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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 03-31-1986 1 . . , MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Village of Arden Hills Monday. March 31, 1986 - 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 Present: Mayor Robert L. Woodburn, Councilmembers Thomas Sather. Gary Peck, Nancy Hansen, Dale Hicks None Engineer Donald Christoffersen. Wilbur Liebenow, Prosecuting Attorney Jerome Filla, Treasurer Donald Lamb, Public Works Supervisor Robert Raddatz, Clerk Administrator Charlotte McNiesh, Deputy Clerk Dorothy Zehm Absent: Also Present: Approval of Minutes Hicks moved, seconded by be approved as amended. Peck, that the minutes of the March 10 Council meeting Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Business from the Floor None Report of Prosecutin~ Attorney Jerome Filla Filla briefly described his service to the City as Prosecuting Attorney; prosecutes gross misdemeanors, misdemeanors and petty misdemeanors; noted he becomes involved in three ways: - Not guilty pleas. - Ramsey County Sheriff and State Highway Patrol. - Citizen complaints, e.g. barking dogs (after City has exhausted all other means to resolve the problem). Filla listed the cost factors encountered in gathering evidence (obtaining transcripts of police and motor vehicle records, notifying and/or subpoenaing witnesses to appear in court. appearances in court at various hearings and at trial); noted that most jury trials in Arden Hills are "under the influence" and "assault" cases - average number is 3 or 4 per year; most cases are speeding and stop sign violations and under the influence (guilty pleas); noted that 207. of the New Brighton court calendar is comprised of Arden Hills cases. Filla reported his treatment of D.W.I. violations and how he evaluates each case; described the various sentences and fines imposed by judges based on individual circumstances and/or findings; noted that penalties do not seem to resolve the problem - many have an alcohol problem and continue to drive. Filla reported that he only sees those who do not plead guilty. Filla said most of his involvements are dog. traffic and zoning code matters; understands that the City's long term goal is to get people to comply; noted that no "snowbird" tickets have gone to trial; most zoning problems are resolved in City Hall; does not see any need for additional ordinances at this time. REPORT OF VILLAGE ENGINEER DONALD CHRISTOFFERSEN Proposed Water Tower Review of Feasibility Report Council was referred to Feasibility Report (1/10/86). Christoffersen said the estimated costs are still current: 1 million gallon tank - $ 950,000 1-1/2 million gallon tank - 1,100,000 Hicks moved. seconded by Hansen. that Council adopt Resolution No. 86-16, RESOLUTION ORDERING PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR WATER TOWER. In discussion. Sather asked about the feasibility of a pipe connection to Shoreview at County Road E as an alternative to another water tower. Engineer Liebenow explained that the Shoreview water connection would not take the place of the tower; noted that at an approximate cost of $300,000/well. it would not make good economic sense; Arden Hills ... -. Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 31, 1986 Page 2 would have to buy into Shoreview well system; at 3,000 gallons/minute, Arden Hills would need three wells, plus a back-up well for its water needs. Sather asked the percentage of water consumption in the north vs south areas in Arden Hills. Liebenow said the majority of consumption, on peak days, would be in the south. Christoffersen noted there is a 16" north-south main (between Lexington and STH 51) crossing under r-694, as well as a 12" main along STH 10, also under r-694, serving the north areas of the city. Liebenow explained that Arden Hills has two pressure zones; would be difficult to get along without two towers; noted that the system was originally laid out as a two-tower system in the '60s. . Hansen said Shoreview water is "hard" water - Arden Hills water is "soft" by comparison; had understood the possible water connection to Shoreview would be an emergency water source only - not a general water source. Mulcahy said he feels that Council must consider means of financing this large expenditure; feels a "needs assessment" is needed; stated he is concerned with spending this amount of money without adequate data. Mulcahy said evidence has not been presented that a connection with Shoreview's system is not feasible; noted that Shoreview's water tower is only one mile away; feels Arden Hills should look at this alternative as a water source. Mulcahy suggested that a second engineer's opinion be obtained, alternate ways to store water should be looked into; noted that the Roseville/Arden Hills contract permits the purchase of water by Arden Hills from others. Mulcahy asked who is going to pay for "this monster"; stated he feels the study to date is inadequate; wants to know where the funds will come from; asked why the need for additional water is based on a "worse situation", considers this an example of "fear politics"; stated he is here tonight to urge Council to give the matter much more thought and to obtain a second opinion. Hansen noted that about 500 homes are not using municipal water at present, out of an approximate 2,300 homes; asked average water consumption/person. Liebenow estimated about 60 to 80 gallons per day per person; said lawn sprinklers use about 5 gallons/minute, adding about 2,500 gallons/minute load on the system; noted if 80% of homes sprinkled lawns, this would require 2,000 gallons/minute, equal to two additional wells. Liebenow explained that if a fire should occur at peak water usage, an insufficient amount of water and/or water pressure could result in a building burning down; noted this is a reality, not scare tactics; noted it can occur -- fires can occur when people are watering lawns; noted that July and August are the "worry months"; stated that most cities of any appreciable size have two water towers, for maintenance purposes as well as to even the pressure; explained that pressure, depending on size of mains, can vary in various areas of the city; by equalizing the pressure, mains can be kept smaller. Hicks asked about City liability if sufficient water pressure is not provided. Liebenow said he is not aware of the City's liability; said the insurance company may not insure a building unless adequate water is . provided. Hansen reported that insurance rates are dependent upon response time and water availability. Hicks asked if a well, at an estimated cost of $300,000, would meet Arden Hills' water needs. Liebenow said several wells would be necessary to provide the needed 1,000 to 1,200 gallons/minute. Sather said he takes exception to the Shoreview "hard" water issue; stated he has Arden Hills "soft" water and still needs a water softener. f Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 31, 1986 Page 3 Sather asked about backflow to Roseville, if valve is inadvertently not closed. Liebenow said this would not occur; tank would be full at all times except during peak water usage. Motion carried (Hicks, Hansen, Woodburn voting in favor of the motion; Sather, Peck voting in opposition). (3-2) County Road E Council was referred to Ramsey County 1986 Contract Bituminous Overlay Project which includes County Road E, Snelling Avenue to Lexington Avenue, and to attached plans and drafts of proposed resolutions. . Hansen moved, seconded by Sather, that Council adopt Resolution No. 86-17, REQUESTING RAMSEY COUNTY TO RESTRICT PARKING ON COUNTY ROAD E FROM TH51 TO LEXINGTON AVENUE. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Peck asked if the overlay project also includes subsequent re-striping. Christoffersen said it is his understanding it will be striped as it is at present. Hicks recalled that County Road E is currently, according to Ramsey County Engineer, striped for two travel lanes and two parking lanes, but is used for four travel lanes; recalled that the City had requested re-striping to accommodate bike lanes, but did not pursue the re-striping because of the cost. Hicks said he feels this is an opportunity to re-stripe for bike lanes and suggested this be further studied by the City Engineer. Christoffersen said he can approach the County Engineer on this issue; noted that bike lanes have to be on both sides of a road, when not detached. Hicks noted that a right turn lane is needed at STH 51 for east bound traffic, and that on-street parking is needed at the park; would like the striping further studied by the County Engineer. Hicks moved, seconded by Peck, that Council adopt Resolution No. 86-18, APPROVING RAMSEY COUNTY PLANS FDR MILLING AND OVERLAY OF COUNTY ROAD E BITUMINOUS PAVEMENT, and request the County Engineer to prepare a proposal for re-striping of County Road E, from Snelling Avenue to STH 51, before the street is re-striped. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Approval of Charitable Gamblin~ License, Blue Fox Inn - OriRinal Boosters Council was referred to Gambling License Application for Class B Charitable Gambling License for Original Boosters at Blue Fox Inn, 3833 N. Lexington Ave. Thomas Cossack (Blue Fox Inn) introduced John Spencer and Jim Adams, representing the Original Boosters, a charitable organization. Mayor Woodburn thanked the Blue Fox, and Little Sisters of the Poor, for their pull tab proceeds contribution-to the City Parks Department in 1985. Cossack said that he wants to keep the funds in this area. . John Spencer said the Original Boosters encompass many charities; can donate in any area as determined by their Board; will direct that the proceeds remain in this area. Spencer explained that it is up to their Board to choose who will receive the donations; amount of donation also depends on their treasury balance. Spencer said they will honor Mr. Cossack's recommendations and will bring these to the floor. Sather expressed the Park Department's enthusiastic appreciation of the proceeds received in 1985 from the pull tabs at the Blue Fox. Hicks moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council approve the Class B Charitable Gambling License for Original Boosters at the Blue Fox Inn for one year, and requested that the 30-day waiting period be waived. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) , Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 31, 1986 Page 4 REPORT OF VILLAGE TREASURER DONALD LAMB Investments 3/17/86 - $305,583.36 at Twin City Federal @ 7.21%, to mature 9/15/86. Hicks moved, seconded by Peck, that Council ratify the Treasurer's investment. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Financin~ Alternatives for Major Capital Expenditures Council was referred to memos from McNiesh (3/27/86) listing 1986 Financing Needs and Suggested Temporary Financing, and to memo from Lamb (3/31/86) relative to Alternate Methods of Financing Water Tower. . McNiesh noted that the Finance Committee is aware of the large up-coming expenditures; explained that the City has levied $262,747 in prior years and $124,540 for taxes payable in 1986 for the New Brighton Interceptor; not as much levied for water tower ($20,800). In discussion, Woodburn said he feels the water project should be financed out of water funds; suggested some possible alternatives: - increase water gallonage charge. - increase stand-by and/or fireline charge. place on general taxes (not all people are using water - not all water users pay taxes). The effect that the proposed expenditure would have on the various funds (Permanent Improvement, Water Utility, Sewer Utility and MSA) was discussed. Lamb briefly explained the lease-buy alternative of financing the water tower vs. using internal funds or bonds; noted he is not recommending this method of financing - has only talked to one leasing person - said it is similar to leasing a car; noted that the current interest rate is 7-1/4%; explained that this method would not deplete the revolving fund. Council concurred with Hick's suggestion that Attorney Lynden be asked City's liability relative to an inadequate water supply in case of fire, etc. The method of financing the several major expenditures that are forthcoming was referred to the Finance Committee for its recommendation to Council. Cable TV Committee Recommendation to Purchase Audio Equipment Council was referred to quotation from Blumberg Communications for up-grade of City's audio system. Sather moved, seconded by Hicks, that Council concur with the Cable Committee's recommendation (minutes of 3/13/86) and authorized the $460.00 expenditure as per quotation from Blumberg. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) REPORT OF PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISGR ROBERT RADDATZ 1986 Street Sweepin~ A~reement Council was referred to Raddatz's memo (3/27/86) proposing that the City enter into a contract with New Brighton again this year for street sweeping. Hansen moved, seconded by Sather, that Council contract with New Brighton for street sweeping in 1986, as per memo. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) (Raddatz to look into other options for 1987 street sweeping for Council's consideration.) . Water School Council was referred to Raddatz's memo (3/27/86). Hicks moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the attendance of Mike McKinney and Robert Raddatz at a three-day water school on April 8, 9 and 10 and April 22, 23 and 24 respectively and authorize the $50/person registration fee. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Anticipated Summer Employment Raddatz said he anticipates hiring three summer employees in 1986, Tony St. , Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 31, 1986 Page 5 Marie, Steve Zehm and a third to be recommended at a later date. Parks and Recreation Committee Recommendation for 1986 Park Site Improvement Council was referred to Proposed 1986 Developments, recommended by the Parks Committee and attached to Parks and Recreation Committee Minutes of 3/25/86, at a total cost of $16,550. After review of the list of proposed parks and trail projects, Sather moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the $16,550 expenditure for the 1986 park projects as listed. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) . Arbor Day - April 26. 1986 It was noted that a "Tree City USA" award is to be presented to Arden Hills, and trees are to be planted at Arden Oaks, Floral, Ingerson and Cummings parks and along the trails. McNiesh reported that the Arbor Day Proclamation is tentatively scheduled for the April 14 Council agenda. Report on March 27 Fire Board MeetinR Hansen referred Council to her memo of 3/27/86, which she briefly summarized, noting the following items discussed at the March 27 Fire Board meeting: North End Fire Station - should be in operation by June 1. Opti-con - installation at certain intersections; 6 intersections suggested. False Alarm Ordinance - Shoreview is contemplating adoption of regulations. South End Fire Station - Shoreview is looking into site location. Fire Department Pension Group MeetinR - at Station No. 2 on April 3. Hansen noted this conflicts with the Special Arden Hills labor negotiations meeting. Cable TV - Shoreview suggests putting fire prevention tips on public access channel. (Referred to Cable Committee.) Hansen expressed the need for serious thinking, by Council, relative to fire protection for Arden Hills; noted that contract negotiations will be starting in June. Woodburn stated that all would like to see the three cities stay together. OTHER BUSINESS Street LiRht Subcommittee Report Hansen referred Council to the Street Light Report prepared by the Public Safety/Works Street Light Subcommittee; expressed Council's appreciation for the subcommittee's work and preparation of a very comprehensive report. Park Dedication Status Report Sather reported that Opus wants to phase its park dedication, as they develop Northwoods; reported that Opus has offered 7% of purchase price over ten years; reported negotiations are conti~uing. REPORT OF VILLAGE CLERK ADMINISTRATOR CHARLOTTE MCNIESH . Schedule Closed Council MeetinR Hansen moved, seconded by Sather, that closed Council meetings be scheduled as follows: - Thursday, April 3 at 7:00 p.m. - Labor Negotiations. - Monday, April 14 at 7:00 p.m. - Special Assessment Litigation. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) (Hansen to attend Fire Board Pension Meeting on April 3 at 7:00 p.m. if Peck is unable to attend.) Approval to Order Punch Card VotinR System McNiesh reported that $13,865 is budgeted for purchase of punch card voting system in 1986; advised that a 60 day time frame is needed for delivery, after which time will be needed to educate the public on how to operate the system. , Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 31, 1986 Page 6 Hansen moved, seconded by Sather, that Council approve purchase of the punch card voting system. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Claims and Payroll Hicks moved, seconded by Peck, to approve the Claims and Payroll as presented. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Telegram McNiesh reported she sent the following message in the form of a telegram to Governor Rudy Perpich, Roger Moe and David Jennings: "If the Conference Committee cannot resolve differences by Tuesday morning, at least get the tax and education bills out." Arden Hills Mayor and Council . Adjournment Hicks moved, seconded by Peck, that the meeting adjourn at 10:28 p.m. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) ~@~ Charlotte McNiesh Clerk Administrator ;j7~~ RODert Woodburn Mayor Notice of Meeting The next Regular Council Meeting p.m. at the Village Hall. will be on Monday, April 14, 1986, at 7:30 .