyrens stated the second public hearing for rezoning is for the former Heid Herges property that has
been taken over by American National Bank. The property is located north of the Sauk River and across
the road from Kennedy School. Ehlert is proposing to develop large lot single family lots on this property
as well. City has water close to the property but sewer is not available.
Wick questioned why the City does not annex the properties and have them developed that way. Schultz
stated the City could, and water would need to be connected to that area. The costs to get water to that
area would be several hundreds of thousands. Schultz stated the main concerns are roads,
transportation, and providing utilities to the land. .
November 13, 2014
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WAC/SAC Incentive: Weyrens stated she has received a request for Al Keller of Elite Development to
extend the housing incentive that expired on November 1. The City Council had approved setting aside $
50,000 to provide $ 5,000 relief on WAC/SAC fees for the first 10 homes built in 2014 with a sunset date
of November 1. As of this date only one permit was issued so the balance of funds remain in reserve.
Schultz made a motion to extend the remaining WAC/SAC incentive into 2015. The motion was
seconded by Wick and passed unanimously by those present.
Holiday Decoration: Weyrens was approached by the Fire Department regarding the replacement of
some holiday decorations amounting to $2,400. Because it is over $1,000, it needs to be approved by the
Council. Schultz questioned if any organizations were approached to help fund. Weyrens stated they
have not been contacted.
Wick made a motion to approve the allocation of $2,400 for holiday decorations minus any
donations that may come in. The motion was seconded by Schultz and passed unanimously by
those present.
Mayor Reports: Schultz stated that he provide the Mayors report at the next meeting.
Motion made by Loso to adjourn at 9:57 PM; seconded by Wick and passed unanimously
Adjourn:
by those present.
Judy Weyrens
Administrator