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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 03-10-1986 . MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Village of Arden Hills Monday. March 10, 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 Woodburn, Councilmembers Dale Hicks, Nancy Hansen, Gary Peck, Thomas Sather (7:40 p.m.) None Attorney James Lynden, Treasurer Donald Lamb. Planner Orlyn Miller, Public Works Supervisor Robert Raddatz, Clerk Administrator Charlotte McNiesh, Deputy Clerk Dorothy Zehm Absent: Also Present: . Approval of Minutes Peck moved, seconded by Hicks, that the minutes of the February 24 Council meeting be approved as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. (4-0) Business from the Floor Aid Association of Lutherans. Local Branch #124 Floyd Gutzman. Ralph Bahr, Harold Heck and Werner Saar presented $2,500 to Mayor Woodburn for a 22' x 24' shelter at Hazelnut Park. Gutzman explained that the money is to be used to purchase the shelter building materials; shelter will be constructed by their association members and donated to the City. Mayor Woodburn gratefully accepted the donation on behalf of the Council and Arden Hills residents. Introduction of Board of Directors, Lake Johanna Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief Dan Winkel introduced the following members of the Board of Directors to the Council: Deputy Chief.......Dave Christienson Treasurer..........Roger Luehrs Secretary..........Larry Kahnke District #1 Chief..Mike France District #2 Chief..Ed Fisher District #3 Chief..Dave Winkel Mayor Woodburn greeted the Fire Board members on behalf of Council; acknowledged that there are City/Fire Department issues pending resolution; expressed Council's appreciation to the Board members for their expressed offer to answer questions and/or discuss fire issues with Council. (Councilmember Sather arrived at the meeting.) - LexinKton/I-694 BridKe WideninK/Pathway - Gary Zak. MoDOT PlanninK Project ManaKer Council was referred to Bridge Replacement vs. Bridge Widening Analysis. Zak explained that roads are built to 30 year life expectancy and bridges to 60 years; explained that traffic volumes have increased substantially since the bridge was constructed in 1962; noted that repair work is needed on the ramps as well as some structural work on the substructure. Zak said the bridge is still in sound condition, but the replacement at this time seems a "cost effective" measure, for $200,000 more than the widening cost. Zak explained that the new design would have no side pillars underneath; we'll.get a 60-year structure instead of 30 years; design will provide for a pedestrian/bikeway and the increased capacity should provide for future growth and safety. Zak said the widening was anticipated when Lexington Avenue was improved, but the funds were not available; noted we now have 90% federal funds, with the 10% furnished by State and local funds. A layout of the project was displayed, showing the cost breakdown. In discussion, Hicks explained that he has opposed the project because it seems a lot of dollars spent for a project he does not feel is needed at this time; feels if needed, it should have been done with the recent Lexington improvement; suggested the widening only, if that is essential. < . Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 10, 1986 Page 2 Zak explained that it costs more to widen a bridge than to build a new bridge; referred to the cost analysis of replacement widening; explained that the project life of a new bridge is 60 years; widened bridge is 30 years; explained that, based on the analysis as outlined, the complete replacement is considered a cost effective measure and should be implemented. Zak was asked what was done to the bridge when Lexington was improved a few years ago. Zak said the bridge was not part of the improvement; an overlay of bituminous, to tie the roadway together, was the extent of work on the bridge. Hicks asked the interest rate used in the calculations. Answer was 4.5%. Hicks noted that the 90% federal funding is not "free money". Zak was asked about the anticipated plans for future improvement of 1-694. Zak said they anticipate a 6-lane roadway (3 in each direction). Zak was asked if . all the bridge improvements get local support from the municipalities. Zak said some are, and some are not; understands all those in Ramsey County will have local support from cities. Zak was asked if the proposed bridge project will be adequate for the anticipated 1-694 project. Zak said when the highway project is done, the bridge, as proposed. will not have to be re-done. It was noted that it appears the County is paying very little of the cost of the project, especially if it is using State Aid funds. In discussion of traffic volumes, Zak said it is anticipated to increase.from 12,000 vehiCles/day to 20,000 vehicles/day (similar to the current volumes on Silver Lake Road). Zak was asked if the semaphores will be replaced. Zak said the signals will remain. It was explained by Woodburn that Council's objection has been the continual passdown of costs to the cities. Hansen moved, seconded by Sather, that Council adopt Resolution No. 86-13. REQUESTING MODIFICATION OF RAMSEY COUNTY COST SHARING POLICY BY MUNICIPALITIES AND AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF ARDEN HILLS' SHARE OF I-694/LEXINGTON BRIDGE/PATHWAY. Motion carried (Hansen, Sather, Peck, Woodburn voting in favor of the motion, Hicks voting in opposition). (4-1) Woodburn welcomed Ramsey County Commissioner Duane McCarty. McCarty said he will relay Council's concerns to the Ramsey County Public Works Department and to the Board of Commissioners; said that the subject of bridge, roads and the traffic system is of major interest to him. REPORT OF VILLAGE ATTORNEY JAMES LYNDEN Petition for City to Install Streets and Utilities Council was referred to letter/petition from Opus Corporation (1/20/86) petitioning the City to prepare a feasibility report for the installation of sanitary sewer. storm sewer, water and street (Northwoods Drive) in Northwoods plat. (Opus representative not present.) \ It was noted in discussion that a public hearing is not held if 100% of the property owners petition the improvements. Lynden recommended adoption of the resolution, with the understanding that there will be no public hearing, and that Opus execute the Development Agreement. Hicks moved, seconded by Peck, that Council adopt Resolution No. 86-15. ORDERING FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR IMPROVEMENT NO. SS-W-P-ST 86-1, subject to: (a) Both property owners (Opus/Reiling) not requesting a public hearing, and (b) Both property owners (Opus/Reiling) executing the Development Agreement. - Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) ; Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 10, 1986 Page 3 Development Aareement. Opus/Reilina Lynden referred Council to draft of Development Agreement which he paraphrased for Council. (Opus representative, Bob Worthington, arrived.) Lynden recommended execution of the Agreement, subject to his refinement thereof; wants to go through it again before it is finished. Worthington said he is present to endorse approval of the Development Agreement, subject to Attorney Lynden's refinement thereof. . Sather moved, seconded by Peck, that Council Agreement, subject to refinement by Lynden. (5-0) approve the Development Motion carried unanimously. REPORT OF VILLAGE PLANNER ORLYN MILLER Case No. 86-5. Preliminary Plat of Truhler Addition - Naeaele. Inc. A transparency of the proposed Truhler Addition industrial plat was displayed. Miller explained that a sewer easement is needed through the Naegele-owned property for the sanitary sewer connection from STH 10 to the New Brighton Interceptor; reported that the City Engineer has been working with representatives of Naegele to acquire the easement; noted that Naegele decided it would be beneficial to plat the property. thereby establishing the sewer easement (also rough grading, streets and watermain will be established so property can be marketed). Miller explained that the lots, as proposed, vary in size from 2 acres to 4-1/2 acres; noted that the proposed road connects with an existing road/utilities easement extending from the east of the Naegele property to STH 10, which could allow a road eastward in the future. Miller described the lots to be similar in size to those in the Northwoods plat. Miller reported that the Planning Commission recommends approval of the plat, subject to: (a) Provision of a connection between 13th and 14th St. N.E. at the east of the plat, and (b) That reasonable effort be made to eliminate Outlots A and B (land fragments). Miller explained that the negotiations for the right-of-way connection, and modification of the plat, will be necessary to provide a 14th St. N.E./15th St. N.E. connection; noted that the connection could occur as suggested in Planning Memo, or could be totally on Naege~e property. In discussion, Woodburn reported that he had received an inquiry relative to a tax increment proposal for this entire area; asked Miller if he is aware of any redevelopment interest in this area. Miller said he is aware of some interest, but has received no proposals of any sort to date. . Miller explained that the platting provides for the needed sewer location where it will not hinder future development; noted the area can be re-platted later if an overall proposal is received; noted that, at this point, we don't have an overall proposal. Don Brauer, planning consultant for Naegele'. said he considers the platting a good approach for Naegele; area can then be graded for street, sewer and water, improving its marketing potential. Brauer said they do not have anyone "knocking at the door" to buy the property at present. Brauer was advised that the City policy is to defer execution of the Final Plat by the City until bid is awarded for utilities and streets. Brauer said they will request a time extension for Final Plat if the recording of the plat is to - be delayed. Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 10, 1986 Page 4 Hicks moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council approve the Preliminary Plat of Truhler Addition, subject to: 1. Provision of a permanent road connection of 13th and 14th Street N.E. as recommended in Planning Memo (2/27/86) at east side of plat, and 2. Reasonable effort be made to eliminate the land fragments (Outlots A and B). Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Petition for City to Install Watermain and Services Hicks moved, seconded by Sather, that Council adopt RESOLUTION NO. 86-14, ORDERING FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR IMPROVEMENT NO. W-86-2. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Northwoods Plat Miller reported that Opus Corporation has experienced some difficulty in recording the Northwoods Plat because of its attachment to the Emerald Inn parcel (land leased by Reiling); Miller said he advised Opus that the plat can be recorded without further City activity; City has approved the split from Emerald Inn, and has approved the Final Plat of Northwoods. Council concurred. Multiple Sclerosis Report on Charitable Gamblin~ License (Beth Darg and Sharon Gregal) Beth Darg, representing MN North Star Chapter of the National MS Society, explained that they have 40 licenses throughout the state; explained that they find this a good method for fund raising; said their expenses are greater than by other types of one-time fund raiser methods, but they make more money from charitable gambling. Gregal explained that they pay an hourly wage; at Big Ten Supper Club they have two part-time operators for five nights. Games are not open Sundays and Mondays. Gregal explained that recent State law requires expenses to not exceed 40~ of the profit; reported that the State gets 10~; advised that the State licenses charitable gambling and enforces the law. Hansen moved, seconded by Hicks, that Council approve the Class B Charitable Gambling License for National MS Society, MN North Star Chapter at Big Ten Supper Club for one year. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) REPORT OF VILLAGE TREASURER DONALD LAMB Investments 3/10/86 $470,000 at Twin City Federal @ 7.2l~ interest, maturing 5/20/86. Hicks moved to ratify the Treasurer's investment. Motion was seconded by Hansen and carried unanimously. (5-0) Status Report - Cable Communication Chairman William Bauer Bauer reported that Westinghouse has decided to sell Group W Cable to a 5-member consortium; Daniels to get the six Twin City cable systems. In view of this, North Suburban Cable Commission has decided to hold a public hearing on April 3 at the Falcon Heights City Hall; noted that the cities will have 60 days to approve the sale. Bauer said it is "Widely rumored" that there will be a second transfer from this consortium to a limited partnership, Daniels and Gus Hauser, to be operated by Hauser who now owns Northwest Hennepin (purchased from Storer). Bauer reported that, at the last Cable Committee meeting, municipal ownership was discussed. Bauer said the Oppenheimer law firm will represent the cities in this transfer. Bauer asked Council's input as to whether Council considers municipal ownership a viable option; reported that two committee members favored investigating municipal ownership. Bauer said all ten cities would have to agree to be partners in the ownership. In discussion, Bauer was asked the cost to pursue an investigation into municipal ownership and whose money are we spending. Bauer said he does not know the cost; assumes it would be Westinghouse at this point. Bauer said some fear Hauser; Hauser does not support public access; supplies the equipment but .. . . Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 10. 1986 Page 5 no money or staff for public access. Bauer noted that cable deregulation of rates becomes effective December 29. Bauer was asked the percentage of users in our area - Bauer said about 33% (Arden Hills about 35%); noted this is under the original projection; does not know the percentage needed to make it pay. Hansen said she does not favor public ownership. Sather said he thinks this investigation may not be a bad idea; feels the investigative process would not be wasted funds; feels cities can't make a sound decision without having the facts; feels we should know the payback time table, the liability involved; feels cities should know the relationship of the buyers (if any) to Westinghouse. . Peck said he generally agrees with Sather's position. Woodburn suggested that Bauer use his own judgment; Council seems to be split on the matter; Council will understand either direction taken. REPORT OF VILLAGE PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISOR ROBERT RADDATZ Council A. B. C. was referred to three memos: Hot Water Hi-Pressure Washer New Garage Doors Recommendation - Public Works Dept. Full Time Employee Raddatz reported that the Hi-Pressure Washer and Garage doors were budgeted for purchase in 1986. Woodburn asked if the purchases can be postponed, because of shortfalls, until after review of the budget by the Finance Committee. Sather recommended that extra couplers and hose be included when the washer is purchased - one is not enough. Hansen asked if the proposed washer is gas fired or oil fired; reported a gas fired was recommended by one PS/W committee member. Raddatz said the one he proposes is oil fired because it is portable and can be used in the field, at lift stations, etc.; gas fired would have limited use because it would have to be used only in the maintenance building. Raddatz was asked if the garage doors are needed for safety and/or security. Raddatz said for energy savings mostly, at this point; explained that replacement panels are needed; said the door replacements are needed, but the need's not crucial -- could be deferred a few months. Raddatz noted the doors are not a standard size; changing to a standard door would require the replacement of the track as well. Raddatz said if the purchase of the hi-pressure washer is delayed, he'd like to rent one for a week and clean the equipment this spring; currently, we use a garden hose and a bucket of soap and water; have used the jetter, on occasion. but that is cold water and does not do the job adequately. Hansen moved, seconded by Hicks, that Council defer these expenditures pending Finance Committee review of the 1986 budget. and authorize rental of a washer in an amount up to $250.00. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) . Hicks moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council authorize the hiring of Joseph Mooney as a full time Public Works Department employee, effective April I, 1986, at $9.00/hour as per memo. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Hamline Avenue Raddatz reported that the holes are being filled as they appear, but the holes reappear almost immediately. Woodburn suggested that signs be installed warning motorists of dips and bumps. especially at the extremely bad areas. --.- Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 10, 1986 Page 6 Finance Committee Recommendations - Mayor and Council Salaries Council was referred to the recommendation of the Finance Committee (minutes of 2/27/85) that Council salaries and Mayor's salary be increased to $2,300 and $2,900, effective January I, 1987. Hicks moved. seconded by Sather, that Council accept the Finance Committee report and approve the salary increases effective January 1, 1987. Motion carried (Hicks. Sather, Hansen, Peck voting in favor of the motion; Woodburn voting in opposition). (4-1) (Attorney to prepare necessary Ordinance.) Re ort on Human Ri hts Commission Meetin on March 6 Council was referred to minutes of meeting 3/6 86, noting the appointment of a subcommittee to look into feasibility of providing handicapped accessibility for Precinct 1 voters. . Report on Parks and Recreation Committee Meetin~. Februarv 25 Council was referred to minutes of February 25 Park and Recreation Committee meeting. No Council action items. 1986 Diseased Tree Removal Contract - Advertisement for Bids Hicks moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the Bid Proposal Form as amended. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) (Bid opening - April 2, 1986, at 2:00 p.m. at Village Hall.) OTHER BUSINESS Shoreview Watermain Hansen reported the installation of a watermain by Shoreview on Lexington (Cannon to Tiller) - notification given to Arden Hills as to potential of Arden Hills hookups. ~ Hansen reported that the annual RCLLG Legislative Banquet will be on Wednesday, March 20 at Embassy Suites, at 6:30 p.m.; asked for Council input or questions re legislative happenings. Plannin~ Commission Hicks reported an upcoming vacancy on the Planning Commission; asked Council for suggestions of persons showing interest who will attend meetings; noted a current problem to obtain quorum. (Notification of the vacancy will appear in the next Town Crier.) Mayor's Meetin~ Mayor Woodburn reported that it is possible that eventually Arden Hills could be left alone to support the Lake Johanna Volunteer Fire Department in Arden Hills; suggested that Council look ~nto a possible second site in Arden Hills. Some site possibilities were suggested to serve the north area of Arden Hills. Hansen suggested that Council also look into buying service from another city; feels Council needs to look into alternatives. Propertv Tax Assessment Council was referred to the annual County special assessment of $81.34 for waste control now placed on all City property on which there is a building (Public Works Building, Village Hall, Perry Park, Booster Station). It was noted that the assessment seems unfair, especially where no waste is generated (booster station). . . . ~ Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, March 10, 1986 Page 7 REPORT OF VILLAGE CLERK ADMINISTRATOR CHARLOTTE MCNIESH 1986 Business Licenses Council was referred to list of business licenses for Bethel College and Big Ten Supper Club, pending Council approval. Sather moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the business licenses listed. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Claims and Payroll Hicks moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council approve the Claims and Payroll as presented. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Adjournment Sather moved, seconded by Hicks, that the meeting adjourn at 10:52 p.m. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) /' <' ~(I.tt 'd~---&, cyl)Yl~}J Charlotte McNiesh Clerk Administrator r~kd~- Robert Woo urn Mayor Notice of MeetinR The next Regular Council Meeting p.m. at the Village Hall. will be held on Monday, March 31, 1986 at 7:30