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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015 [07] Jul 06 July 06, 2015 Page 1 of 6 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City Council for the City of St. Joseph met in regular session on Monday, July 06, 2015 at 6:00 PM in the St. Joseph City Hall, opening the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Members Present: Mayor Rick Schu�tz, Councilors: Dale Wick, Bob Loso, Matt Killam, Renee Symanietz. City Administrator Judy Weyrens Citx Representatives: City Engineer Randy Sabart, Police Chief Joel Klein, Finance Director Lori Bartlett, Public Works Director Terry Thene Others Present: Mary Nimmerfroh, Noreen Loso, Bob & Ellen Wahlstrom, Florence Sheesley, Dan Streit, Alexander Miller, Mike McDonald, John Anderson, Dan Debaun, Kari Petri, Paula Eich, Bruce Nordine Public Comments Noreen Loso, 301 Birch Street West spoke in opposition to the proposed water amenity. She stated that in her opinion the proposed feature is overkill for the City of St. Joseph and is fiscally irresponsible given the other needs of the City. She further stated that she feels it is a financial risk to the City and the City should not be involved in a business that should be a private venture. � Florence Shleesley, 705 2"d Ave NE spoke in opposition to the proposed water amenity. She stated that she concurs with the comments expressed by the previous speaker and feels the project would be too big of a tax burden for the City. John Anderson, 116 Ash St W expressed gratitude to all city personnel who had to put the city back together after the 3/4 July celebration. He stated that it does not happen without effort. Paula Eich, 206 Fir St E spoke in opposition to the proposed location for a dog park. Eich stated that it is her understanding that the Park Board is considering developing a dog park on a City owned parcel behind her home in Northland Addition. She bought her property knowing that the property behind her was owned by the City and was a drainage area. While she likes dogs, she does not support a dog park in her backyard. It was her understanding that the City had planned a dog park adjacent to the Sauk River and questioned why the change of location? Bruce Nordine, 304 Fir Street spoke in opposition to the proposed location for a dog park. He stated that he was surprised when he heard the area behind his home would be used for a dog park as the area contains multiple storm drains, is bushy and would take considerable cleaning for it to be used. He questioned why Northland Park could not be considered. Aqenda Approval: Symanietz made a motion to approve the agenda as presented; seconded by Schultz and passed unanimously. Consent Agenda: Wick made a motion to approve the consent agenda as follows; seconded by Schultz and passed unanimously. a. Minutes-approved the minutes of June 15, 2015 b. Bills Payable-approved payment of check numbers 049373 -049443; Payroll EFT#00179-001082. c. Franchise Agreement-Authorized the Mayor and Administrator to execute the agreement between the City of St. Joseph and Midcontinent Communications and to execute the agreement extending services to an unserved portion of Graceview Estates and Rivers Bend Phase 1. d. Planning Commissioner-Appoint Time Borresch to fill the open seat on the Planning Commission due to the resignation of Ross Rieke. Park Board - Park Designation: Park Board Chair John Anderson approached the Council to discuss the possible development of a dog park. Anderson stated that the Park Board has been discussing the need July 06, 2015 Page 2 of 6 to develop a dog park for a number of years and recently the Park Board was approached by residents interested in assisting in the efforts. The property the Park Board is looking at is near the Wobegon Trail. The property is owned by the City and a large portion of the property is used as a drainage area. Since the property is not designated as a park, the Council would need to consider purposing a potion for the park. The Park Board intends to conduct a public hearing on the matter as it does abut some residential properties. Wick questioned how many acres the Park Board is looking for and how they plan to mitigate the concerns of the neighbors. Anderson stated that it is approximately five acres and since they have not had the public hearing yet they do not know all the concerns of the residents. The Park Board intends on addressing the concerns expressed at this meeting as well. Symanietz stated that it was her understanding that the dog park would be located in the future park adjacent to the Sauk River. Schultz stated that the City does not currently own that property as park land and that is for some time in the future. Wick questioned if the area would have to be fenced. Anderson stated that a portion of the property is currently fenced and the remaining area would be fenced. Anderson stated that a group of constituents are working on fundraising to help offset the cost of the park. They understand the constraints of the City and know there could be an annual fee. Loso stated that is his recollection that the property in question is designated as a drainage easement and questions whether or not it could serve a secondary use. City Engineer Randy Sabart stated that the blanket easement would remain, so it could serve two purposes. Killam stated that it is not just one or two residents that have requested the development of a dog park. Mary Munden has approximately 50 people interesting in assisting in the initiative. Wick questioned if the Park Board does have the authority to conduct the hearing and make a recommendation to the Council. Weyrens stated that the Park Board is looking for approval from the Council to move forward, as if the Park could not be used it woufd not make sense to move forward. Wick made a motion authorizing the Park Board to continue researching the development of a Dog Park, including conducting a public hearing. The investigation should include mitigation methods and other potential locations. The motion was seconded by Killam and passed unanimously. Park Board- Millstream Park Shelter: Anderson requested the Council authorize the expenditure of up to $ 7,500 to develop conceptual plans for constructing a new shelter. The shelter is in need of repairs as it has some water and structural issues in addition to site drainage problems. The Park Board has established a subcommittee including members of the St. Joseph �ions. Public Works Director Terry Thene stated that the construction of a new facility would place the building on the high ground adjacent to the parking area and playground equipment. The new facility could be constructed so that it could be used year round. Anderson stated that the Park Board is requesting to use Sales Tax Proceeds for the architectural services. When questioned about the capacity, Anderson stated that the seating would be similar as to what it is today only it would have a more functional kitchen, more outlets, and setup for vendors who cater events. In addition it would have a fireplace and outside covered seating. At the same time the shelter is updated the bathrooms would be renovated as well. Loso questioned if the Lions support the project to which Killam stated they do and they have been and will continue to be part of the design committee. Schultz concurred that the facility needs to be upgraded but questioned that given the recent purchase of Colts Academy, does the shelter need to be designed for year round use. Anderson stated that the design process started before the City purchased the Colts property. July 06, 2015 Page 3 of 6 Schultz stated that the Lions have limited funding sources and know they are currently working with Pat Schneider on a project and questioned if they will have funding for the project. Killam stated that the project is not projected to be constructed in 2015 and the Lions have been supportive and indicated they could financially provide some assistance. Schultz made a motion authorize the expenditure of Sales Tax Proceeds in the amount of$ 7,500 to be used for the conceptual design concepts for the renovation or replacement of the Millstream Park Shelter. The motion was seconded by Killam. Ayes: Schultz, Symanietz, Killam Nays: �oso Abstain: Loso Motion Carried 3:1:1 Water Amenitv: Councilmember Wick created a presentation regarding the Water Amenity to provide an overview of the project. Wick stated that the idea of a water feature or amenity in St. Joseph has been discussed for at least as far back as the beginning of the sales tax addition (2004); however, it wasn't until September that a committee was formed to consider what water feature/amenity is desired. At the October Council meeting, the City retained the services of USAquatics, a firm specializing in water features/amenities. At the same time the Council requested that the services provided by USAquatics include the distribution of a survey to City residents to help determine needs and desires. The survey was subsequently distributed and input sessions were held where the public could come and speak regarding the facility. It is from the data collected that the Committee worked with USAquatics to design a water amenity for St. Joseph. In April, the Council received the completed report from USAquatics. The report prepared by USAquatics included conceptual design, proposed location and a financial performa. The water amenity design came back with the following features: 600 person capacity, three bodies of water, zero depth entry splash area, four lane lap pool, tot&family slide, zip line, inner tube waterslide, enclosed body slide, open flume slide, lazy river, climbing wall, rental tents, shade structures, sun deck, and a bathhouse. The preferred location for the amenity is adjacent to Elm Street, containing approximately 31.55 acres. It has a low purchase cost and has room for future expansion as well as high visibility on Hwy 133. The total estimated cost is $6.1 Million with a fundraising goal of$1.2 million. Wick noted some of the fundraising issues are time constraints on businesses to make decisions, the fundraising committee is small and inexperienced, and some of the local grants funding options start in July. Wick noted the report went through two methods of revenue projections. The revenue totals are based on a 78 day season with a rate of$6.00 for admissions, and average of$1.50 per day per person in concessions. The average revenue would be$285,000.Wick stated the report took into account the possibility for 27 rain days from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Wick researched back 10 years to find the average amount of rain days in St. Joseph with the average being 23.8 days. There would be 47 part-time staff throughout the summer with the amount allocated to salaries being $153,000. The total operating costs were estimated at$253,000. 7he estimated operating revenue would be $31,941. Wick stated the market analysis was completed using a 30 mile radius. The cost of admission is also on the lower end of the scale in comparison with similar facilities across the state. Wick reported the 2014 sales tax fund balance was$1,486,280 with an estimated increase of$400,000 in 2015. If nothing is used, at the end of 2018 the fund's estimated balance is$3,200,000. The Kennedy School would be funded at$166,000/year for 15 years. The Water Park Bond would be funded at $375,000/year for 20 years. Currently the donations are under$20,000. Schultz asked if a membership or reservation fee were discussed in the report. Wick stated those were not discussed. Additionally, the$6.00 admission fee is not set in stone and can be lowered. July 06, 2015 Page 4 of 6 Symanietz stated that she was in Gaylord two weeks ago. It was cloudy and there was no one at the pool. Symanietz added she is concerned with the amount of names the amenity has been given thus far with each of the names, in her opinion, meaning different things. Schultz asked what the park should be named. Symanietz stated that she is not the one naming it, but is concerned with the amount of names used. Loso stated that he is concerned with the use of the sales tax dollars. A half million dollars is being delegated to Colts Academy and another haif million used for trails. Additionally, $166,000 will be taken out every year thereafter. Loso stated the project would put the sales tax fund in a deficit limiting the possibility of other projects. Loso added the City does not have a cash balance to pay for all the projects. Schulz thanked Wick for the time he has spent preparing the report for the Council and clarified that as additional items come forward that data will be provided to the Council. Committee Reports EDA: Wick reported that two payouts were approved for the BFI grant and the 2016 budget was discussed. Park Board: Killam reported the little libraries were put in the town at 5 locations: Wobegon, Hollow, Cloverdale, Klinefelter, and Northland Parks. Killam stated he has visited all the locations. Donations are being accepted and Abby Lyon can be contacted to donate. Killam added that a foot golf course was discussed at Northland. It would be a 6 hole course. The concept is people would be using a soccer ball, kicking them into the holes created at the park. It is still in the planning stages and will go back to the Park Board for further discussion. Administrator Reports Liauor License Safetv Inspections: Weyrens stated the Council had previously amended the Liquor License Ordinance to require annual life safety inspections of establishments requesting a liquor license. The inspections were completed prior to issuance of the license period. The City of St. Cloud was hired to conduct the inspections. Weyrens noted the inspections went well and all the establishments were cooperative. Budqet 2016: Weyrens stated that staff continues to work on the draft budget and review the items discussed by the City Council. At the last meeting the Council discussed a pedestrian crossing CR75. Since that time the City Engineer has submitted a funding application to the APO to secure study funds to consider the feasibility. Schultz stated that the City is looking at a full-time Community Development Planner. Schultz asked if there are any concerns with the possibility of hiring a Community Development Planner. Loso stated he is not for or against position, but would like to see the financial impact of the total budget before moving forward. Weyrens stated that with the money left over from the MDG contract and the donation form the College, there would be enough to consider a hiring date of September 1, 2015 and the budget would have to be increased for 2016 between $ 30,000-$40,000. Schultz stated he would like to fit the position into the budget. Labor Contracts: Weyrens reported the City has received intent to negotiate a new labor agreement with AFSCME. The current labor agreement expires December 2015. Weyrens requested the Council appoint the negotiating committee and determine whether or not the City desires to contract with Flaherty and Hood (Brandon Fitzsimmons) to assist the Council as they did with the current labor agreement. Wick stated that from past experience, it was beneficial having the assistance of Brandon Fitzsimmons in the room during negotiations. Schultz and Loso will be the Council representatives throughout negotiations. July 06, 2015 Page 5 of 6 Liquor License Amendment—Sundav Sales Hours/Off Sale Sundav Growler: Weyrens stated that Legislative changes to MN Liquor Sales afford Cities the opportunity to decide if they would allow Sunday liquor sale of Growlers as well as changing the sale time from 10 AM to 8 AM. In addition, the bill authorizes breweries and brew pubs to sell growlers on Sundays during hours set by the City. The fee schedule would also be amended for Off-Sale Sunday Growler and staff is recommending $50/year which is consistent with the area. General consensus of the Council was to keep the sale of liquor on Sundays to 10 AM. Schultz made a motion authorizing the Mayor and Administrator to execute Resolution 2015-023 Amending Ordinance 701 Licensing and Regulation of Consumption of Intoxicating Liquor. The motion was seconded by Wick and passed unanimously. Engineer Reports Field Street: Sabart stated the Council has previously identified the possible construction of a portion of Field Street as a project for 2016. To facilitate the discussion, Sabart reminded the Council of the past planning efforts. In 2004 the City received study funding from the APO to plan the south easUwest corridor. The study was finished identifying two street segments, one extending from CR 121 East to 2ptn Ave and the seconded section was south of Minnesota Street West, extending adjacent to I-94, south past lake Sarah. The Council acknowledged that the section near 194 would be constructed as development occurred; therefore focusing on the portion extending east from CR 121. The road section that was proposed in the final document for the Field Street extension east of CR 121 contemplated a divided parkway road section, something similar to that of Kilian Boulevard in St. Cloud. When the City identified the Municipal State Aid (MSA) road sections, Field Street from CR 121 east to 7tn Ave NE was incfuded. The City has been banking MSA funds and are at a point where a project should be identified so that future proceeds continue to accrue. Previousiy the Council has discussed building a portion of Field Street but has not identified how far east. Sabart stated that since the City is not using Federal Funding, the Council has the option of construcing a different street section than that identified in the final report. Wick question if the City could build two lanes at this time and at some point in the future, when warranted by traffic, build the other two lanes and construct the parkway. Sabart stated that is a possibility, but it would not just be a matter of adding on the existing road. Sabart stated that if the City constructed the road east from Elena to 7th utility mains would need to be constructed. He further stated that the goal is to plan for the right size of infrastructure for that future development, as the property to the south will develop. Sabart added that past 7'h Avenue, there are additional considerations that the Council needs to be mindful of. Any further expansion past 7�h would not be eligible for the municipal state aid. Wick asked what the road will look like using the state aid. Sabart stated that the design of the road will need to be decided. There is the option to downgrade the plan excluding the center median. Sabart added that a sidewalk or trail would be a recommendation. Schultz asked if state aid could be used to construct a sidewalk from Northland to the Wobegon trail. Sabart stated that MSA funds could be used for the sidewalk adjacent to Northland provided the sidewalk is constructed in the public right-of-way. Loso questioned if the City has the ability to use anticipated MSA funds. Sabart stated that the MSA program does atlow for advanced funding and encourages the same. When questioned the next steps for the Council, Sabart stated that in order to design any project a feasibility report would need to be prepared. Sabart agreed to provide additional information to the Council and costs for preparing the feasibility report. July 06, 2015 Page6of6 Mayor Reports APO: Schultz reported that another member submitted his resignation. Once additional information is known, it will be provided to the Council. Schultz thanked the Police Department and Public Works staff for their work on the 3�d and 4t"of July. New Business Weyrens stated the movie in the park is scheduled for July 15th. The movie will be "The Lego Movie" and it will start around 8:45PM. Adjourn: Wick made a motion to adjourn at 7:40 PM; seconded by Symanietz and passed unanimously. G!Z.�?rrt� udy e ens Ad ' istrator