Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 06-29-1987 '. -. . . . MINUTES OF THE ~HILLS REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING . Monday, June 29, 1987, 7:30 p.m. - Village Hall CALL TO ORDER Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor Woodburn called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. ROLL CALL The roll being called the following members were present: Mayor Woodburn, Councilmembers Nancy Hansen, Thomas Sather and Jeanne Winiecki. Absent: Councilman Gary Peck. Also present: Engineer Barry Peters, Treasurer Donald Lamb, Parks Director John Buckley, Public Works Supervisor Robert Raddatz, Clerk Administrator Patricia Morrison and Deputy Clerk Catherine Iago. APPROVE MINUTES Sather moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council approve the minutes of the Regular Council meeting of June 8, 1987, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. (4-0) BUSINESS FROM FLOOR None. REO. SEMAPHORE: CO. RD. E & PlNETREE DR Council was referred to a letter from William Bretzke, MSI Insurance, requesting Council reconsider placement of a semaphore at the intersection of council Road E and Pine Tree Drive (6-8-87). After reviewing the Public Works Supervisor's memorandum (6-26-87); regarding traffic counts at the intersection, which show traffic counts lower compared to 1986, Councilmember Hansen commented that the lower traffic counts may relate to street repairs in the area of Hamline/Snelling Avenue. Barry Peters, SEH, reported that the traffic counts were done on Pine Tree Drive (north bound lane); he stated that the Lexington Avenue bridge construction may also contribute to the decreased traffic counts. Peters distributed a memorandum from Glen Van Wormer, Traffic Engineer, which advised that the County has agreed to make a current traffic count for both east and west bound roadways approaching Pine Tree Drive and he stated the results would be available in approximately one month. William Bretzke, MSI, expressed concern for MSI employees safety at the busy intersection; stated this concern prompted MSI to request the semaphore. Council commented that another traffic signal along County Road E, within a span of slightly more than one quarter mile, may increase accident potential. Barry Peters concurred; he was unable to explain rationale, however, he commented that traffic engineers expres~~that theory. There was discussion relative to alternate solutions for decreasing traffic at the intersection; staggered starting times for MSI employees, lowered speed limits on County Road E, intermittent type of semaphore light, and prohibiting left turns (during rush hours) from access drives on County Road E. After discussion, Council concurred to continue this matter until such time as further information on traffic counts in the area is received from the County and analyzad by Glen Van Wormer. Barry Peters suggested taking a traffic count on Lexington Avenue, at Harriet Ave., to determine if traffic is moving in that direction and lowering traffic counts on County Road E. WATERMAIN BREAK; 1401 SKILES LANE Council was referred to a letter from Brad Lemberg (6/23/87) 1401 Skiles Lane, and memorandum from Public Works Supervisor (6/26/87); relative to the watermain break at Lemberg's property. Brad Lemberg complemented the Public Works Supervisor and crew for their promptness in responding to his call, and their cooperative attitudes. Lemberg advised his complaint related to Mr. Perron, the contractor who did the repair work; it is Lemberg's opinion that Perron was careless when excavating his property to repair the watermsin. he also stated that the contractor who installed the watermsin in 1970 caused the leak in the pipe, he explained a large rock was pushed against the watermsin, cracked the pipe and must have caused the leak (see letter dated 6/23). Lemberg stated that he used Perron's services because the Public Works crew, before determining location of break, had called him and he was'on the scene; he assumed Perron was reputable and capable because he was called by Village employees. . . ~ Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting, June 29, 1987 Page 2 1401 SKILES (Cont'd) Lemberg requested the Council consider reimbursing at least a portion of his expenses for the repair of the . pipe and replacement of the law; it is his opinion that the original contractor, hired by the City to install the watermain, caused the leak to occur; estimated repair cost for the watermain break is $560.00 and lawn replacement estimate is approximately $500.00. Council questioned if other complaints had been received by t~e Village staff . relative to Perron's work on repair of watermains or condition of property after repair is completed. Raddatz stated that the City staff usually does the sod replacement when Perron has done work for the Village; he stated he conveyed to Lemberg that it was his responsibility to hire a contractor of his choice. Moved by Hansen, seconded by Sather, that the City of Arden Hills reimburse Brad Lemberg in an amount up to $280.00, to be used toward payment of the watermain repair costs he incurred and, furthermore, that the Public Works staff repair the lawn at 1401 Skiles Lane at an appropriate time after the ground has settled. In discussion, Councilmember Winiecki expressed sympathy for Lemberg's situation, however, she stated that the Village crew did not create the damage to the lawn and disagreed with staff replacing the lawn. Winiecki advised she . was not opposed to contributing toward the repair cost for the watermain break. Councilman Sather stated that a letter should be sent to Mr. Perron. advising his work is unacceptable; he further stated his opinion was that the Village should participate in the repair and restoration of the Lemberg property. Motion carried. (Hansen, Sather Woodburn voting in favor: Winiecki opposed) (3-1) EXTERIOR COMPLETION OF PROPERTIES The Clerk Administrator advised Council that complaints had been received from residents regarding the exterior completion of properties in Arden Hills. Grant Wishart, 1424 Arden Oaks Drive and Frank Dolinar, 1435 Arden Oaks Drive, explained that there is a home in their neighborhood that has been under construction since March of 1986; residents in the area are concerned about the unsightly appearance of the property and safety of the children in the neighborhood due to the construction materials left of the property. They requested Council adopt an ordinance pertaining to a time limit for completion of residential homes in Arden Hills and further requested the property in their . neighborhood be inspected for ordinance and code violations. Paul Malone, 1485 Dawn Circle, commented that he has a similar situation in his neighborhood; the home in question has been under construction for a period of 3 years. He discussed the matter with the Zoning Administrator and found that Certificates of Occupancy are not issued for residential properties. Malone strongly favored the adoption of an ordinance which addresses a time span for completion of residential properties. Council discussed the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy for residential properties, conducting a survey of surrounding communities relative to completion dates for residential homes (including lawns, driveways, etc.) and clean-up of construction materials. Mayor Woodburn stated that the Planner had done some preliminary surveying of other communities; he reviewed the results. There was discussion relative to the Uniform Building Code guidelines and extenuating circumstances which may prolong the completion of residential construction. . . . . . Minutes of the Regul~council Meeting, June 29, 1987 . Page 3 Council consensus was that the Planner be requested to survey other communities and draft a report establishing guidelines for completion of residential homes; the report should encompass the following items: - Issuance of Certificate of Occupancy required. - Time frame for completion of residential homes. - Clean up of construction materials. - Completion of driveways and lawns by seeding or sod. - Provision for residents to request extensions due to hardship or mitigating circumstances. - Any other aspects of single family construction that the Planner deems appropriate to be included. Council requested the report be returned to them for review at a Regular Council meeting in Ausust. . COUNTY RD. I; REALIGNMENT Council was referred to a letter from Ramsey County Public Works (6-10-87), request ins Arden Hills review the alternatives for the realignment of County Road I from Hamline Ave. to Lexington Avenue and report to the County which alternative is preferred. Barry Peters reviewed the County report and outlined the pros and cons of each alternative as per the matrix provided with the report. Peters advised that County prefers Alternative #1; Glen Van Wormer, Traffic Eosineer, indicated that none of the first three aiternates in the report were better than each other, however, he expressed concern that realignment of County Road I may change the KSA status of Hamline Avenue in Arden Hills. He also noted that the cost of implementation of Alternatives 1 thru 3 would be approximately the same. Council discussed the reasons listed in the County report for realignment of County Road I, possible placement of a traffic signal at County Road I and Hamline Avenue, and cost participation between the cities and the County. Sather moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council defers comment on preference for the realignment of County Road I until such time as information has been received from the School District, Lake Johanna Volunteer Fire Department and the City of Shoreview relative to realisnment of County Road I. Hotion carried unanimously. (4-0) POT O'GOLD BINGO PARLOR The Clerk Administrator reported that the landscape and lighting plan ror the Pot 0' Gold Bingo Parlor were to be returned to Council for their review no later than June 1987. She advised that Planner Miller had not received a copy of the landscape plan which identified the plantings (description and size) and therefore was unable to recommend approval. After discussion, Council concurred that approval from Planner Miller was sufficient and the landscape plan would not have to be reviewed by Council at this time. It was determined that the lighting plan submitted when public hall use was granted would be sufficient. Council discussed the registered letter sent to Mr. Walsh from the Building Inspector (6-26-87). Discussion ensued relative to the issuance of certificates of occupancy for commercial properties prior to the completion of the buildins and compliance with all inspections. Jim Adams, Manager of Walsh properties, stated it was his understanding that all final inspections of the building had been completed; commented that the property owner would cooperate with all requests in the letter. Morrison reported that after discussion with the Building Inspector, it was her understanding that certificates of occupancy had been issued in the past prior to completion of all inspections to eliminate further delay to the occupants. She explained that periodical inspections of the premises had been done by the electrical, plumbing, building and heating inspectors. Council concurred that in the future no certificates of occupancy should be issued for business properties until owner's compliance with all codes are met and all inspections of the business have been completed. Council determined that the items listed in the Building Inspector's letter of 6-26-87 require administrative approval, when accomplished, and would not have to be reviewed by Council. . . Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting, June 29, 1987 Page 4 REPORT OF PARKS DIRECTOR PURCHASE PARKS STRUCTURES Council was referred to memorandum from John Buckley, 6-17-87, regarding the purchase of parks structures; picnic shelters ($2,561), picnic table frames, grills, ($2,974), and playground equipment ($7,000). . and parks benches Councilmember Hansen questioned if picnic grills were used frequently in the parks; Buckley stated he has observed them in use on a number of occasions. Sather moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council approve the expenditures for 1987 Park Development, as outlined in John Buckley's memorandum of June 17, 1987, in the amount of $12,535.00. Motion carried. (4-0) . SUMMER PERSONNEL Council questioned if assistants. The Clerk guide1inea and report Council was referred to a memorandum from Parks Director, 6-25-87, regarding Summer Program Personnel. it was mandatory to pay minimum wage for program Administrator stated she would review the State back to Council. There was discussion relative to instructors salary variations; Buckley advised some salaries appear higher, however, some instructors work less hours and have more technical expertise. Hansen moved, seconded by Sather, that Council approve . the Summer Program fersonnel, as outlined in the Parks Director's memorandum of 6-25-87. Motion carried unanimously. (4-0) ALCOHOLIC BEV. CONSUMP. IN PARKS Council discussed the consumption of alcoholic beverages in Arden Hills parks; Buckley advised that as well as a Village Ordinance which prohibits the consumption of alcoholic beverages, the League Rules for softball teams include a provision regarding this matter. He noted that the Ramsey County Sheriffs Department Deputies patrol the parks and enforce the Village Ordinance. REPORT OF PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISOR WATER METER DISCREPANCIES The Public Works Supervisor reviewed the background of discussions relating to the water meter discrepancies between the indoor and outdoor meters which were first discovered in the Townhouse Villages. Council was referred to the Public Safety/Works Committee minutes of June 18th regarding this matter. Raddatz advised that the outside meters on all homes are read quarterly; it is his opinion that in many cases the outside meters do not accurately record water usage. He obtained a sample meter reading card from the St. Paul Water . Department and suggested staff design a similar card, to be left at each home when the outside meter is read, asking the homeowner to read the inside mater and mail the card to the Village Hall. When the cards are returned, a comparison of the two meters could be done to determine accuracy of the outside meter; this information would determine the extent of the problem and identify faulty equipment. Raddatz further suggested that this project be undertaken in conjunction with the September water meter readings and billing process. Council discussed what incentive residents would have to complete the card; questioned if an amnesty program should be initiated. Raddatz commented that homeowners are probably not aware of the meter reading discrepancies; his opinion was that most residents would complete the card because eventually these discrepancies will be found and the cost will be accumulative. Sather commented that the water utility rate increase would be effective July 1st; he strongly suggested that any discrepancies found, if charged to the homeowner, be reimbursed to the Village at the present rate. He offered the following language to be placed on the meter reading card for resident participation: The City of Arden Hills Water Department has instituted a policy whereby during one quarter during the calendar year, all water meter readings will be taken from the internal water meter. Since we were unable to gain access to your residence, please fill out this card and return same to the Village Hall at your earliest convenience (or give deadline). . Minutes of the RegU~ Council Meeting, June 29, 1987'" Page 5 WATER METER (Cont'd) Hansen reported that the PS/W Committee had suggested the fOllowing wording: "If the card is not returned within (a certain time period) we will contact you and arrange for a date to gain access to read the meter." ; it was her opinion that most residents would cooperate because eventually the discrepancy would be found and the cost would increase. ... After discussion, Council concurred to instruct appropriate staff to draft a "mock-up" water meter reading card and return the sample to Council for their review. REQUEST NO PKING. SIGNS: ROYAL LANE Council was referred to the Public Safety/Works Committee minutes of June 18th; relative to parking problem in the vicinity of Ploral Park. Raddatz advised a request had been received for "No Parking" signs to be placed on one side of Royal Lane during the Little League games at Ploral Park; poor visibility and safety of children were reasons cited. Council reviewed the parking ordinance, which prohibits parking within 20 ft. of any intersection without a crosswalk; questioned if enforcement would help alleviate tne problem.. Paul Malone~ PS/W Committee member, stated the street curves and with vehicles parked on both sides Visibility is extremely limited. He questioned if the no parking area would be easily identifiable if signs were not posted. ... Hansen asked the Parks Director if it would be feasible to use a cardboard sign and have the team coaches carry them with the ball equipment and post prior to each game. Buckley stated, in his opinion, the cardboard signs would deteriorate quickly; he favored a more permanent material. Moved by Sather, seconded by Winiecki, that Council approve posting Royal Lane, at the intersection in question, with "No Parking Here to Corner" signs or directional arrows, whichever best identify the area as a no parking zone. Motion carried unanimously. (4-0) PURCH. WOOD CHIPPER COuncil was referred to Raddatz's memorandum of 6-25-87 recommending the purchase of a used wood chipper. . Raddatz advised that the chipper was to be' purchased new in 1988, jointly with the Parks Department, at a total estimated cost of $12,000.00. He and Buckley had received notice of the a.le of . uaed chipper; after viewing and operating the machine they found it to be in excellent condition. The owner quoted a price of $4,600 for the chipper; Raddatz stated he and Buckley recommend purchase of the machine and suggeated an initial offer of $4,200.00. He noted that no summer personnel was hired for Public Works this year (due to past problems with employees and a change in the school work program), therefore, he recommended purchase of the chipper from the funds not expended for hiring summer personnel. Council questioned the estimated life span of this type of machinery. Raddatz advised that a chipper usually has a life span of approximately 20 years; the motor on the machine for sale has 358 hours of operation and reportedly does not use any oil. Moved by Hansen, seconded by Winiecki, that Council approve the purchase of a wood chipper, at a cost not to exceed $4,600.00, and that the funds budgeted for 1987 Public Works Summer Personnel be transferred to accomplish the purchase. Motion carried unanimously. (4-0) SPRINKLING BAN The Public Works Supervisor reported that the sprinkling ban has been successful; he noted the pumps have stopped running on a continual basis . LAKE JOHANNA DAM Council was advised by Raddatz that the structure which exists as a dam between Lake Johanna and Little Lake Johanna has some deterioration; it was Raddatz's opinion that the extent of deterioration does not warrant replacement at this time. Council discussed if this was the Village's responsibility or Rice Creek Watershed. . . Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting, June 29, 1987 Page 6 LK. JOHANNA (Cont'd) LANDSCAPE INSP. 3900 NORTHWOODS DR. Raddatz stated that the Village does maintain the dam; advised he would determine responsibility and report back to Council. Council was referred to Landscape Inspector's report, 6-11-87, for the Northwoods Office Building, 3900 Northwoods drive. . Moved by Sather, seconded by Winiecki, that Council accept the Initial Landscape Inspection report of Northwoods Office Park, 3900 Northwoods Drive, and, upon completion and replacement of plantings, staff be authorized to the bond to a maintenance bond for a period of one year. Motion carried. (4-0) RES. #87-31;REHAB. . REHAB LOAN PROG. Moved by Sather, seconded by Winiecki, that Council approve Resolution No. 87-31, REQUESTING THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL IlRA TO APPLY FOR AND IMPLEMENT A REHABILITATION LOAN PROGRAM WITHIN THE CITY OF ARDEN HILLS. Motion carried unanimously. (4-0) RES. #87-32;.RAMSEY CO. SHER. CONTRACT SERVICES FOR THE YEAR RES. #87-33; FIRE EXTENSION AGREEMT. Moved by Hansen, seconded by Winiecki, that Council approve Resolution No. 87-32, RESOLUTION APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH COUNTY OF RAMSEY FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 1988. Motion carried unanimously. (4-0) Council was referred to a draft of an Extension Agreement for Fire Protection. . Council discussed the remuneration payment to the LJVFD by the City; consensus was that reciprocal terminology should be added which would, in the event the Village overpaid 1987 contract costs, extend funds to the next contract year. Sather moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council approve Resolution No. 87-33, FIRE PROTECTION AGREEMENT EXTENSION. Motion carried unanimously. (4-0) Council suggested a copy of the extension agreement be sent to the City of Shoreview. REPORT OF TREASURER INVESTMENTS Treasurer Lamb reported on the following investment: 6/11/87 - $1,133,045.34 Treasury Bill @ 6.72% effective interest at Kidder Peabody maturing 6-9-87. Sather moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council ratify . the Treasurer's report. Motion carried unanimously. (4-0) OTHER BUSINESS VEHS PARKED; INDIAN OAKS CIR. Hansen questioned the vehicles parked on the empty lot at the intersection of Indian Oaks Circle and Hamline. Morrison advised that the vehicles can be legally parked on an owners property if they are operable and currently licensed. SPEED LIMIT; BOATS Hansen commented that she had received complaints of boats speeding on Lake Johanna; she advised that other cities have ordinances which prohibit excessive speed on their lakes. She commented that the speeding boats also create excessive noise. Mayor Woodburn stated he recalled an Arden Hill's ordinances which relates to noise decibel of boats on the lake; Morrison advised she would research the matter and report back to Council. MISCELLANEOUS Hansen reported that she would be absent from the July 13th Council meeting. . Winiecki reported that she would be absent from the July 27th Council meeting. OSHA REPORT Hansen commented that the PS/W Committee had discussed the OSHA report received from Don Zehm. Minutes of the RegUl~COUncil Meeting, June 29, 1987 ~ Page 7 OTHER BUS. (Cont'd) Winiecki questioned if the Zoning Administrator had researched the property line verification at Wedgewood Circle. . Iago reported that she had researched the matter and discussed it with the Planner; she will report back to Winiecki when research is completed. PURCH. PROPERTY; EIOF VILLAGE HALL Mayor Woodburn advised Council that the property directly east and adjacent to the Public Works Garage may be available for purchase until the first week in July; he asked for Council comments relative to pursuing the acquisition of this site; Council conSensus was that acquisition of the property, or a portion of it, would benefit the Village; discussed possible use of the land for a fire station site or future expansion. The Clerk Administrator was directed to . contact the Village Attorney relative to drafting an option to purchase two or 3 acres of the parcel and instruct him to begin negotiations for the property. Mpved by Sather, seconded by Winiecki, that Council authorize a $5,000.00 expenditure and an earnest money check, to remain in escrow for 14 days, for use in negotiations for the parcel of land adjacent to the Village Hall property; and, furthermore, apthorizes expenditure for an appraisal of the parcel on a "per acre" basis. Motion carried unanimously. (4-0) . REPORT OF CLERK ADMINISTRATOR REO. FOR USE OF CLASS C FIREWKS Council was referred to the two requests received for use of Class C Fireworks at 1230 Ingerson Court, between the hours of 7-10 p.m., and 1294 Ingerson Road, request. The Clerk Administrator suggested Council upon notification to Fire Chief for his information and hours not listed on the approval be conditioned review. Moved by Sather, seconded by Winiecki, that Council approve the requests for use of Class C Fireworks at 1230 Ingerson Court and 1294 Ingerson Road, subject to notification and review of the Fire Chief. Motion carried. (Sather, Winiecki, Hansen voting in favor; Woodburn abstained) (3-0-1) CLAIMS & PAYROLL Sather moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council approve Claims and Payroll as submitted. Motion carried. (4-0) . SCHED. CLOSED MTGS. Councilmember Sather suggested Council schedule a closed meeting prior to the Regular Council meeting of July 13th, at 7:00 p.m., for Labor Negotiations. He commented that it may be prudent to schedule a closed meeting at 7:00 p.m., prior to each future Council meeting, until further notice, for purposes of Labor Negotiations and Fire Contract Negotiations. Council concurred with Sather's recommendation. ADJOURNMENT Moved by Hansen, seconded by Winiecki, that the meeting be adjourned at 11:10 p.m. Motion carried. (4-0) ?f ~~c1)~---- RObert L. Woodburn Mayor NOTICE OF MEETINGS ~ There is a Closed Meeting scheduled for Monday, July 13, 1987, at 7:00 p.m., at the Village Hall. The next regular Council meeting will be held on Monday, July 13, 1987, at 7:30 p.m., at the Village Hall.