HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-10-07-R
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Approved: January 14, 2008
CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 10, 2007; 7:00 P.M.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor Stan Harpstead called to order the regular
City Council meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Present:
Mayor Stan Harpstead, Councilmembers David Grant, Brenda Holden,
David McClung, and Fran Holmes.
Absent:
None.
Also present were City Administrator Michelle Wolfe; City Attorney Jerry Filla; Public
Works Director Gregory Hoag; Finance Director Susan Iverson; City Planner James
Lehnhoff; Civil Engineer Kristine Giga; Parks and Recreation Manager Michelle Olson;
Planner Meagan Beekman; and Recording Secretary Diauna Wise.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a
motion to approve the meeting agenda as presented. The motion carried
unanimously (5-0).
2. PUBLIC INQUIRIES/INFORMATIONAL
Mr. Patrick McLafferty, President of Arden Manor Residents Association, addressed Council
about the Highway 10/County Road 96 corridor project. He stated the Arden Manor residents
did not Imow about the meeting with the state legislature until very recently; however, he thought
the residents should be there. He stated none of the 350 residents were notified. He stated they
plan to meet the legislators while they are at City Hall on December 13,2007. He expressed the
disappointment of the Arden Manor residents. Mr. McLafferty presented and read a letter of
their wishes to Councilmembers.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - December 10, 2007
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Mayor Harpstead stated a concept plan has not yet been voted on. He explained that this is an
opportunity to influence future legislation at a state level. He pointed out that 2008 is a bonding
year for the state and the intention is to get it into the bill for discussion. He commented there
are three dollars requested for every one dollar available.
City Administrator Wolfe expressed concern about the statement in the letter regarding
Mn/DOT. She explained that Mn/DOT has not accepted or ruled out only concept plans. She
stated the City asked Mn/DOT to assemble a design team and present options for the Highway
10/County Road 96 corridor to the City. She stated Mn/DOT is fully aware of the issues
surrounding this project and is working on options to present to Council. City Administrator
Wolfe explained the bonding bill request was for both the County Road H project and the
Highway 1 O/County Road 96 corridor proj ect.
Mr. McLafferty reiterated their concerns that they have been excluded from the process. He
stated they are concerned about what might happen without their knowledge. He commented the
private worksessions include discussions they do not have access to.
Mayor Harpstead stressed that City Council worksessions are open to the public.
Ms. Khristy Effinger, Arden Manor Association Secretary commented that at the meeting on
Monday, she heard Public Works Director Hoag say Mn/DOT rejected the plan that included
saving the homes and were given the go ahead to do the brainstorming. She stated this is why
they were concerned. City Administrator Wolfe apologized for the misunderstanding and
indicated this is why she attempted to clarify the information presented.
Mr. Chuck Mertensotto, 3473 Lake Johanna Boulevard, stated he is a citizen of Arden Hills
and supports the work ofthe Arden Hills Manor Association.
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. September 24, 2007 Regular City Council Meeting
Councilmember Holden requested a change to page 3, paragraph 2, to replace ". . . could be put
aside." with ". . . was put aside."
B. November 26, 2007 Regular Citv Council Meeting
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember McClung seconded a
motion to approve the September 24, 2007 Regular City Council minutes
as amended, and the November 26, 2007 Regular City Council minutes, as
presented. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - December 10, 2007
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4. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Claims and Pavroll.
B. Motion to Approve the Pnrchase of Smart Boards and a Maintenance Plan
from Tierney Brothers, Inc, for an Amonnt Not to Exceed $16,468.23 from
the Cable Fund.
C. Motion to Authorize Staff to Contract with WSB Associates, Inc., to Provide
Civil Eneineerine Technical Support for Redevelopment of the TCAAP
Property.
D. Motion to Approve the 2008 Fee Scheduline.
E. Resolution for Ramsey County Support of Reeional Transportation Projects.
F. "A.pproval of Union Contract.
G. Motion to Approve the Planned Unit Development Master Plan Permit for
Northwestern Colleee Based on the October 29, 2007, Approved Conditions
in Plan nine Case 06-037.
H. Motion to f.pprovc Planninl: Case 117 1129 for a Variance at 14:5:5 Skilcs Lane
Based on Findin!:s of Fact and the Submitted Plans, as Amended by the
SC'ien Conditions in the December 5, 211117, PIanninl: Case Report.
I. Motion to Approve Ordinance 389 to Amend Section 1325.03 Subd. 2A ofthe
Zonine Code Reeardine Permitted Encroachments as Presented in the
December 5, 2007, PIannine Case Report.
J. Motion to Approve Plannine Case 07-031 for a Conditional Use Permit
Amendment at 3833 Lexineton Avenue Based on the Findines of Fact and the
Submitted Plans, as Amended by the Six Conditions in the December 5, 2007,
Plan nine Case Report.
K. 1. Motion to Approve Ordinance 392 to Amend Sections 900.04 Subd. 1,
900.04 Subd. 2, and 900.05 of the Arden Hills City Code Reeardine the
Minnesota State Buildine Code.
2. Motion to Approve Publishine a Summary of Ordinance 392.
L. 1. Motion to Approve Ordinance 393 to Amend Section 900.06 of the
Arden Hills City Code Reeardine the Minnesota State Fire Code.
2. Motion to Approve Publishine a Summarv of Ordinance 393.
M. Adopt Resolution 07-74, a Resolution revisine water, sanitary sewer, and
surface water utility rates effective January 1, 2008.
N. Adopt Resolution 07-73, a Resolution adoptine and confirmine annual
special assessments for delinquent utilities.
MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a
motion to approve the Consent Calendar and to authorize execution of all
necessary documents contained therein. The motion carried unanimously
(5-0).
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - December 10, 2007
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5. PULLED CONSENT ITEMS
None
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
None
7. NEW BUSINESS
A.
1.
Motion to Approve Resolution 07-75. a Resolution Adoptinl!
the Proposed 2008 Budl!et in the Amount of $9.331.559.
Finance Director Iverson reported that at the May 21, 2007 Council Worksession and a
subsequent worksession on August 27, 20007, Council provided staff with guidelines to initiate
work and prepare a Preliminary 2008 Budget. She stated that on September 10, 2007, Council
adopted a preliminary Tax Levy in the amount of $2,836,997 and on December 3, 2007, a Truth-
in-Taxation meeting was held and at the conclusion of the meeting the Mayor closed the Public
Hearing. She reported that what is before Council is the 2008 Budget with revenues of
$9,513,130 and projected expenditures of $9,331,559. Finance Director Iverson stated this
budget includes expenditures and revenues across all funds. She stated the General Fund budget
is proposed at $3,641,194 in revenues and expenditures.
Fiuance Director Iverson reported the only changes in the budget are the updates for the market
study in compensation across departments, new contingency amount of $11,355, and a reduction
of $1,000 in the amount set aside for Northwest Youth and Family Services as per Council
direction. She stated that if adopted, the budget would serve as a draft working copy for staff and
Council until the final bound version is completed and ready for submission to the GFOA awards
program.
Fiuance Director Iverson stated that as part of the annual budget and levy adoption process, the
Council is asked to approve the 2008 City contribution for employee benefits. She reported the
employee contribution rate of $648 per month per employee for 2008 has been calculated into the
proposed budget.
Councilmember McClung mentioned he reviewed the public documents and reported that in
September 2007, Council voted to certifY a levy no higher than a 6%. He stated he is still at the
point of not being willing to support more than a 4.0% levy. He questioned how much the
budget would be impacted at the 4.0%. Finance Director Iverson replied there would be no
contingency dollars and would need to reduce the Operating Budget and General Fund by $2,500.
She indicated the City would see a 2.8% decrease and the average homeowner would realize a
decrease of$3.68 from last year's rate. She specified this is an average decrease.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - December 10, 2007
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Councilmember Grant clarified the difference in real terms is approximately $13,855, which is
not an overriding amount. He questioned, given the decrease, how this would happen. Finance
Director Iverson replied it is because when any new development comes it causes an increase to
the tax base, the City must increase the tax levy to incur additional revenue. Councilmember
Grant stated setting up a 4.6% levy is beneficial to the City.
Councilmember McClung stated a new Deputy Clerk position is part of the budget and assumes
it is for the entire year, it takes time to hire this person, and the full amount would not be
required. City Administrator Wolfe replied the estimate was on a full year salary. She stated it
could balance itself out should they hire someone at a higher salary than the estimated amount.
MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a
motion to Approve Resolution 07-75, a Resolution Adopting the Proposed
2008 Budget in the Amount of$9,331.559.
Councilmember Holden stated she is in favor of the budget because it is such a small difference
between the 4.0 and 4.6 percent amounts. She commented on the hiring expenses for the City
Administrator, paying for an interim City Administrator, and other positions forthcoming. She
stated she could see where the $13,000 is already eaten up.
Councilmember Grant stated that when they met to take a first cut at the levy. He stated he
could not support a 6% levy at that time. He believes the 4.6% level is reasonable.
Mayor Harpstead spoke in favor ofthe 4.6% levy.
Councilmember Grant commented on the vacancy rates of businesses that impact the overall
taxing ability of the City.
Councilmember McClung stated he would vote against this as the City has a healthy General
Fund balance, which is well within what the state auditor recommends. He commented that 4.0%
is reasonable when the impact to taxpayers is considered.
Mayor Harpstead noted that staff did advise Council at the time of the contingencies that a
compensation adjustment would need to come out of that number.
Councilmember Holden questioned what the auditor recommends the Fund Balance rate to be.
Finance Director Iverson replied it is usually 35 to 50 percent of the next year's expenditures.
Councilmember Holden asked if this would result in not having to amend the budget during the
year. She questioned if the adopted budget in the past was more than what the actual budget was.
Finance Director Iverson commented she believes it is usually excess revenues over
expenditures.
Councilmember McClung questioned what was the amount added to the 2007 budget. Finance
Director Iverson replied the previous budget amendments included the comprehensive plan
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - December 10, 2007
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amendments and city hall repairs. She stated she did not have the exact numbers at this time. She
stated there has usually been money left over. She reported the Holiday Inn tax revenues would
not be received and because of the depressed economy building permit revenues have been very
conservative and this is where the extra revenue has usually come from.
The motion carried (4-1 McClung)
2. Motion to Approve Resolution 07-76, a Resolution Setting the Final
Levv Taxes Payable in 2008 in the Amount of $2,797,348.
MOTION: Mayor Harpstead moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a motion
to Approve Resolution 07-76, a Resolution Setting the Final Levy for
Taxes Payable in 2008 in the Amount of $2,797,348. The motion carried
(4-1 McClung)
3. Motion to Approve Resolution 07-77, a Resolution Setting the City
Contribution to Employee Monthly Benefits at the Amount of $648
per month, per employee (provided they participate in the HSA plan
or single coverage, or $648 toward family coverage if they participate
in the Co-Pay plan.)
MOTION: Mayor Harpstead moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to
Approve Resolution 07-77, a Resolution Setting the City Contribution to
Employee Monthly Benefits. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
B.
1.
Motion to Approve Ordinance 391 to Repeal Section 620.04
of the City Code, Amend Section 310.01 of the City Code,
and Adopt Section 660 of the City Code Regarding the
Collection, Hauling, and Licensing of Garbage and Recycling Haulers.
City Planner Lehnhoff summarized that section 620.04 of the City Code regulates the disposal,
collection, and hauling of garbage in the City. He stated that in order to maintain eligibility for
the yearly SCORE grant from Ramsey County, the City needs an ordinance that requires all
residential properties have regularly scheduled recycling services. He stated staff is proposing
the adoption of an integrated trash and recycling collection, hauling, and licensing ordinance.
Councilmember Grant referenced Subd. 5 and commented that a number of conditions and a
Memorandum of Understanding were put in place. He questioned if this was still taking place.
City Planner Lehnhoff replied he believed it is and would check on this.
Councilmember Grant mentioned the trucks would enter the City empty onto the better street to
minimize wear and tear on the streets. He stated the garbage haulers should be updated on the
PCI. He questioned if the recycling trucks would be included. City Planner Lehnhoff stated it
was not in the contract previously as they have smaller trucks. Councilmember Grant stated the
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single-sort trucks tend to be larger. City Planner Lehnhoff commented the Memorandum of
Understanding would go out to the haulers.
Councilmember Holden stated the use of certain streets is limited to insure streets are not used
for numerous trips. City Planner Lehnhoffreplied the previous Memorandum of Understanding
would still be in effect.
Councilmember Holmes questioned whether all homes should have provisions for garbage
collection to eliminate the burning of trash. City Planner Lehnhoff indicated it is addressed in
part on page 9 of Ordinance 391, 660-06, Subd. 1. Councilmember Holmes commented the
City Building Inspector did not have the authority to force residents to have garbage collection.
She questioned whether the wording should be stronger. City Planner Lehnhoff commented the
Code Enforcement Officer reviewed the changes and approved the wording.
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember McClung seconded a
motion to Approve Ordinance 391 to Repeal Section 620.04 of the City
Code, Amend Section 310.01 of the City Code, and Adopt Section 660 of
the City Code Regarding the Collection, Hauling, and Licensing of
Garbage and Recycling Haulers. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
2. Motion to Approve Publishinl! a Summary of Ordinance 391.
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember McClung seconded a
motion to Approve Publishing a Summary of Ordinance 391. The motion
carried unanimously (5-0).
C. Motion to Approve a Proposal Dated November 14, 2007, and Authorize
Staff to Nel!otiate and Contract with Eureka Recyclinl! or Waters Recvclinl!
for Residential Curbside Recyclinl! Services from March 1, 2008 to February
28,2011.
City Planner Lehnhoff reported the current three year contract with Waste Management expires
on February 28, 2008. He explained that the contract was originally with EZ Recycling; however,
they were purchased by Waste Management in 2005. He stated the City iss1!ed a Request for
Proposal (RFP) to solicit proposals for recycling services and received proposals from five
recycling services providers. He stated staff recommends selecting either Eureka Recycling -
two-stream recycling or Walters Recycling - single-stream recycling. He explained the proposals
from Eureka Recycling for the two-stream recycling and the single-stream recycling proposal by
Walters Recycling. City Planner Lehnhoff stated both companies come highly recommended.
Councilmember Holden questioned whether the freezer type containers were recyclable. City
Planner Lehnhoff replied that with Eureka they would recycle these containers.
Councilmember Holden questioned how residents would be educated on recycling. City
Planner Lehnhoff explained how each company would educate the residents.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - December 10, 2007
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CounciImember Holden questioned whether garbage that was not recyclable would be left on
the sidewalk. City Planner Lehnhoff replied that Eureka would leave an informational form
with instructions at the door. He stated that with single-stream, this would be more difficult.
CounciImember Grant asked if the numbers given by were pre-SCORE grant. City Planner
Lehnhoff replied that was correct with the addition of administration costs and Community
Clean-up Day.
Discussion ensued on the non-recyclables.
Mayor Harpstead questioned the frequency ofthe revenue sharing payments.
Mr. Tim Brownell, Eureka Recycling, stated the revenue sharing is done on a monthly basis.
He explained the amount could be a separate payment or credited against the invoice.
Mr. George Walters, Walters Recycling, stated they would also have a monthly revenue
sharing.
CounciImember Grant asked how cardboard would be handled by the recyclers. Mr. Brownell
replied it needs to be flattened and tied together and placed next to the paper bin. Mr. Walters
replied they suggest using the 90 gallon carts and small amounts of cardboard could be placed in
the cart. He stated that if it is full, flatten it, tied it together, and place next to the paper bin.
CounciImember Grant questioned whether two bins would fit in some garages. He stated that
if single sort is chosen, there might not be room in the garages.
CounciImember Holden questioned if additional bins are available and what the cost would be.
City Planner Lehnhoff replied there are several hundred available and additional bins could be
purchased. He commented the charge is $5.85, which covers the cost and is not an additional
revenue source.
CounciImember McClung requested City Planner Lehnhoff to discuss the experiences of other
cities that have gone to single-sort and their experiences relative to spoilage. City Planner
Lehnhoff replied the issue of residual garbage ending up in the recycling is a concern of other
cities; however, they stated residents are in favor of single-sort.
Mr. Walters commented that contamination has not been a problem. He stated the biggest
difference is a two-sort system is the driver addresses it at that time. He stated the single-sort is
caught at the processing site.
City Administrator Wolfe questioned the accountability in that recycling products are being
properly processed as recyclables. Mr. Walters replied straight economics drives this as they are
given a check from the processors. He explained it would cost them money to haul away any
contamination and dispose of it.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL-December 10, 2007
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Discussion ensued.
Councilmember Holden asked Mr. Browning why Eureka did not offer a single-sort option.
Mr. Browning replied they conducted a study over a 14 month period and found that with the
weekly frequency of collection with the two-stream resulted in higher participation rates and
customer satisfaction. He explained the issues surrounding the single-sort versus the dual-sort
systems.
Councilmember Holden questioned whether Eureka offered bins. Mr. Browning replied bins
are not required, but most residents use the blue bins, which are not provided. He indicated they
would accept use of the green Arden Hills bins.
Councilmember Grant thanked Eureka and Walters for taking the time to attend and answer
questions. He asked each to state how long they have been in the recycling business. Mr.
Browning replied Eureka has been running curbside recycling since 1985 and provides service to
about 120,000 buildings. Mr. Walters stated they have been in the trash business since 1988
and recycling since 1990. He stated they cover both residential and commercial recycling.
MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a
motion to Approve a Proposal Dated November 14, 2007, and Authorize
Staff to Negotiate a Contract with Eureka Recycling from March 1, 2008
to February 28,2011.
Councilmember Grant commented the dollar amount is not that great; however, this item truly
impacts the residents of Arden Hills in a direct way. He stated it is important to choose the
correct method for residents and believes the dual sort is the right choice.
Councilmember Holden commented residents are more interested in the environment than the
single-sort system and the dual-sort appears to meet the needs of residents.
Mayor Harpstead stated the tipping point for him was the storage of the bins followed by the
pickup and increased yield following recycling.
The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
D. Resolution 07-72: Setting the 2008 City of Arden Hills Recvcling Fee for the
Residential Curbside Recvcling Program.
City Planner Lehnhoff reported staff recommends setting the curbside recycling fee at $37.25
per year per household for 2008. He stated this covers the cost of the residential curbside
recycling program and did not include revenue sharing. He stated the price might decrease in
2009 depending on the success of revenue sharing.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - December 10, 2007
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Councilmember Holden asked what the current fee is. City Planner Lehnhoff replied $26.25
and has not changed for the past three years.
Mayor Harpstead requested the current the fund balance amount in the Recycling Fund.
Finance Director Iverson replied she did not have the exact numbers; however, it is positive.
Councilmember Grant questioned Mr. Browning as to how confident they are with the figure
quoted at a figure of $0.70. He asked him to share his experience with other cities. Mr.
Browning replied the numbers are based on the actual revenue numbers. He stated Eureka tends
to be conservative and several communities have for the past two years received revenues over
what they budgeted.
Councilmember Grant questioned if comparable figures from the previous year is available.
Mr. Browning replied he estimated it is about $0.65 per household.
Mayor Harpstead asked City Planner Lehnhoff if community understands the terms of the use
ofthe revenue sharing.
City Planner Lehnhoff replied that any revenue over and above would be used for recycling
program could only be used for recycling and could not be used as a funding source for other
funds.
MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a
motion to Approve Resolution 07-72, a Resolution Setting the 2008 City
of Arden Hills Recycling Fee at $29.00 for the Residential Curbside
Recycling Program.
Councilmember Holmes questioned whether the amount should be set based on the $0.70.
Councilmember Grant commented that he justified the $0.70 based on Eureka's best
experience and the fact that there is a balance in the Recycling Fund.
Councilmember Holden commented she supports this as the Mr. Brownell stated they are
conservative, the cost of aluminum, and information in the newspapers.
Councilmember McClung stated he is torn in that it is a commodity and an estimate. He stated
he would prefer to error on the conservative side as this is the first year. He stated he is more
comfortable at $0.75 or $0.80.
Mayor Harpstead commented the amount is not something that would not jeopardize the City
given the fund balance. He stated he would like to reach a point of gradual increase in fees. He
believes the $29.00 per household per year is reasonable and rational.
Councilmember Holmes stated she could agree with the $0.70 given it could be adjusted in the
future if needed.
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City Planner Lehnhoff reported the fund balance is about $16,000 as of December 10, 2007.
Finance Director Iverson stated there is still one-half of the revenue to collect from the county
second half payment.
The motion carried unanimously (4-1 McClung).
E. Motion to Authorize Staff to Proceed with an RFP for a Small Area Plan of
the B-2 District
City Administrator Wolfe reported that recently Council approved the 2008 budget; therefore,
staff felt the best first step would be to request Council to authorize staff to proceed with a Small
Area Plan ofthe B-2 District RFP to consultants bring back to Council in early 2008.
Councilmember Holden requested the difference in Small Area Plan versus a Large Area Plan.
City Planner Lehnhoff replied the Small Area Plan refers to a specific smaller focus area in the
City, whereas the Comp Plan deals with the City as a whole.
Mayor Harpstead questioned whether any schedules were available. City Planner Lehnhoff
replied it would depend on the proposals and the information from the consultants. He stated he
anticipates early 2008.
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember McClung seconded a
motion to Authorize Staff to Proceed with an RFP for a Small Area Plan
ofthe B-2 District. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
F. Approve 2008 Compensation Plan
City Administrator Wolfe reported this plan is before Council as the approval is required
annually. She stated this is the amount is 3% ofthe amended 2007 plan.
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Mayor Harpstead seconded a motion
to approve the 2008 Compensation Plan. The motion carried unanimously
(5-0).
G. Process for Selection ofInterim City Administrator
City Administrator Wolfe reported identifYing a list of interested parties for the Interim City
Administrator. She stated she has identified interested and qualified parties and received three
resumes with one more forthcoming. She stated the parties are available January 2, 2008. She
explained the process is needed to move forward is to review the applicant resumes, interview,
and selection.
Councilmember Holden recommended that a sub-committee review the resumes and the
interviews should be held with as many of the Councilmembers as possible.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - December 10, 2007
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Mayor Harpstead recommended all materials be forwarded to Councilmembers by email.
Councilmember McClung stated he is comfortable with the sub-committed to review with
interviews held by the full Council.
Councilmember Grant is in agreement with the use of a sub-committee. He stated that if a
Councilmember wanted to participate they should be able to.
Mayor Harpstead stated he and Councilmember McClung would make up the sub-committee,
with review by all members.
Councilmember Holmes questioned whether Councilmembers could participate by phone. City
Attorney Filla replied so long as there is access to comments.
Councilmember McClung questioned if a member participates via phone, whether they are part
of a quorum. City Attorney Filla replied they must be physically present to be part of a quorum.
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. TCAAP Update
City Administrator Wolfe summarized the TCAAP updates.
Councilmember Holden questioned if the different credit categories were mentioned. City
Administrator Wolfe replied she would forward the notes from the City Attorney from the
meetings in Washington, D.C.
Councilmember Holden questioned the piping from the developer. City Administrator Wolfe
replied she would follow up on that.
Councilmember Holmes questioned the email from Public Works Director Hoag about the
resolution and questioned whether this would be acted upon. City Administrator Wolfe replied
this was not formerly withdrawn.
Public Works Director Hoag replied the 2008 solicitation for funds made in October 2007 for
County Road H is a state cooperative fund pending the bonding bill money. He stated it is staffs
recommendation to withdraw this application and resubmit it for the funds for FY 2010.
Mayor Harpstead requested the estimated dollar amount. Public Works Director Hoag
replied it is roughly $500,000.
City Administrator Wolfe clarified this is for County Road H, to ask through the state MNDoT
cooperative agreement for funds or a local match for the hoped for federal funds for the project,
and given the timing, it did not appear likely that if the funds were approved this year, that the
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - December 10, 2007
13
City could meet the requirements of the state; therefore, staff felt it was prudent to withdraw and
resubmit for next year. Public Works Director Hoag commented it would probably be an early
2010 project and in the City's best interest to withdraw at this time.
CounciImember Holden questioned whether this fund is part of the bonding request. Public
Works Director Hoag replied it is a separate request for funds.
Consensus reached by Council to withdraw the funding request.
B. 911 Communications Dispatch Update
City Administrator Wolfe commented she contacted three primary parties for an update on
communications regarding 911 Dispatch. She stated a 911 vendor loaded a patch to correct the
issue. She reported any further concerns would be followed up on. She indicated that Under-
Sheriff Altendorfer would continue to follow up and meet regularly with the communications
department and it is monitored closely. She indicated she spoke to Chief Bohlke and he stated
there were issues with dispatching errors that are training issues that are being resolved. She
reported an equipment issue was rectified within 30 minutes. She stated the communication
department is responsive and reacting to issues. She spoke with someone from County
Commissioner Chair Bennett's office about the issues.
CounciImember Holden expressed concern that it was more than 30 days to fix the problem.
CounciImember Holden stated she would like to know what these are. City Administrator
Wolfe replied the general response is they have been successful in resolving issues satisfactorily.
She stated there were no significant issues. She stated that basically it has been a training issue.
She reported that Mr. Scott Williams stated no safety or response concerns were received from
residents relative to dropped calls due to the system glitch. She reported that the two dispatching
and equipment errors were resolved within 30 minutes.
9. COUNCIL COMMENTS AND REQUESTS
CounciImember Grant reported the Financial Planning Committee would not meet this month.
CounciImember Grant stated the issues expressed by Mr. Dick Wenzel were resolved and
questioned if Mr. Wenzel was contacted. City Administrator Wolfe replied Mr. Wenzel was
contacted by phone and a follow-up letter was sent to him.
CounciImember Grant stated he was given a document outlining the tracts of lands on TCAAP
and who owned the property in 1940. He stated he would provide copies to Council and staff.
Mayor Harpstead commented there are historical books available with this information.
CounciImember Grant commented on the numbers for recycling. He stated there is no concern
at this point for the fund balance.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - December 10, 2007 14
CounciImember Holden questioned whether staff has heard from Sprint. City Planner
Lehnhoff replied they have not. The letters and signed agreements were sent.
CounciImember Holden questioned what needs to be done before the sign moratorium is put
into place. City Planner Lehn off replied the City would not be forced into approving any other
dynamic signage and stated he is preparing information for the December 2007 work session.
City Attorney Filla added that the city did not allow billboard signs in the City. He stated the
Council should move forward on this.
CounciImember Holden questioned why Item 4, Approval of Union Contract, was pulled off
the Consent Agenda. City Administrator Wolfe replied it was because the Union was not able
to schedule their vote. She stated this would be taken care of prior to the next worksession.
City Administrator Wolfe stated this is her final meeting with City Council. She expressed her
appreciation for the support she received by Councilmembers and residents.
10. ADJOURN
MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember McClung seconded a
motion adjourn the meeting. The motion carried unanimously (5-0).
'ourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 9:15 p.m.
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Noah A. Simon
Deputy Clerk