HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-07-22 Council WS & Meeting Minutes - Approved
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION & COUNCIL MEETING
July 22, 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 July 22, 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.
WORK SESSION
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor D. Love called the work session to order at 5:06 p.m.
PRESENT: Mayor D. Love
Council Member Russ Koski (Arrived at 5:14 p.m.)
Council Member Michelle Lakso
Council Member Tom Wilharber
ABSENT: Council Member Matt Montain
STAFF: City Administrator Mark Statz
Finance Director Bruce DeJong
*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. General Fund Budget
Administrator Statz explained that Staff reviewed the budget and refined several line items. He
stated that Staff accounted for a 2-3% increase in the Centennial Lakes Police contract for 2021
due to several factors involving the formula and amount of calls, a new Chief on board who has
stated that he may have some new ideas but does not desire to rebuild the department. He stated
that lawn mowing and capital project contingencies were built in. He also stated that the Storm
Water and Street Fund should have some cushion. City Administrator Statz stated that the budget
does not need to be adhered to in the way that you must spend the dollars but if they are needed
they are there. He explained that the Council has until September to make final decisions.
Finance Director DeJong stated that Staff desired to include known items such as gambling tax as
COVID-19 affected this and additional review of Fire Aid versus reimbursements. He stated that
he felt that the newly presented General Fund Budget was pretty straight forward. He reported
that both he and City Administrator Statz felt that it would be prudent to reflect the loss of income
due to the discontinuance of the lease of the water tower site with Alex’s Landscaping.
Administrator Statz stated that Staff removed rebranding and the intern position, but would take
input from Council on how they would like to proceed.
City of Centerville
Council Meeting Minutes
July 22, 2020
Discussion ensued regarding benefit of an intern and proper direction of the position, union
contract negotiations and renewal, Centennial Lakes Police contract of a 3% increase, Centennial
Fire District contract increase of approximately $10,000, additional consideration of items not
considered, feelings of uncertainty due to COVID-19, hiring of additional fire fighters to obtain
full capacity as proposed by the Co-Interim Fire Chief Streich, decreasing the Centennial Lakes
Police line item by $5,000, Debt Service Levy, Capital Project Fund contingency of $50,000.
Discussion also took place regarding building permit revenue and a slight reduction in fines.
Lengthy discussion was had regarding the staffing levels of the Centennial Fire District, Duty
Crew, lack of day-time responders, equipment and anticipation for receiving comments from the
hired consultant regarding the department and staffing levels.
Council Member Lakso asked if the City regularly had received Local Government Aid (LGA).
Administrator Statz stated that last year it was approximately $80,000. Finance Director DeJong
stated that the City is not anticipating a significant change in the amount for 2021. Mayor Love
stated that the City needed to be grateful as with COVID-19 the City may not receive anything.
Administrator Statz stated that the City relies on property taxes for its revenue versus other
communities that rely heavily on sales tax, state aid and alike. These communities are
experiencing difficulties keeping staff and funding essential services related to COVID factors.
2. Water Treatment - Manganese
Administrator Statz stated that the City of Lino Lakes and other communities are considering water
treatment plants. He stated that there recently was an article in the paper about them entertaining
constructing one and they have reached out to the City of Centerville to determine our interest in
participating. He stated that Manganese has been discussed for years but recently the Minnesota
Department of Health has stated that levels for infants should be less than 100 ppb with adults
being less than 300 ppb. He stated that Centerville’s wells are in the 100’s to 200’s. He stated
that Well #2 is the most widely used and slightly lower in numbers.
He stated that Mr. Ryan Capelle, Stantec, Project Manager, Water Treatment, P.E. was available
to discuss the topic and provide insight in to appropriate levels, education, strategies for the future,
etc.
Mr. Capelle introduced himself to Council and stated that he has spoken with agencies at the
Federal level, MN Dept. of Health and the City of Lino Lakes regarding the topic and provided
Council Members with history of Manganese, it being in drinking water, levels being deemed safe
and unsafe throughout the years and ways of protecting and delivering safe/reliable drinking water
to residents. He stated that Manganese in drinking water was found to be a contaminate in 1998,
but at that time it was not warranted to be regulated. He stated, that now it has been reintroduced
to the Contaminate Candidate List (CCL) for the fourth round (CCL4, 2016). He stated that he
had spoken with Ms. Carla Peterson, MN Department of Health, who made comments that within
10 years she felt that increased regulations would occur. Mr. Capelle stated that it may appear
again on the CCL5, 2021 but there would be a period of time to take action. He stated that at this
time many communities are venturing into to very, very expensive systems to remove or decrease
the amount in drinking water. He stated that he felt that the City may desire to provide residents
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with education (Open House/literature/baby formulas that are low in Manganese) and the use of
equipment such as reverse osmosis systems, water softeners, etc. He stated that several larger
communities are taking action to reduce contaminates in drinking water by constructing water
treatment facilities such as Brooklyn Park, Ramsey, Lino Lakes, etc. He stated that these were
large steps and very expensive steps. He also stated that the MN Department of Health will be out
testing wells within the next 18 months and also stated that they would more than likely complete
two (2) sets of testing as it is recommended to test back to back due to pump variabilities, etc. He
also reported that he has worked with the Public Works Director on this issue.
Council Member Koski stated that he had concerns for younger and old individuals that were more
susceptible and that he felt education was a wonderful place to start that that other inexpensive
avenues could help the delivery of safe/reliable drinking water to residents or equipment installed
at their homes. He stated that the City of Lino Lakes is considering a $20,000,000 project and
desires to have Centerville participate for $4,000,000. Administrator Statz stated that there were
less expensive avenues available for a short term fix whereas the treatment plant would be a long
term fix. He also stated that the City does not have the complaints about water staining and
smelling or pipe scaling as maybe other communities have which would be another reason to
justify such a project.
Council Member Lakso asked if we currently treat our own water. City Administrator Statz stated
that we do have a well room on the other side of Council Chambers but it is not filtered. He stated
that it is mixed with three chemicals and then forwarded to residents. Administrator Statz stated
that there is a lot of items that play into the ppb and requirements than meet the eye. Discussion
ensued regarding if a child attends daycare in the City where precautions are taken and then returns
home where nothing is done, we have completed our due diligence but the other community(ies)
maybe not. Mr. Capelle stated that northern Anoka County appears to contain a higher level of
Manganese that other communities in southern Anoka County but just slightly. He also stated that
after an infant turns one year old the threshold increases to 300 ppb.
Council Member Wilharber questioned the possibility of providing free bottled water to residents
that desired it. Mr. Capelle stated that he felt a reverse osmosis system would be a more suitable
solution in a home that had an infant or someone who was compromised/sensitive. Council
Member Wilharber questioned the interconnection between the City of Lino Lakes and Centerville
and questioned how often we take water from them comparative to how often they take water from
us. He also questioned whether the Cities could buy water from each other. City Administrator
Statz stated that generally they take water from the City and there are numerous ways apparatuses’
can be installed between the systems to allow for exchange, purchasing of water or filtration. Mr.
Capelle stated that he was happy to hold a meeting to discuss/educate residents on Manganese
similar to that which was held in Lino Lakes.
Mayor Love added clarification as to the Lino Lakes water interconnection and that gallons are
paid back between the two (2) entities. Administrator Statz concurred. Discussion ensued
regarding a private homeowner getting their well tested for Manganese. Mr. Capelle stated that
the City of Lino Lakes’ web site has the name of a lab that would complete testing along with the
MN Dept. of Health.
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Council discussion ensued, favoring more research, testing, and education along with the
exploration of grants for those that have infants in their households, providing a reverse osmosis
system.
The general desire was to be cautious with proceeding forward and more research was needed.
Consensus of the Council was that education was key and that information could be placed in the
vestibule and on the web site.
III. RECESS
Mayor Love called a five (5) minutes recess at 6:25 p.m.
COUNCIL MEETING
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor D. Love called the meeting to order at 6:31 p.m.
ROLL CALL*
PRESENT: Mayor D. Love
Council Member Russ Koski
Council Member Michelle Lakso
Council Member Tom Wilharber
ABSENT: Council Member Matt Montain
STAFF: City Administrator Mark Statz
City Attorney Kurt Glaser
Finance Director Bruce DeJong
*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.
City Administrator Statz Love added Checks to agenda.
Motion by Council Member Wilharber, seconded by Council Member Koski to Approve the
Agenda with the noted additions. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council
Members Koski, Lakso, & Wilharber voted in favor. Motion carried.
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IV. APPOINTMENTS/PRESENTATIONS
1. County Commissioner Jeff Reinert – County Business Assistance Program
Anoka County Commissioner Reinert thanked Council for providing him with the opportunity to
speak to you prior to the Primary and General Elections. He stated that he has filed for Anoka
County Commission and reviewed the Counties accomplishments since he has been in office. He
stated that he has been involved with lobbying, asking for federal dollars and receiving them, the
plan for keeping Chamonix Golf Course open and operating in the black and self-insured health
care for County employees. Mayor Love asked what Commissioner Reinert has accomplished in
the time that he has been serving. Commissioner Reinert stated that there are 21 cities within
Anoka County and that he represents seven (7) of them. He stated that his goal was to complete
something for each city that he represents. He stated that the City of Linwood had no senior
housing and that they are currently completing analysis to determine if similar housing can be
brought there within the next five (5) years. He discussed trail connections within Circle Pines as
the project was extremely expensive and he has been able to get funds dedicated to complete a
feasibility study. He stated that Centerville Road has a huge amount of pedestrian traffic on it and
the County is working on a feasibility study to widen the roadway and make it safer so no one gets
hurt. He stated that in Columbus there was a need for more accountability of the RCWD. He
stated that individuals may have seen a recent article regarding this. He stated that a new individual
was appointed not too long ago and that research has been completed that she has the ability to
complete her job and very knowledgeable. He stated that she did not get reappointed and he is
unaware of what happened with the study. He also stated that Birch Street would be completed in
2021 with the addition of a round-about to replace the “s-curve”. He stated that both the City of
Blaine and Lexington have concerns over streetlights and that analysis’ are being completed.
Commissioner Reinert stated that issues have been difficult due to COVID and Zoom meetings
and that just recently face to face meetings have been taking place. He stated that the County has
similar issues that City does just on a larger level. He stated that he is running for re-election.
Mayor Love pointed out that the work/study on Centerville Road is in the City of Lino Lakes. He
th
also mentioned that the City needed assistance with the intersection at 20 Avenue and Main Street
if he desired to put that on a list for Centerville.
Council Member Lakso stated that she would like to see more human service amenities on this
side of Anoka County as most residents utilize neighboring County services due to distance and
location of current services provided in Anoka County.
Council Member Wilharber stated that he agreed with Commissioner Reinert regarding the
dangerous situation with traffic at the County line of Ramsey County and Anoka County. Council
Member Wilharber wished Commissioner Reinert the best in his endeavor to secure a seat on the
County Board again.
Council Member Koski thanked Commissioner Reinert for appearing before Council and desired
to call Commissioner Reinert’s attention to Ms. Jacquel Hajder, Economic Development Specialist
and stated that she has been doing a wonderful job and work for the communities. He spoke of
the data corridor and the availability of being able to accommodate a facility and meeting their
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needs, marketing, etc. that she has brought to the table. Commissioner Reinert concurred.
Additional discussion ensued regarding a full intersection at County J and 35E and Commissioner
Reinert stated that it will not be a full reconstruction but a round-about.
Administrator Statz asked about the CARES Act funding and how it would be distributed fairly
between communities. Commission Reinert stated that discussions have taken place regarding
that issue and he felt that not all affected Commissioners were involved. He stated that such
meetings are important to obtain all Commissioners input and that he is addressing that issue with
the Board. Discussion ensued regarding shortfalls with businesses and school districts and the
importance of funding being forwarded fairly.
Mayor Love thanked Commissioner Reinert for his attendance and report and stated that he desired
for all citizens of Anoka County to be fed and have a place to live. Commissioner Reinert
concurred.
V. PUBLIC HEARINGS/INPUT
1. SWPPP
Administrator Statz stated that on an annual basis the City is required to hold a public meeting
regarding the City's Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4). He stated that through the
storm sewer system the City discharges waters to creeks, streams and lakes. He stated that this is
an entirely different system than the sanitary sewers and is not treated. He also stated that many
organizations are involved with the management of these waters including Met. Council, DNR,
State Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR), and the Rice Creek Watershed (RCWD). He
reviewed the documents that are required by the City (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) MS4 Permit, Local Surface Water Management Plan, and RCWD's plans
and regulations). He also stated that he has had discussions with RCWD regarding overlapping of
services and permitting.
Administrator Statz stated that there are 6 minimum control measures that are contained in the
MS4 permit. He stated that one (1) is public education and outreach (handouts in the vestibule
and information available on the City's web site), two (2) is public participation and involvement
(annual meeting), three (3) is illicit discharge detection and elimination (Public Works'
inspections), four (4) is construction site storm water runoff control (silt fence/bio rolls and gravel
entrances), five (5) post-construction storm water management (storm ponds constructed along
with the development) and six (6) pollution prevention and good housekeeping for municipal
operations (street sweeping and minimal salt usage on the roadways).
Mayor Love opened the public hearing/input meeting.
Council Member Lakso asked about the storm sewer drains and questioned if the City and the
processes surrounding them. Administrator Statz stated that the Public Works staff will provide
educational information via door knocker when a violation has occurred or they will blow grass
clippings back into resident’s yards along with a doorknocker. He stated that most lawn
contracting services are knowledgeable and do not do things like this. Discussion ensued that
previously the Boy Scouts placed educational labels on the storm sewer drains that stated Leads to
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the Creek/Stream in an attempt to education residents and maybe updating was needed. Discussion
also took place regarding ponds (111), raingardens, sump manholes, private ponds not being a part
of the City’s jurisdiction unless it was being contaminated, sump pumps outlets being directed into
the City’s sewer system, fertilizer/chemical use on lawns and effects on lakes and streams.
Administrator Statz stated that the County does have an “Adopt a Drain” program and if Council
desired, the City could pursue that.
Mr. Steve King, 1724 Sorel Street asked if there was a State Statute that gave the RCWD the
authority over ponds, drains, storm sewers, and regulation. He stated that the reasoning for asking
is the redundancy of reporting, etc. Administrator Statz stated that the RCWD does have the
authority and the various agencies are working toward solutions for reporting, etc. to alleviate
duplication of services and costs. Discussion ensued regarding testing for pollutants in storm
ponds/outfalls (33), design parameters of ponds, phosphorus, silt, mercury, park reuse system, etc.
Mayor Love stated that Administrator Statz was doing a good job with sharing with agencies
regarding redundancy and communicating with Council in attempts to keep all informed.
The public input portion of the meeting was held open in case there were further comments from
the public.
VI. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
1. June 24, 2020 Council Work Session and Meeting Minutes
Mayor Love provided Council Members with an opportunity for amending the presented minutes:
additions, and/or modifications.
Council Member Koski stated that on page 10 of 11 that “Mayor D. Lave” be changed to “Mayor
D. Love”. Mayor Love noted that on page 8 of 11 that “contact” be changed to “contract” under
Police Governing Board. Council Member Lakso requested that she desired for the language on
page 7 of 11 referring to “or implementation of the new structure” be deleted as it was premature
as the study was not completed and decisions regarding the existing structure have not been
discussed.
Motion by Council Member Koski, seconded by Council Member Lakso to Approve the June
24, 2020 Council Work Session and Meeting Minutes with the Above Stated Modifications.
A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Koski, Lakso, & Wilharber
voted in favor. Motion carried.
VII. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Centerville Claims through July 22, 2020 (Check #34084-34125) & (1546E-1551E)
2. Centennial Lake Police Department Claims through July 16, 2020 (Check
#13274-13302) & (E2020024-2020025)
3. Centennial Fire District Claims through July 14, 2020 (Check #8853-8860) &
(E2020018-2020019
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4. Successful Performance Review, Year 1 – Step Increase – Ms. Katie Schlundt,
Receptionist
Mayor D. Love provided an opportunity for Council to add or remove any item(s) to/from the
consent agenda.
Mayor Love recognized Part-Time Receptionist Ms. Schlundt for her work ethic and congratulated
her on her completion of one year of service with the City of Centerville.
Motion by Council Member Koski, seconded by Council Member Lakso to Approve Consent
Agenda as Presented. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Koski,
Lakso, & Wilharber voted in favor. Motion carried.
Motion by Council Member Koski, seconded by Council Member Wilharber to Close the
Public Hearing/Input Meeting at 7:44 p.m. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and
Council Members Koski, Lakso, & Wilharber voted in favor. Motion carried.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS
1. City Hall Renovation – Approve Plans & Authorize Advertisements for Bids
Administrator Statz stated that the project was ready for approval of the plans and authorizing
advertisements for bids. He stated that Staff recommends that the bids contain numerous
alternative portions of the bid so that Council has the ability to choose options and determine if
those items are within budget or are reasonably priced.
Administrator Statz reviewed the renderings from his Administrator’s Report which showed a
slightly curved dais for Council stating that Council had the ability to see each other better and he
explained that the cost was reasonable. He stated that minimal space would be lost for public
seating. Council Member Lakso stated that everything has been discussed and that she was excited
about the project. Council Member Koski stated that Council and Staff have reviewed the plans
several times and he is curious for the bids. He thanked Administrator Statz for his efforts and the
way the alternates were included. Discussion ensued regarding floor coverings, HVAC equipment
(Fire/City Hall), and elimination of the Fire HVAC due to condition/use. Some discussion took
place regarding items that were included as alternates (history wall, floor coverings entry way,
hallway, etc.). Mayor Love also stated that he was looking forward to receiving the bids.
Motion by Council Member Wilharber, seconded by Council Member Koski to Approve the
Plans & Authorize Advertisements for Bids. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and
Council Members Koski, Lakso & Wilharber voted in favor. Motion carried.
2. Interim Ordinance – Group Living Facilities
Administrator Statz stated that this item was on a previous agenda, approved by Council and now
the time period allotted has expired. He stated that Staff was unable to apply the appropriate time
to research group homes/assisted living/nursing homes due to COVID-19. He stated that the City
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is unfamiliar with County regulations, State licensing requirements, possible drain on public safety
services, etc.
Administrator Statz stated that he believes that there were issues with bids for construction of the
proposed facility which has delayed construction. He believes that they still intend on moving
forward.
Attorney Glaser stated that if Council desired to place the interim ordinance back on the books the
same processes as previously would need to be completed. He stated that the conditions of the
previous ordinance would remain but it would allow study/research time which the City was
unable to complete previously. He stated that the new ordinance would be for a period of 90 days
and a public hearing would need to be held.
Discussion ensued regarding passing the item to the Planning and Zoning Commission for review
of the existing ordinance and Attorney Glaser stated that nothing has been studied at this point and
that Staff should be completing this action. Concerns for the City ceasing the current proposed
construction of the facility and Attorney Glaser stated that their applications were submitted prior
to this interim ordinance so it would not slow the current developer.
Council Member Lakso asked what considerations/concerns should be brought to light.
Administrator Statz explained that with limited staffing of the facility at certain intervals in a 24
hour period, taxing of the public safety services (Fire Department for lift assists, medical assistance
calls, etc.). He stated that when these types of calls happen and timeliness of calls, the City is
incurring increased expenditures due to call formulas, staffing, etc. He also stated that other
communities have similar facilities and there are numerous models that the City would like to
review and requirements place by other communities on each type of model, etc.
Mayor Love requested that the Planning and Zoning Commission complete research and determine
the best district for placement of similar businesses in Centerville, (Commercial versus
Residential).
Attorney Glaser stated that if it is Council’s desired to commence the Interim Ordinance again a
public hearing would need to be called for.
Motion by Council Member Wilharber, seconded by Council Member Koski to Commence
the Process for an Interim Ordinance. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council
Members Koski, Lakso & Wilharber voted in favor. Motion carried.
3. Change Order #1 – Downtown Street & Utility Improvements
Mayor Love stated that he has received complaints about the streets adjacent to project and desired
to be reassured that they are being cleaned at the end of the day (Centerville Road and Main Street).
Administrator Statz stated that Mayor Love was correct.
Administrator Statz stated that at Council’s previous meeting discussions took place and Council
approved the upsizing of the storm sewer to accommodate future downtown redevelopment. He
stated that additional discussion needed to be had regarding funding of the upsizing due to Council
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action. He stated that included in the packet was a formal Change Order which included the
upsizing and expenditures associated with COVID-19 project suspension. He stated that those
costs ($22,255.68) would be reimbursable through the CARES Act Funding that the City would
be receiving.
Administrator Statz stated that numerous discussions have taken place regarding bonding for
similar projects, paying cash for this project, carrying debt, paying interest, etc. He stated that
funding has been discussed regarding utilizing Storm Sewer Funds versus Street Funds and a
combination of utilizing both funds or acting similar to a bank by borrowing funds from the
Water/Sewer Funds, etc. Finance Director DeJong stated that if Storm Sewer Funds were utilized
the fund would be in the negative for 2020 and if no ditch maintenance or backyard maintenance
was completed in 2021 the upsizing of the storm sewer piping would be paid for through the fund
and the fund would not be in the negative at year’s end.
Council Member Wilharber stated that this was the ample time to upsize the storm sewer due to
construction. Council Member Koski concurred and stated that he was disappointed that the
upsizing was not included on the original bid. He stated that he had concerns that the $22,255.68
would not be covered by the CARES Act Funding. Administrator Statz stated that funds could be
borrowed from other funds if that were the case. Council Member Koski stated that he had
concerns regarding COVID and the possibility of the City having difficulties due to taxpayer
inability to pay property taxes and that there are unknowns.
Mayor Love stated that Council planned not to borrow funds to complete the Downtown Street
Project, he was slightly surprised about the potential for a negative Storm Sewer Fund. Mayor
Love also stated that during the budgeting process consideration for placing money in this account
would be advisable.
Motion by Council Member Wilharber, seconded by Council Member Lakso to Approve
Change Order #1 – Downtown Street & Utility Improvements as Submitted and to be
Financed Through a Combination of Storm Water Funds and Street Funds. A roll-call vote
was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Koski, Lakso & Wilharber voted in favor.
Motion carried.
IX. NEW BUSINESS
1. None.
X. COUNCIL/ADMINISTRATOR ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Administrator’s Report
Administrator Statz gave a brief review of items that have taken place since the last meeting. He
stated that the City has gone out for bids for the City Hall project, Governor’s issuance of
mandatory face masks indoors, inability to refuse voters that chose not to wear face masks,
reported that an employee’s spouse tested positive and closing of services for several days,
notification to Anoka County who then handled early voting, recent results of employee testing
negative and services being back to normal.
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Administrator Statz also provided a brief review of the EDA and their recent meeting stating that
CenterStage, Facebook and Twitter all have been great avenues for businesses and the City has
received nice results from NorthMetro TV. He reported about the “Blue Sign” program has had
businesses being interested. Administrator Statz also stated that the Committee approved a $5,000
grant to assist a Downtown building owner with construction associated with access to the building
and a patio. He stated that these funds comply with the requirements of the EDA and sprucing up
the front facades of buildings, etc. He also reported that the City has applied for $304,000 in
CARES Act Funding associated with COVID-19 expenses. He stated that the funds will cover
expenditures associated with the purchases of personal protective equipment (PPE), hand sanitizer,
cleaning, purchases such as laptops, etc. to provide services. He also stated that the funds will
cover Staff salaries for Public Works due to rotational work schedules. He stated that the funds
will also assist the Police and Fire Departments due to their expenditures also. Administrator
Statz stated that the funds could also be utilized to assist local businesses that have been affected
by COVID-19 and that additional discussions would be had to discuss how these funds would be
accounted for.
Administrator Statz stated that the Bayview Villas development has only two (2) lots available
with all others being sold. He stated that he had been contacted by the developers of Old Mill
Estates who desire to go forward with Phase II of their project. He also stated that building permits
have been issued for the mini-storage project and that an easement needed to be vacated on 1825
Main Street to allow for the construction of the proposed 16-unit care facility. Administrator Statz
stated that the Planning & Zoning Commission has been busy reviewing several ordinances and
putting final touches for modifications. He stated that home sales are holding steady and the
economy appears to continue to be strong. He reported that the Public Works Department had
recently hired a jetter to clean some areas of the sewer system that were experiencing flowage
problems, that the water main installation in the Downtown area was occurring with several
residents desiring to be connected. He also reported that a Music in the Park event was recently
held with 40-50 individuals in attendance and that all events are on the City’s website, Facebook
and Twitter. Administrator Statz also stated with the hiring of a new Police Chief and Co-Interim
Fire Chief there is nice momentum with the departments.
Council Member Koski asked if there were complaints associated with the extended work hours
in the Downtown area. Administrator Statz stated that he was unaware of any.
Council Reports
a. Lakso –
i. Parks and Recreation Committee – No report was given.
ii. Centennial Fire District Steering Committee – Council Member
Lakso stated that she was unable to attend a portion of the meeting;
however, Co-Interim Chief Streich is providing leadership and bringing
the chain of command back in an attempt to regain a strong department.
He is requesting that if there are any issues/concerns from residents,
staff or Council that they are directed to the Co-Chiefs. She reported
that the department is requesting to strengthen their staff to 40
firefighters and continue with duty crew. She reported that the budget
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proposed should remain flat and that the current study of the department
has not been completed.
iii. Anoka County Fire Protection Council – No report was given.
b. Wilharber –
i. Planning & Zoning Commission – No report given
ii. Economic Development Authority – Council Member Wilharber
stated that EDA discussed the CenterStage program and adding a co-
program with the Quad Community Press and advertising. He also
reported that the EDA desired to purchase several banners for the
Downtown area along Main Street. He reported that the EDA had their
own funding and checking account.
c. Koski –
i. Fire District Steering Committee – Council Member Koski thanked
Council Member Lakso for her report and added that Co-Interim Chiefs
Streich and Peil have been working well together and complement each
other. He stated that Co-Interim Chief Streich feels that increasing staff
will guarantee the appropriate firefighters are on scene for a structure
fire and that adequate personal protective gear was available. He stated
that Co-Interim Chief Streich has requested that several changes be
made to their policies for employment including a zero tolerance to
alcohol. He stated that the Committee is anticipating the information
from the study and the look of the Department going forward.
Mayor Love thanked both Council Members Lakso and Koski for their
reports and stated that is sounding as though bringing Co-Interim Chief
Streich back as a consultant was a good idea and that he is providing the
Department with strong skills and leadership.
Council Member Wilharber asked about the employment policy and he
was unaware that there were needs for modifications due to alcohol
requirements, rotating shifts, etc. Council Member Koski stated that he
felt that Co-Interim Chief Streich desired to modify the policy to more
clearly address alcohol uses and the addition of a no tolerance policy.
He also stated that previously a Survey Monkey was forwarded to
present volunteer firefighters with results showing that there were moral
issues. He stated that members of the Committee felt that it was needed
to address that issue and that it may have been hindering the recruitment
of others.
Council Member Wilharber asked about a recent gas main hit during
construction of the Downtown Street Project. Administrator Statz stated
that the contractor hit the main and again today. They discussed the
seriousness of the situation
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City of Centerville
Council Meeting Minutes
July 22, 2020
d. Montain –
i. Police Governing Board – No report was given due to absence.
ii. North Metro Telecommunications Commission – No report was
given due to absence.
e. Love –
i. Police Governing Board – Mayor Love reported that there was a recent
rally/march that was very peaceful which happened in Circle Pines. He
stated that they are current working on their 2021 budget and that it has
a positive impact on the City’s budget.
ii. Economic Development Authority – Given above.
iii. Other Mayoral Reports – Mayor Love stated that there would be a
Rush Line Corridor meeting the following day.
XI. RECESS REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Mayor Love recessed the Regular City Council meeting at 8:44 p.m.
Attorney Glaser read the following language: Pursuant to Minnesota State Statute Section 13D.05,
subdivision 3(b), subject to the following statement of purpose: “Discussion and examination of
legal options and strategy regarding compliance by Alex’s Landscaping, LLC. Absolute
confidentiality is required for a full and candid discussion with legal counsel and such discussion
could not occur in a public setting without jeopardizing the City’s legal position.”
CLOSED EXECUTIVE WORK SESSION (PURSUANT TO MINN. STAT.
§13d.05, SUBD. 3(b)
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
IN CLOSED SESSION
MINNESOTA STATUTE CHAPTER 13D.05
The City Council of Centerville, Minnesota met for a regularly scheduled Meeting on Wednesday,
July 22, 2020, at: 6:30 p.m. The meeting was held virtually using Zoom and broadcast live via
community access cable television. At 8:47 p.m. the Council moved into a Closed Session pursuant
Minnesota Statute Section 13D.05, subdivision 3(b), subject to the following statement of purpose:
“Discussion and examination of legal options and strategy regarding compliance by Alex’s
Landscaping, LLC. Absolute confidentiality is required for a full and candid discussion with legal
counsel and such discussion could not occur in a public setting without jeopardizing the City’s
legal position.”
Present were Mayor D. Love, Council Members Michelle Lakso, Tom Wilharber, and Russ Koski.
Council Member Matt Montain was absent. Also present were City Attorney Kurt Glaser and City
Administrator Mark Statz.
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City of Centerville
Council Meeting Minutes
July 22, 2020
The City Attorney presented concepts and strategy to be discussed at an upcoming mediation with
Alex Shuda and his legal counsel. All present in the session discussed concepts and strategy, and
imparted their ideas and opinions to the City Attorney. No formal action was taken during the
Session.
NOTE: The details of the discussion during this Session remain confidential pursuant to the
attorney-client privilege.
Motion by Council Member Koski, seconded by Council Member Lakso, to adjourn into
open session. A roll-call vote was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Koski, Lakso
& Wilharber voted in favor. Motion carried.
XII. RECONVENE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
The meeting was reopened to the public at 10:28 p.m. by act of the Mayor.
Prepared by Kurt Glaser, City Attorney
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Koski, seconded by Council Member Lakso to Adjourn the
Regularly Scheduled City Council Meeting of July 22, 2020 at 10:32 p.m. A roll-call vote
was taken. Mayor Love and Council Members Koski, Lakso & Wilharber voted in favor.
Motion carried.
Respectfully submitted by City Clerk, Teresa Bender.
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