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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 02-25-1985 . . . . MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Village of Arden Hills Monday, February 25, 1985, 7.30 p.m. Village Hall Call to Order Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the ~eeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Mayor Woodburn. Roll Call Present: Mayor Robert Woodburn, Councilmembers Dale Hicks, Nancy Hansen, Gary Peck, Thomas Sather None Treasurer Donald Lamb, Clerk Administrator Charlotte McNiesh Public Works Supervisor Robert Raddatz, Parks Director J. T. Buckley Absent: Also Present: Approval of Minutes Motion was made by Hicks, seconded by Peck, that the minutes of February II, 1985 be approved as amended. Motion carried unanimously. (5 - 0) BUSINESS FROM THE FLOOR None Improvement Bonds of 1985 - Steven Mattson, Juran and Moodv Mr. Mattson presented to the Council two options for issuance of the upcoming bond issue. The first option he discussed would be in the amount of $2,515,000, would include refinancing of the temporary bond issue of 1982 and various other projects dating from 1978 through 1984 which have been financed inter- nally. His second option provided for refinancing of the 1982 temporary issue and projects 84-1, 2 and 3 (Lametti, Royal Hills North, and McClung Third Addition), and would result in a bond issue of $2,165,000. Both proposed bonds are structured assuming 105X of principal and interest payments, and no pre- payment of assessments. (Briggs and Morgan, Bond Counsel, requires that the cash flow sheet be based on 105X of funds needed for debt service.) Any pre- payment of assessments would hopefully be re-invested at the same or a higher interest rate than is being paid on the bonds. Mattson also presented a second cash flow sheet for the first option presented (sheet labeled Option A). This option provides for total payoff by 1996, is shortened by four years. This structure would bring the total net interest.rate down, would probably be more attractive to investors, and the rating firm of Moody's would prefer it, could possibly improve City's rating from A to A-I. Although bond would be paid off in 1996, there would still be assessment monies corning to the City from the projects covered in the bond, which could then be re-invested as the City chose. Assuming the bond is issued in the amount of $2,515,000, Council asked Mattson his recommendation...which of the proposed cash flow structures would be best for the City? He stated that while the first presentation, extending four more years, is more conservative, he feels the second is more saleable, would save the City interest monies, and could increase City's financial rating. Mr. Mattson explained that when a bond sale is contemplated, financial rating of the City is obtained from either or both Moody's and Standard and Poor's. He recommends the rating be obtained from Moody's, since they deal mainly in public institutions, whereas Standard and Poor's deals more in corporations; also Moody's rating can be obtained more quickly. He plans to submit the Arden Hills' prospectus to Moody (will probably fly to New York himself), will have rating results before the bond sale; feels the City will certainly receive an A rating, and possibly an A-I. Usually A-I ratings are not given to Cities under 15,000 in population, would be the only factor he sees in Arden Hills not receiving this rating. He has budgeted $2,500 for obtaining this rating, but actual costs may not exceed $1,500. Hicks queried why interest rates begin at approximately 6% and climb over the period of time the bond is out...Mattson explained that investors are willing to tie up their money that long only with the promise of increasing interest. Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, February 25, 1985 Page two The first cash flow sheet (for $2,515,000), allowing longer pay-off time, calls for tax levy beginning in 1993; the second cash flow sheet presented by Mattson (for $2,165,000 bond) would not require any tax levy, the alternate cash flow sheet for $2,515,000 bond (calling for earlier pay-off) does call for tax levy. It is Mattson's opinion that these levies will probably not be needed, but must be included because of Bond Counsel's ruling of 105X coverage of debt service. Bond Counsel had also advised McNiesh that projects internally financed before 1978 cannot be included in the bond issue, are just too old, will have to continue to be financed internally. McNiesh also pointed out that the only thing that can be legally financed in the projects dating from 1978 to 1983 are the deferred special assessments receivable; cannot include payment of . interest after construction is completed, can only include costs of construc- . tion and interest paid during construction. Mattson asked City policy on financing of public improvements; Woodburn responded that improvements are assessed at 100X rate to benefitted property owners. Woodburn asked how much of the $2,515,000 was overhead; about $67,000, includ- ing legal fees, bond printing, bond registration, fiscal fee, ratings fee, and discount factor. Mr. Mattson stated that interest rates have risen about .33% since he last spoke with this Council; reiterated urgency in getting these bonds on the mar- ket as quickly as possible. Mattson suggested that the bond sale be held at the Council meeting of March 25, 1985, at 7:30 p.m. He stated that within ten minutes of the opening, he would be able to make his recommendations to Council as to acceptance or rejection of any bids. Asked to recommend best possible time for opening of bids, he stated that 3:00 pm. in the afternoon, with the Clerk Administrator and/or the Treasurer in attendance, probably would be best time. Council can then formally accept or reject bids at 7:30 p.m. at regular Council meeting. . Motion was made by Hicks, seconded by Peck, that Council adopt RESOLUTION 85-13, PROVIDING FOR PUBLIC SALE OF IMPROVEMENT BONDS IN AMOUNT OF $2,515,000, bids to be opened at 3:00 p.m. Monday, March 25, award to be considered at 7:30 p.m. March 25, and Option A to be the repayment plan. Motion carried unanimously. (5 - 0) Mattson will supply this information to Briggs and Morgan, Tuesday, February 26, and they will draft the Resolution calling for bond sale. Vil- lage should have this within four to five days. Lamb asked when monies would be available to Arden Hills; Mattson replied probably by the middle to third week in April. A draft of the Prospectus should be ready within two weeks and will be brought to the City for review before going to press. Parks and Recreation Committee Recommendations Parks Director Buckley presented to the Council his committee's recommendations for the 1985 Park Improvement Program. and Ten Year Park Development Plan. . He pointed out changes in recommendations from June, 1984...one major change is in development of Arden Oaks Park. In Committee's original plans for develop- . ment of this 1.3 acre park, grading and seeding were scheduled for 1985, with further development in 1986. Favorable weather conditions had made it possi- ble for this to be completed in 1984; Buckley had held a neighborhood meeting, they are anxious for earlier construction, and concurred with Park's Committee suggestions for development. Budget calls for play equipment installation and preparation of a grass all-purpose field, and installation of a backstop. Also added to 1985 estimate is color-coating of hard surface area at Sampson Park and landscaping at Freeway (both delayed from 1984). Last addition is planner's fee for planning immediate and long range landscaping plans in several of the parks. Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, February 25, 1985 Page three Sather noted $4,500 expenditure planned for trail development, asked how Buckley planned to spend this. He stated that some benches would be purchased, some trails would have ag lime added; may possibly upgrade corridors in Chatham area with patio stones, and do some landscaping.. Peck asked if parking area is planned for Arden Oaks park; Buckley replied that it would be specifically a neighborhood park, for use of local residents, thus would not require parking spaces. . Woodburn asked if Buckley had discussed landscape planning with Mr. Miller, city planner. Buckley has a meeting scheduled with him shortly; they will re- view landscaping for most of the city parks and trails. Detailed landscaping plans are not envisioned, more general concept of best types of vegetation to be used, and best locations. Woodburn also asked how much labor of City crews versus outside contractors was planned for 1985 improvements; Buckley replied that, with the exception of installation of culverts at Crepeau, all labor would be provided by City crews. Committee queried funds set aside for acquisition of west access at Ingerson Park. Buckley replied that it does not seem likely this will be a possibility in 1985, felt funds should be available in case the possibility does arise, since park badly needs a second access. In response to question re play equip- ment requested for Ingerson, Buckley stated that this park has the first, and oldest, play equipment in Arden Hills' parks, in his opinion, needs replacement now. . 1986 plan calls for hockey rink and lights at Cummings Park; Council queried if this would be acceptable to these residents, and asked type of structure planned for warming house. Buckley stated that Parks Committee members resid- ing in that area are currently discussing the hockey rink possibility with their neighbors to assess negative (or positive) reactions, will report back to him; warming house would be possibly a concrete structure or a hexagonal wooden structure. Woodburn asked if Parks Committee had ever considered a band shell on the slope in the park; would serve an age group not well served by Park facilities at this time. Hicks asked if construction in Cummings Park would be essentially complete if/when hockey rink is installed; Buckley stated all original concept plans would then be done. Hicks noted there were long range plans for double tennis courts at Freeway Park; asked where in the park they would be located. Buckley stated he in- tends to eventually eliminate hockey at that park, and the tennis courts would be located where the hockey is now. . . Hicks asked financing plans; total cost of improvements scheduled is above amount approved in 1985 budget. Buckley stated that Park Fund is separate fund, monies derived from park dedications, has balance of approximately $__0. :. ~~ODO Motion was made by Hicks, seconded by Hansen, that Council approve the 1985 Park Development Plan as presented, and concept approval of the 1986-87 plan as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. (5 - 0) Shoreview/North Oaks/Arden Hills Chamber of Commerce - Jim Block, Representative Mr. Block's purpose in addressing the Council was to invite the City of Arden Hills to become a full, dues-paying member of the Chamber of Commerce, member- ship cost of $200.00 per year, $10.00 new member fee. He noted that Charlotte McNiesh, Clerk Administrator, is currently a member of the Board of Directors. He stated that the function of the Chamber is to meet the needs of the community; this includes working closely with the City governments involved. A survey of current membership of the Chamber indicated that their four major needs include, (1) local involvement, getting to know other business people and residents, (2) training, (3) contacts and exposure for their particular busi- ness, and (4) work in governmental areas, i.e. preparation and distribution of area maps, a tourism brochure, etc. The Chamber has, among other activities, a monthly membership meeting, publishes a monthly newspaper, sponsors a Business-After-Hours program once monthly, offers free training to staffs of members-businesses (including two monthly seminars on various topics) Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, February 25, 1985 Page four sponsors weekend trade shows in local shopping malls. He described Chamber's four standing committees, (1) government, (2) business development, (3) community development committee (encompasses such functions as sponsoring Arden Hills' fall festival, other social functions, and (4) public relations committee. Woodburn noted that, although the City had at one time been a member of the Chamber of Commerce, he has doubts about the seemliness of its being a dues- paying member of any particular community group, seeming to favor one group over another. McNiesh noted she feels Arden Hills and Shoreview do make a contribution in the time of herself and Gary Dickson as members of the Board of Directors. Hicks asked if it was not more a business organization, not directly related to City...Block replied that they look at the City as a business. Hicks ... asked what percentage of local businesses are members; reply was about 33%. Hicks asked why City had dropped membership earlier held; Council at that time did,not want to be seen as aligning with any particular group. Sather noted that, in his place of business, he has found the Chamber of Com- merce membership beneficial, noted that City has heavy involvements with its citizens through various citizen committees; does not have as much interaction with businesses; felt membership by City might be good way to develop further relationships with business in the community. It was moved by Sather, seconded by Peck, that Council become a dues-paying member ($210.00) of the Shoreview/North Oaks/Arden Hills Chamber of Commerce. Motion carried. (3 - 2) (Hicks, Woodburn opposed). Request for Peddler's Permit - Henry Morton Mr. Morton is requesting a peddler's permit. to sell candies and cookies door to door, in the Village of Arden Hills. McNiesh noted that Mr. Morton will not be soliciting himself; he will be employing young people under the Junior Careers program. Hicks asked if she had received information on how many times he plans to cover the city, asked if this could be made a condition of ... approval. Council asked provisions of Green River Ordinance, would like Clerk Adminis- trator to ask Attorney Lynden for an overview of the provisions of this Ordinance. Sather asked if City requires, or could require, a certificate of liability insurance before granting the permit. Council noted City has numerous charitable organizations selling door-to-door, is pretty saturated with solicitors, but recognize that there must be good and sufficient reason before denying a permit of this type. McNiesh will contact Mr. Morton to ask for Certificate of Insurance, and to ascertain how many times he intends to contact each household. It was moved by Hicks, seconded by Hansen, that Council table action on peddler's permit until the March 11 meeting. Motion carried unanimously. (5 - 0) Third Fire Station - Land Purchase Agreement Mayor Woodburn stated that after two lengthy meetings February i3 and i4, representatives of the three cities involved and their attorneys had drafted this Land Purchase Agreement. After it has been presented to the councils of the three cities involved (for acceptance, modification or rejection) it will be forwarded to the Fire Department for action at their March 5 meeting. ... ... Woodburn reviewed the provisions of the contract; stated that in place of "$586.000 construction costs", have inserted "architectural approval and .con- tract approval by each city", provides for contract cities purchasing the land on which the station will be located from the Fire Department, and makes changes in the reversionary clause. . . . . Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, February 25, 1985 Page five It was moved by Hansen, seconded by Hicks, that Council approve the Land Purchase Agreement. Motion carried unanimously. (5 - 0) McNiesh noted that Attorney Lynden has reviewed this Agreement and approved it. REPDRT OF VILLAGE TREASURER DONALD LAMB $100,000, to mature 3/15/85 at 8!70, First Federal Hicks moved, seconded by Sather, to ratify Treasurer's investments.' Motion carried unanimously. (5 - 0) 1985 Compost ProRram Public Works Supervisor Raddatz described the compost program proposed for the Arden Hills site by Ramsey County...Ramsey County would like to conduct an experimental grass clippings disposal program at two of its sites in the 1985 season, has asked if Arden Hills would be amenable to using the leaf disposal site on Hudson Road. If Council chooses to accept this proposal, it would necessitate Public Works crews turning the clippings regularly, (probably weekly or more often), and the employment of a monitor for Wednesday afternoons and weekends. The salary of the monitor would be paid by Ramsey County, labor of Public Works crews involved would be Arden Hills' expense. Raddatz could not estimate amount of time it would take, would depend on how much citizens utilize the service. Clippings would be integrated with the leaves in the fall. Sather noted there probably would be an odor problem unless clippings are turned frequently. Hicks questioned ecological aspects; clippings are' rich source of nutrients when left on lawns. Motion was made by Hicks, seconded by Sather, that Arden Hills n2l be involved in the experimental grass clippings program proposed by Ramsey County because of costs, manpower needs and uncertainty of use and time involved. Motion carried unanimously. (5 - 0) OTHER BUSINESS Arsenal Land Availabilitv Woodburn stated that Dick Klick, member of the Parks Committee, and John Buckley had met with Mr. Schulte, Commander's Representative at the Arsenal, seems to be a possibility of working on a local level to begin negotations for land there (for Park use, primarily league-size ball fields). They have proposed sending a letter to Mr. Schulte, stating our interest in this. (Schulte indicates he may have surplus land, would entertain requests for it). Council concurred that a letter be sent from the Council to Mr. Schulte, stating our continuing interest in the land for park purposes. ~ IlleRal Street ParkinR DurinR Snow EmerRencies Hansen relayed the Public Works Committee's concerns about abuse of this Ordinance; Committee is recommending more strict enforcement of the Ordinance by Sheriff's Department. McNiesh stated that policy has been to issue a warning, then a parking ticket at cost of $25.00; very little towing has been done. Woodburn stated that, in general, he has favored education before citations; since this year's plowing season should soon be over, Council concurred that an 8! x 11 information flyer be inserted in the October or November Town Crier, stating what the City policy is (warning, ticket, then towing), list- ing most probable times of plowing, etc. RCLLG MeetinR Peck reported that he had attended the RCLLG meeting February 20 which dis- cussed the proposed 1% sales tax to partially fund construction of the Minnesota Convention Center. He added that a liquor tax to cover these costs is also being considered. The RCLLG is hosting an open house at McGuires on March 16th, from 9:00 a.m. to noon; all are invited; RCLLG will explain its purposes and program. Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, February 25, 1985 Page six Water Resources Board Meetin~ Hicks noted that this letter mentioned, in its long range planning, problem areas; asked why Lake Josephine was not included as problem area. Woodburn noted that Lake Josephine is in an approved water shed district, has an ap- proved plan, so is already covered under Rice Creek Watershed District. Meetin~ with Roseville re RCWD Grant Application McNiesh reported she had contacted Roseville to explore possibility of a joint meeting with their Council on this subject; their Council had not yet dis- cussed this, will get back to her with possible dates. Chamber of Commerce Meetin~s Hansen suggested Sather be Arden Hills' representative to this group. Policy is that all Council members are invited to meetings, none are official ~ representatives. Li~ht Rail Transit Subject is coming up to Metropolitan Council at first of next week; if Coun- cil members have thoughts on the subject, should get them to the Metro. politan Council. Mavor's Term Council questioned rationale for Mayor's running every two years, and Council members every four years. Council felt this should be a subject for future Council discussion. McNiesh thought there was an option for Mayor's term of four years, will research this. REPORT OF CLERK ADMINISTRATOR CHARLOTTE MCNIESH License Approvals It was moved by Sather, seconded by Peck; that approval be granted for Off Sale Malt Liquor License for Arden Hills Standard, Inc., and Restaurant License for Land O'Lakes. Motion carried unanimously. (5 . 0) ~ Finance Committee Resi~nation McNiesh reported that Scott de Lambert, a member of the Finance Committee, has resigned; has left the employment of Woodbridge Properties, and thus is neither a resident of Arden Hills or representing an Arden Hills business. Motion was made by Hicks, seconded by Hansen, that Council accept the resigna- tion of Scott de Lambert from the Finance Committee, and extend its thanks for his services. Motion carried unanimously. (5. 0) Claims and Pavroll McNiesh noted that Arden Hills' insurance agent, William Hite, has concerns about the large increase in insurance premiums, feels the time might be right to put insurance out for bids again. Motion was made by Sather, seconded by Peck, that Claims and Payroll be ap. proved as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. (5. 0) . Sound Level Meter McNiesh reported that Shoreview rents this sound level meter, which is used by four cities, with the cost shared by all; asked if Council would like to continue with this arrangement (cost $31.25 this year). Motion was made by Hicks, seconded by Hansen, that Council approve continued shared rental of this sound level meter. Motion carried unanimously. (5 - 0) ~ ~ Adiourrunent Motion was made by Hicks, seconded by Hansen, that the meeting be adjourned at 11:32 p.m. Motion carried unanimously. (5 - 0) ~~~ Charlotte McNiesh Clerk Administrator /') J , I~ ~' 4L. _~ ;:/ f/ .v~~ .;.;'->7?C2 .~ Robert oodburn Mayor NOTICE OF MEETING The next regular Council meeting 7,30 p.m. at the Village Hall. will be held on Monday, March 11, 1985,