4.1. DRAFT MINUTES 02-04-2013 DDAATU
MEETING OF THE ELK RIVER CITY COUNCIL
HELD AT THE ELK RIVER CITY HALL
MONDAY,JANUARY 7, 2013
Members Present: Mayor Dietz, Councilmembers Zerwas,Westgaard,Burandt, and Motin
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: City Administrator Calvin Portner,Finance Director Tim Simon, City
Engineer Justin Femrite,Director of Economic Development Annie
Deckert,Assistant Director of Economic Development Clay Wilfahrt,
Police Chief Brad Rolfe,Police Captain Bob Kluntz,Fire Chief John
Cunningham, Street Superintendent Mark Thompson, and City Clerk Tina
Allard
1. Call Meeting To Order
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof,the meeting of the Elk River City-Council was called
to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mayor Dietz.
2. Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
3. Oath of Office
Ms. Allard administered the oath of office for Councilmember Ward 2 and 3.
4. Consider Council Agenda
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD TO APPROVE THE AGENDA. MOTION
CARRIED 5-0.
5. Consent Agenda
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING CONSENT
AGENDA:
5.1 MINUTES.
• DECEMBER 10,2012 WORKSESSION
• DECEMBER 17,2012 CLOSED
• DECEMBER 17,2012 REGULAR
5.2 CHECK REGISTER AS OUTLINED IN THE STAFF REPORT.
5.3 RESOLUTION 13-01 DESIGNATING DEPOSITORIES OF CITY
FUNDS.
5.4 DESIGNATE THE STAR NEWS AS THE CITY'S OFFICIAL
NEWSPAPER FOR LEGAL NOTICES.
City Council Minutes Page 2
January 7,2013
5.5 APPOINT MAYOR JOHN DIETZ AND FINANCE DIRECTOR TIM
SIMON TO THE FIRE RELIEF ASSOCIATION BOARD WITH TERM
EXPIRATIONS OF JANUARY 6,2014.
5.6 MASSAGE THERAPIST LICENSE TO KRYSTAL KOMULA TO WORK
AT BELA SALON VALID UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2013.
5.7 RESOLUTION 13-02 FOR MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT WITH
WRIGHT COUNTY FOR PARRISH AVENUE BRIDGE.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
6. Open Forum
No one appeared for open forum.
7.1 Councilmember Zerwas Recognition
Councilmember Zerwas expressed sincere thanks to the City Council and staff for their
work during his years in office.He noted he would be available for any assistance at the
legislative level to help enhance Elk River.
The Council thanked Zerwas for a tremendous job and his heavy involvement in the
community.They noted he will be missed but are glad to have someone at the legislature
who can help represent Elk River.
Mayor Dietz read and presented a plaque to Councilmember Zerwas.
8. Public Hearings
There were no public hearings.
9.1 2013 Street Improvement Feasibility Report
Mr. Femrite introduced Consultant Jason Wedel from WSB &Associates.
Mr.Wedel gave a presentation on the feasibility report for the proposed 2013 Street
Improvement Project. He reviewed core samples,the need to do this project,costs,
assessments to property owners, funding,and the project schedule.
There was discussion on if this projects needs to move forward at this time when the
Council is in the middle of discussing whether to implement franchise fees for street
improvements.Mr. Femrite noted staff needs to move forward with the steps detailed in the
429 process to meet legal requirements in order to have this project ready for the 2013
construction season.
Councilmember Westgaard questioned if there were mechanisms in place for future projects
to make sure the depth and quality of the pavement core will be correct and whether a traffic
study was completed for the mini roundabout to see if it could handle the traffic load and
some of the larger equipment vehicles.
Mr. Femrite stated traffic volumes and sizing was reviewed for the mini roundabout. He
stated this type of roundabout is meant to fit in tighter areas that are already established in
order to help minimize the impact on surrounding properties. The center median is
City Council Minutes Page 3
January 7,2013
designed for truck trailers and larger vehicles to have their wheels cross onto the slightly
raised center median area.
Council expressed concern with the disparity of the proposed assessment costs.
Staff was directed to prepare a grouping of the projects based on the type of project that will
be completed.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER BURANDT TO ACCEPT THE FEASIBILTY REPORT
FOR THE 2013 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 13-03 RECEIVING
THE FEASIBILITY REPORT AND ORDERING A PUBLIC HEARING IN THE
MATTER OF THE 2013 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT. MOTION 5-0.
9.2 Appointment of Acting Mayor
Mayor Dietz suggested Councilmember Westgaard be appointed acting mayor because Ward
1 is vacant and Councilmember Burandt is new to her position.
Councilmember Motin stated he didn't disagree but would like the order to go back to its
normal rotation the following year.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER BURANDT TO APPOINT COUNCILMEMBER
WESTGAARD AS ACTING MAYOR FOR 2013. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
9.3 Consider Council Appointments
The Council made the following appointments:
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER ZERWAS AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD TO APPOINT BURANDT AND MOTIN
TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING BOARD (TO DECEMBER 31,2013).
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER ZERWAS TO APPOINT WESTGAARD, BURANDT,AND
MOTIN (ALREADY IS ON THE EDA WITH A TERM TO DECEMBER 31,2014)
TO THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY(TO DECEMBER 31,
2016). MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER ZERWAS AND SECONDED BY MAYOR
DIETZ TO APPOINT COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD TO THE ICE
ARENA COMMISSION (TO FEBRUARY 28,2016). MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER ZERWAS TO APPOINT MAYOR DIETZ TO THE ELK
RIVER MUNICIPAL UTILITIES COMMISSION (TO FEBRUARY 28,2016).
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
City Council Minutes Page 4
January 7,2013
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER BURANDT TO MAKE THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL
LIAISON APPOINTMENTS TO DECEMBER 31,2014.
Dietz Ward 1 Westgaard Burandt Motin
Heritage Preservation X
Parks&Recreation X
Commission
Planning Commission X
Library Board X
Region 7W Transportation
X
Policy Board
Councilmember Motin stated he would like a future worksession discussion on the role and
purpose of the Council liaison because each member is performing the duties differently.
9.4 Consider Cable TV Monitor
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER ZERWAS AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD TO APPOINT COUNCILMEMBERS
BURANDT AND MOTIN AS THE CABLE MONITORS VALID THROUGH
DECEMBER 31,2016. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
9.5 Discuss Worksession Agendas
Mr. Portner reviewed future worksession agendas.He noted the discussion on the Council
liaison role would be tentatively added to the February worksession agenda.
10. Announcements
Wlard 1 Vacancy
Mr. Portner reminded Council the closing date is January 15.
Staffing
Mr. Portner welcomed new Community Operations Development Director Suzanne Fischer
and further noted that Director of Economic Development Annie Deckert has resigned.
Hockey Day MN
Mayor Dietz stated Elk River is a finalist for Hockey Day MN for 2014. He discussed the
partnerships and costs that could be involved along with the economic benefit it will provide
to be hosting this event. He suggested forming a committee to work together on bringing
the success of this event to fruition if the city is selected.
City Council Minutes Page 5
January 7,2013
11. Adjournment
There being no further business,Mayor Dietz adjourned the meeting of the Elk River City
Council at 7:30 p.m.
John J.Dietz,Mayor
Tina Allard,City Clerk
D DDDD
MEETING OF THE ELK RIVER CITY COUNCIL
HELD AT THE ELK RIVER CITY HALL
TUESDAY,JANUARY 22, 2013
Members Present: Mayor Dietz, Councilmembers Westgaard,Burandt, and Motin
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: City Administrator Calvin Portner,Planning Manager Jeremy Barnhart,
Park Planner Chris Leeseberg, City Engineer Justin Femrite, Community
Operations and Development Director Suzanne Fischer,Environmental
Administrator Rebecca Haug,Parks and Recreation Director Michael
Hecker,Recreation Manager Steve Benoit,Police Chief Brad Rolfe,Police
Captain Ron Nierenhausen, City Attorney Peter Beck, and City Clerk Tina
Allard
1. Call Meeting To Order
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof,the meeting of the Elk River City Council was called
to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mayor Dietz.
2 Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
3. Consider 01/22/2013 Agenda
Item 4.1,January 7,2013,minutes,was removed from this agenda.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS
AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
4. Consider Consent Agenda
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER BURANDT TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING CONSENT
AGENDA:
4.2 CHECK REGISTER AS OUTLINED IN THE STAFF REPORT.
4.3 PAY ESTIMATES AS OUTLINED IN THE STAFF REPORT.
4.4 SOLICITOR LICENSE TO LUKE GILBERSON AND TODD BECKER,
WITH CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS,VALID THROUGH
DECEMBER 31,2013.
4.5 SOLID WASTE COLLECTION LICENSES TO THE FOLLOWING:
1. ACE SOLID WASTE
2. ADVANCED DISPOSAL (FORMERLY VEOLIA ENVIRONMENTAL
SERVICES)
3. ALLIED WASTE SERVICES OF N.AMERICA(BFI)
4. ASPEN WASTE SYSTEMS, INC.
City Council Minutes Page 2
January 22,2013
5. BUMBLE BEE EXPRESS
6. ELITE WASTE DISPOSAL
7. JIM'S MILLE LACS DISPOSAL, INC.
8. JME OF MONTICELLO
9. LEPAGE AND SONS
10. LLOYD'S CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
11. MAC'S ROLL-OFF SERVICE, INC
12. RANDY'S SANITATION
13. SHAMROCK DISPOSAL, INC.
14. STEINBRECHER COMPANIES
15. VEIT CONTAINER CORP
16. WALTER'S RECYCLING & REFUSE
17. WASTE MANAGEMENT INC.
4.6 RESOLUTION 13-04 ACKNOWLEDGING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE
CITY OF ELK RIVER(POLICE DEPARTMENT).
4.7 PURCHASE OF 2013 POLICE VEHICLES FROM THE STATE
CONTRACT PER THE 2013 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN:
• THREE—CHEVROLET CAPRICE (POLICE PACKAGE SQUADS) -
$26,134.65 EACH
• ONE—CHEVROLET TAHOE (STREET APPEARANCE SQUAD) -
$25,370.95
• ONE—FORD INTERCEPTOR UTILITY(POLICE PACKAGE) -
$28,542.00
AND AUTHORIZATION TO SET UP AND EQUIP THE PURCHASED
VEHICLES FROM BUDGETED FUNDS IN THE EQUIPMENT
REPLACEMENT FUND.
4.8 MASTER LABOR AGREEMENT BETWEEN CITY OF ELK RIVER
AND LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES (LELS) LOCALS 231 AND 271
FOR JANUARY 1,2013 TO DECEMBER 31,2015.
4.9 MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENT LICENSE RENEWAL TO AVALON
SALON, 706 MAIN STREET,VALID THROUGH DECEMBER 31,2013
AND A MASSAGE THERAPIST LICENSE TO TARA LEFEBVRE TO
WORK AT AVALON SALON VALID THROUGH DECEMBER 31,2013.
4.10 REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR PROFESSIONAL INSURANCE
AGENT OF RECORD SERVICES.
4.11 PAY EQUITY IMPLEMENTATION AND COMPLIANCE REPORTS AS
OUTLINED IN THE STAFF REPORT.
MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
5. Open Forum
No one appeared for Open Forum.
6.1 City of Elk River Volunteer of the Month-Mayor Dietz
Mayor Dietz introduced,read,and presented a plaque to January Volunteer of the Month
John Norgren. He provided the following background on Mr. Norgren's service within the
city:
■ CAER food shelf volunteer
o Recycling
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January 22,2013
• Carpentry
• Handyman
• Bread/produce delivery from various locations
■ 23 years on Big Lake Township Board
■ Active in and served on a variety of boards within his church
■ American Legion volunteer
■ City of Anoka volunteer
Mr.Norgren accepted the recognition on behalf of all volunteers of CAER and thanked the
Council.
6.2 Resolution Acknowledging Contribution by The Bank of Elk River
Mayor Dietz read the resolution and presented the plaque to The Bank of Elk River. Mayor
Dietz thanked John Babcock for the bank's support. Mr. Hecker discussed the upcoming
summer schedule of events.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 13-05
ACKNOWLEDGING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE CITY OF ELK RIVER
(PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT).MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
7.1 2013 NPDES Annual Permit Update
Ms. Haug presented the staff report.
Mayor Dietz opened the public hearing.There being no one to speak to this issue,Mayor
Dietz closed the public hearing.
No other action was required for this item.
7.2 Variance: Cornerstone Auto for Variance to City of Elk River Land Use Regulations, Section
30-870,C3 Highway Commercial District Regarding Signs, Case No.V 13-01
Mr.Barnhart presented the staff report. He noted the applicant submitted an email after the
staff report went to Council.The email stated the applicant would be willing to remove two
Mabindra signs in order to get the variance. He reviewed the criteria required to grant a
variance.Mr.Barnhart outlined the Planning Commission's recommendation of denial.
Mayor Dietz opened the public hearing.
Steve Rohlfe,representing Cornerstone Auto-Stated he is requesting 212 square feet of
signage. He stated his criteria for meeting the requirements are outlined in his memo in the
staff report. He stated these are two different businesses and each should be allowed their
own signage requirements and be required to be tied to each other.
Mayor Dietz closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Motin questioned if a separate business owner operating as an oil express
would be an allowed use in this building.
City Council Minutes Page 4
January 22,2013
Mr.Barnhart stated it would be Council's determination if it was subordinate to the principle
use of the car dealership,
Mr.Barnhart noted the applicant is asking for 484 square feet of signage but would only be
allowed 400 square feet so he would need to modify his existing signage to meet the
requirement if the Council views this business as having two occupancies.
Mayor Dietz expressed concerns with the applicant coming back later and asking for more
signage due to the signage history of this parcel.
Mr.Barnhart noted this is also a concern of staff and it will depend on how the Council
determines the conditions.
Councilmember Westgaard questioned how much the total square footage of Mahindra signs
were approved by the Council for the variance request last November.
It was noted as 180 square feet.
Councilmember Westgaard stated he sees this situation as multi-tenant space where each
tenant gets 200 square feet of signage. However,if at any time in the future,this building
turns into a single occupancy,then they would be limited to 200 square feet of total signage
He further stated,with the understanding the Council views this as a two-occupant facility,
the Mabindra sign and wall placard should be given up and the applicant allowed the total
square footage of 484 square feet.
Mr. Rohlf stated the car wash sign was legal at the time it was installed but the sign
ordinance has since changed reducing the allowed footage for that particular sign. He stated
this sign should not have to be reduced.
Mayor Dietz stated the applicant is willing to give up the Mahindra signs but questioned
what was to stop him from coming back later and asking for another car company's signage.
Mr. Rohlf stated it is difficult to determine where business will be in 5 years.
Attorney Beck clarified with staff that the applicant was granted a variance that gave him the
fifth Mahindra sign.
Mr.Barnhart stated that variance has since expired.
Attorney Beck further stated the applicant doesn't have a fifth sign to give up and it would
be difficult to set a condition in terms of wall signage on the main building because it would
be permitted if it is a separate occupancy. He stated if the separate dealerships are allowed
separate occupancy,the ordinance would allow 200 square feet per occupancy and it would
be hard to enforce a condition that attempted to prevent a property owner from installing a
permitted use signage.
Mr. Rohlf stated it was not permitted signage because they needed a variance to get it.
Mr.Barnhart outlined the history of this property in regard to signage.
Attorney Beck stated if the Council finds 400 total square feet is appropriate for the building
(because this is current ordinance),but they allow the applicant to keep his existing signage
City Council Minutes Page 5
January 22,2013
of 272 square feet,then the applicant will have to reduce the size of the new sign or put up
two new signs at 200 square feet each if the finding is made that this is two occupancies.
Councilmember Motin stated he is not adverse to allowing the 272 square foot sign already
installed and allowing an additional 200 square feet for the new sign due to its location to
Highway 10 and 171st Avenue. He further stated he would like a condition added so the
Mahindra type of signage can't come back.
Councilmember Burandt stated it would seem appropriate to allow 200 square feet for the
new sign if the Council views this as two separate occupants. She further questioned the
Council about whether the 272 square foot existing sign is already grandfathered in.
Councilmember Burandt stated she also has concerns with the Mahindra type signage.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER BURANDT TO APPROVE VARIANCE,CASE NO. V 13-01
WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITION:
1. THAT THE APPLICANT WAIVES RIGHT TO THE PREVIOUSLY
APPROVED SIGNAGE SPACE OSTENSIBLY FROM MAHINDRA
DEALERSHIP AND ITS APPLICANT STATED EXPECTATION NOT
TO INCREASE SIGNAGE SPACE IN THE FUTURE.
Councilmember Westgaard asked for clarification of the motion. He stated his
understanding is the variance request is not being granted as presented in the staff report but
that the Council is allowing the existing 272 square foot sign for the car wash because it is
grandfathered in (from before a previous sign ordinance amendment) and the Council is also
granting a 200 square foot sign for the second occupancy(oil express) for a total of 472
square feet.
All the Council agreed this was correct.
Councilmember Motin further explained the applicant would meet the variance request due
to the loss of square footage from the Mahindra signs and because the applicant will not be
coming back in the future with a request for increased signage.
MOTION CARRIED 3-1.Mayor Dietz opposed.
Mr. Rohlf asked the Council to clarify the following:
• Applicant gets 200 square foot of signage for the oil express business.
• Applicant can't ask for additional signage but that won't preclude them in getting rid
of some of their signage that was already approved.
Councilmember Motin clarified that the applicant can't increase their signage.
7.3 Conditional Use Permit: Cornerstone Auto Resource for Motor Vehicle Specialty Shop at
17219 US Highway 10 NW,Case No. CU 13-01
Mr.Barnhart presented the staff report.
Mayor Dietz opened the public hearing.
City Council Minutes Page 6
January 22,2013
Steve Rohlf,representing Cornerstone Auto—Stated he would like to record the plat but
has two issues with it:
1. Fees owed to the city are around$80,000 and he would like to implement a payment
schedule.
2. Can the building permit for the oil express be issued,but not allowed to open,until
the plat is recorded.
Mayor Dietz closed the public hearing.
Council questioned if it is legal for the city to work out a payment plan,the type of plan that
would be allowed,and what enforcement mechanism would be in place.
Attorney Beck stated it is unprecedented to have a payment plan and he is not sure how to
enforce it because leverage would be lost once the plat is recorded and construction
completed. He stated it may be possible to draw up a note. He stated he isn't prepared to
provide an answer tonight because he would need to research the request,but most likely the
city would have to enact a lawsuit in order to enforce a note if it went default.
Councilmember Motin questioned if a condition could be added to the conditional use
permit stating fees must be paid and failure to make payment is a breach of the permit,
which would be cause for revocation.
Attorney Beck stated it would be easier for the city to sue over a note then it is to revoke a
conditional use permit.
Mr. Rohlf asked if his property could be assessed and further asked Council to review
payment options. He stated he would be open to the note option.
Attorney Beck stated he doesn't believe the law would allow this type of a payment plan to
be assessed against property.
Councilmember Motin stated this plat has been unrecorded since 2006 and he would like to
see it recorded. He stated requiring the $80,000 fee be paid at once when the applicant is
doing a$15,000 improvement would be difficult to pay.He suggested spreading the payment
out over four or five years.He stated he'd like to tie payment to a note and a condition to
the conditional use permit specifically stating it is agreed to by the applicant that non-
payment is a reason for revocation of the permit. He further stated he would like a deadline
for the fees to be paid in full before the applicant could start on the expansion already
approved by Council in November.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER BURANDT TO APPROVE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT,
CASE NO. CU 13-01 AS ILLUSTRATED ON THE FLOOR PLAN DRAWING
DATED NOVEMBER 26,2012, IN THE STAFF REPORT,WITH THE
FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. AS A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT IS NOT A BUILDING PERMIT,THE
APPLICANT SHALL APPLY FOR ALL REQUIRED PERMITS.
2. THE DEVELOPMENT SHALL MEET ALL APPLICABLE FIRE CODES.
THE FIRE CHIEF SHALL VERIFY THE LOCATION OF ALL FIRE
City Council Minutes Page 7
January 22,2013
HYDRANTS,AND MAY REQUIRE ADDITIONAL HYDRANTS
NECESSARY TO PRESERVE THE HEALTH AND SAFETY.
3. A SIGN PACKAGE IS NOT APPROVED.
4. THE PLAT SHALL BE RECORDED AND FEES PAID PRIOR TO
RELEASE OF THE BUILDING PERMIT.
5. BUILDING PERMIT SHALL NOT BE ISSUED UNTIL THE PROPERTY
HAS BEEN PLATTED.
6. PLAT BE RECORDED AND ONE-FIFTH OF THE APPLICABLE FEES BE
PAID PRIOR TO RECORDING AND THE REST OF THE FEES BE
SPREAD OUT OVER AN ADDITIONAL FOUR YEARS TO BE PAID NO
LATER THAN COMMENCEMENT OF THE EXPANSION OF THE MAIN
BUILDING PREVIOUSLY APPROVED AND DIRECT STAFF TO WORK
ON A NOTE TO SECURE THE PAYMENT.
Councilmember Westgaard and Mayor Dietz suggested continuing this item in order
to give the city attorney time to review the payment option.
Councilmember Westgaard stated for this specific situation he is open to looking at
payment options but didn't want to make a habit of allowing people to plat property
the ability to spread out their park dedication and storm water fees over the course
of four to five years. He stated he is not comfortable voting on this motion without
attorney review.
Mayor Dietz further expressed concern with treating business different form each
other and with establishing a precedent. He stated he is open to three to four years
for spreading out payments,but five years is too long.
Councilmember Motin withdrew his motion and the seconder was amendable
to the withdrawn motion.
Mr. Beck stated the number of years can be determined later but suggested a
resolution of approval that lays out the conditions so there would be no
misunderstandings. He stated this option would be unusual but he could also review
other options and bring them back to Council for a policy consideration. He further
stated the resolution would be recordable.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER BURANDT TO CONTINUE THIS ITEM TO
FEBRUARY 4, 2013, WITH DIRECTION TO STAFF TO PREPARE A
RESOLUTION OF APPROVAL, IF LEGALLY ALLOWED, FOR MAKING
PAYMENTS OVER A CERTAIN NUMBER OF YEARS.
Councilmember Motin stated this is a unique situation and he doesn't want to set a
precedent.
Council consensus is to include a condition that the fees be paid in full before the
building permit is issued for the main building expansion.
MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
City Council Minutes Page 8
January 22,2013
7.4 2013 Master Fee Schedule
Ms.Allard presented the staff report.
Mayor Dietz opened the public hearing.There being no one to speak to this issue,Mayor
Dietz closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Motin stated when special event permit fees are reviewed;the Parks and
Recreation fees should also be looked at to make sure they are consistent with each other.
1. Ordinance Amendment Adopting the 2013 Master Fee Schedule
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN TO ADOPT ORDINANCE 13-01 ADOPTING
THE 2013 MASTER FEE SCHEDULE. MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
2. Resolution for Summary Publication of the Ordinance
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 13-07
APPROVING NOTICE OF SUMMARY PUBLICATION OF ORDINANCE 13-01
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE 2013 MASTER FEE SCHEDULE.
MOTION CARRED 4-0.
8.1 Grant Application for Archaeological Dig at Bailey Point
Ms. Haug presented the staff report. She noted the Heritage Preservation Commission and
Parks and Recreation Commission recommended aproval of the grant.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER BURANDT AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD TO AUTHORIZE STAFF TO MOVE
FORWARD WITH APPLYING FOR A GRANT FROM THE MINNESOTA
HISTORICAL SOCIETY FOR FUNDING TO CONDUCT AN
ARCHEOLOGICAL SURVEY AT BAILEY POINT. MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
8.2 Skate Park Removal
Mr.Leeseberg presented the staff report. He discussed safety,liability,and cost issues and
presented pictures highlighting some of staffs safety concerns.
Mike Niziolek,representing the Parks and Recreation Commission-Stated the
Commission's goal is to involve youth in the community in this process and to develop
positive relationships.
Camden Sawyer,380 Third Street-Stated he was contacted by a skate company that
creates parks who saw what was happening with the Elk River skate park who has stated a
willingness to help create a new concept/design with a material such as concrete,which
would last longer and be more cost efficient.
Dave Anderson 14845 County Road 30-Asked skate park users in attendance if they had
the opportunity to preserve the existing structure if they would be willing to volunteer labor.
City Council Minutes Page 9
January 22,2013
He further asked Council to consider allowing removal of the materials that may have value
and if they could be stored until a plan for another skate park could be evaluated and
implemented.
The park users were agreeable to helping out with removal of materials.
Mr.Leeseberg asked Council for clear direction on the method for removal of the skate
park. He noted the two methods will vary in labor and costs.
Council consensus was to leave it to staff to determine if it is worth the effort to salvage any
components of the play area.
Councilmember Motin stated he is in favor of a committee for reviewing replacement
options,but noted the city has a limited budget and the Parks and Recreation Commission
has to review and determine its park priority list.
Mayor Dietz stated he is glad to hear the skate park users have no objection to moving the
location of the park to a different part of the city.
Councilmember Burandt questioned Mr.Anderson as to what he was referring to in regard
to taking down the skate park.
Mr.Anderson stated if he was a skateboarder he would gather up his buddies to tear the
park down for the city.He stated if staff was taking it down they might think it was not
worth the effort to salvage,but he was hoping the volunteers would be willing to say they
are willing to put in time to salvage the components if they think it is of any value to
reconstruct. He stated this approach would have minimal costs,whereas another approach
could cost up to $80,000 and he is not sure this volunteer group would have the resources to
pull this together.
Tom Sawyer,380 Third Street—Expressed concerns with the skate park being torn down
and not having a replacement option in place.
Mayor Dietz noted the park has to come down due to safety and liability issues and stated
Council can't make any promises of the results regarding another skate park.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER WESTGAARD TO DIRECT STAFF TO REMOVE THE
SKATE PARK LOCATED AT LIONS PARK AND FOR STAFF TO LOOK AT
MAINTAINING MATERIALS WHERE FEASIBLE. MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
MOVED BY WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY BURANDT FOR STAFF TO
FORM A COMMITTEE WITH SKATE BOARD USERS TO DETERMINE
POSSIBLE REPLACEMENT OPTIONS. MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
9. Announcements
Special Econoruic DevelopruentAuthority Meeting for Bond Sale
It was noted that more information may come forward in regards to having a special meeting
of the EDA to approve a bond sale.
Hockey Day,MN
City Council Minutes Page 10
January 22,2013
Mr. Portner stated the Elk River community can host Hockey Day,MN in 2014.He asked
for Council feedback on whether they want to go forward with participation in this event.
He stated a committee would be formed to discuss logistics. He further noted there would
be capital and budgetary costs along with some volunteer work.
Council consensus was to host the event and the following was noted:
• A great opportunity to highlight the community,local businesses,and organizations.
• Concern with the amount of expenses that could be associated with the event.
Would like to see budgets from other communities to get an idea of the cost of such
an event.
• Each entity involved would be expected to participate in sharing costs and work to
be completed.
Mayor Dietz stated he talked with Dr.Bezek who suggested to him that the city and school
partner to share hockey board replacement costs.
10 Recess to Worksession
The Council recessed at 8:14 p.m.in order to go into worksession.The Council reconvened
at 8:20 p.m.
10.1 Franchise Fee Implementation for Pavement Management Program Funding
Mr. Femrite presented the staff report and reviewed fee options.
The Council discussed various scenarios and how property owners would be affected.
Mayor Dietz asked how often the fee would change.
Mr. Femrite stated there would be a periodic review of the fees which could increase or
decrease depending on project costs.
Mr. Femrite outlined the rebate process for property owners who have paid in for past
assessed projects.
Councilmember Motin expressed concerns with rental properties and who should get
reimbursement (tenants/owners).
Councilmember Westgaard questioned if there should be a public comment period.
Mr. Femrite stated there is not a requirement for a public hearing but staff plans to advertise
heavily to the community.
Council consensus was to have an informational comment period.
Mr. Portner stated a one page flyer could be mailed to customers. He noted this is a new fee
but it is replacing another fee in order to make the payment process fair and equal for
everyone. He further suggested sending mailings in water bills,the website,and local group
presentations. He noted the timing will be important to establish due to the 2013 street
improvement project.
City Council Minutes Page 11
January 22,2013
Mr.Beck stated it would be good to establish a timetable early in the process in order make
sure the timing of everything falls into place correctly.
Mr. Portner stated staff will draft a communications plan
Council consensus was to direct staff to do the following:
1. Review and re-negotiate franchise agreements with Centerpoint Energy.
2. Negotiate new franchise agreements with Connexus Energy and Elk River
Municipal Utilities.
3. Draft franchise and franchise fee ordinance for Council consideration.
10.2 Review of Enforcement Policy on Phased Projects
Mr.Barnhart presented the staff report.
It was questioned how the parking lot was expanded onto the school district property when
Mr.Briggs doesn't own it.
Council consensus was to select Option 1.
10.3 Service Levels and Fees/Deposits for Special Events
Ms.Allard presented the staff report.
Council expressed the following:
• Collect damage deposits from all groups.
• More enforcement of conditions needed to protect public property.
• Should the Parks and Recreation Commission be waiving some of their fees?
• A fee should be charged for a money making event versus a community gathering type
of event.
• Staff directed to look at a fee structure and policy options.
• Staff to include the Parks and Recreation Department to make sure fees are consistent.
Council consensus was to have more enforcement on the special events.
10.4 Ward 1 Council Vacancy Appointment
Mr. Portner presented the staff report.
Council consensus was to accept the timeline for filling the vacancy with the exception that
the citizen forum schedule be moved to 9:00 a.m.
11. Adjournment
There being no further business,Mayor Dietz adjourned the meeting of the Elk River City
Council at 9:50 p.m.
City Council Minutes Page 12
January 22,2013
John J.Dietz,Mayor
Tina Allard,City Clerk