HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004 [01] Jan 15
I
I
I
January 15, 2004
Page 1 bf 8
I
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City Council for the City of St. Joseph met in regular session
on Thursday, January 15, 2004 at 7:00 PM in the St. Joseph City HaiL I
I
I
I
I
Members Present: Mayor Lanry Hosch. Councilors Gary Utsch, AI Rassier, Dale Wick, Ross Rieke.
Administrator Judy Weyrens.
City Representatives Present: City Engineer Joe Bettendorf, Police Chief Peter Jansky
Others Present: Linda Condon, Ethen Oison, Chris Olson, Mike Anderson, Ryan Wilkins.
Approve Aaenda: Wick made a motion to approve the agenda with the following additions:
3 (b) Approve November Minutes
7 (c) Update on Corridor Study
7 (d) Field Street Study Update
11 (c) Library Committee Representative
11 (d) Affordable Housing Amendment
11 (e) County Road 121 Project Update
The motion was seconded by Utsch and passed unanimously.
Consent Aaenda: Rassier made a motion to approve the consent agenda as follows with a
typographical correction to the minutes of November 25,2003. The motion was seconded by
Rieke and passed unanimously.
a.
b.
I c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Bills Payable - Approve check numbers 33566 - 33713
Minutes - Approve November minutes I
Sales Tax Resoiution - Authorize the Mayor and Administrator to execute Resolution 2004-04
requesting the MN Legislature to extend the Y, cent sales tax a minimum of 20 years. I
Ordinance 52 Amendment - Definition of Family - Accept the recommendation of the CitY
Attorney and Planning Commission and approve the definition of a family. I
Ordinance 52 Amendment - Accept the recommendation of the Planning Commission and i
amend the Industrial Zoning Regulations establishing the sideyard setback for industrial property
platted prior to 1999 to be 10 feet. I
Engineer Rates - 2004- Accept the 2004 Rates for Engineering Services as presented by SEH.
Transportation Planning - Designate 12'h Avenue from Minnesota Street to Jade Road as a'
collector street with the design to be determined as development occurs and to designate 88th I
(20'h) Avenue as an arterial road with the location and design to be determined as deveiopment
oĊUffi. !
Pubiic Comments to the Aaenda: No one present wished to speak.
I
Noise Violation - 24 Birch Street East. Michael Deutz: Weyrens presented the Council with an alleged
noise violation that occurred on December 13, 2003 at 24 Birch Street East. Mr. Deutz did not request' an
evidentiary hearing, thereby admitting that a violation did occur. At this time the Council needs to II
acknowledge that a violation occurred and then move to the disposition. Rassier made a motion
finding that a noise violation occurred at 24 Birch Street East on December 13, 2003 as supported
by the Police Incident Report #03802239. The motion was seconded by Utsch and passed
unanimously.
Hosch requested that a representative of the property approach the Council, to which Linda Condon
introduced herself as the property owner representative. Condon stated that the tenants that were
involved in the noise incident have since moved as their lease expired in December. At this time she
introduced the new tenants of 24 Birch Street East. They identified themselves as: Ethen Olson, Chris
Oison, Mike Anderson and Ryan Wilkins. The Council stated they did not have any questions for the n'ew
tenants as they were not living at the property at the time of the incident.
I
January 15, 2004
Page 2 of 8
Hosch reminded the tenants present that while they were not living at the residence at the time of the
incident, this violation goes against the property for a three year period and will be considered if any
additional violations occur at said property. Hosch further clarified that the City does not have a
mechanism to fine the tenants, as the landlord annually applies for a rental license. Therefore the rental
license is used as a mechanism to enforce local Ordinances.
I
Utsch expressed concern regarding the noise violation that occurred on December 13, 2003. According
to the police report there were over 100 participants at the party and the participants did not cooperate
with the Police Department. Further, the report indicated that mutual aid from Waite Park was requested.
Therefore, Utsch stated the tenants knowingly violated the City Ordinances and the fine should reftect the
intent. While Utsch does agree that the tenants should be fined, he also concurs that the landlord has
some accountability.
Hosch stated that it is his opinion that the tenants should be fined and questioned if the tenants could be
charged under the current Disorderly House Ordinance. Police Chief Jansky stated that the tenants
where charged with an Administrative Fine for violation of the Noise Ordinance. He is uncertain if at this
time the tenants could be charged with another violation but will check with the City Attorney.
Rassier stated that while he does not disagree that the tenants should be fined, the City does not have
the ability to do so. The landlord is ultimately responsible for managing the property and should have a
strong enough lease to impose sanctions on the tenants and recoup any fines. Rassier stated that the
City has discussed this matter before and the action must be taken against the landlord. Rassier stated
that with regard to the incident before them at this time, he believes a higher fine should be imposed due
to the other agencies that were required to assist and the lack of cooperation on the part of the tenants.
Rassier made a motion to fine the property owner of 24 Birch Street East, Michael Deutz, $ 250.00
for violation of the Noise Ordinance that occurred on December 13, 2003. The motion was
seconded by Rieke. I
Discussion: Hosch stated that he believes the current method of dealing with noise violations is
backwards. It was the students that were blatantly violating the Ordinance and they should fined,
not the landlord. Hosch requested that Jansky contact the City Attorney to see if the tenants
could be fined under the Disorderly House Ordinance even though it is after the fact.
Ayes: Utsch, Rassier, Wick, Rieke,
Nays: Hosch. Motion Carried 4:1:0
American Manufacturinq - Variance Request: Weyrens stated that American Manufacturing completed
an application for a variance requesting relief from the perimeter frost footing exterior requirement of the
Zoning Ordinance governing Industrial property. The public hearing was conducted on January 5, 2004
at which time no one was present from American Manufacturing. The Planning Commission reviewed the
information presented by the property owner and the City Building Official. After discussion the Planning
Commission recommended the City Council deny the request of American Manufacturing for the following
reasons: 1) The property owner did not provide a finding for hardship - financial consideration in itself is
not a hardship; 2) The continuous perimeter frost footing is a requirement in all Industrial Zoned Districts
and granting a variance would allow American Manufacturing rights denied by other property owners in
the same zoning district; 3) Granting a variance would compromise the design standards of the Zoning
District and would require a revision to the Ordinance.
Rand Schaper of Facility Management spoke on behalf of American Manufacturing. Schaper apologized
for not attending the Planning Commission meeting and requested the Council reconsider the action of
the Planning Commission and approve the variance request. Schaper stated that the original structure
for American Manufacturing is a post hole structure with pier footings. It is his opinion that constructing
the addition with a perimeter frost footing will compromise the integrity of the fioor slab. The process of I
removing the material along the unsupported fioor slab could undermine the ftoor slab and cause
settlement or failure of the slab. Therefore, Schaper stated that the requirement to construct the addition
with a perimeter frost footing will create a hardship.
I
I
I
January 15, 2004
Page 30f 8
I
I
The Council reviewed information from the Building Official, Ron Wasmond. According to Wasmond the
addition can be constructed with minimal impact on the ftoor slab, if the addition is constructed with a i
perimeter foundation at the south, east and north and beams along the west wall where they are adjacent
to the ftoor slab. Wasmond also stated in his memo that American Manufacturing recently completed an
addition to the building and used perimeter frost footings without impact to the ftoor slab. Schaper I
responded that the new addition is the side of the building where the equipment is housed and the weight
load of the slab is significantly different. Wasmond's recommendation also informed the Council that I
before a building permit could be issued, detailed plans must be submitted to assure that all State
Building Code requirements are satisfied.
I
Utsch stated that the City has spent considerable time and resources updating the Comprehensive Plan
and Zoning Ordinance. He believes that the current Ordinance includes common requirements of othEir
communities and stated that the requirement of continuous footings is an attempt to provide stability in'
buildings. By denying the variance request of American Manufacturing, no one is questioning the quality
of the existing building or the existence of American Manufacturing. Rather, the Planning Commission' is
encouraging longevity of buildings and responding to current building trends and practices. American!
Manufacturing has the ability to construct the addition without a variance. While it is true it is more i
expensive, the Planning Commission is prohibited from making a decision purely on financial ability. I
Rieke stated that while he will be abstaining from the vote, it appears as though the variance at this tim1e
will not be granted. Rieke questioned if the matter should be sent back to the Planning Commission fo'r
further discussion. Utsch responded that he does not believe it would be appropriate to send the matter
back, as there is no new information for the Planning Commission to consider. The Building Official has
outlined some Building Code issues that need to be resolved, but they will not impact the decision of the
Planning Commission. i
Schaper stated that the request before the City at this time is a minor addition, and requested the Couricil
relieve the exterior requirement for this addition. When the next addition is constructed the footings could
be installed on the new addition. The addition before the City at this time is for cold storage only and he
cannot see the benefit or need to install perimeter frost footings. Schaper stated it is his opinion that the
existing ftoor slab may be undermined if the footings are required. i
Rassier stated that he too agrees with the opinion of the Building Official, and installing perimeter frost I
footings can be completed without undermining the existing floor slab. If the footing was completed I
successfully on the last addition, which Schaper indicated is factual, then it should not be a problem now.
If perimeter footings are not required at this time it is likely that the property owner will apply for another
variance when further additions are contemplated. Rassier encouraged the Council to enforce the I
Ordinance as they are stated. I
Hosch stated that he concurred with both Rassier and Utsch. Granting a variance at this time would be
providing American Manufacturing a right that is denied to other property owners in the same zoning I
district. Based on information presented by the Building Official, there is no hardship present and the
property owner has the ability to construct the addition without a variance. ¡
, i
Wick stated that in reviewing the letter from the Building Official, it appears as the plans are not complete
and questioned if the matter should be tabled. The letter indicates that depending on the size the overall
building, the proposed building material may not be consistent with the State requirements. Utsch stated
that while he agrees that additional information must be provided before a building permit could be I
issued, that fact does not impact whether or not to grant a variance. If the variance is granted then the!
property owner must meet all the Building Code requirements. '
As Roberts Rules of Order indicate that motions are to be made in the positive, Hosch made a motion to
approve the variance request of American Manufacturing, relieving the perimeter frost footing
requirement. --- Motion failed due to the lack of a second.
January 15, 2004
Page 4 of 8
Wick made a motion to refer the variance request back to the Planning Commission for
reconsideration based on the information presented by the Building Official and to extend the 60
day land use action requirement to review the additional information. The motion was seconded
by Rassier.
Ayes: Rassier, Wick
Nays: Hosch, Utsch Abstain: Rieke Motion Fails 2:2:1
I
Hosch reiterated that he is making the following motion under the Rules of Robert, making a positive
motion. Hosch made a motion to approve the variance request of American Manufacturing,
relieving the perimeter frost footing requirement. -- Moüon failed due to the lack of a second.
The Council questioned the previous motion sending the matter back to the Planning Commission.
Hosch stated that since the matter before the Council is a variance request, the Ordinance requires a
majority vote of the Council and it is his understanding that a tie vote would not meet that qualification.
Hosch made a motion to accept the recommendation of the Planning Commission and adopt the
following findings denying the variance request of American Manufacturing requesting relief from
the perimeter frost footing exterior requirement. The motion was seconded by Wick.
Ayes: Hosch, Utsch, Rassier, Wick
Nays: None. Abstain: Rieke Motion Carries 4:0:1
Fact of Finding - American Manufacturing Denial
In consideration of the information presented to the City Council and its application to the Comprehensive
Plan and Ordinances of the City of St. Joseph, the SI. Joseph City Council makes the following findings:
St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.07 subd 2 (a) [11 states: "That there are exceptional or
extraordinary circumstances or conditions applying to the property in question as to the intended I
use of the property that do not apply generally to other properties in the same zoning district. The
exceptional or extraordinary circumstances must not be the result of actions taken by the
petitioner.
FINDING: A hardship is not created as the property owner can construct the
addition without the issuance of a variance. The property owner has indicated that
it would be more economical to construct the addiüon without the conünuous
footings. This again is not a hardship as financial impact cannot be the basis for
determining hardship and granting a variance.
St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.07 subd. 2 (a) [21: "states that the literal interpretation of the
provisions of this Ordinance would deprive the petitioner of rights commonly enjoyed by other
properties in the same district under the terms of this Ordinance".
FINDING: The requirement of continuous perimeter frost footings is a requirement
for all building in Industrial Zoning Districts.
St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.07 subd 2.(a) [31: "states that granting the variance
requested will not confer on the applicant any special privilege that is denied by this Ordinance to
other lands in the same districf'.
FINDING: All buildings in an Industrial Zoning District must include conünuous
perimeter frost footings. Granting a variance to the petitioner would provide
special privileges denied other property owners.
St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.07 subd. 2 (a) [5]: "states that the condition or situation of a
specific piece of property, or the intended use of said property, for which the variance was
sought, is not of so general or recurrent a nature as to make reasonably practicable the
formulation of a general regulation for such conditions or a situation".
I
I
I
I
January 15, 2004
Page 5 'of 8
,
FINDING: Constructing an addition to an existing building is a cornmon ¡
occurrence and relieving the petitioner of the exterior requirements without I
specific findings supporting such could create the formation of a new regulation.
St. Joseph Code of Ordinances 52.07 subd. 2 (a) 171: "states that the va~ianée wouid not be
materially detrimental to the purposes of the zoning ordinances or property within the same
zoning classification.
FINDING: Relieving the exterior requirements could compromise the design
standards of the Industrial Park as all new construction and additions thereto must
place the building on a continuous perimeter frosUooting.
I
I
Water Distribution Modelinq: City Engineer Joe Bettendorf presented the Council with a proposal to I
complete a Water Distribution System Study. The first phase of the study is to creating a computerized
model of the existing water distribution system using existing maps, topographical data and record
drawings. The computer model is valuable for sizing mains, identifying fire ftow availability and sizing,
and siting water tower facilities. In addition, the model will be used to size future mains to developing
areas, as well as indicate where upgrades to distribution systems are needed to improve fire ftows for
existing developed areas. A report will be prepared which will incorporate all of the findings which will
provide alternatives and recommendations for future supply, storage and distribution needs.
CITY ENGINEER REPORTS ,
Bettendorf stated that if approved by the Council it is anticipated that the report would be presented to the
Council in the summer of 2004. The proposed fee for the modeling is estimated at $ 19,000 which would
be paid for through utility user fees. Rassier made a motion authorizing SEH to complete a Water I
Distribution System Study at an estimated cost of $ 19,000. The motion was seconded by Utscl1
and passed unanimously.
Wellhead Protection Plan: Bettendorf reported that he has been working with the City to develop a new
well field and construct two new wells. Due to the local geological conditions, the City's existing munici'pal
wells have been determined by the MN Dept of Health (MDH) to be vulnerable to contamination. i
Therefore the City is required to complete a Wellhead Protection Plan (WPP). Bettendorf stated that the
City currently ranks 3'" on the list of MDH for completing the WPP. Once the new municipal wells are I
constructed and online with the existing water system, the City will be required to complete the WPP I
within a minimum 24 months for the new and any existing wells. ' !
Bettendorf stated that the cost of preparing the WPP is $17,000 and was included in the financing for the
2003 Improvements. Wick made a motion authorizingSEH to prepàre the Wellhead Protection Plan
as required, at an estimated cost of $ 17,000 which will be expended from t., he 2003 Bond I
Improvement. The motion was seconded by Utsch and passed unanimously.
Water Filtration Plant: Bettendorf reported that he has been working with the City Staff regarding the I
possible construction of a second water filtration plant. The City has been working with a developer near
Interstate 94 to purchase a parcel of property for the future plant. The test wells have already been I
completed and the report indicated that the water is good and plentiful. The Public Works Director is i
hoping to begin construction in 2005 for the second plant. Bettendorf presented the Council with a ¡
proposed schedule and estimate to move the project forward to the construction stage. It is anticipated
the project will begin in spring of 2005 with completion in October 2005. The estimated cost is $ 60,000.
,
,
,
Bettendorf expressed hesitation with moving forward without having a site established. Bettendorf stated
,
that he is only proposing to complete the portion of work that is not site specific.' If the current site, doe~
not evoive, moving the completed work to another site will not increase the planning costs as they will be
site transferable. The Council agreed with Bettendorf that the City should not incur costs for the proposed
site until the property is under the ownership of the City. The Council did concur with Bettendorf to begin
the Planning Stages with the funding for the engineering to be expended for the Utility Extension Fund;
Utsch made a motion authorizing SEH to begin the Planning for the new Water Filtration Plant at
January 15, 2004
Page 6 of 8
an estimated cost of $ 60,000. Until a site is selected, only work that is transferable to a different
location will be completed. The motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously.
Storm Water Utilitv: Bettendorf stated that the Storm Water Utility study is nearing completion and the
Council will need to review the data and determine the monthly residential rate along with any credits that
will apply to property owners detaining storm water. The Council was in general agreement to meet on
January 28, 2004 at 5:00 PM for the purpose of discussing the Storm Water Utility.
Federal Fundinq Transportation Planninq: Bettendorf reported that he is in the process of submitting
the final paperwork requesting Federal Transportation Funding. On behalf of the City, Bettendorf is
submitting a funding request for the north east/west corridor and for the County Road 2 bypass from
County Road 2 to County Road 75. Bettendorf reported the Stearns County Engineer is also requesting
funding for the same roads and has already received Board approval for the submittal.
Countv Road 121 Street Improvement: Bettendorf presented the Council with a request for additional
compensation for the County Road 121 project. The contractor is requesting additional compensation for
directional drilling for the installation of the sanitary sewer lines. The contractor incurred additional costs
due to the depth and trench instability. Bettendorf stated that the contractor is seeking an additional $
29.86 per foot for a pipe length of 395 feet or $ 11,794.70 and an additional $ 900 for coring the two
manholes. In addition, the contractor is seeking reimbursement for hydrant extensions in the amount of $
1,673 which was requested by SEH. Bettendorf stated he has reviewed the costs and recommends the
Council approve the additional compensation. Rassier made a motion authorizing payment to
Meadowvale for the following additional items for the 2002 CR 121 Street Improvement Project:
· $ 11,794.00 - additional boring costs
· $ 900.00 - boring two manholes
· $ 1,673.00 - hydrant extensions
The motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously.
Field Street Studv: Bettendorf updated the Council on the status of the Field Street Transportation Study.
The project memorandum has been approved and SEH is currently working on the Request for Proposal
which must be approved Minnesota State Aid before it is published. It is anticipated that the corridor
study will be completed by the end of 2004.
Police Chief Reports
Tazer Purchase: Police Chief Peter Jansky presented the Council with a request to purchase three (3)
Tazers. Jansky stated that he has contacted the Klinefelter Foundation and they are willing to fund the
Tazers at an estimated cost of $ 800 per device. Jansky stated that Tazers are a device being used by
Law Enforcement as a means of non-deadly force. Before the devices can be used by the Department
all the Officers will be required to complete training and the City Council must adopt a policy regarding the
use of such. Rassier made a motion to accept the donation of the Klinefelter Foundation in the
amount of $ 2,400 to be used for the purchase of three (3) Tazer devices. The motion was
seconded by Rieke and passed unanimously.
Radio Frequency: Jansky requested authorization to secure an additional radio frequency for the Police
Department. Jansky stated that as the City grows, so does the radio traffic. It is his understanding that
radio frequencies will be limited in the future. Therefore, in anticipation of the growth of the City and
limited available frequencies, Jansky requested authorization to expend $ 600 to purchase a radio
frequency to be used by the Police Department. Rieke made a motion authoring the expenditure of $
600, as requested by the Police Chief, to purchase a second radio frequency for the Police
Department. The motion was seconded by Utsch.
Ayes: Utsch, Wick, Rassier, Rieke.
Nays: None Abstain: Wick Motion Carried: 4:0:1
Video Camera Request: Jansky requested authorization to purchase a second video camera for the
squad cars. Previously the St. Joseph Lions have donated one camera and agreed to purchase a second
I
I
I
I
I
I
i
i
I
January 15, 2004
Page 7 'of 8
I
one after the City purchases one. Jansky stated it is his goal to have each squad car equipped with a
camera. Therefore three cameras will be needed. Jansky stated that he is requesting authorization a(
this time as it will take approximately 90 days to receive the equipment. The new camera will be installed
in the new squad car that will arrive this summer. Jansky reminded the Council that the squad cars ar",
leased for a three year period. Financially it makes sense to install all the equipment at one time as the
installation of the camera will require internal wiring. I
,
Hosch stated it is his understanding that the Lions may not be able to fund the camera at this time, and
he would be hesitant to purchase the camera without a written commitment from the Lions regarding the
purchase of the final camera. Rieke made a motion approve the purchase of a video camera for the
squad car contingent upon the City receiving written confirmation from the St" Joseph Lions that
they will finance the third camera and upon verification that funds for the City purchase are
available from police rollover funds. The motion was seconded by Rassier and passed
unanimously.
I
i
DNR Snowmobile Grant: Jansky reported that the City received a grant from the Department of Naturèl
Resources for the funding of snowmobile enforcement. Beeline has agreed to donate the use of a I
snowmobile for the use of the Police Department and Sunset Manufacturing has donated the lights for the
machine. The only cost to the City will be training for three officers and fuels for the machine. Jansky
stated that the use of the snowmobiie will not include any overtime.
Mayor Reports
Meetinas: Hosch reported that he recently attended the following meetings: APO Full Board; Affordab e
Housing Committee and Joint Planning District. Hosch also reminded Councilors of the upcoming
meeting on January 31 " with the area Legislators. '
Council Reports
RIEKE - No Report
RASSIER - No Report
WICK
Park Board: Wick reported that Lonnie Abbott has resigned from the Park Board as chair and as a
member. The Park Board will be soliciting new members. '
UTSCH - No Report
Administrator Reports
LELS Grievance: Weyrens presented the Council with a step three grievance from the LELS Local 224.
The grievance alleges that the Police Officers have been denied access to ammunition. Weyrens stated
that the Police Chief has indicated that ammunition is available to any officer requesting to complete I
training and that is the intent of section 18.1 of the labor agreement.. I
i
Union Steward and Police Sergeant Jeff Young appeared before the Council on behalf of the LELS Local
224. Young stated that until 2002, Officers were provided 100 rounds of ammunition per month without
restrictions. Young stated that Jansky did not order ammunition until October/November of 2003 and I
when he asked for his back arnmurtition he, was denied. At that time Jansky further stated that he would
decide when officers could be provided ammunition. Young stated that in his opinion the contract I
requires the issuance of 100 rounds of ammunition per month, per officer. Delaying the ammunition does
not absolve the department from supplying unmet allowances. Young stated that the Union is not sayirg
that the Police Chief can't issue the ammunition on a monthly basis instead of issuing ammunition by tile
case, only that he has to make 100 rounds available per month without restriction. I
I
i
I
,
January 15, 2004
Page 8 of 8
Rieke questioned Young if the Officers purchased their own ammunition for practice over the past year.
Young stated that the department has not qualified for firearms recently and the ammunition used for
qualification is not part of the ammunition to be provided each officer. Young further stated it is his
opinion that the ammunition is a benefit to the Officers and if the Council does not wish it to be a benefit it
should be an item during wage negotiations. Young stated that each of the officers are entitled to the
back ammunition and the City should provide such. Young again stated that the ammunition is to be
provided without restriction.
I
Rassier stated that Council is supportive of training for the Officers and encourages Officers to routinely
train with their weapon. He further stated that it is his understanding that Officers are provided with
ammunition for training purposes. Hosch concurred with Rassier and stated that he has heard both the
LELS opinion and that of the City Attorney. Hosch stated it is his understanding that the City is honoring
the contract and ammunition is provided under the discretion of the Police Chief. Hosch and Rassier
concurred with the written recommendation of the City Attorney whereby he indicates the City should
deny the grievance for back ammunition.
Hosch made a motion to accept the following findings of the City Attorney and deny the step three
grievance of LELS Local 224. The motion was seconded by Utsch and passed unanimously.
Findings for denial: The duty to provide two boxes of amrnunition under Article 18.1 is not an
absoiute duty. The phrase "as needed" affords the City sorne discretion over the amount of
ammunition needed by each officer on a monthly basis. This provision places a cap of two boxes
on the arnount of arnmunition supplied each month, with the rninirnum acceptable amount to be
determined by the employer. Chief Jansky's policy of providing the officers amrnunition on an as-
needed basis does not, by itself violate this article.
Street Addressinq Request: Weyrens presented the Council with information regarding regional street
naming designation. The area Cities have been reviewing how street names and numbers are assigned
and are asking each jurisdiction to use the same format. Weyrens stated that this matter has been
referred to the Department Heads who will make a recommendation to the City Council.
I
Librarv Representative: Weyrens stated that the City has been asked to provide a representative to the
Great River Regional Library Task Force. The role of the task force is to discuss library services in the
area. Councilor Wick volunteered to serve on the Library Task Force.
Affordable Housinq Amendment: Weyrens reported that the Affordable Housing Committee is requesting
an amendment to the executed Joint Powers Agreement. Wick stated that amendment eliminates the
interest on the gap loan and requires that each City prepare an annual report by March 15 of each year.
The time period for the report has been extended to allow Cities to review the final permits for the
previous year. Wick made a motion authorizing the Mayor and Administrator to execute the
amendment to the Joint Powers Agreement, eliminating interest on the gap loan and require
participating municipalities to submit an annual report no later than March 15 of each year.
County Road 121 - Colleqe of St. Benedict Request: Weyrens stated that she has received a letter from
the College of St. Benedict requesting a meeting to discuss the cracked sidewalk along CR 121 and snow
removal. Weyrens stated that she has contacted the Stearns County Engineer who recommended that
all interested parties meet at a meeting to be determined in March or April. Weyrens will establish a
meeting date and contact interested parties.
Adiourn: Utsch made a motion to adjourn at 9:00 PM; seconded by Rieke and passed
unanimously.
~~,~
I