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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-04-08 CC Minutes - Approved CITY OF CENTERVILLE CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION & COUNCIL MEETING April 8, 2020 5:00 p.m./6:30 p.m. Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly scheduled City Council Work Session & Council Meeting on April 8, 2020 via Zoom Videoconferencing at: https://zoom.us/j/478824301, Meeting ID: 478 824 301 with audio only available at: 312-626- 6799. The meeting was also live streamed by North Metro TV. COUNCIL WORK SESSION I. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Love called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m. ROLL CALL* PRESENT: Mayor D. Love Council Member Russ Koski Council Member Matt Montain Council Member Michelle Lakso ABSENT: None STAFF: City Administrator Mark Statz *Note that “present” is construed to mean that the noted individuals were visibly and audibly present on the videoconference call. II. ITEMS OF DISCUSSION 1. Councilmember Candidate Interviews a. 5:00 PM – Steve King b. 5:20 PM – Jim Weatherhead c. 5:40 PM – Tom Wilharber 2. Public Engagement Strategies III. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Love Adjourned the work session at 6:24 p.m. COUNCIL I. CALL TO ORDER Mayor D. Love called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. ROLL CALL* City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2020 PRESENT: Mayor D. Love Council Member Russ Koski Council Member Matt Montain Council Member Michelle Lakso ABSENT: None. STAFF: City Administrator Mark Statz City Attorney Glaser *Note that “present” is construed to mean that the noted individuals were visibly and audibly present on the videoconference call. II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Mayor Love provided an opportunity for others to add or delete any items. Motion by Council Member Montain, seconded by Council Member Koski to Approve the Agenda with the Above Stated Modifications. All in favor. Motion carried. IV. APPOINTMENTS/PRESENTATIONS 1. None. V. PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. None. VI. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES 1. March 25, 2020 City Council Meeting Minutes Council Member Lakso stated that Council Member Montain made the motion to appoint Council Member Love as Mayor rather than herself. Also it was requested that the roll call votes reflect the proper title of Mayor Love rather than Council Member on the remaining motions of the meeting following his appointment to Mayor. Motion by Council Member Montain, seconded by Council Member Lakso to Approve the Presented Minutes with the Above Stated Changes. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Lakso, Koski & Montain voted in favor. Motion carried VII. CONSENT AGENDA 1. City of Centerville through April 4, 2020 Claims (Check #33379-33401) & (1498E-1501E) Page 2 of 11 City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2020 2. Centennial Lake Police Department Claims through March 30, 2020 (Check #13142-13151, Check #13139-13141 Payroll & EFT #2020008-2020010)) 3. Centennial Fire District Claims thru April 2, 2020 (Check #8783-8796), HSA, US Bank & US Bank 4. City Hall Copier Lease 5. Encroachment Agreement – Draintile – 1721 Heritage St. Mayor D. Love provided an opportunity for Council to add or remove any item(s) to/from the consent agenda. Council Member Montain asked that Item #4 be pulled for discussion. Motion by Council Member Koski, seconded by Council Member Lakso to Approve Items #1-3 & 5 of the Consent Agenda as Presented. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Lakso, Koski & Montain voted in favor. Motion carried. Council Member Montain stated that he hopes that Staff made a well thought out choice. Administrator Statz stated that lengthy consideration and research had been completed regarding outsourcing the largest printing task of utility billing comparative to Staff completing the duty, no requirements for minimums and the options and capability of the machine to accommodate the City’s uses. Motion by Council Member Montain, seconded by Council Member Koski to Approve Item #4 of the Consent Agenda as Presented. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Lakso, Koski & Montain voted in favor. Motion carried. VIII. OLD BUSINESS 1. Letter of Credit Reduction Request – Old Mill Estates Administrator Statz stated that it was staff’s recommendation to reduce the letter of credit per the developer’s request which would leave a remaining amount of around $100,000 which would cover 150% of the costs of remaining work needed such as sidewalks, trails and second lift of asphalt on the roadway(s). He stated that the second phase is being delayed due to COVID-19 pandemic and the potential effects on the economy. He also stated that it covers the first phase but needs to also cover seeding of phase 2 and ensure proper drainage throughout the entire project for the potential of years of non-development. Council Member Montain had questions regarding the Letter of Credit’s applicability to issues with Phase II. The City had difficulty with a developer not completing the phasing for years due to the economic downturn and there is reason to avoid those same issues here. Administrator Statz explained that items to ensure existing homeowners’ use of amenities installed over/through phase 2 of the development were taken into consideration along with drainage and roadways when the Developer’s Agreement was drafted and approved. Motion by Council Member Montain, seconded by Council Member Koski to Approve the Requested Letter of Credit Reduction for Old Mill Estates as Submitted. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Lakso, Koski & Montain voted in favor. Motion carried. Page 3 of 11 City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2020 2. Downtown On-Street Parking Administrator Statz stated that with the current road project in the downtown area it was felt that the City should consider the Downtown Master Plan which guides the development in the area. He stated that there were several areas that could involve on-street parking: near St. Genevieve’s Church along Sorel Street west of Centerville Road (9 but proposed drawing showed 11), along Progress Road near Southern Rail (9 proposed with entrance away from intersection). Administrator Statz stated that the current parking situation should be corrected and now would be the time. He also stated that he has had several discussions with the Church and Southern Rail representatives who are also present this evening. He reiterated that the City does not desire to decrease parking but provide a safer entrance/exit for Southern Rail which is 30’ set back from the intersection. Administrator Statz along with Council desired for the abutting property owner’s input regarding proposed parking. Mr. Thomas Wilharber stated that the Church of St. Genevieve believes that this is a win-win proposal for both the Church and the City. They are only interested in parking spaces for parking spaces and not an increase in spaces. Mr. Wilharber stated that the current entrance/exit should have a concrete barrier placed to discourage its use. He stated that a letter would be forwarded to the City shortly regarding their approval of the change. Lengthy discussion was had regarding the amount of spaces provided to the church as to whether there should be 11, 10 or 9. Administrator Statz stated that the proposed diagram was not available prior to the meeting and was added this evening. Concern was stated that Council needed to be mindful of taxpayer funding and that it should be a parking space for parking space. There was also concern for setting precedence with not allowing in other areas of town, snowplowing of the on-street parking, hammerhead at the end of Sorel Street and its importance for gaining ample access to the City’s sanitary sewer manhole at the location, the Downtown Master Plan of scrapping the entire downtown area and starting over versus being neighborhood friendly with a new design and existing situations. Ms. Vicki Byrne stated that her and her brother Jeff (owners of Southern Rail) have spoken with City Administrator Statz on numerous occasions regarding their current parking situation, understand the need for safety and the close proximity of their entrance/exit on Sorel Street and Centerville Road and agree to the proposal. Council Member Montain had concerns that the lot that abuts the Southern Rail is also owned by the same owners and whether this proposal could hinder their future use of the parcel. No comments to same were raised by Ms. Byrne. Council Member Koski questioned the standard entrance/exit distance from an intersection and Administrator Statz stated 30’. Council Member Koski asked about the distance proposed further down Sorel Street. Administrator Statz stated that he believes that was 35’ however a product left over from the total footage. Council Member Koski asked if Administrator Statz had received feedback from residents regarding the proposal. Administrator Statz stated that one or possibly two (2) residents were in attendance of the meeting. Page 4 of 11 City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2020 Mr. Steve King, 1724 Sorel Street, was concerned about a driveway and parking spaces located at 7072 Progress Road. Administrator Statz stated that City Code does allow for a legal non- conformity but the street right of way is controlled by the City. He stated that the driveway and parking pad will be narrowed to what is being proposed by the Planning & Zoning Commission to 32’ and the parking pad and whatever exits at the time of the project outside of the road right-of- way will remain. Mr. King felt that on street parking should be offered to this resident similar to other areas of the downtown. He asked whether the resident was spoken to and Administrator Statz stated no. Mr. King stated that the City should ensure fairness and equitable changes with all having the same opportunities. Mr. Jon Brickner, 1580 Sorel Street stated that he had concerns regarding the hammerhead and on-street parking that is being proposed near his property. He felt both would bring more individuals to the location, making security, safety and lake access an issue. Administrator Statz stated that the hammerhead is being proposed to secure the City’s ability to maintain its infrastructure (manhole and sanitary sewer line) in the area. He also stated that it would allow for plowing and the Centennial Lakes Police Department will be alerted to the area’s modification and responsibility for policing. Mr. Brinker questioned the purpose of the parking spaces and their modification. Administrator Statz stated that the spaces that are proposed are to replace one for one of the churches parking spaces and others in the downtown area. The spaces are to either asphalt current areas of use or to correct/rectify proper use. Administrator Statz also stated that this is an attempt to satisfy all, to be equitable and incorporate some of the items in the Downtown Redevelopment Plan. Discussion ensued regarding the location and size of the hammerhead, policing on-street parking and snowplowing during the winter months. Administrator Statz stated that the drawing was off slightly, explained that the Code addresses overnight parking which would also apply to these on- street parking places and that snowplowing should not be affected. Discussion also ensued regarding the clarification of parking spots near St. Genevieve’s Church. Administrator Statz stated that he is looking for support on replacing existing viable spots with on-street parking and not relying on the aerial map that was utilized for the submitted drawing. Administrator Statz stated that the contractors are currently working in the area installing watermain. He stated that the project could be delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic as replacement of gas lines was proposed and there would be a need upon switchover of lines to have entrance into people’s homes to re-light pilot lights for gas appliances. Motion by Council Member Montain, seconded by Council Member Koski to Approve the Proposed On-Street Parking as Presented with Clarification of Existing Parking Spaces in Front of St. Genevieve’s Church Property with a “one for one” Replacement. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Lakso, Koski & Montain voted in favor. Motion carried. Mr. King requested clarification on the 7072 Sorel Property with the existing parking in the area. Administrator Statz stated that both locations would be brought into conformity at the street/right- of-way. The portion of the existing 45’-wide driveway on the property could remain the same as Page 5 of 11 City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2020 it is considered to be a legal non-conformity, but the portion in the right-of-way would be brought into conformance. IX. NEW BUSINESS 1. Vacant City Council Seat Appointment Council conducted interviews for the vacant seat during their Work Session prior to this meeting. Three candidates had completed and submitted appropriate paperwork for consideration and met all qualifications. The candidates were as follows: Thomas Wilharber, Steve King and James Weatherhead. Council debated the merits of each candidate, with each of the three receiving praise and support from council at some point during the discussion. After some discussion, the council arrived at a consensus and moved to take official action. Motion by Council Member Lakso, seconded by Council Member Montain to Appoint Thomas Wilharber to Fill The Vacated City Council Seat until Such Time as A Special Election is Called and Completed to Finish the Remaining Term of the Seat. A roll-call vote was taken. Council Member Montain stated that the City had received three great candidate applications. Mayor Love and Council Members Lakso, Koski & Montain voted in favor. Motion carried. Mayor Love thanked all applicants and congratulated Mr. Wilharber. City Administrator Statz swore Thomas Wilharber into office as Council Member until such time as a Special Election is held for the remaining term of the seat in the fall. Thomas Wilharber assumed the duties of the office of Council Member. nd 2. Old Mill Estates 2 Addition – Developer’s Agreement Attorney Glaser stated that due to the COVID-19 virus the developer has decided to wait and see how the economy will be affected by this virus and is requesting that Council either table or nd withdraw their request for Old Mill Estates 2 Addition – Developer’s Agreement. He stated that they remain steadfast on continuing the development. He also stated that he felt they would have ample time to obtain proper permitting. Mayor Love asked if there was a limit for them to come back to Council and Attorney Glaser stated that the request is not a land use request and does not require the 60 day rule. Discussion ensued regarding taxes paid on the parcel/parcels as the plat has not been filed so the undeveloped lots will pay taxes on the entire sections rather than individual lots. Concern for erosion and weed growth was discussed. City Administrator Statz stated that the original Developer’s Agreement covers drainage, erosion, weeds, etc. He also stated that he has spoken Page 6 of 11 City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2020 with the developer and provided instruction for items that needed to be completed to secure phase 2 for its non-development. Council Member Koski asked if there was a contingency if the developer became no longer in business. Administrator Statz stated there is a guarantee with the bank/letter of credit. The City would exercise its rights to file against the letter of credit, giving fair warning to the developer to complete items on their own and if they fail to do so to secure anything that needs to be completed. City Administrator stated that at some point the developer will request for a reduction in the letter of credit once all items have been satisfied. He also stated that the original Developer’s Agreement contains timeframes for completion of items and staff will ensure that the appropriate items are completed. Motion by Council Member Koski to Table this item. Administrator Statz suggested that no action be taken and to consider the item withdrawn. Council Member Koski retracted his motion. No further official actions were taken on this item. 3. COVID-19 Pandemic Policy Adjustments a. Utility Bill Late Fees Administrator Statz stated that he is recommending to Council not to charge late fees on utility bills due to individuals that may be affected by the COVID-19 virus and unemployment. He stated that this would only remain in effect until such time as the “Stay at Home” order or gathering of a certain size is lifted. He also stated that Council would determine when the hardship would be over. Administrator Statz stated that the Quad Area Chamber of Commerce has instituted a program to provide temporary signage to businesses that provide takeout/carryout or curbside pickup. He suggested relaxing the current code for requiring temporary sign permits during this “Stay at Home” order or gatherings of a certain sized groups is lifted. He stated that Council would again determine when the hardship would be over. Council Member Lakso suggested that the City also in regards to nuisances or complaints take the opportunity to educate the public, allow for additional time to remedy the situation unless it is a public safety concern. She emphasized that this is a very difficult time for individuals who may have found themselves out of work and families being at home together which is an adjustment. Administrator Statz stated that recently the City dealt with a basketball hoop installed in the City’s road right-of-way which involved education along with a request to remove the hoop from its current installation as children were playing in the street. Motion by Council Member Koski, seconded by Council Member Montain to Approve the Waiving of Late Fees for Utility Billing and the Regulations for Temporary Signage Until the Governor’s Declaration of Emergency has Expired as Presented. A roll-call vote was Page 7 of 11 City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2020 taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Lakso, Koski, Montain & Wilharber voted in favor. Motion carried. 4. Election Equipment Replacement Agreement Between County of Anoka & City of Centerville City Administrator Statz stated that the current equipment is antiquated and cumbersome. He stated that Staff and local municipalities have been working with the County and State for years to replace this equipment for hearing/visually disabled individuals and is a statutory requirement. Council Member Wilharber stated that he is familiar with this purchasing agreement and is comfortable with providing the necessary equipment required by law. Motion by Council Member Wilharber, seconded by Council Member Koski to Approve the Election Equipment Replacement Agreement Between the County of Anoka & the City of Centerville as Presented. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Lakso, Koski, Montain & Wilharber voted in favor. Motion carried. X. COUNCIL/ADMINISTRATOR ANNOUNCEMENTS 1. Administrator’s Report Administrator Statz stated that he felt that this evening’s Zoom meeting went well with 20 individuals in attendance/participation. He also stated that with the recent Governor’s Stay at Home order extension, staff is completing their tasks/responsibilities very well either from telecommuting to distancing and wearing PPE. He stated that the Public Works Department is staggering shifts in an attempt not to infect each other if one becomes infected. He stated that the Receptionist has not been working during the initial two (2) week period, Senior Finance Clerk has been the only office employee in the office with the remainder of staff telecommuting. He stated that he would reevaluate work schedules and capabilities for telecommuting going forward. He reported that staff has and will continue to meet via Zoom for regular updates. Administrator Statz stated that he has been having difficulty in determining items to be brought forward to Council for consideration at this time as the economy and uncertainties exist. He stated that he would continue to bring forward applications, speak with consultants and attempt to provide options to Council when considering items such as rebranding, Block 7 development, City Hall renovation, etc. as these are items that need to be addressed but looking for alternatives to smaller projects with cost savings that aid in contribution to the larger projects going forward. City Attorney Glaser stated that the courts are functioning differently with a lot of remote access for handling issues. He stated that most cases of those in custody were handled and those cases that are normal offenses are being handled remotely. He stated that most people are following with the Governor’s orders allowing Police Officers the ability to remain safe while on the job. Page 8 of 11 City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2020 Council Reports a. Lakso – Council Member Lakso stated that she desired to congratulate City Administrator Statz on his abilities to redirect staff and operations in short notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She reported that he has not heard that residents or clients have not been addressed. She briefly touched on Council going forward with projects discussed for future growth, infrastructure and marketing by stating that Council generally considers worst case scenario when contemplating large projects. She stated that staff is strong along with the City. She stated that her current employment is involved in the Food Security Task Force under Governor Walz which works closely with senior nutrition, supply chains, etc. She stated that there are no shortages of food (supply chain) and if families are experiencing hunger they should contact their local food shelves and Counties. She stated that she was proud of School Districts which are ensuring food for students during this time. She requested that City Administrator Statz provide a report of the Parks & Recreation Committee, as she was unable to attend the April 1, 2020 meeting. i. Parks and Recreation Committee –Administrator Statz reported that most of the meeting was consumed by discussions surrounding COVID- 19 and planning associated with upcoming events. He stated that the Committee has determined to cancel Park Cleanup Day held in conjunction with Earth Day. He stated that several of the members stated that they would probably clean up a park by themselves. He reported that the Committee has delayed considering cancellation of the Fete des Lacs runs or Paddle des Lacs, music in the park and Mainstreet Market in July and August to re-evaluate the situation until May. He also reported that the Committee approved the installation of lighting for the sledding hill as the work will be completed with the irrigation project at LaMotte Park. ii. Centennial Fire District Steering Committee – No report was given. iii. Anoka County Fire Protection Council – No report was given. b. Koski – Echoed Council Member Lakso’s comments regarding City Administrator Statz’s work and thanked residents. i. Planning & Zoning Commission – Council Member Koski stated that the Planning & Zoning Commission of April 7, 2020 was cancelled. He stated that the meeting prior is where the downtown parking had been discussed with members in favor. ii. Fire District Steering Committee – No report was given. Page 9 of 11 City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2020 Council Member Koski stated that he felt that Governor Walz has shown great leadership during the pandemic and thanked him for his service. He also desired to thank all emergency service workers, essential workers, volunteers, service individuals and correction workers for their dedication and hard work during the COVID-19 virus. He also welcomed Council Member Wilharber. c. Montain – Thanked Mr. Jim Weatherhead and Mr. Steven King for their applications for Council Member. He stated that he hoped to see their names on the ballot in November. i. North Metro Telecommunications Commission – Council Member Montain reported that the commission has not heard a response from the FCC, the board finalized voting for membership with an entity have a subscribers of 2,500 receiving one vote and opening the Commission to additional communities for membership, the City’s Zoom meetings are being live streamed and broadcasted. d. Wilharber – Stated that he has known Director of Emergency Management Joe Kelly for many years and believes that both he and Governor Walz were doing a tremendous job along with all other essential workers during this difficult time. e. Love – Mayor Love stated that the Council has a long list of items that need to get completed, desired for the Receptionist to return to her position soon, felt that employees were completing their duties to the best of their abilities and hoped that this situation would pass shortly. i. Police Governing Board – No report was given. ii. Economic Development Authority – No report was given. iii. Other Mayoral Reports – Mayor Love stated that he participated in a meeting with Senator Chamberlain and Representative Runbeck along with other local Mayors where discussions took place regarding how other communities where handling the COVID-19 pandemic, health care in Minnesota, finding a solution for the virus, feeding the youth with the Centennial area along with ensuring food for the elderly and veterans. He was proud of these efforts and thanked Council Member Lakso for discussing the issue. He reported that he was pushing hard that the Workers Compensation Program was not set up to handle the medical issues for public safety and it was felt that with recent legislation that battle was lost. He stated that he hoped that local communities would not have to be burdened with additional taxes to compensate for this effort. XI. ADJOURNMENT Page 10 of 11 City of Centerville Council Meeting Minutes April 8, 2020 Motion by Council Member Montain, seconded by Council Member Koski to Adjourn the April 8, 2020 City Council Meeting at 8:47 p.m. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Lakso, Koski & Montain voted in favor. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted by City Clerk, Teresa Bender. Page 11 of 11