Loading...
07-14-2003 CC MINMEETING OF THE ELK RIVER CITY COUNCIL HELD AT LIONS PARK CENTER MONDAY, JULY 14, 2003 Members Present: Members Absent: Mayor Klinzing, Cauncilmembers Kuester, Matin, and Tveite Councilmember Dietz Staff Present: City Administrator Pat Klaers, City Attorney Peter Beck, Police Chief Jeff Beahen, Fire Chief Bruce West, Building and Environmental Administrator Stephen Rohlf, Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich, and Recording Secretary Jessica Miller Call Meeting To Order Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting of the Elk River City Council was called to order at 6:32 p.m. by Mayor Klinzing. Consider 7/14/2003 Agenda COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE MOVED TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS AMENDED: · Add Item 7.1. - Sherburne County Fair Update COUNCILMEMBER KUESTER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 4-0. Consider Consent Agenda Cauncilmember Matin questioned the item listed for Dehn's 4 Seasons for refrigerator/microwave/washer/dryer. City Administrator Pat Klaers stated that the washer and dryer are for the Public Safety Building and that the refrigerator and microwave are either for the Public Safety Building or the Utilities - City Hall lunch room. COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN MOVED TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS FOLLOWS: 3.1. 3.2. 3.3. 3.4. 3.5. 3.6. 3.7. 3.8. CONSIDER COUNCIL MINUTES · 6/16/2003 · 6/23/2003 · 7/03/2003 EMERGENCY MEETING CHECK REGISTER PAY ESTIMATES AUTHORIZATION TO REPLACE OFFICER SARAZIN (RESIGNATION EFFECTIVE AUGUST 12, 2003) CONSIDER 2004 BENEFIT LEVEL FOR ELK RIVER FIRE RELIEF ASSOCIATION CASCADE INDUSTRIAL PARK PLAT CORRECTION CONSIDER FENCE BID FOR PUBLIC SAFETY PROJECT CONSIDER TAX FORFEIT LANDS City Council Minutes July 14, 2003 ............................. COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE SECONDED THE MOTION. CARRIED 4-0. Page 2 THE MOTION 4. Open Mike Jeff Gongoll, President of the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce, was in attendance to thank the City Council and the city for their efforts in helping make the Fourth of July event at Lake Orono a success. Mayor I41inzing expressed her thanks to the Chamber of Commerce for sponsoring the event. 5.1. Presentation of Life Saving Medals Police Chief Jeff Beahen stated that on June 29, 2003 Officers Peterson and Besser responded to a medical at 21308 Vernon Street on a report of a possible heart attack. The victim, Stephen Bolstad of Minnetonka, went into cardiac arrest. Mr. Beahen explained that neighbors Pat and Bill Redman came to the victim's aid and performed CPR until officers arrived. Officers applied their AED and shocked Mr. Bolstad four times, restoring both his pulse and his respiration. Mr. Bolstad was transported to the hospital and is expected to make a full recovery. Mr. Beahen stated that the quick actions of Pat and Bill Redman were instrumental in sustaining the victim until officers could arrive on the scene. Mr. Beahen presented Pat and Bill Redman along with Officers Peterson and Besser with the Elk River Police Department Life Saving Medal. Mr. Bolstad was in attendance and expressed his thanks to Pat and Bill Redman and to Officers Peterson and Besser for saving his life. 5.2. Consider Ordinance Amendment to &dlow for 2:00 a.m. Closing for Liquor Establishments City Administrator Pat I41aers stated that new state law allows municipalities to change their local ordinances to allow for the 2:00 a.m. closing of on-sale liquor establishments. Mr. I41aers stated that when this item was discussed at the June 23, 2003 meeting, the idea of competition between Elk River establishments and establishments in other cities came up. Police Chief Beahen stated that he has been in contact with Andover, Anoka, and Ramsey and they are taking no action at this time. Mr. I41aers indicated that letters were sent to local liquor establishments and an ad was placed in the octar NezvJ' informing residents and businesses of this meeting, giving them an opportunity to voice concerns or comments. Mr. I41aers stated that the city has not received any feedback from residents or businesses. Councilmember Tveite stated that he is leery about being the only city in the area to allow the 2:00 a.m. bar closing and doesn't believe Elk River should rush into it. Councilmember I4uester stated that she could see proceeding with the 2:00 a.m. closing if the city had any requests from liquor establishments but since the city has received none, she stated that can't see moving forward at this point. City Council Minutes Page 3 July 14, 2003 ............................. Councilmember Motin and Mayor Klinzing concurred. Mayor Klinzing stated that at this point, the city should put this item on hold and wait to see if any comments are received or to see if neighboring cities pursue the 2:00 a.m. closing. 5.3. Discussion on Mosquito Control Building and Environmental Administrator Stephen Rohlf provided a brief overview of the methods used for mosquito control. Mr. Rohlf explained that the mosquito control issue was discussed by the City Council in 2001 but it has been requested that it come back before the Council for consideration again. Mr. Rohlf reviewed his memo on this topic. Al Shrupp, 13964 Ogden Street - Mr. Shrupp stated that the mosquitoes are so bad that he and his wife cannot even go outside. He questioned the cost of mosquito control. Mr. Shrupp requested that the city continue to pursue the mosquito control options. Mr. Rohlf stated that the price information he received from a private firm in 2001 was $200,000 per application for approximately 4,000 acres of wetland and in order to be effective, two applications are needed per year. Mr. Rohlf explained that the high cost is mainly due to the use of a helicopter. Mr. Rohlf stated that contracting with the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District versus using a private firm would reduce the cost, but Sherbume County would have to petition to join the district and it would take special legislation. Staff approached Sherbume County regarding this issue and the county declined to pursue this issue due to the cost. Mr. Rohlf indicated that the BTI product is apparently the safest product on the market, being very specific to mosquitoes, gnats, and black flies but not other wildlife. This product kills mosquitoes in their larval stage, which is the most effective way of mosquito control. Mr. Rohlf stated that citizens can purchase this product on their own. Mr. Rohlf stated that the other method of control, spraying for adult mosquitoes, comes with more health and environmental concerns. Cindy Johnson, 10723 203~d Ave - Stated that she moved to Elk River because it was not part of the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District. Ms. Johnson stated that last year she was sprayed by a truck spraying for mosquitoes. She explained that she and her husband experienced symptoms such as burning eyes and numbness in their hands for many months which required many doctor visits. Ms. Johnson stated that it is not worth the health risks of spraying just to provide mosquito relief for a couple days. Mayor I4Jinzing stated that she believes the best form of mosquito control is to educate citizens on mosquito control so they can take an active role in controlling their own environment. It was the consensus of the Council that spraying for mosquitoes is not an effective option and that the BTI is not feasible due to the cost. Mr. Rohlf stated that it is too late in the season for citizens to effectively kill mosquitoes in the larval stage using the BTI method as this should be done in May or June. 5.4. HRA Update - Councilmember Motin Councilmember Motin provided an update on the HRA meeting held June 30, 2003. City Council Minutes Page 4 July 14, 2003 ............................. 5.5. HRA Downtown Revitalization Proiect A. Consider Resolution of Support for MN Housing Finance Agency Application B. Consider Letter of Understanding for Transfer of City-©wned Jackson Block Property Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich provided the Council with a brief update on the downtown revitalization project. Ms. Mehelich explained that the financial feasibility of this project is dependent on the city's and the developer's ability to receive financing from outside resources. Ms. Mehelich stated that MetroPlains would like to apply for a MHFA grant and in order to do this they need a Letter of Understanding from the city for the future sale of the Jackson block property and a resolution of support for the housing development on this site. Jim Prosser of Ehlers & Associates explained that the actions before the Council will enable the developer to secure the necessary financing for the project should the city decide to approve this project in a final form in the future. Mr. Prosser stressed that the Letter of Understanding and the resolution before the Council are not to be construed as a final development agreement and as long as the Council is comfortable with the basic concept of the plan, they should proceed. Mayor Klinzing stated that there are business owners present and that they have parking concerns and she would like to see this issue discussed. The following business and property owners were in attendance to voice their concerns regarding parking: · Rob VanValkenburg, owner Sunshine Depot building · Marcy VanValkenburg, owner Elk River Travel · Keith Holmes, owner Kemper Drug building · Sue, owner Sunshine Depot Ms. Mehelich indicated that parking issues are continuing to be addressed by staff, the developer, and the HRA. Veto Hanson of MetroPlains showed those business owners present a copy of the Jackson block proposal. Mr. Hanson explained that the Jackson block runs from Highway 10, along Jackson Avenue, to Main Street. Mr. Hanson also explained the concept plan for the Jackson block. The business owners present had concerns about the limited parking during construction and the location of parking after construction. A lengthy discussion took place regarding the parking during and after construction. Mayor Klinzing stated that property and business owners should be presented with the concept plans as soon as possible so they are not left with questions. It was discussed that property and business owners are not being adequately notified of upcoming meetings and discussions taking place regarding the downtown area. Councilmember Tveite requested that notification of future downtown revitalization meetings be sent to the business and property owners in downtown. City Council Minutes Page 5 July 14, 2003 ............................. Mr. Prosser stated that the City Council has made it very clear that they want answers to the parking issues raised before the final development agreement comes before the NRA. Councilmember Motin indicated that the NRA has discussed these issues and reminded everyone that the City Council is not committing to a development agreement by approving the Letter of Understanding and the resolution. COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE MOVED TO APPROVE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 03-42 OF SUPPORT OF A PROPOSAL BY METROPLAINS DEVELOPMENT, LLC TO CONSTRUCT HOUSING RENTAL UNITS IN THE CITY OF ELK RIVER. COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 4-0. COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN MOVED TO APPROVE THE LETTER OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF ELK RIVER AND METROPLAINS DEVELOPMENT, LLC FOR THE FUTURE SALE OF THE CITY-OWNED JACKSON BLOCK PROPERTY. COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 4-0. 5.6. Consider Amendment to Fire Prevention Standards Fire Chief Bruce West stated that the office of the MN State Fire Marshal has recently adopted a new MN State Fire Code that will be enforced throughout the state. The new code uses both the International Building Code and the International Fire Code. Mr. West stated that sections of Article 3 are included in the International Fire Code and may be deleted from our city code. Mr. West stated that he is requesting that the City Council approve the amendments made within Article 3, Chapter 22, Fire Prevention and Protection, of the Elk River Minnesota Code. COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE MOVED TO ADOPT ORDINANCE 03-12 AMENDING SECTION 22-71 THROUGH 22-100 ARTICLE III FIRE PREVENTION STANDARDS OF THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES. COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 4-0. 5.7. Update on Results of ArtSoup Festival Tony Darkenwald, Treasurer of the Elk River Arts Alliance, thanked the City Council for their support of the ArtSoup Festival held June 21-22. Ms. Darkenwald stated that the event was a huge success and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. 5.8. Request to Release 2003 Funds for Arts Alliance Activities City Administrator Pat Klaers stated that in February the Elk River Area Arts Alliance requested ~gl0,000 from the city. At that time, the City Council released ~gS,000 of the ~gl0,000 budgeted due to the uncertainty of pending state aid cuts to the city. Mr. ICJaers noted that budget adjustments were made to the 2003 budget on June 9, but the allocation to the Arts Alliance was not included in these adjustments. Mr. Klaers stated that the previously released ~g5,000 went for the ArtSoup Festival and the remaining ~gS,000 will go to the Arts Alliance to distribute how they chose. City Council Minutes Page 6 July 14, 2003 ............................. Councilmember Kuester stated that the city committed to contribute ~;10,000 to the Arts Alliance in 2003 and that the city should follow through on this commitment. COUNCILMEMBER KUESTER MOVED TO RELEASE THE REMAINING $5,000 TO THE ELK RIVER AREA ARTS ALLIANCE. COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 3-1. Councilmember Motin opposed. 5.9. Transitional Housing Program Mayor Klinzing stated that at the June 23, 2003 City Council meeting, a motion was made to have the city work with Love Elk River for the leasing of the Bailey house for a one year period. This motion was tabled until the July 14, 2003 meeting. Mayor Klinzing stated that Councilmember Dietz, who has some personal history with the house, was not in attendance tonight, therefore it is recommended that this item be tabled again until the next City Council meeting on July 21, 2003. COUNCILMEMBER KUESTER MOVED TO TABLE CONSIDERATION OF THE BAILEY HOUSE LEASE MOTION UNTIL THE JULY 21, 2003 MEETING DUE TO THE ABSENCE OF COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ. COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 4-0. 6.1. City Clerk Vacancy Update City Administrator Pat Klaers indicated that he met with the City Clerk Selection Committee. Mr. Klaers stated that 31 applications were received and out of those, five have been selected for interviews, which will hopefully take place next week. Mayor Klinzing asked if she and the City Council could obtain copies of the five candidates applications. Mr. Klaers stated that once the interviews are confirmed, he will provide the Mayor and City Council with copies of the applications. 6.2. 2004 Budget Update City Administrator Pat Klaers stated that the 2004 budget will be very conservative in terms of new and additional expenditures. Mr. Klaers explained that the LGA cuts will be the same in 2004 as they were in 2003 and 60% of that loss can be recaptured through increased property taxes. Mr. Klaers indicated that he needs to know as soon as possible if the City Council is not interested in recapturing 60% of the 2004 LGA cuts through increased property taxes. Mr. Klaers stated that if the city can recapture 60% of the cuts, then services and programs should remain near the current level. He stated that if some of the LGA money is not recaptured, then more than likely program and/or service cuts will be necessary. Mr. Klaers stated that a big issue for the City Council to think about is employee wages and benefits. Councilmember Motin stated that he is not in favor of significantly increasing the property tax rate. He also stated that he doesn't believe with the state cuts in LGA to the city, that requests for funding contributions (such as the contribution to the Arts Alliance) should be approved. City Council Minutes Page July 14, 2003 ............................. Councilmember Tveite indicated that he does not want to take away the city's flexibility and would rather plan for the worse case scenario and back down from that if possible. Mr. KJaers stated that the first budget worksession is scheduled to be held at the end of August. 6.3. Public Safety - City Hall Construction Project Update City Administrator Pat Klaers stated that during the heavy rains on June 24, leaks occurred in the Public Safety building and the construction issues are being addressed. Mr. Klaers explained that a fire department truck was used to dump water on the roof and it is believed that the location of the leaks have been identified. The rains today -July 14 -has verified that the leaks happened at the wall on the roof. Mr. Klaers stated that the police department is now moved into the Public Safety Facility. Fire Chief Bruce West indicated that there was some damage in the EOC from the rain due to an uncapped pipe. Mr. West stated that some workstations were damaged and will be replaced. Mayor Klinzing questioned if the EOC would be functional if it was needed today. Mr. West stated that it could be used in case of emergency. 6.4. Tempora~ 3.2. License for Elk River Lions City Administrator Pat Klaers stated that this year the Elk River Lions Club was granted a temporary 3.2. license from Sherbume County rather than from the city. Other Business Sherburne County Fair Update Councilmember Tveite stated the platform for the parade announcer used to be located in the spot where the Public Safety Facility is now and so a new location needs to be found. City Administrator Pat Klaers stated that an ideal location may be in the old police parking area where the impound lot used to be. Councilmember Tveite concurred to look at this site and also south of the Parkway. The Council agreed to use of either site. Fire Chief Bruce West stated that the parade starts at 6:30 p.m. on Friday and the Council should begin lineup at 6. Mr. West stated that due to concerns over appropriate public expenditures, the Elk River Ambulance Service has agreed to buy candy for the parade. The Council graciously accepted the Elk River Ambulance's gift of candy. 8. Adjournment There being no further business, Mayor Klinzing adjourned the meeting of the Elk River City Council at 9:28 p.m. Jessica Miller City Council Minutes July 14, 2003 ............................. Recording Secreta~ Page 8