HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998 [03] Mar 19
Page 3291
March 19, 199&
I
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof the City Conncil for the City of St. Joseph met in regular session
on Thursday, March 19, 199& at 7:00 p.m. in City HalL .
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Kenneth J. Hiemenz; Councilors Bob Loso, Cory Ehlert, Mary
Niedenfuer, Ken Twit. Clerk/Administrator Rachel Stapleton.
OTHERS PRESENT: Judy Weyrens, ClIad Carlson, Richard Taufen, Jim Graeve, Alan Beste,
Brent Beste, Ellen Wahlstrom, Kevin Doyle, Michael Deutz, Gene Boysen
Mayor Hiemenz called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with all Councilors present.
,
AGENDA: Loso made a motion to approve the agenda with a Resolution Regarding Minnesota
House Tax Bill substituted for Item 8 (the City Engineer will not be attending the meeting);
seconded by Twit.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
MINUTES: Niedenfuer made a motion to approve the minutes of the February 24, 1998 meeting
as presented; seconded by Loso.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
I
Loso made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 5, 1998; seconded by Twit.
Discussion - Ehlert clarified requests from Boards and Commissions should be in writing.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
CONSENT AGENDA: Twit made a motion to approve the consent agenda' as follows; seconded
by Niedenfuer.
1. Resolution changing the ordinance number of the Telecommunications Ordinance to
Ordinance 58
2. Amendment to Conditions of Special Use Permit of Mike Kittridge - Due to change in
design plans, 100 foot setback required with access on to Joseph Street allowed.
3. Loss Control WorkShOP - St. Cloud, Registration is $15 each, Dick Taufen, Dave
Theisen, Joe Braun, Rachel Stapleton attendance approved. .
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
BILLS PAYABLE, CALLOUTS AND OVERTIME: Deputy Clerk Judy Weyrens presented the
Bills Payable, cailouts and overtime. Several bills were discussed as well as the agreement for
obtaining fuel from the fuel suppliers (four month rotation). A proposal was to separate fuel
purchase by Maintenance Department using one vendor and the Police Department using the
other vendor. After short discussion Council felt the current agreement should be enforced. A
memo will be sent to Department Heads prior to each scheduled change in fuel supplier.
.
I
.
Weyrens also requested to purchase a scanner for computer and Office 97 upgrade,
approximately $249.
I
Loso made a motion to approve th..e..billS. p~.~y~ble,ç JeCk. ......n. .umbers 25161 - 25253, with the
addition of the computer scanner al1q sQfrflare as req~f ~eq; seconded by Niedenfuer.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso'fhfl'~, f'lifqenfuef, "J\yt!\. ,. ,
Nays: None. ',' . h' M9\ión carried.
Page 3292
March 19, 199&
OVERTIME AND CALLOUTS: After Council review of the overtime and callouts Twit made a
motion to approve them as presented; seconded by Ehlert.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
I
PUBLIC COMMENTS TO THE AGENDA: There were no public commelnts to the agenda.
RESOLUTION REGARDING MINNESOTA HOUSE TAX BILL: Mayor Hiemenz presented and
discussed a resolution for consideration as recommended by the Coalition of Greater Minnesota
Cities. The resolution urges Representative Dehler to reconsider his position on extending levy
limits and interfering with property market values, and to work to eliminate these provisions from
the final tax bill being developed by the House and Senate Tax Conference Committee.
Loso stated he supports levy limits, with its ability to keep spending under control. Mayor
Hiemenz stated levy limits restrict taxing policies and further discussed ~he impact of levy limits
on cities. Ehlert requested greater clarification of the impact of levy limils. After further
discussion Loso made a motion to table the resolution; seconded by EhIE¡rt.
Ayes: Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: Hiemenz. Motion carried.
INSURANCE SETTLEMENT PROPOSAL ON CITY HALL BUILDING DAMAGE: After
discussion of the proposed settlement from the insurance company for damage to the City Hall
Building. The Council felt two more estimates for repair of the damage should be received.
BUILDING NEEDS: EDA Director Chad Carlson discussed the need to establish a committee to
work on proposals for addressing building needs. Due to financing constraints, needs would
have to be reviewed and limited. A plan for phase type construction may also be considered.
Mayor Hiemenz and Carlson recently met with the Senior Citizens conceming their building
needs. A room adjacent to the Council Chambers would fit their needs and provide for
expansion of either room. Niedenfuer and Loso expressed interest in being on the committee.
Niedenfuer felt community citizens should also be on it. Mayor Hiemenz felt the size of the
committee should be limited to approximately five people. He further stated the needs lists
would have to scaled down as well. Carlson discussed proposed costs of such a facility ($1.5
million to $2 million).
Niedenfuer stated community citizens want to know why the City Offices and building needs
were not included in the Fire Hall construction as a City Complex. Mayor Hiemenz stated the
conditions at the time did not provide for it. Loso further discussed the j1)int ownership with the
Township. Loso and Twit felt that issues must be viewed from the currern status.
I
The Council generally agreed the committee would consist of Bob Loso, Mary Niedenfuer, a
representative of the Police and Administration Departments, and two community members, with
Chad Carlson acting as Chair. The committee will meet March 27 at 3:::10 p.m. in the City Hall.
ANIMAL CONTROL AND DOG LICENSING: Dr. Gene Boysen discussed with the Council
animal control. Although the City has a good animal control ordinance, there is a need to
promote dog licensing in the City. He proposed to hold a clinic on two Saturdays in the spring for
dogs to get their shots and license in one stop at the St. Joseph Veterinary Clinic He suggested
an incentive would be a discounted dog license. Council was in general agreement to work with
Dr. Boysen in setting up such a promotion, with a discounted dog license available on those
days, assist in publicity, provide dog licensing material to the Clinic, and make copies of related
ordinances available. The ordinance requirement that all dogs be licensed by April 1 would be
waived this year to a convenient time for the clinics.
I
I
I
I
Page 3293
March 19,199&
Mayor Hiemenz indicated the police retum licensed dogs to their owners, saving boarding fees.
He further proposed encouraging dog licensing by sending friendly letters to dog owners when
unlicensed dogs are noticed on properties.
He also discussed a proposed change to the Animal Control Ordinance to address rabies control
in animals other than dogs.
On Dr. Boysen informing the Council that all dog pounds (other than municipal) now need to be
licensed, the Council indicated the City could consider payment of the nominal licensing fee..
DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES FOR A PROPERTY IN THE BUSINESS DISTRICT:
Michael Deutz discussed with the Council his proposals for 33 Minnesota Street West. He
indicated the building will be demolished this summer, due to structural instability. He stated
call for a new structure with retail on the main floor and residential on the second floor.
Niedenfuer suggested consideration of a higher level of housing such as would attract
professors.
Although the existing building houses ten residents, a maximum of six are proposed for the new
building. A special use permit would be needed for residential housing in the business zone.
Currently it is operating under a grandfather status. He further discussed parking plans and
requirements within the business district indicating he wm not have the required parking spaces.
He will have eight to ten parking stalls, which will accommodate the residential renters, but will
be about eight parking stalls short for the proposed total combined use of the property.
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS RICHARD TAU FEN REPORTS: 1) Richard Taufen
presented the 1997 Annual Water Report and discussed the status of the testing of the well
meters.
2) Taufen discussed seeking quotes for cleaning wells and found the quote received was greater
than previously approved. After short discussion Twit made a motion to accept the quote of
Traut Wells of $5,847.80 for cleaning two wells; seconded by Loso.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
3) Taufen presented a quote from Wollak's Hardware, Inc. for fencing by the Wastewater Plant,
between the plant and Mobile Home Park of $3,937. A quote previously received from
Bemboom's Fence was $5,400. Loso made a motion to accept the quote of Wollak's Hardware,
Inc. of $3,937 for fencing 320 feet as quoted; seconded by Niedenfuer.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
4) After short discussion Loso made a motion to lift the winter parking ban; seconded by Twit.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
5) Taufen discussed opening the compost area. Ben Hollermann and Ray Vogel are willing to
work at the compost area again this year. Loso made a motion to open the compost area on
April 1 Oth weather permitting; seconded by Twit.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
6) Taufen discussed the kinds of water meters available currently. The brand of water meters
the City has been using is discontinuing making the visual read meters. other types of water
meters are touch pad, radio, and telephone. Taufen discussed other cities expeñences with the
various types of meters and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Visual read meters are
still available from another company. Mayor Hiemenz felt the City should stay with the visual
Page 3294
March 19, 199&
read meters. Loso and Ehlert discussed phasing in a new system, possit~y in the new home
construction. Niedenfuerwould like further information on Waite Park's E¡xperiences with the
touch pad, as well as other cities experiences. Taufen will check further.. He stated a decision
has to be made within the next couple months.
I
Loso stated a company (Sensus) has offered to do a profile report using City data to show the
benefits of certain water meter systems.
PLANNING JOINT COMMITTEE: Loso made a motion to a¡> JfOve the Mayor's appointments of
Marjorie Lesnick, Kurt Schneider, Kathleen Kalinowski and Cory Ehlert as the City members of
the Joint Planning Committee to consider land issues with the Township members, for land that
falls within the boundaries of the Orderly Annexation Area. The motion was seconded by Twit.
Discussion - Niedenfuer questioned if this matter was discussed at the Planning Commission
meeting. Mayor Hiemenz stated the appointments were chosen because they have been on the
Planning Commission and have a history in the planning process.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
RESOLUTION VACATION CERTAIN ALLEYS IN THE TOWN SITE OF ST. JOSEPH: After a
short discussion Loso made a motion to approve the following resolution; seconded by Twit.
RESOLUTION VACATING CERTAIN ALLEYS
LYING ADJACENT TO BLOCKS 3 AND 4
IN THE TOWN SITE OF ST. JOSEPH, MINNESOTA
WHEREAS the City Council for the City of St. Joseph received a petition requesting vacation of
certain alleys; and
I
WHEREAS, after due notice by publication and mail, a hearing was held on by the City Council
on September 1, 1994 and public comments were received; and
WHEREAS, a motion was made, seconded, and passed unanimously to approve the vacations
as petitioned, with conditions requiring certain easements and the City Attomey concur with the
conditions as part of the vacation; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission considered the matter on September 6, 1994 and
recommended denial of vacation of certain alleys as recorded in their miinutes; and
WHEREAS, certain easement documents were drawn and executed by !the property owners, but
filing of the easement documents was withheld; and
WHEREAS, revised easement documents have been prepared for execution and filing.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council for the CiI)' of St. Joseph reaffmns
the vacation of the following alleys upon execution and filing of the easement documents:
1. The alley located between Lots 3 and 4, Block 3 and south of the south right-of-way
line of Minnesota Street;
2. The alley lying between Lots 3 and 4, Block 4 lying to the south of the south right-of-
way line of Minnesota Street; and
3. All that part of the alley which lies southeasterly of Blocks 3 and 4, easterty of the
southerly extension of the west line of the east half of Lot 2, Block 3 and westerly of
the West right-of-way line of College Avenue South, excludirng that portion of said
I
I
I
I
Page 3295
March 19, 1998
alley lying southeasterly of Lots 4, 5 and 6 Block 3, previously vacated by Resolution
of this Council dated April 1 , 1924. '
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
MAYOR REPORTS: 1) AI and Lisa Pfannenstein sent a letter of concem of the street problems
in Pond View Ridge. It will be directed to City Engineer Joe Bettendorf.
2) Maintenance has kept Joseph Street passable this spring at a cost of $1,165.65 including
material, equipment and labor.
COUNCILORS REPORT
TWIT: No report.
EHLERT: 1) Ehlert will be getting cost estimates for Planning Commission members name
plates for the table, as they requested.
2) The Planning Commission held a hearing for a tower variance as requessted by Meridith
Lindrud to be allowed a tower greater than the tower ordinance allows. A compromise was
reached at the Planning Commission. with Ms. Lindrud agreeing to move the base ofthe tower to
the west side of her house. The Council received the Planning Commission's findings and
recommendations and must act on this matter at the next Council meeting.:
3) Ehlert and two members of the Planning Commission requested to attend a Planning
WorkshOp. Mayor Hiemenz felt new members of the Planning Commission should be allowed to
attend. Ehlert will review the Planning Commission's budget for training to see what it will allow.
LOSO: 1) The committee reviewing the "Disorderly House" and Rental Housing ordinances will
recommend
a) to amend the Ordinance by incorporating the established policy for dealing with noise
violations;
b) to allow rental residences to be on the City Refuse Contract;
c) have concems about landlords liability if they are aware of a nuisance, particularly
those landlords that also have liquor licenses.
d) are requesting the chain of command of the Building Official and Rental Housing
Inspector.
e) enforcement of the ordinances be directed at the residents as well as the landlords.
I
2) The Fire Board has approved preparation of specifications for a new tanker truck. The Lions
Intemational grant for this truck was not awarded to the St. Joseph Fire Department, therefore
funding of approximately $100,000 will be from $20,610 raised by the Fire Department with the
balance from the Operating Reserves in the Joint Operating Fire Fund.
4) The Religious Education Coordinator from St. Joseph's Parish has requested to have the
Living Stations recorded with the Cable Access video camera. Loso stated he is willing to
operate the camera. After a sho.rt discussion ofthe qualifications of operators Twit made a
mollO)} to approve the request; seconded by Ehlert.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
NâYS: . NOI),~, Motion carried.
i:5r:,
Page 32%
March 19, 199&
I
NIEDENFUER: 1) The Minnesota Project on Community Sustainability at St. John's was very
successful. The philosophy of the workshOP was supporting existing businesses using existing
resources for community sustainability.
Mayor Hiemenz extended the meeting at 10:00 p.m.
2) Niedenfuer held a community meeting at the Meeting Grounds to gather citizen input. She
received
a)a request that the City purchase the flowers for the Minnesota Street Beautification
block. Ehlert agreed to take the request to the Park Soard and Niedenfulef will contact the
Chamber of Commerce to share the cost.
b) Seniors expressed a desire and need for patio homes in the Pond View Ridge
Addition.
c) a request for greater dog control, both running at large and need to clean up
droppings.
CLERK/ADMINISTRATOR REPORTS: 1) The impact ofthe Year 2000 on our City will be
reviewed with the proper corrective measures determined as needed.
2) Street light have been installed as approved on West Ash Street, in Memorial Park by the
gate, and by the Post Office.
MISCELLANEOUS OR ANNOUNCEMENT ITEMS: 1) Mayor Hiemenz received a letter
conceming interest of a student to be involved in a meaningful and worthwhile project with the
Minnesota Project.
I
2) Ehlert stated the Park Board has expressed a desire to supplement the Recreation Program.
Ehlert is checking into a subsidized work program through St. John's University. He hopes to get
up to three workers for summer maintenance work, and two additional part time workers for the
Recreation Program.
3) Twit state a decision needs to be made if the City intends to keep the City Hall building and
put a roof on it. That decision needs to be made soon.
4) The committee working on the proposal at the legislature for financil1!;J the Events Center
through sales tax, has a problem with including ·City Halls' in the bill as one of the uses for the
proposed excess revenue.
Twit made a motion to adjoum at 10:30 p.m.; seconded by Loso.
Ayes: Hiemenz, Loso, Ehlert, Niedenfuer, Twit.
Nays: None. Motion carried.
Q~~
Rachel Stapleton
Clerk/Administrator
I