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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 06-12-2000 . CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 12, 2000 6:30 P.M. - ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS CALL TO ORDERJROLL CALL Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor Dennis Probst called to order the regular City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. Present: Mayor Dennis Probst, Councilmembers Beverly Aplikowski, David Grant, Gregg Larson, and Lois Rem. Absent: None. Also present were City Administrator, Joe Lynch; Public Works Director, Dwayne Stafford; City Accountant, Terrance Post; Parks & Recreation Director, Tom Moore; and Recording Secretary, Mary Mullen. . Mr. Post reviewed his memo to Mr. Lynch of June 8, which presented an overview of the City's preliminary Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), and a budget-planning calendar, which was endorsed at the Council's May 15 Worksession. He noted that the calendar called for a discussion to be held at the June 19 Worksession. He added that due to a full agenda on June 19, 2000, the discussion was scheduled for tonight's meeting. Mr. Post stated that the memo reviews three (3) significant areas: Administration, Public Works, and Parks. He added that the memo contains a schedule which reviews how these items will be funded within the operating budget for the year. Mr. Post stated that the first significant item for review was construction ofthe City Hall facility. He noted that the majority of costs for this project were previously included in the budget for 2000, but due to delays in the project, more expenditures are expected in 2001. He added that the occupancy date of the new facility will have operating budget ramifications, as current rental expenses of approximately $4,000 per month would be saved while the new facility would result in higher operating costs. Mayor Probst stated that a higher percentage of the City Hall project could be incurred in 2000 even with a late commencement of construction. Mr. Post stated that project costs for budget inclusion could be corrected as late as December, and such significant items will be apparent before the final budget and levy are submitted in December. Mr. Post stated that the second significant item is construction of the proposed Public Works/Parks Maintenance facility. He added that TKDA Architects have been engaged to undertake a space needs study and have identified stand alone facility costs at $3.4 million. He noted the CIP assumes the City will participate in the project jointly with Ramsey County, which . should result in reduced costs. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - June 12,2000 2 . Mr. Post stated that no specific funding plan has been identified far this project, and a funding solution needs further discussion. Councilmember Grant clarified that the current rent on the City offices is $4,400 per month. Mr. Post stated that the third item for consideration is the construction of monument signs on Highway 96 at 1-35W and the City Hall site. He added this item was included in the 2000 CIP, but has been pushed out to 2005 due to reconstruction of Highway 96 segment No.1 (I-35W bridge to Highway 10). Mr. Post stated that the fourth item was land acquisition for completion of the City's street plan. He added costs associated to this will include land acquisition and easement costs. Mr. Post stated that the fifth item involves purchases made by the City on behalf of the Lake Johanna Volunteer Fire Department. He added the City will attempt to be the purchaser of capital items whenever possible rather than being billed by the Fire Department so the City will control bidding procedures. Councilmember Larson asked whether the City would hold title on equipment purchased on behalf of the Fire Department. Mr. Post stated that this would be the case for equipment purchascs, adding that station improvements and maintenance would not fall into this category. . Councilmember Larson stated that it should not be expected that all Fire Department capital expenses will be covered by City funds. Councilmember Grant asked, with regard to street plan land acquisition, whether that refers specifically to land in the southeastern portion of the City. Mr. Post confirmed this. Mr. Post stated that the next area of significance is Public Works expenditures. He noted the first item is the Pavement Management Program which includes the Ingerson Neighborhood Project and the second phase of the West Round Lake Road project. He added that it would be unrealistic to assume that both projects could be handled simultaneously from a funding standpoint. Mr. Post stated the next item is the conversion oflift stations to submersible pumps. He noted that a plan had been identified by the Public Works staff to rebuild and convert existing lift stations to submersible pumps. He added that two (2) of the City's fourteen (14) stations have been converted, and the Ingerson Road lift station is next on the list as it is the highest risk lift station and the most significant in terms of flow and criticality for other stations. Mr. Stanard stated that the Ingerson Road station handles the commercial and industrial areas near County Road E, as well as runoff from other stations. He added that the pump conversion will be costly but the station is outdated and it is critical within the system. . Mayor Probst asked whether this area is televised. Mr. Stafford stated it was televised earlier this year and heavy infiltration was identified. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - June 12,2000 3 . Mr. Post stated that due to the high cost of this lift station conversion, a delayed schedule of conversion phases might be considered. Councilmember Larson asked whether the larger commercial operations might be dumping storm water. Mr. Stafford stated he has been suspicious of one area, but Staff will have a clearer picture when the televising inspection program results are analyzed. Mr. Post stated that the next area of significance is the City's parks. He added that Staff, in cooperation with the Parks & Recreation Committee, is supportive of preparing a long-range strategic park plan with respect to replacement of facilities. Councilmember Larson stated that, in his opinion, it is a good idea to review the City's parks system and identify small parks that could be eliminated and the funds used to enhance other existing parks. Mayor Probst stated that demographics may have changed in certain areas and the existing park facilities no longer meet the neighborhood's demands. . Councilmember Rem asked whether the Comprehensive Plan included a maintenance schedule for play areas. Mr. Post stated there was a play structure replacement schedule. Councilmember Rem asked whether all parks are on designated park land. She noted that there had been a similar controversy over parkland near Arden Manor. Councilmember Grant asked how the Parks & Recreation Committee received the strategic park plan idea. Mr. Moore stated the committee expressed unanimous approval of the plan. Mr. Post stated that the final item of significance is the replacement of the City's tanker truck. He added this is an costly, specialized piece of equipment. He noted the City's existing tanker truck needs extensive repair. Mr. Post stated, in conclusion, that the last page of his memo represents a summary of the 2001 budget process. He noted the postponement of two (2) major projects: the Ingerson neighborhood project and construction of City Hall have thus far had the most dramatic impact on the 2000 Budget. Mayor Probst stated, with regard to leveling expenditures, that some funds can not be spent in increments. He asked if expenditures could be leveled out so that the grand total is not warped by the two (2) building projects. Councilmember Larson asked whether the tanker truck cost might be shared with another community. Mr. Stafford stated that the truck is used every day in the winter to flood rinks, and most days in the spring, summer and fall to water trees and gardens. Councilmember Grant asked whether the residential water meter replacement program was still estimated at $50,000 for replacements in 2001. Mr. Post stated that the total project is estimated at $450,000, and will not be completed based on the current pace of meter installation. . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - June 12,2000 4 . Councilmember Larson stated that the budget process review spreadsheet did not carry voting machines over to the 5-year total. Mr. Post stated there has been some discussion under way with regard to a purchase of all the machines by Ramsey County to be rebilled back to cities. He added this is still under review. Councilmember Grant asked how many computers and servers are represented in the budget increase. Mr. Post stated that most of the City oflices' computers were purchased two years ago and are on a three-year cycle of replacement. He added that with the new City Hall facility, networking configurations might change dramatically. Mayor Probst asked which expenditures within the capital plan are supported by the levy. Mr. Post stated that the General Fund departments are supported in large part by the levy. He added, for instance, the City Hall project would not be supported by levy funds. Councilmember Larson asked what the average return for the City Hall project investment will be. Mr. Post stated the return will be approximately 5-112% to 6%. Councilmember Larson stated the net cost would be an additional I % or 1-1/2%. Councilmember Grant asked whether City staff anticipates using chip seal in connection with the Pavement Management Program. Mr. Post stated that the chip seal product will be used on 2000 Seaicoating Project streets and the results evaluated later. . Mr. Lynch stated, from a staffing perspective, he would wish to see the position of Community Development Director filled. He added that the functions for that position would be project coordination, management of technology, and management of consultants and contractors. He noted this person would oversee the Building Official and City Planner among other personnel. Mr. Lynch stated that another position to be filled is that of part-time Building Inspector. He added that Shoreview's Inspector will be unable to assist further in 2000 on a part-time basis, and the position should be filled. He noted that an intern or non-traditional employee classification might be considered. Mr. Lynch asked whether the Council had any feelings on a budget levy increase. Mayor Probst stated that his interpretation was an interest in seeing a 0% increase represented but accepting the possibility that 3% might be necessary. I-Ie added he was interested having an understanding of what a zero increase baseline would represent in operating costs. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the City can not maintain a 0% increase and expect to accomplish anything. She addcd she would favor a 3% levy increase rather than no increase out of principle . Councilmember Rem stated that an expectation of how much the City will have by the end ofthe year will affect a levy increase vote. She added that a 0% increase would mean dropping items from the Council's agenda. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - June 12,2000 5 Councilmember Larson stated that he would wish to see a 0% budget increase, adding he believes the exercise is worthwhile. He added he could accept a 3% increase, but he would like to try to maintain a 0% increase. and then make a decision. Councilmember Grant asked whether" zero increase" represents a level budget. Councilmember Larson stated that zero represents last year's dollar levy. Mayor Probst stated that, for the community, a 3% levy increase is a small amount. Mr. Post stated that 3% represents about $59,000. Councilmember Grant stated that the budget can not stay level forever, but needs to be increased. He added it may be a worthwhile exercise but an increase will eventually bc necessary. Mayor Probst stated that he would wish to pursue the Community Development Director position to identify functions that the community should address, and organize around those functions. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that an internship for the part-time Building Inspector was an attractive prospect. She added a retired person might bc considered. She noted an Intern might be inexperienced. Mr. Lynch stated that, with regard to the Community Development Director position, an individual to fulfill that need is already on staff. He noted that Mr. Post has been with the City for many years and is familiar with its many properties. He added that the position will be involved in health insurance costs, personnel policies, and staff communication as well as property development. Mayor Probst stated that he believes significant activity on the TCAAP property is to be expected, as well as the Gateway area and involvement in the 1-35W Corridor Coalition. He added that the City has not historically been actively involved in community development. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that community development will be a management rather than marketing style. She added that she belicves Mr. Lynch's suggestion would work well. RECESS The Council held a brief recess which commenced at 7:35 p.m. RECONVENE FOR REGULAR MEETING AGENDA Mayor Probst reconvened the Council meeting at 7:39 p.m. ADOPT AGENDA MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to adopt the agenda for the June 12,2000, regular City Council meeting, as submitted. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - June 12,2000 6 . APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. May 30, 2000 Closed Executive Session B. May 30, 2000 Regular Council Meeting Councilmember Larson requested the following changes: On page 6, 4th paragraph, 2nd line, replace "wince" with "since". On page 10, 3rd paragraph, insert a period after "project" before "Mr. Post". Councilmember Rem requested the following change: On page 4, 2nd paragraph under Item E, 2nd line, replace "Staflhas not indicated any problems with the request" with "Staff had concerns about the proper response to the request". MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to approve the meeting minutes, as amended. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). CONSENT CALENDAR . A. B. C. Claims and Payroll Resolution #00-18, Resolution Adopting an Employee Drug and Alcohol Policy Ingerson Park Play Structure Replacement Equipment, Authorization to Purchase MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve the Consent Calendar and authorize execution of all necessary documents contained therein. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). PUBLIC COMMENTS Mayor Probst invited those present to come forward and address the Council on any items not already on the agenda. There were no public comments. UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS A. Vactor Hose Purchase, Authorization to Purchase . Mr. Stafford stated that the City purchased a new sewer maintenance machine in 1999 which has the capability of flushing out sewer mains with its high power jetting hose, and vacuuming debris out of manholes. He added that the Public Works Department wishes to purchase additional suction hose to remove sand deltas which form around storm sewer outlets where they empty into lakes, streams and ponds. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - June 12,2000 7 . Mr. Stat10rd stated the City wishes to purchase 75-100 feet of the hose at $50 per foot. He added that funds for this would come from the City's Sanitary Sewer Utility Fund and Stormwater Management Fund. He noted this would be a good investment, and recommended that the Council approve the purchase. MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to authorize expenditure of approximately $3,000 on additional suction hose and fittings for the City's Vactor Maintenance Machine. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). B. Proposed Public Works /Parks Maintenance Facility, Appointment of Task Force to Study Feasibility of Joint Maintenance Facility Mr. Lynch stated that City staff is requesting the Council's consideration of approval of appointments to a task force to study the feasibility of a joint maintenance facility with Ramsey County. He added that the task force would include Councilmember Grant, Mr. Stafford, and Mr. Moore, as well as himself, and would be in communication with Ramsey County Commissioners and staff. . Mayor Probst stated that he had hoped a member of the Operations & Finance Committee would be included on the task force. He added that it might be helpful for someone from that group to review the financial plans. He requested that the Council and City staff consider such an appointment. Councilmember Rem stated she is Liaison to the Operations & Finance Committee, adding that a request tor participation on the task force has not been made of that group. She asked whether she should communicate the request at their next meeting. Councilmember Aplikowski stated, in her opinion, it is wise for a task force to meet with the County at this time. She added it may be a good idea to appoint the people noted by City staff tor practical purposes. Councilmember Grant stated hc would also like to see an Operations & Finance Committee member on the task force. He added it would provide for a good mixture of staff and residents. He noted it might not be necessary to choose the person at tonight's meeting. Mayor Probst stated that the Operations & Finance Committee members were passionate about this issue, and it may be counter-productive to open the task force to anyone wishing to volunteer. Councihnember Aplikowski stated the Council is exploring the path of a joint venture. Mayor Probst stated the task force represents more than an exploration, and a decision must be made quickly. . Councilmember Aplikowski stated that a stand-alone study would not have been necessary if the path were clear. She added the Council should review numbers and plans before making a decision. Mr. Post stated that a stand-alone needs study was conducted to establish a baseline. Councilmember Grant stated the purpose of the proposed task force is to study feasibility. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - June 12,2000 8 Mayor Probst stated that the Council was wrestling with semantics, adding the issue is the appointment of a task force. He reiterated his wish to appoint someone from the Operations & Finance Committee. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that a seat could be left open for a future appointment from that committee. Councilmember Larson stated he supports the appointment of the task force as proposed by City staff. He added that, after that group holds its initial discussion, an Operations & Finance Committee member could be invited to participate. He noted the appointment does not need to be immediate. MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve appointment of a Task Force to study feasibility of Joint Maintenance Facility. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS Mr. Lynch stated he had no comments. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Grant stated that the Ingerson neighborhood group met on June 6 to review road improvements. He added that the City Engineer presented possible locations for rain gardens. He noted that some research would be necessary before that project would be possible, and the group would draft a final recommendation for presentation to the Council in the coming months. Councilmember Grant stated that City staff might wish to give some consideration to the duration of the Ingerson group, and what actions need to be taken. Mayor Probst stated that work must commence by August or September at the latest. Councilmember Grant requested that Mr. Lynch work with the City Engineer to arrive at a commencement date to be communicated to the Ingerson group as soon as possible. Councilmember Grant stated that an alternative plan should be presented to the Ingerson group if the project is abandoned. Mayor Probst stated that the Council should have the opportunity to hear their recommendations, adding there is no guarantee of support from the Council. Councilmember Grant stated a schedule should be in place for such an instance. Councihnember Larson stated that the Ingerson group should be aware of the date by which the Council would wish their work as a task force to be completed. Councilmember Aplikowski stated their recommendations should be presented to the Council at the July 17 worksession. Councilmember Larson stated that it will be necessary for the Ingerson group to produce supportive material for their recommendations, adding this will take time. He noted the group meets every two weeks. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - June 12,2000 9 Mayor Probst stated that the Ingerson group should present their findings to the Council in July . in the form of a draft set of recommendations. Councilmember Larson stated that the Water Quality Task Force will meet Tuesday June 13, after which they hope to have recommendations for presentation to the Council. Councilmember Larson stated the Planning Commission met June 7, and discussed several items. He noted that Mr. Chuck Mertensotto presented a proposed plan for his property that was denied on a 4-1 vote. He noted that Welsh Companies proposed seven (7) staiT actions that could be taken without Council approval. He added that the Commission adopted three (3) items and tabled two (2) items, while the applicant withdrew two (2) items. Councilmember Larson noted there was a discussion of zoning ordinance amendments pertaining to dormitory buildings in residential neighborhoods, a public hearing for which will be held at their next meeting. He noted there was a discussion of a resolution to create a water tower site master plan, a draft of which would be discussed at their next meeting. Councilmember Aplikowski statcd that the Metropolitan Council is holding breakfast meetings of which she has a schedule for the Council's review. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the League of Minnesota Cities is proposing a dues increase that will represent a small increase for the City. . Councilmember Aplikowski stated she would provide a written report ofthe City Events Task Force meeting to Mr. Lynch. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that Councilmembers should turn their City Administrator reviews in to Mayor Probst or herself. Mayor Probst reiterated this request. Councilmember Rem stated that the RAB met June 6. She added they are compiling a 45-minute presentation which can be represented in various settings, which outlines a history of the arsenal and its clean-up. She noted the presentation is available for viewing and has been reviewed by regulators as well as the Army. Councilmember Rem stated shc would attend the League of Minnesota Cities conference on Wednesday, June 14. Councilmember Rem stated the Northwest Youth and Family Services Board will meet Wednesday morning, and their bike ride fund-raiser will be held on Sunday. She added this is a big event for them. Councilmember Rem stated the Web Site Task Force will meet during the 3rd week of June. . Mayor Probst stated he had received an invitation from HealthPartners to attend a Community Leaders Lunch at the St. Paul Radisson on .Tune 21. He noted he will be out of town but invited interested Councilmembers to attend. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - June 12, 2000 10 . Mayor Probst stated the Association of Metropolitan Municipalities (AMM) is looking for Policy Committee members. He encouraged interested Councilmembers to apply. He added that Council endorsement can be arranged. Mayor Probst stated that the Northeast Suburban Chamber is meeting with cities. He added he has suggested that Mr. Lynch might attend. Mayor Probst stated that the I-35W Corridor Coalition is holding three (3) workshops to review consequences of build-out. He added the next workshop will be June 28 at 5:30 p.m. in the City of Roseville Council Chambers, and the final workshop will be held September 13 at the New Brighton Family Service Centcr. Mayor Probst stated that correspondence had been exchanged with regard to the Josephine East area. He added the letters offer some hope and the City is still on a path toward resolution. Mayor Probst stated he was intcrested to see Mr. Post's review of the City's levy process. He encouraged the Councilmembers to take a look at it. Mayor Probst stated he was discouraged to see LMC dues are increasing. . Mayor Probst offered his congratulations to City staft~ particularly Mr. Moore and Michelle Olson for thc success of Day in the Park. Mayor Probst stated that a residcnt in the Wyncrest neighborhood is requesting streetlights, adding there was no indication in the Council packet whether a response had been received. He requested that a mcmber of staff review this matter and tind out what the resident is requesting. Mr. Stafford stated the residents are interested in lights throughout the whole area which is possible but at the expense of the neighborhood. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the issue was raised in 1993 at public safety meetings held by the Public Works Department. She added Leslie Goldsmith had a tile with drawings and information. Mayor Probst stated this might be an issue for an upcoming worksession, unless the neighborhood is disinterested. Mayor Probst stated the City is awaiting a response from the Fire Marshal with regard to the fire sprinkler extension request for the Mounds View High School, deferred from the last Council meeting. Mayor Probst stated he would miss the June 19 Worksession, as he will be traveling. He added he has a few items for the agenda of that meeting. . Mayor Probst stated, with regard to City Hall construction, he remains fully supportive of proceeding with the project, as well as with stone for the exterior of the building. He added he ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - June 12,2000 II would like to see a window on the second floor to maximize flexibility for future utilization of . the space. Councilmember Larson asked whether the request from the Lametti Homeowner's Association with regard to the speed limit on Old Snelling had been taken up again. He added this is a dangerous intersection with confusing speed limits. Mr. Stallard stated the County will require a speed study if the speed limit change is requested, which could result in an increase in the speed limit. He added the issue could be reviewed by the Operations Committee again. Councilmember Larson asked whether the speed study will take other factors along the roadway into consideration. He asked whether the City would pay for such a study. Mr. Stafford stated it is his assumption that the City would pay for the study. Councilmember Larson stated it seems worthwhile to have the study for future reference when similar requests are received on Old Snelling. Councilmember Aplikowski stated residents can petition directly to the County. Mr. Stafford stated the City receives many such requests and should have a standard policy. Councilmember Larson stated he would not wish residents to be referred to the County as it might seem the City is not responsive. . Mayor Probst requested the Councilmembers' signatures on Girl Scout Proclamations. ADJOURN MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion o adjo rn the meeting at 8:30 p.m. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). i/l/J 1< /1;// i' / ii//.;;c..tlfvl/~~' ,." Joe fynrk Cijij Administrator NOTICE OF MEETINGS The next regular City Council meeting will be held Monday, June 26, 2000 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arden Hills Council chambers. .