HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001 CC Minutes
~
'.
.
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 2001
6:00 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly sc
meeting on January 10,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Acting Mayor Dick Travis
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
Council Member Man Nelson
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Administrator, Jim March
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
Public Works Director, Paul P
OTHERS: Tim Swedberg
Mary Capra
I.
II.
III.
a ra r qu sted a letter regarding a Cub Scout request be added as item
smess.
Estimate #3 for Lift Station #2 be added under Payment of
. March re sted letters from Mrs. Camp-Baron and Mr. Schoenberger be added
under Petitions and Complaints.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to approve the a2enda with the requested additions. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
Page I of 18
IV. PUBLIC HEARING (8)
1. Lloyd Drilling - Site Plan
Mayor Swedberg opened the public hearing at 6:08 p.m.
Mr. Drilling gave a brief overview of the submitted site plan for the proposed strip mall
located at 1873 Main Street.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the pile of dirt currently located on the site
would be used for the berm. Mr. Drilling stated that a portion of the dirt may be used for
the berm. Council Member Nelson questioned whether the fence would be located on top
of the berm. Mr. Drilling concurred.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the trail location met with the approval of
the Rice Creek Watershed District. Mr. Drilling stated that the proposed project does not
require Rice Creek Watershed District approval.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether Mr. Drilling had spoken with the Parks and
Recreation Committee concerning the trail. Mr. Drilling stated that the trail way would
comply with City requirements.
Council Member Capra questioned the size of the buffer to be located on the north
portion of the property or proposed development. Mr. Drilling stated that there was a six
(6) foot area between the building and the neighboring property.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether anything would be done with the trail on the
west side of the property. Mr. Drilling stated that modifications to the trail in that area
would need to be done with the permission of Anoka County and Rice Creek Watershed
District.
Mr. Bruce Luikart, 7130 Peterson Trail, questioned whether the ditch would be filled in
along the west side of the property. Mr. Drilling concurred subject to Anoka County and
Rice Creek Watershed District's permission.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether Mr. Drilling had determined the
types of materials and colors for the exterior of the building. Mr. Drilling provided a
drawing showing the front of the building being brick with lighter colored siding on the
top. Mr. Drilling stated that for maintenance purposes, an entire brick front would be
desired.
Mr. March stated that Mr. Drilling had yet to provide a grading plan to Mr. Hoeft. Mr.
March explained that Mr. Drilling's submission for site plan approval lacked several
required submissions prior to receiving Council's approval or denial. Mr. March stated
subsequent to the lack of the required submissions, Council is unable to approve or deny
same.
Page 2 of 18
Mayor Swedberg stated there was a meeting to discuss various administrative issues and
the consensus was to empower commissions to handle all the specifics concerning these
types of requests prior to being forwarded to Council.
Council Member Broussard Vickers explained the Planning and Zoning Commission had
passed on and approved this basic plan with the stipulation that Council would decide on
the more definitive parts of the site plan as has been the procedure in the past. Planning
and Zoning was comfortable that Council would provide Mr. Drilling with its final
wishes for the proposed mall prior to approval. Mr. Drilling is in attendance to obtain
Council's requirements for exterior building components and additional requirements
recommended by Council.
Mayor Swedberg noted he had thought there was consensus at the meeting earlier in the
week to empower the commissions to do that sort of detail work.
Council Member Nelson stated she would like to see the site plan go before the Parks and
Recreation Committee for trail approval.
Mayor Swedberg indicated a desire to try to develop a process that allows for total review
by all commissions/committees prior to submission to Council.
Mr. Jeff Turner, 7151 Peterson Trail, stated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
recommended that Mr. Drilling bring a more detailed plan to this meeting. At the
previous hearings for the west building where the front was redesigned, it was stated by
residents that they would like greenery added to screen the proposed mall from Peterson
Trail and that did not occur. Mr. Turner would like to see that the same mistake is not
made twice. Mr. Turner stated it would be nice to have greenery added to the west
building as a part of this site plan approval. Mr. Turner suggested trees or some type of
shrubbery be also added in the northwest corner of the property.
Mr. Turner submitted a letter concerning the increased traffic on Peterson Trail due to the
proposed strip mall and requested dead-ending same. Mr. Turner stated that he has
requested several times that a traffic study be completed on Peterson Trail.
Mr. Luikart questioned the landscaping of the northwest comer of the property. Mr.
Drilling stated that it would be sodded and maintained accordingly.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he did not want to take up Council time on endless details.
Mr. Turner questioned the process for obtaining resident input at the commission/
committee level.
Mayor Swedberg noted that all commission/committee meetings are public and residents
are free to attend.
Mr. Turner asked Mr. Drilling what would be located in the northwest comer of the
property. Mr. Drilling stated that a sloping, grassy area to route drainage to the swale
that collects drainage and there is a six (6) foot fence at the back of the property. Mr.
Page 3 of 18
Turner questioned whether there would be a possibility of an employee parking lot
located in the northwest comer. Mr. Drilling concurred.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the City was in transition and Mayor
Swedberg would like to see more of the details ironed out at the commission/committee
levels.
Mr. Eric Bowman, 7130 Shad Avenue, stated that he was representing his neighbor, Mr.
Jerry Engler who was unable to attend and questioned if the berm would go north along
the short job on the property. Mr. Drilling stated that he did not anticipate continuing the
berm north.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the Bowmans were present at the previous
Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing regarding the proposed strip mall
where it was requested that the screen be at a ten (10) foot level to block the view of the
residents on Shad Avenue.
Mr. Bowman stated that Mr. Engler desired to have the berm run north to the edge of the
property line. Mr. Drilling said he would consider Mr. Engler's request; however, he
must comply with the City's drainage requirements. Mr. Drilling explained that drainage
plans require the City Engineer's recommendations.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that drainage considerations and
recommendations would be made by the City Engineer, not the developer or residents.
Mr. Bowman clarified that there would not be a driveway on Shad Avenue and thanked
Mr. Drilling.
Mayor Swedberg asked if Shad A venue were closed off how would the affected property
owners react. Mr. Bowman stated that it would depend on where it was closed off.
Mayor Swedberg suggested closing it off at County Road 14. Mr. Bowman stated that he
felt it was a good idea but said the City would need to discuss same with the affected
property owner on the Comer of Shad Avenue.
Council Member Capra questioned how residents would feel if the City dead-ended
Peterson Trail. Mrs. Bowman stated the residents on Shad A venue were concerned about
an entrance onto Shad A venue due to increased traffic. Council Member Capra also
expressed concern for the anticipated increase in traffic levels due to the addition of
another shopping mall and its location to the existing shopping mall.
Mr. James Bigelow, 7143 Shad Avenue, stated he wanted to make sure Council knew
that not all residents in Centerville are in favor of more commercial areas in the City.
There are a lot of individuals who moved here knowing it was a bedroom community and
expected that taxes would be higher. Mr. Bigelow expressed concern for closing
Peterson Trail because that would increase the traffic on Shad Avenue. Peterson Trail is
a main north/south traffic artery and closing it would put a lot more traffic on other
streets. He personally would rather not see a retail or commercial center there.
Page 4 of 18
Mr. Jeff Turner, 7151 Peterson Trail, stated he understands the concern for increased
traffic on Shad Avenue. However, he believes if Peterson Trail was a dead end that
would divide traffic between Old Mill Road and Shad Avenue. The least amount of
damage is done and both streets share in increased traffic.
Mr. Bowman stated Mr. Turner's proposal would direct traffic onto Shad Avenue that
was not there before. Peterson Trail is a major north/south traffic path for many people
and if it were closed off there would be increased traffic on other streets.
Mayor Swedberg indicated there are concerns for traffic management, which can be
mitigated, but the question is how to proceed.
Council Member Nelson inquired as to whether dead-ending Peterson Trail would have
an impact on Mr. Drilling's project. Mr. Drilling indicated it would not hurt the project
to dead-ending Peterson Trail. Mr. Drilling stated he would not want to see the project
hinging on dead-ending Peterson Trail, as traffic flow on Peterson Trail has been a
concern for many years.
Council Member Nelson concurred with Council Member Capra in her concern for
automobile and pedestrian traffic crossing Peterson Trail. She is not necessarily in favor
of dead ending Peterson Trail but it would be good to have Planning and Zoning review
it.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Peterson Trail and other traffic issues
are separate from this issue and she would not see where the City would have the ability
or the desire to stop this project until the bigger issues concerning traffic are resolved.
The residents of Shad A venue and the residents of Peterson Trail will never agree on how
to solve the traffic issue.
Council Member Broussard Vickers expressed concern for sending this item back to
Planning and Zoning as this process was started under the former Council and it seems
somewhat unfair to send it back because Council intends to change the process. Mr.
Drilling is aware of what he needs to provide to Council in order to receive final
approval. Mr. Drilling can work with Staff to provide enough information to prepare his
final site plan for the next Council meeting.
Council Member Nelson stated she was okay with not sending it back to the Planning and
Zoning Commission as long as the Parks and Recreation Committee has seen and
approved the plan for the trail.
Council Member Capra inquired as to whether there was a Parks and Recreation
Committee meeting prior to the next Council meeting.
Mr. March indicated there was not a Park and Recreation Committee meeting prior to the
next Council meeting. He then indicated the Parks and Recreation Committee has
approved the location of the trail.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the amount of entrances onto Main Street.
Page 5 of 18
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the County would not allow it.
Mr. Luikart questioned where and when residents would be asked for input on
landscaping. Council Member Broussard Vickers explained that typically would have
been heard at the first two public hearings before the Planning and Zoning Committee.
Mr. Luikart would like to see an evergreen barrier along his property line and possibly a
fence. Mr. Drilling questioned the length of Mr. Luikart's fence. Mr. Luikart indicated it
was 80 feet and did not quite go all the way to the comer due to the tree line. Mr.
Drilling stated if trees were added the fence may not be needed. Mr. Drilling stated he
could add trees and a fence if need be.
Mr. March suggested tabling this matter to the next Council meeting for further input on
the landscaping plan rather than having to re-notice for another meeting.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether it was appropriate to have residents submit written
comments concerning the site plan. Mr. Hoeft said it was appropriate to have written
resident input and procedurally it would be best to table this matter rather than re-notice
for another meeting.
Mayor Swedberg noted Mr. Drilling has been very accommodating to resident concerns.
Mr. Drilling asked if Council tables the public hearing would it be revisited later at this
meeting.
Mayor Swedberg indicated it would be revisited later at the meeting.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to continue the public hearine to Januarv 24. 2001. at 6:00 ".m. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
V. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
None.
VI. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
1. December 27, 2000 Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the December 27. 2000. City Council Meetinl: Minutes as
presented. Ayes - 3 Abstain - 2 (Swedbere!Capra). Motion carried.
VII. PAYMENT OF CLAIMS
The City ofCenterville December 28. through January 10.2001
Page 6 of 18
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the expenditures for the City from December 28. 2000 throu~h
January 10. 2001. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Centennial Fire District Expenses
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned the piece of equipment that was
purchased for $18,000. Mr. March noted it was the thermal imaging camera.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Capra to approve the Centennial Fire District Expenditures checks #12473-12484
in the amount of $30.683.43. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Pay Request #3 for Lift Station #2
City Engineer Peterson explained this is Pay Request #3 for Lift Station #2 for
installation and construction of the control panel.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Capra to approve Pav Request #3 for Lift Station #2 in the amount of $18.793. All
in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
VIII. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
1. Letter from Don Schoenberger
Mayor Swedberg explained Mr. Schoenberger, 7018 Dupre Road, has had a problem with
Waste Management, as his garbage was not picked up.
Council Member Capra asked Mr. March if this mistake could be attributed to garbage
pick up being on a holiday schedule for the week in question.
Mr. March indicated twice Waste Management told Mr. Schoenberger that his garbage
would be picked up later that day but it was not. Waste Management has not responded
to the complaint yet, however, the customer service person lives in Centerville and has
been very responsive on other occasions. Mr. March believes she is out on vacation. Mr.
March stated sometimes there is problems with pick up when the regular driver is off and
there is a substitute driver. This appears to be an isolated incident and Mr. March speak
with the General Manager and request that this issue be addressed.
Council Member Nelson stated she would like to have Waste Management deal with the
issue in writing and forward same to Council.
Council Member Travis indicated this appears to be an isolated incident and the
suggestion to have more than one (1) garbage hauler in the City is not the answer. Waste
Management appears to have a good system in place for dealing with customer service
issues and he is satisfied the issue will be handled properly.
Page 7 of 18
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted Council has discussed the issue of allowing
more than one (1) garbage hauler in the past and it was decided to allow one (1) hauler.
This is a very good incentive for Waste Management to provide excellent customer
service in order to ensure their contract will be renewed.
2. Letter from Mrs. Camp-Baron
Mayor Swedberg explained the Barons have asked to receive an extension on the 60-day
time frame to clean up their lot and bring it into compliance with Ordinance #4 due to
snow and ice.
Council Member Capra questioned whether anyone has checked the condition of the
property since the Barons were notified to clean it up. Mr. Palzer indicated the 60-day
period expires on January 12, 2001 and he had intended to call the Barons to set up an
appointment to inspect the property the following week.
Council Member Capra questioned whether there was someone who knew what it looked
like initially so they would be able to tell if progress had been made.
Council Member Travis indicated the City has pictures of the condition of the property.
Mr. Ray DeVine, 1695 Main Street, stated the Barons have cleaned up several items and
appear to be making progress.
Council Member Broussard Vickers inquired as to whether Council has the authority to
grant the extension and ifit does, what sort of precedence would it set.
Mr. Hoeft stated that Council does have the authority to grant the extension. He then
recommended letting the 60-day time period expire, Mr. Palzer inspect the property to
determine whether the issues are weather related, and Council consider the extension.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to direct Staff to inspect the Baron property after the expiration of the 60-
day time period to determine whether there is valid reason to believe further clean
up is bein!: impeded by weather. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
IX. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. Downtown Snow Removal
Mayor Swedberg explained there is a safety issue for children getting to school due to the
build up of snow on sidewalks in the downtown area. There are also issues of downtown
parking if there are windrows of snow, the cars park farther and farther away from the
curb into the street, which creates a hazard.
Mr. March stated that the Mayor and several business owners had met on Monday to
discuss snow removal issues at the comer of Centerville Road and Main Street. In the
last couple of days there have been several instances in the news of cities having issues
with downtown snow removal so this is not a problem specific to Centerville. The City
Page 8 of 18
is attempting to establish a policy for snow removal and this may become a city
responsibility in the downtown area. The City is not talking about removing snow from
private sidewalks but along Centerville Road and Main Street the plows are pushing
snow onto the sidewalks. Mr. March will present a draft snow removal policy for
Council consideration at their next meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether the City had removed any snow
from the area. Mr. March stated that he directed Public Works to push the snow back
from the area where the children wait for the bus; however, no snow has been removed.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether there would be a memorandum of understanding
between the City and property owners concerning the snow removal policy. Mr. March
explained when the policy is determined; Staff will notify residents and business owners
in the downtown area. The City intends to clarify what conditions need to exist prior
declaring a snow emergency, which will give property owners permission to push snow
into the County right-of-way, and the City will remove same.
Council Member Travis stated he drove by after he got the e-mail and it appeared to him
there was little or no effort to clear a path on the east side of Centerville Road and the
south side of Main Street. The children had stomped a path through the snow but the
property owner had not cleared even a walkway. Council Member Travis questioned
what the responsibility of the business owner is for snow removal. Mr. March indicated
he has spoken to the business owner and he and the business owner came to an
understanding that the sidewalk is a public sidewalk and the business owner is
responsible for removing the snow.
Mayor Swedberg noted the City should make the schools aware of the designated
walking routes within the City.
Mayor Swedberg noted he had received an e-mail from a resident concerning citywide
removal of snow from sidewalks and wanted to make Council aware it may need to be
addressed at a later time.
x. NEW BUSINESS
1. Joyce A. Stevens - Rezone from R2 to 11 Request - (7007-20th Avenue)
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated residents present at the Planning and
Zoning meeting were opposed to the rezone. This parcel is unique in size and shape and
the owner would like to sell the property and a zoning change would make it easier to do
so. There are larger concerns for the parcel due to the size and shape and the fact there is
a floodway located on the property. The property owner is paying commercial! industrial
taxes based on use not zoning. Most residents did not object to the current operation but
were opposed to expansion of the business or the rezoning the property.
The rezone was denied because the property owner asked for industrial zoning which the
Planning and Zoning Commission did not believe was an appropriate use for the
property. There is commercial property along the side of the street the property is
located on and the other side is zoned industrial. The business located on the property is
Page 9 of 18
nonconforming and, therefore, the use cannot be intensified. The business can maintain
the building but not improve or enhance it.
Mr. Don Moe, 7040 Brian Court, stated he had addressed the Planning and Zoning
Commission stating he felt the City is obligated to follow the Comprehensive Plan for
this piece of property. Mr. Moe strongly objects to industrial rezoning because of the
ecological issues the floodway presents and, in the event of a rezone, the loss of control if
in the future the current business decides to sell and a more disruptive business comes in.
He understands Mrs. Stevens wishes to make money by selling the property but as a
neighboring resident he does not want industrial property in his neighborhood.
Ms. Susan Luke, 7026 Brian Court, questioned if the buildings currently located on the
property comply with industrial zoning regulations. Council Member Broussard Vickers
stated they did not conform to any type of zoning and are classified as nonconforming. If
the zoning were to be modified, there are major issues concerning the floodway that
would govern what could be built on the property.
Mr. Hoeft clarified the buildings are classified as a pre-existing, non-conforming, use
meaning the business cannot expand or intensifY its use.
Council Member Capra questioned whether residents have any issues with the building
currently located on the property. Ms. Luke indicated her lot abuts the property but she
looks out and sees the house on the property as a nice buffer between her lot and the pole
building. Ms. Luke indicated her main concern with rezoning the property is all
likelihood the house would be tom down.
Mayor Swedberg asked the other residents in attendance if they had any issues with the
business as is. Mr. Moe indicated he had no problem with the current use of the property.
There may be an issue with the new development to the south with it overlooking the lot
with no natural buffer.
Council Member Nelson stated that she was in favor of a rezone if it was not in the
floodway.
Mayor Swedberg expressed concern for allowing an industrial use of the property that
may jeopardize the wells located downstream from the property. In his opinion, a rezone
was inappropriate.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to deny the rezone request for 7007 - 20tb Avenue from R2t to 11. AIl in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the primary objection is to Industrial
zoning not Commercial and it is possible Mrs. Stevens would request a rezone to
commercial.
A member of the audience questioned if Mrs. Stevens requested a rezone to Commercial
would residents get notice of the meeting. Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated
residents would be notified.
Page 10 of 18
Council Member Capra questioned whether the business needed a Special Use Permit to
continue its operation. City Attorney Hoeft explained the Special Use Permit was
brought up as a way to allow the current owner to somehow expand or intensify the
business. The City would be able to better control the operation through the special use
permit process. If the business continues to operate as it currently does, there is no need
for a Special Use Permit.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether intensification of the business could happen
without involving the building. City Attorney Hoeft indicated there may be a possibility
of this happening; however it would require investigation to determine whether it was an
expansion or intensification.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the Rice Creek Watershed District would be
interested in purchasing the floodway property. Mr. March indicated he did not believe
they would. Mayor Swedberg directed Staff to contact Rice Creek Watershed District to
ascertain if they would be interested in purchasing same.
Mr. Hoeft explained the City's Comprehensive Plan does take precedence over the City's
zoning plan. This is a change as it used to be the zoning plan took precedence over the
Comprehensive Plan and the plan went along for the ride. If the Comprehensive Plan
denotes the property as Commercial, it does so because a commercial use for that
property is a better buffer between the Residential area and the intensified roadway.
Council does need to follow the Comprehensive Plan in this instance. The
Comprehensive Plan may be amended at any time if Council deems it appropriate;
however, it will need to be followed. Mr. Hoeft cautioned Council against spot zoning
this piece of property.
Council Member Travis stated the current business owner does not do a considerable
amount of business out ofthe building, but previously there had been more activity at the
location. He questioned how the City would determine an intensification and what that is
based on.
Mr. Hoeft stated that the City would need to look back historically to the point where
controls making the use non-conforming were put in place and the level of the activity at
that point would be the maximum use for the property.
2. Lloyd Drilling - Site Plan
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated Mr. Drilling would like direction from
Council as to what Council would like to see on the final site plan. Council Member
Broussard Vickers stated she would like the berm to come out as far as the Anoka County
will allow, she would like the berm to be four (4) feet high with at least a six (6) foot high
fence on top, she would like to see a specific plan for how the northwest comer of the
property will be landscaped. The developer's agreement will need to specify standards
for the trailway. Mr. Drilling questioned whether the standards for the trailway complied
with City code. Mr. March indicated he would provide Mr. Drilling with the Anoka
County trailway specifications.
Page 11 of 18
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated color and design of the building were not
that important to her provided it was aesthetically pleasing to look at.
Council Member Capra questioned the location of the proposed trail way in relation to
the trees on the Shad Avenue comer of the property. Mr. Drilling pointed out the
trailway on the site plan map and indicated if the County will not allow the trees to stay
where they are, they will be relocated somewhere else on the property.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the amount of commercial development in an area before
the City needs to talk to the County about adding turn lanes on Main Street. Mr. Peterson
indicated the request is usually as a result of a number of accidents in the area. Just
adding the driveway onto Main Street would not warrant turn lanes.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether it was a good idea for the driveways from the two
(2) commercial areas to match up. Mr. Peterson concurred.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the City needed to restrict the hours of operation to
mitigate noise for neighboring residents. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that
City Ordinance would cover this issue.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Centerville restricts 24-hour businesses. Council
Member Broussard Vickers indicated 24-hour businesses have not been an issue.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the Fire Chief would have a problem with the berm
and fence. Mr. Drilling indicated there should be plenty of access for fire vehicles.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated final site plan approval would be
contingent upon the approval of the police and fire departments.
Council Member Nelson questioned if permission was granted from Anoka County and
Rice Creek Watershed to fill in the ditch and connect the trail, whether or not Mr.
Drilling was willing to pay for same. Mr. Drilling stated that he would be willing to
extend and flatten the existing trail way to ensure uniformity between the two (2)
shopping malls. Mr. Drilling stated that the City could partake in some of the ditching.
Council Member Travis indicated he did not have a problem with the proposed site plan
and felt no need for the City to get involved with the architectural features and colors of
the building. The concerns of residents have been met and he can think of no other
additions to the site plan.
Council Member Capra asked if Mr. Drilling could hang up the colored map of the
building. Council Member Capra questioned whether the colors on the map were the
colors Mr. Drilling intended to use for the building. Mr. Drilling indicated the colors
were not the colors he intended to use for the building and requested input from Council.
Mr. Drilling expressed a desire to have this proposed building look similar to, but not
exactly like, the existing building.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked Mr. Drilling to incorporate the same green
color used for the shingles on the other building into some aspect of the proposed
Page 12 of 18
building. Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated Mr. Drilling needed to provide
Council with landscape and grading plans and specify exterior building color at the next
meeting.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether there would be exterior lighting at the building.
Mr. Drilling indicated the lighting would be the same as the other building.
Council Member Nelson commented the lighting at the other building has worked well.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the doorways would be wide enough for a wheel
chair to pass through. Mr. Drilling explained state law required all buildings to be
handicapped accessible.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether Mr. Hoeft would be drafting the
developer's agreement. Mr. Hoeft indicated Council would approve the site plan subject
to an approved developer's agreement at the next Council meeting.
Council explained Mr. Drilling would need to provide a plan for landscaping, including
the style and height of fence, a grading plan, elevation of all sides of the building,
specifics for the service area on the property, and a plan showing the colors and types of
materials to be used for the building. Mr. March suggested Mr. Drilling apply for his
Anoka County access permit.
3. Anoka County HRA Budget for Chauncey Barett Gardens
Mr. March noted the copy of the operating budget for Chauncey Barett Gardens found in
Council packets was for informational purposes only to make Council aware of the City's
name being on the essential function bond that financed the project.
4. Cost of Living Increase
Mayor Swedberg explained at the beginning of each year Council adjusts the payroll
chart to reflect a cost of living adjustment to the wage schedule. Based on information
gathered from numerous cities and it appears that three percent (3%) is the average.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the surveyed communities used three percent
(3%) for just cost of living or did that percentage include normal step increases. Mr.
March indicated the three percent (3%) was only a cost of living increase. Mayor
Swedberg noted the three percent (3%) increase was in line with federal agencies.
Motion by Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve a three percent (3%) cost of livin!! increase as presented to
Council. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
5. 2001 Fee Schedule (Resolution #01-001 )
Mr. March noted the items highlighted on Council Member's copies of the fee schedule
had been adjusted already. Fees can be increased at any time during the year but the City
has always made a point to review fees at the beginning of the year.
Page 13 of 18
Council Member Nelson questioned whether fees and permits were determined based on
actual administrative costs. Mr. March stated that administrative costs have increased
and that is the basis for increasing fees. The City could be challenged iffees and permits
do not follow actual expenses.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he does not understand the fee schedule and suggested
Council hold a deeper discussion on this matter at a future date. Mr. March suggested a
workshop session and asked that Staff be made aware of any issues the Mayor would like
researched.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the current fee schedule would remain in place if
this Resolution were tabled for further discussion. Mr. Hoeft indicated the City has a fee
schedule that would apply if this new Resolution is not approved. Fees have to have a
rational relationship to the costs involved but it is a bit arbitrary as it is very difficult to
determine the exact costs for services.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested Mayor Swedberg speak to Staff
concerning questions on the fee schedule indicating she did not see the need for an entire
workshop on the issue.
Council Member Nelson stated she would like to have the Resolution passed to make the
increase in park dedication fees effective. She concurred with Mayor Swedberg on
having a workshop.
Council Member Capra noted in looking over the fee schedule she noticed there is a
dance fee she was unaware of which will apply to the Cub Scout Dance this weekend.
Council Member Capra suggested Council adopt the Resolution and revise it at a later
time if deemed it appropriate.
Mr. March noted the next quarterly utility billing would be affected if Council waited for
approval.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to approve Resolution 01-001 as presented. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
6. 2001 Appointments (Resolution #01-002)
Mayor Swedberg asked Mr. Hoeft if it were possible to designate a rotating Acting
Mayor. Mr. Hoeft indicated it would be permissible to do so, but administratively it may
be hard to track.
Consensus was to appoint Council Member Travis as Acting Mayor.
Council Member Broussard Vickers expressed her desire to continue as Council Liaison
to the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Page 14 of 18
Council Member Capra stated she was willing to serve as the Council Liaison to the
Cable Commission but has a conflict through the month of April and would not be
available until the first of May. Mayor Swedberg volunteered to be the Alternate for the
Cable Commission indicating he would attend the meetings until Council Member Capra
was available.
Council Member Travis volunteered to continue to serve on the Fire Steering Committee.
Mr. March noted typically the Mayor and a Council Member from each city, the Fire
Chief, and City Administrators meet on a quarterly basis to discuss Fire District issues.
The City Engineer is Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik & Associates.
The City Forester is Joe Goetz of Goetz Landscape.
Mayor Swedberg noted there is a vacancy on the Economic Development Commission
and invited residents to apply. Mr. March noted he had recently received a letter of
interest from Mr. Rick Terway.
Mayor Swedberg stated he would like to hold off on appointing liaisons until next month
to allow time to talk to the various committees.
The City's official depository is First State Bank In Hugo and County Bank In
Centerville.
The City's official newspaper is Quad Community Press.
The City's responsible authority is Mr. March.
Mayor Swedberg noted he was honored to be the Weed Inspector per state law and asked
that in his absence Mr. Paul Palzer serve as the Deputy Weed Inspector.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Travis to
approve Resolution 01-002 as presented with the reauested chanl!:es. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
7. Ordinance #4 - Amendments
Council Member Broussard Vickers gave a brief overview of the purposes behind the
proposed amendments.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Mayor Swedberl!: to approve the
Ordinance #4 amendments as presented. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
8. Ordinance #39 - Sign
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated this was a new ordinance that would
supersede any information on signage currently listed in Ordinance #4. The Planning and
Page 15 of 18
Zoning Commission looked at sign ordinances from numerous cities in formulating this
new ordinance.
Council Member Capra noted the Economic Development Committee has requested that
Council not approve this until it receives clarification on commercial signage concerning
wall signs.
Council Member Nelson stated she objects to home-based businesses with county road
frontage being allowed 24 square feet of signage. Her main concern is for allowing a
commercial type sign in a residential yard.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she did not believe there were very many
locations where this new signage would apply.
Council Member Nelson expressed a concern for the size of the sign and stated she
believed the issue was worth the expense and time of re-noticing for a public hearing.
She stated she would be more comfortable if a larger sign were allowed just along Main
Street but not all county roads.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she believed the size of the sign would be
more of a problem along Main Street than along county roads where vehicles travel at a
higher rate of speed.
Mr. March stated he believed based on the speed of traffic, the sign would not appear that
large.
Council Member Broussard Vickers inquired as to the cost of publishing for a public
hearing. Mr. March indicated the cost was approximately $75.
Council Member Nelson would like to remove the last two (2) sentences and allow home-
based businesses a sign of only four (4) square feet.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to send
Ordinance #39 back to the Plannin!!: and Zonin!: Commission to review the section
of the ordinance concernine home-based business si!!:ns. Specifically reauestine the
sentence concernin!!: size of si!!:n allowed for businesses with county road fronta!!:e be
deleted. the size of the si!:n remain no lar!!:er than four (4) sauare feet. and the si!:n
not be an interior-illuminated si!!:n. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Capra noted she would let the Economic Development Committee
know that if there are further questions, a representative should be at the Planning and
Zoning Commission meeting to discuss it.
9. Purchase of a 2001 Ford Sterling Plow Truck
Mayor Swedberg noted Mr. Palzer has put together criteria for the purchase of a new
plow. The current plow is used and the City has budgeted over a three (3) year period for
this purchase.
Page 16 of 18
Mr. Palzer presented brochures regarding the proposed plow for review. The quotes were
put together through the State Bid Package process. There are two (2) separate quotes,
one for the plow truck and one for the body, plow and sander. Mr. Palzer anticipates that
the vehicle will last 20 or 25 years. Mr. Palzer asked for an additional $321 for a hitch
system.
Mr. Palzer stated that the quote from J-Craft is good through the end of March. Mr.
Palzer stated that Ford Motor Company allocates a certain number of vehicles for this
type of use and they were out of vehicles by February last year.
Council Member Capra questioned when the City would receive the truck. Mr. Palzer
stated it takes between four (4) and five (5) months.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned where the truck would be purchased. Mr.
Palzer explained the truck would be purchased from Boyer Trucks and the body and plow
package would be purchased from J-Craft.
Mr. Peterson left the meeting at 9:08 p.m.
Motion by Mayor Swedber!!:. seconded by Council Member Nelson to purchase the
2001 Ford Sterlin!!: Plow/Sand Truck as presented not to exceed $90.000 plus tax.
freil!:ht and license. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned the color of the truck. Mr. Palzer
indicated it would be blue.
10. Resignation of Earl Fleischman - Public Works Vacancy
Mr. March asked Council to acknowledge and accept the resignation of Mr. Earl
Fleischman. Mr. March and Mr. Palzer have discussed filling the vacancy and propose
looking at the list of candidates from the last round of interviews. Mr. March noted he
would like to contact the second place candidate to see it the individual would still be
interested.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to accept the resi!!:nation of Mr. Earl Fleischman. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
11. Special Use Permit Renewals
Mr. March explained Council renews the Special Use Permits on an annual basis. There
have been no complaints concerning any of the businesses operating under Special Use
Permits.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Travis to approve the Special Use Permit renewals as presented. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
12. Cub Scout Reauest
Page 17 of 18
\.
4.
~..
Council Member Capra requested the dance fee be waived for the Cub Scouts Dance.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to waive the dance permit fee based on the Cub Scouts nonprofit
or2anization status. Aves - 4 Navs - O. Council Member Capra abstained.
Motion carried.
XI. CONSENT AGENDA
None.
XII. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council Member Broussard Vickers reported the Planning and Zoning Commission will
have a public hearing to discuss the sign ordinance.
Mr. March reported the Fire Steering Committee meets on January 18,2001.
XIII. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. March reported the one (l) union member has voted on the contract extension and
voted to accept the City's request for a three-year duration. This matter will be before
Council at the next meeting.
Council Member Nelson requested Staff contact Anoka County and Rice Creek
Watershed District regarding the west mall trail to see if the ditch could be filled in and
the trail connected to the trail at the east mall.
Mayor Swedberg reported the League of Minnesota Cities has a new piece of software
for city websites and the City could be a test site for them. It would cost the City $500 to
procure this service and there would be a charge of $20 per month. This may be a real
advantage to the City as the City would not have to maintain the site.
XIV. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to adiourn the January 10. 2001 City Council Meetine at 9:20 p.m. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
, Proofed by:
~~ ~~-----
Teresa Bender, Clerk/Treasurer (Staff)
Page 18 of 18
---- -~_.-
~
, >
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/01 at 2:46 p.m.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
Council Member Mari Nelson
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 24, 2001
6:00 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly sc
meeting on January 24,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Administrator, Jim March
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
Public Works Director, PIal e
I.
II.
oium, Waste Management, was in attendance to
lai t discussed at the previous meeting.
s ted that he was made aware of Council's request for a written response and
e ame if desired.
Council ember Nelson thanked Mr. Boium for his personal appearance and stated that a
written response was not necessary.
Page 1 of14
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/01 at 2:46 p.m.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to approve the agenda with the reauested addition. AU in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
III. PUBLIC HEARING (8)
1. Lloyd Drilling
Mayor Swedberg opened the tabled public hearing from the previous meeting at 6: 10
p.m.
Mr. Drilling submitted drawings of the site plan for the proposed strip mall to be located
at 1873 Main Street. The site plan showed the exterior colors of the building. Mr.
Drilling also submitted a picture of a sample fence to be used to house the garbage
receptacle. Mr. Drilling stated that the fence is to be chain link with screening. Mr.
Drilling also stated that the trailway would be built to County specifications as requested
by Council.
Mr. Drilling explained he would like to build a three (3) foot berm rather than the
previously discussed four (4) foot berm to aid in drainage and maintenance. There would
be a six (6) foot fence on top of the berm. Mr. Drilling expressed willingness to match
the northwest neighbor's fence if the neighbor desires.
Mr. Drilling showed pictures of the trees currently located on the site and indicated if the
County allows, the trees will remain in place; however, if the County requests that the
trees be moved, they will be moved to the northwest comer of the property. If the
County does not allow the trees to stay then five (5) or six (6) foot evergreens would be
installed on the site. Mr. Drilling explained that evergreens are a typical landscaping
tree.
Mr. Drilling stated the building would have an exterior, brick front with metal siding.
Council Member Capra questioned the location of the signs for the businesses. Mr.
Drilling stated that signage would be located along the front of the building in the three
(3) foot space provided. Signage would be handled similar to that of the current strip
mall.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the type of signage that would be installed. Mr. Drilling
stated that the current strip mall has uniform signage with the exception of the daycare.
Mr. Drilling explained that the type of retailer in the space typically dictates signage,
however, all signage would be backlit.
Mr. Peterson indicated Mr. Drilling has met the contingencies for the site plan as outlined
in Mr. Peterson's letter to the City.
Mr. Hoeft indicated final site plan approval needs to be subject to Mr. Peterson's
approval and subject to an approved Developer's Agreement. Mayor Swedberg indicated
he would like to see deciduous trees placed in front of the building rather than
Page 2 of 14
FOlwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/01 at 2:46 p.m.
evergreens. Mr. Drilling indicated he had spoken to a tree expert who had indicated it
was very hard to get deciduous trees to grow that close to Main Street due to the salt
spray. Mr. Drilling expressed a willingness to plant whatever type of tree Council
reqUires.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the trees located on the site would remain.
Mr. Drilling stated he would like to leave the evergreens and apple trees on the east side
of the property, but believes that Anoka County would request that they be removed.
Council Member Capra questioned whether there would be a fence and evergreens in the
northwest comer of the property. Mr. Drilling indicated there would be a fence and
evergreen trees.
Council Member Capra questioned the purpose of the submitted draft Developer's
Agreement. Mr. Hoeft explained it was a draft submitted by Staff to show Council the
language contained in a typical Developer's Agreement. Mr. March indicated the
document was provided for review and to become familiar with the language contained in
same.
Mr. Hoeft indicated Council would need to approve the Developer's Agreement. If
Council approves the site plan, Mr. Drilling has preliminary go ahead to move along in
the process with no construction until Council has approved a Developer's Agreement.
Mr. March indicated he spoken with Anoka County Highway Department and was
infonned that they would allow a bituminous trail in its right-of-way. Mr. March stated
the County would allow the ditch to be filled, but reserves the right to review the culvert
subsequent to placement.
Mr. March stated that the City needs a written detail of landscaping plans in order to
assign a value to the landscaping to be included in the Developer's Agreement. Mr.
Drilling stated that the design of the building might change in regards to doors and
windows. Mr. March questioned the final detennination of the building design and
explained that the City is concerned that the building will be constructed differently than
the submitted plans suggest.
Mr. March indicated the east and west elevations of the building are crucial in regards to
the appearance of the building. Mr. Drilling stated that he previously submitted
elevations at the last meeting and would be willing to resubmit same if Council desired.
Mr. Drilling stated that the drawings of the building would be modified slightly, if any.
Council Member Nelson stated she was disappointed that site plan information was not
contained in her packet for prior review. Mr. Drilling stated that he did not recall stating
that he would provide information to Council Members' homes and apologized for the
oversight. Mr. Drilling stated that he had attempted to address Council's concerns of the
previous meeting, such as exterior color of the building, trailways and fencing. Mr.
Drilling stated that if Council grants approval of the preliminary site plan, the remaining
requirements, that Council deemed appropriate, could be contained in the Developer's
Agreement.
Page 3 of 14
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/01 at 2:46 p.m.
Mr. Bruce Luikart, 7130 Peterson Trail, questioned the type oflighting in the rear of the
building. Mr. Drilling stated that the lighting would be similar to the current strip mall.
Mr. Luikart questioned whether the rear, exterior of the building would be brick. Mr.
Drilling stated that the rear, exterior of the building would be sided.
Mayor Swedberg questioned Mr. Luikart as to his thoughts of the proposed strip mall.
Mr. Luikart stated that he could live with the building.
Mr. Jerry Engler, 7127 Shad Avenue, requested that the berm run along the north/south
jog of the property. Mr. Drilling stated that he had not planned to have a berm in that
location. Mr. Drilling also stated that there would be a six (6) foot fence installed on the
top of the berm and trees would run north to south on the property line on the Drilling
side of the fence.
Mr. Peterson explained he was unable to comment on whether a berm along the
north/south jog would interfere with drainage, as he did not have a map with contours.
Mr. Engler asked Mr. Drilling if his trees and stakes would be replaced that were
removed by construction workers when the site was cleared. Mr. Drilling agreed to
restore Mr. Engler's property to its original state.
Mayor Swedberg requested that Mr. Hoeft investigate whether berming the north/south
jog would interfere with drainage.
Mr. Engler stated he desired the berm to be moved out to the west beyond where the
proposed fence is located.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that Mr. Engler's proposal was unacceptable
due to the separation of the berm and the fence. Council Member Broussard Vickers felt
that this would not be attractive.
Mr. March suggested waiting for Mr. Peterson's report on drainage prior to determining
whether a berm in the location would work.
Mr. Engler questioned the height of the trees that Mr. Drilling intended on installing. Mr.
March indicated Mr. Drilling needed to submit a detailed landscaping plan, which would
provide that information. Mr. Drilling indicated he would either leave the larger trees
currently located on the site or use five (5) or six (6) foot landscape evergreens dependent
upon County suggestion.
Mr. Engler asked that construction traffic not enter the lot from Shad Avenue.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to close the public hearinl!. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Mayor Swedberg closed the public hearing at 6:50 p.m.
Page 4 of 14
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/01 at 2:46 p.m.
2. Chicilo Homes
Mayor Swedberg opened the public hearing at 6:51 p.m.
Mr. Chicilo submitted plans for a proposed 12,000 square foot office/warehouse building
to be located in the industrial park.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the positioning of the building. Mr. Chicilo stated that the
building would face west. Mr. March indicated the building will face more south than
west and will be accessed from the north.
Council Member Nelson questioned the type of business that would occupy the building.
Mr. Chicilo indicated it would be small businesses such as himself who needed a small
amount of office space and the remaining space for warehouse use. Mr. Chicilo indicated
he has 25% of the building leased and he will occupy a portion of the building.
Council Member Capra thanked Mr. Chicilo for providing such detailed plans.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the use of a concrete dolly pad. Mr. Chicilo explained it is
used for semi-trucks to drop off their trailers to protect blacktop, which is not strong
enough to support the weight of a truck trailer.
Council Member Travis questioned whether the parking requirements would be met with
the submitted plans. Mr. Palzer indicated that Mr. Peterson would review the plans to
determine if modifications are needed. Mr. March indicated the City does not have a
standard parking requirement for warehouse facilities.
Mr. Hoeft indicated he has reviewed the written site plan approval drafted by staff and
made a minor change. Approval of the site plan would be contingent upon Mr.
Peterson's review and approval, contingent upon obtaining the required permits.
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Nelson to close
the public hearing. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Mayor Swedberg closed the public hearing at 7:00 p.m.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the site plan for Chicilo Homes subiect to the followine conditions: a) the
applicant shall obtain a Rice Creek Watershed District Permit. if applicable: b) the
applicant shall obtain all other reQuired permits. Parkin!!: lot desien. site drainaee
and eradin~ plans must meet with the City Eneineer's approval prior to issuance of
such permits: and c) the applicant al!:rees that the buildin!!: and site amenities will be
constructed in accordance with the submitted site plan that was presented to
Council and is attached to the executed site plan approval document. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimouslv.
Page 5 ofl4
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/01 at 2:46 p.m.
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
This item was previously discussed.
V. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
VII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Chicilo Homes Site Plan Approval
This item was previously discussed.
2. Lloyd Drilling Site Plan Approval
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that Mr. Drilling needs to provide final details
on several issues, but is comfortable with the basic information provided concerning the
site plan. The final details should be addressed in the Developer's Agreement.
Council Member Capra questioned whether approval of the site plan would be giving Mr.
Drilling approval to commence construction on the building. Mr. Hoeft indicated site
plan approval is an approval to move forward with the planning process but construction
cannot start until Council approves the Developer's Agreement. Council's site plan
approval will be contingent upon an approved Developer's Agreement.
Council Member Capra questioned the time frame for finalizing the Developer's
Agreement. Mr. Hoeft stated that a draft Developer's Agreement would be presented at
their next meeting.
Council Member Capra questioned the reason for receiving two (2) totally different site
plans for approval. Mr. Drilling's plan was not as complete or detailed as Mr. Chicilo's
plan. Mr. Drilling explained that the Chicilo Homes site plan is very straightforward as it
is an industrial building being built in an industrial park. There is nothing about the plan
that is subject to resident or Council approval. Mr. Drilling stated that if he receives
approval of his site plan he will authorize the architects to prepare plans for Council that
provide as much or more information as provided by Mr. Chicilo.
Council Member Nelson requested that all information regarding this item be included in
the packet, prior to distribution and council meeting.
Council Member Travis stated he had no problem approving the site plan. He also stated
that he recently received his tax statement and believes the City needs to bring more
commercial development in to help with the tax base. In his opinion, Mr. Drilling has
Page 6 of!4
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/0 I at 2:46 p.m.
done an excellent job of addressing resident and Council concerns. It is hard to develop
commercial property adjacent to a residential area.
Motion by Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the site plan submitted bv Lloyd Drillin!! contin!!ent upon an
approved Developer's Agreement. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Mayor Swedberg stated Mr. Drilling has done everything he can to mitigate resident
concerns and thanked him for doing so. Mayor Swedberg questioned if the grass on the
berms would be maintained. Mr. Drilling concurred.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the area in the northwest corner of the property
would be paved or sodded. Mr. Drilling stated that the area would be sodded and
maintained similar to the berms.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he would like Mr. Joe Goetz or another landscaping expert to
comment on the landscaping plan. Mr. Drilling stated that the architects would provide
information and recommendations for landscaping.
3. Police Commission Interviews
Mr. March stated that Council needed to appoint three (3) individuals to participate on
the Police Commission Interview Panel. Mayor Swedberg had previously expressed
interest in participating and felt that the Mr. March should also participate. Mr. March
also stated that Commissioner Wright had also expressed interest in participating.
Motion bv Mavor Swedben!. seconded bv Council Member Broussard Vickers to
appoint Mavor Swedberg. City Administrator March. and Commissioner Wri!!ht to
the Police Commission Interview Panel. Aves - 4. Navs - 1 (Travis). Motion
carried.
Council Member Nelson expressed her desire to have been a part of the process.
4. Goals and Objectives
Mr. March eXplained Mayor Swedberg has suggested a Council work session to discuss
the consolidated list of 2001 goals and objectives. Mayor Swedberg explained he wished
to get a sense of order to the list. It is difficult to find time for Council Members to speak
to one another and this is the reason behind scheduling a work session. Mayor Swedberg
suggested a work session be held on January 31, 2001 at 7:30 p.m. Consensus was to
schedule a work session for January 31, 2001 at 7:30 p.m.
Mr. March requested that Council rank their goals in order of importance to them prior to
the meeting.
Mayor Swedberg requested that Mr. Hoeft and Mr. Peterson to provide the top 10 items,
in their opinions, for the City from the list of ideas.
Page 7 of 14
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1101 at 2:46 p.m.
5. Fete des Lacs By-Laws and Electrical
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to table
discussion on the Bv-Laws until Council has met with the Fete des Lacs Committee.
All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Capra stated that Council is investigating the possibility of
standardizing By-Laws for commissions/committees.
Mr. DeVine stated that the next meeting of the Fete des Lacs Committee is scheduled for
February 19, 2001 at 6:30 p.m. Mr. Hoeft indicated February 19, 2001 was a legal
holiday, and Council would not be allowed to participate. Mr. DeVine suggested
rescheduling the Fete des Lacs Committee meeting to Wednesday, February 21, 200lat
6:30 p.m.
Mayor Swedberg eXplained the City has received a donation of lights and a scoreboard,
however, that is no power at the park to operate same. Other activities, such as the
festival, do not have ample power.
Mr. DeVine explained the difficulties experienced last year providing enough power for
the carnival and R.V. parking.
Council Member Capra questioned how the carnival was powered last year. Mr. DeVine
explained the City was able to rent a large generator inexpensively, however, a sizeable
discount was obtained and several extension cords were purchased. Mr. DeVine felt that
Council's consideration of this proposal was crucial at this time. Mr. DeVine stated that
providing ample power to the park prior to the festival was of the utmost concern. Mr.
DeVine stated that if Council denied approval for electrical installation at the park,
alternative arrangements would need to be made.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether there was a master site plan for the park. Mr.
March concurred. Mr. March stated that a portion of the electrical issue hinges on the
church property and construction of a concession building.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether the electrical installation could
be completed in stages. Mr. Palzer indicated the City would save money if the entire
project was approved and commenced at the same time.
Council Member Broussard questioned the cost for providing electric for the camivallast
year. Mr. Devine explained that if the City would need to rent a generator of similar size
to that used last year, it would cost approximately $5,000 and the purchase of extension
cords totaled $2,000. Mr. DeVine stated that neither the Parks and Recreation or Fete des
Lacs Committee have the funds to acquire the needed electrical installation. Mr. DeVine
stated that the approximate cost to acquire same would be $100,000.
Mayor Swedberg directed Mr. Peterson to work with Mr. Palzer to determine an initial
plan and approximate cost to run electrical in the park and forward same to Council for
reVIew.
Page 8 of!4
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1101 at 2:46 p.m.
Mr. March stated that the City has the possibility of acquiring a regional softball
tournament during the festival if the City is able to provide an adequate facility. Mr.
March felt that this would be a great revenue producer. Mr. March stated that
approximately thirty-two (32) teams participate in the tournament.
Council Member Nelson stated that donations may be obtained from downtown
businesses, as activities such as these will generate business for them.
6. Downtown Petition for Water and Street Enhancements
Mr. March discussed the submitted petition. Mr. March explained that the petition
requests local improvements, (i.e. municipal water and street enhancements) on
Centerville Road between the south line of 7046 Centerville Road and the north line of
Westview Street. This matter will be discussed at an upcoming work session.
7. Union Contract
Mayor Swedberg requested and consensus was to remove this item for discussion at an
Executive Session immediately following the Council meeting.
8. Snow Removal Policy
Council Member Nelson complimented staff on drafting the policy.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether Staff would put a notice on downtown
business doors if they do not shovel. Mr. March explained the City will remove snow
pushed out into street and if a business owner does not remove snow from its sidewalk,
there is an ordinance to handle the issue. The City will not go on private property to
remove the snow for them.
Mayor Swedberg stated he is in agreement with the policy but questioned whether the
City needs to clarify the definition of a sidewalk.
Mr. March asked Mr. Hoeft if state statutes contained a definition for sidewalks. There is
a property owner who has questioned whether a seven (7) or eight (8) foot paved area is a
patio or a sidewalk and has decided they should not have to remove the snow from same.
Mr. Hoeft stated he did not believe there was a definition of sidewalks in state statute but
would research the items further. Mr. Hoeft stated that it is a judgment call on the part of
the City.
Mayor Swedberg stated there is confusion concerning right-of-way issues and asked for
clarification of same. Mr. March indicated the only way to resolve the right-of-way
issues are to have the property surveyed. Mayor Swedberg stated he did not feel it was
necessary to have the property surveyed.
Mr. March indicated he had spoken to Mr. Roger Butler, Anoka County, and was told the
City would not be required to obtain a permit to remove snow from the County right-of-
way.
Page 9 of14
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/01 at 2:46 p.m.
Motion bv Mavor Swedberg, seconded by Council Member Nelson to approve the
snow removal policy and direct Staff to provide additional clarity on the sidewalk
issue. AU in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
9. Baron Property
Mr. Palzer stated he met with Mr. Baron last week and discussed a time frame for
completion of the required clean up. Mr. Baron indicated he should be able to comply by
June 1, 2001. Mr. Palzer indicated this time frame was acceptable to him if Council
approved same.
Mr. Hoeft indicated he had spoken with Mr. Palzer concerning the Baron property and
indicated the requested time frame is consistent with weather related contingencies for
housing maintenance codes. It is typical to look toward Mayor June in order to allow
thawing to occur and allow residents to remove debris.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to erant
the Barons an extension to J "ne 1, 2001 to brim! the property into compliance with
City codes.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she would like to see continued progress
during the 20-week extension. She then asked Mr. Palzer if he felt progress could be
made over the course of the extension time or if it was a situation where the weather
simply would not allow for additional clean-up. Mayor Swedberg suggested Mr. Palzer
schedule a visit in mid-April to check the progression of the clean up. Mr. Palzer
indicated Mr. Baron was working on clean up when he stopped by to discuss this matter
with him and said he felt the Barons would be able to make continued progress during the
extension period.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested a friendly amendment to the motion to
include a recheck of the property in ten (10) weeks and, provided continued progress is
being made, Council would grant another ten (10) week extension to June 1,2001. The
friendly amendment was accepted by Council Member Nelson as the motioner and
Council Member Capra as the seconder.
Friendly Amendment: To grant a ten (10) week extension to brine: the property into
compliance with City codes, and if continued proe:ress is beine made an additional
ten (10) week extension would be granted to allow the Barons to complete the clean-
UP by June 1. 2001. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
10. Stop Sign (Main Street and Centerville Road)
Page 10 of14
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/01 at 2:46 p.m.
Mayor Swedberg explained he had done a ride along with the police on a snowy morning
and witnessed the issue with the stop sign on Main Street first hand. It is not clearly
visible and people are going through same.
Mr. Palzer explained that the City may not modify or change signs in the County right-of-
way. Mr. Palzer referenced a letter from Police Chief Heckman and concurred with his
recommendations. Mr. Palzer suggested talking with the County to get flashing lights to
alert people of the intersection.
Mayor Swedberg stated that the City could requested that the County improve the stop
sign or install flashing lights or authorize the City to make the improvements and assume
the expenses associated with same.
Council Member Capra requested that Staff obtain costs for installing flashing red lights
at the intersection. Mayor Swedberg concurred.
Mayor Swedberg suggested sharing the costs of installation and the flashing lights with
the County and School District.
Mr. DeVine suggested the City contact the County to request that the pavement markings
be repainted on the street as they were removed when the pavement was scraped this fall.
Mr. DeVine stated that markings are not visible and felt that it would be helpful if they
were.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested requesting that the police department to
conduct a sting operation at the intersection and ticket individuals that do not stop for the
stop sign. Mayor Swedberg stated he was uncomfortable with same, due to the fact that
people simply do not see the sign and the problem needs to be resolved.
Council Member Capra questioned the number of violations for this particular area of
concern and Mayor Swedberg indicated that the information was contained in Council
packets.
Mr. March stated he would like to see an overhead stoplight at the intersection to improve
safety at the intersection and to be used for hanging community banners and holiday
decorations.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked Staff to ask the County when they intend to
repaint the crosswalks and to request them to do it as soon as possible.
Mayor Swedberg directed Staff to prepare cost estimates to install rumble strips,
rearrange signs, install an overhead stoplight, and to install overhead flashing lights for
Council review and discussion.
VIII. CONSENT AGENDA
1. January 10, 2001 Meeting Minutes
2. The City ofCenterville January 11, through January 24, 2001 Expenditures
Page 11 of 14
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/01 at 2:46 p.m.
3. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
4. Resignation of Account Clerk II, Laura Thompson
5. EDC's recommendation for appointment of Mr. Rick Terway
6. Hiring of Mr. Joel McPherson (Public Works)
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the Consent Agenda for Items #1-#6 as presented. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
Council Member Travis requested that the minutes be contained in Council packets
allowing review prior to the Council meeting. Mr. March indicated the minutes are
usually in packets but due to staff absences, the deadline for packets was not met so the
minutes were e-mailed to Council Members.
Mr. March noted the minutes would not be on the consent agenda at future meetings as it
is an item that warrants review and discussion.
IX. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council Member Capra reported that the Economic Development Committee (EDe)
intends to hand out a flier at Snow Days at Wargo Nature Center and asked for Council
Approval of the flier. She also noted that EDC has donated $100 for prize money at the
event.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned the need for Council approval. Council
Member Capra stated the flier is coming from the City and she believed it should be
approved by Council.
Motion by Mayor Swedberg. seconded by Council Member Capra to approve the
EDC flier as presented. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Council Member Travis reported that the Fire Steering Committee met last Thursday, but
due to a lack of quorum, there was no voting. Due to the lack of a quorum, another
meeting would be scheduled prior to the April meeting. Mr. March noted the meeting
had been scheduled for February 19,2001, which is President's Day and will have to be
rescheduled.
X. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Staff was directed to check with Rice Creek Watershed District to see if they were
interested in purchasing the property at 7007 20th Avenue for green space. Rice Creek
Watershed informed Mr. March they do not have funds available to acquire the property
at this time. If the City would be purchasing the property to turn it into a park that would
be of benefit to the water quality of the creek, there may be something that could be
worked out.
Page 12 of 14
Forwarded to Council Members
Via e-mail on 2/1/01 at 2:46 p.m.
Mr. March reported County Bank is making progress on their building and the monument
sign and installation has begun. Staff feels this building will be a nice entrance to the
community.
Motion by Mavor Swedberg, seconded by Council Member Nelson to recess to the
Executive Session at 8:24 p.m. All in favor, Motion carried unanimously.
Union contract negotiation discussion occurred during this Executive Session.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson, seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to close the Executive Session and continue the Council Meetine: at 9:02
p.m. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
XI. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Nelson, seconded by Mayor Swedbere: to adiourn the
Januarv 24, 2001 City Council Meeting at 9:03 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Proofed by: . ,
. ~~~
,_.~
Teresa Bender, Clerk/Treasurer (Staft)
Page 13 of 14
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP
JANUARY 31, 2001
7:30 p.m.
Forwarded to Council
via e-mail on 2/5/01 at 11: 18 a.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held a workshop 0
January 31, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT:
Mayor Tim Swedberg (arrived at 7:40)
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Mari Nelson
ABSENT:
Council Member Linda Brossard Vickers
STAFF:
City Administrator, Jim March
Public Works Director, Paul Pal r
OTHERS
PRESENT:
Ms. Patricia Scott
Ms. Theresa Brenner
Mr. Ray DeVin
Mr. Wayne
I.
of Minnesota Cities Publication. He
se of the workshop was to establish goals for
s. Capra req es ed that she felt ill-prepared for meetings when handouts are presented
e meeting aving little time to be informed on a topic. Mr. March stated that as a
general rule, tlie items presented at council are for informational purposes and the need to
receive same in a timely manner weighed more than inclusion in the next packet.
Consensus was that information that would not pertain to Council consideration be
clearly marked as FYI.
Forwarded to Council
via e-mail on 2/5/0 I at 11: 18 a.m.
Goals and Objectives
Mavor Swedberg's goals:
1. Communications. Mayor Swedberg felt that this item was of the
utmost importance. Mayor Swedberg felt that the website, cable
channel and newsletter were extremely good avenues for
communication to the residents. Council Member Capra stated
that an effort was needed to obtain volunteers to serve on
committees/commissions for a one-year term and the importance
of resident input. Mr. DeVine stated that goals and deadlines of
committee/commissions should be of high importance. Ms.
Nelson suggested that a Communications Ad Hoc Committee be
formed to gather information on the avenues the City currently has
available, determine if the information is readily available,
determine whether residents are informed or do not want to be
informed and make recommendations for modifications if deemed
appropriate. Ms. Patricia Scott and Ms. Theresa Brenner stated
interest in participating on same.
Mayor Swedberg felt that goals must lead to action and be
implemented. Mayor Swedberg stated that Council needed to set
policy, make budgets, allocate it, and make sure that services to the
citizens are what is desired.
2. Youth Recreation. Council Member Capra stated that Mr. Todd
Murawski, Wargo Nature Center, has expressed an interest in
working with the Parks and Recreation Committee.
3. Downtown Revitalization. Mayor Swedberg felt that the property
located by County Road 14 and 35E be contained in a concept
plan. Council Member Travis suggested uniformity in exterior
building products and architectural design. Mr. March felt that the
City did not want to blend with other communities and desired to
express their own individuality.
Mr. March suggested inviting several firms to submit design
sketches for the downtown area. Mr. March stated his willingness
to contact same.
Council Member Nelson's goals:
1. Re-routing of County Road 14. Safety issues surrounding County Road
14 and the 35E on/off ramps.
2. Working with the committees/commissions and establishing uniform by-
laws.
3. Procedures - check list that corresponds with codes, based on ordinances.
Forwarded to Council
via e-mail on 2/5/01 at 11:18 a.m.
Council Member Capra's goals:
1. Begin water tower preliminaries.
2. Pursue communication enhancements.
3. Work with Anoka County Parks to provide youth recreation activities this
summer for Centerville youth.
Council Member Travis' goals:
1. Expand the comp plan to include the up coming commercial gateway to
the City.
2. Expand the existing tax base.
3. Time frame for completion of projects such as sidewalks, curbs and street
maintenance - Public Works Department.
Mayor Swedberg summarized Council's goals.
1. Communication goals to achieve an Ad-Hoc Committee
2. Need for commercial planning and downtown revitalization
3. Recreation - summer programs and skate park
4. Roads and traffic
5 . Work on procedures for achieving goals
Mayor Swedberg suggested that Council consider scheduling workshops monthly.
Ms. Nelson felt that a community center needed to be placed on hold until set goals are
established and resident input is researched further.
Discussion ensued regarding scheduling Council Meetings at 7:00 p.m. versus its current
time of 6:00 p.m. This item will be placed on the Council's agenda for consideration at
its next meeting.
Mr. March felt that workshops would assist Council Members in being informed prior to
the Council meeting and may allow for shorter meetings.
Transcribed by:
Kris Sweeney, Staff
Proofed by:
Teresa Bender, Staff
CITY OF CENTERVlLLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 15, 2001
6:00 p.m.
E-mailed to COIwcil Members
2/23101 at 11:50 a
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly sc Ie
meeting on February 15, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
Council Member Mari Nelson
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Administrator, Jim March
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
L CALL TO ORDER
n.
ilharber be added under Petitions and
seconded b Council Memb r Nelson to
uested addition. All in favor. Motion carried
Ill.
IV
S
nON OF MINUTES
Council Member Capra requested her three goals be added to the workshop minutes. The
goals were e-mailedtoMr.March.Mr. March stated that they were included as
requested.
F ebroary 15, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson requested the modifications be made to the January 24, 2001
meeting minutes: Page 4, where it indicates the type of exterior, building materials used
on the rear of the building should indicate siding not brick. Where it states Mayor
Swedberg requested Mr. Hoeft investigate the costs of electrical in LaMotte Park, it
should state Mr. Peterson. In the adjournment motion, the wrong Council Member was
inserted as the seconding member. Adjourned to the Executive Session, add a sentence
indicating the topic of discussion.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Caora to
approve the January 24. 2001 Council Minutes and the January 31. 2001 Workshop
Meetin2 Minutes as amended. All in favor. Aves - 3 Navs - 0 Abstain - 2
(Broussard Vickers and Travis). Motion carried.
VI. PETmONS AND COMPLAINTS
1. Tom Wilharber Complaint
Mr. Tom Wilharber, 6849 Centerville Road, appeared before Council and questioned the
reasoning for re-scheduling the meeting, noticing same, whether the meeting was re-
scheduled to accommodate one (1) Council Member and whether Council felt they were
in violation of the open meeting law regarding the re-scheduling. Mr. Wilharber stated
that notice of the re-scheduling was not placed on the cable channel or in the Quad
Community Press, as has been the practice in the past.
Mr. March stated that he had received a telephone call requesting that the meeting date be
modified. Mr. March stated that he told the caller he did not feel comfortable with re-
scheduling the meeting unless he heard from a quorum of the Council Members. It had
been noted that Mayor Swedberg was out of town and had mentioned an interest in
having the date moved to Thursday. Mr. March stated that a third Council Member
contact him stating the re-scheduling the meeting was acceptable. Mr. March felt that
subsequent to receiving a quorum requesting the re-scheduling, notice was place in the
vestibule. Mr. March stated that a ten (10) day notice is not required; however, at least a
three (3) day notice is required. An emergency meeting may be called with one (1) day
notice. Mr. March stated that he was not sure of the exact date of the placement of the
notice on the cable channel, but it was more than three (3) days prior to the meeting.
Council Member Capra stated she had received an e-mail from Mr. March concerning the
re-scheduling of the meeting.
Mr. March stated after getting a quorum of calls he notified the other two (2) Council
Members bye-mail stating that the meeting would be re-scheduled.
Council Member Nelson stated she had called on the Monday of the week before the
scheduled meeting date and asked Mr. March if the meeting could be re-scheduled due to
conflicts with two (2) Council Member's schedules. Council Member Nelson stated that
due to same, she requested that Mr. March check with the other Members to ascertain if
the meeting could be re-scheduled. Council Member Nelson stated that she contact
Council Member Capra to ascertain if the re-scheduling was acceptable to her and it was.
Mr. March had e-mailed the other two (2) Council Members and Council Member Nelson
February 15, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
stated she had requested that Mr. March contact them by telephone rather than just e-
mail.
Council Member Travis stated that he felt that the meeting should not have been re-
scheduled due scheduling conflicts with two (2) of the five (5) members. Council
Member Travis strongly felt that meetings needed to be kept on the regularly scheduled
days. Council Member Travis voiced his displeasure over not receiving two-way
communication on this matter. Council Member Travis also stated that he was only
notified of the re-scheduling, not asked his feelings or preference on the matter.
Council Member Nelson stated she had requested that the meeting be re-scheduled and
she now realizes the process is larger than simply calling several people. She stated she
agrees that meetings should not be changed in the future, unless it is an emergency.
Mayor Swedberg stated that another person mentioned the re-scheduling of the meeting.
Mayor Swedberg stated that Council intends on discussing meeting dates and times and
noticing of same.
Mr. Wilharber asked if the Quad Community Press was notified. Mr. March stated he
was unsure; however, it was not needed in this situation.
Mr. Wilharber stated he strongly felt that meetings should not be changed for any thing
other than Federal holidays due to residents be accustomed to the regularly schedule
meeting dates and times. Mr. Wilharber stated that people have other obligations and
changing meetings inconveniences them. Mr. Wilharber questioned whether
coordinating of Council meetings or other coordinating amongst members of the Council
occurs without the consideration of all members could constitute violation of the open
meeting law.
Council Member Capra stated she wanted to stress the meeting was not re-schedule due
to Valentine's Day. Mr. Wilharber stated that the cable channel did.
Council Member Capra questioned who put the statement on the cable channel. Mr.
March indicated it was a staff member. Council Member Capra requested Mr. March
find out which staff member had placed the announcement on the cable channel.
Council Member Nelson apologized for the inconvenience caused by re-scheduling the
meeting.
Mr. Wilharber stated that recently an e-mail was addressed to him as being the Mayor
concerning a local establishment. Mr. Wilharber stated that he had been into City Hall
and Mr. March asked him if he had received the e-mail. Mr. Wilharber stated that he
would read it at home, however, he did not receive same. Mr. Wilharber stated that he
then contacted Mr. March to obtain copy to reply to the complainant, indicate that he was
no longer Mayor and to direct the complainant to tlIe current council.
Council Member Capra stated that when she saw Mr. Wilharber's name on the e-mail she
had requested that Mr. March contact Mr. Wilharber to inform him of same.
February 15,2001
Coweil Meeting Minutes
Mr. Wilharber stated that he was aware of a meeting that had taken place with the
establishment's owner, Mayor Swedberg and Council Member Nelson present. Mr.
Wilharber questioned whether other members of Council had been informed of or invited
to same.
Mr. Hoeft stated that he had been contacted and advised Mayor Swedberg that only two
(2) members be present to alleviate any open meeting law violations.
Both Council Members Travis and Broussard Vickers indicated they were informed of
the meeting but were not invited to participate.
Mr. Wilharber questioned whether Mr. Defoe was requested to demonstrate dancing
styles as alleged. Mr. Hoeft stated he did not believe any dancing styles were
demonstrated.
Mr. Wilharber questioned whether the City is on a business witch-hunt to harass certain
businesses in town, as it appears this is the case, because some businesses are being
targeted for not removing snow and others are not. Mr. Wilharber stated it is fair to
notice all businesses not properly removing snow not just a select few. Mr. March
explained the notice to the business owner Mr. Wilharber is referring to, stenImed from a
citizen complaint concerning the removal.
Mr. Wilharber requested that Council Member Nelson issue a public apology to the Cable
Operator for the degrading comment she made at the last Council meeting. Mr.
Wilharber explained that Council Member Nelson had made the comment, "You can
wake up now Patricia." Mr. Wilharber stated he felt this was an insult to the Cable
Operator and uncalled for.
Council Member Nelson apologized for the comment and stated she did not mean it to be
degrading or insulting, but was merely making light of the length of the meeting.
VB. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
vm. NEW BUSINESS
1. Commercial/Retail Center - Lloyd Drilling
Mr. Drilling presented exterior drawings of the proposed building and stated that the
rootline has had caps added to. Mr. Drilling also presented a drawing representing the
rear of the building indicating siding and roof color.
Council Member Capra questioned whether a cement sidewalk would be installed near
the rear of the building. Mr. Drilling concurred.
Mr. Drilling presented a landscape plan and stated that the trees currently on the site will
be relocated to the rear of the property. Mr. Drilling also stated that the fencing will
Febroary 15,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
match the neighbor's fence and that a chain link fence with a vision screen will enclose
the refuse container.
Council Member Capra questioned Mr. Peterson whether there would be enough "line of
sight" around the trees located in the front comer of the building. Mr. Peterson felt that
there would be based on the presented plan. Mr. Drilling stated that the trees could be
moved if deemed appropriate by the County.
Council Member Capra questioned whether Council would be reviewing the Developer's
Agreement presented at the previous Council meeting. Mr. March stated he had copies of
the document with the blanks filled in and reviewed same. Mr. March stated that Council
would be given copies of the document for review prior to considering same at the next
meeting.
Council Member Capra questioned whether an eight (8) foot wide trailway meets City
requirements. Mr. March explained that an eight (8) foot trailway is standard throughout
the community and a ten (10) foot wide trailway is reserved for major eastlwest trails.
Mr. March stated he had given the Anoka County trail information to Mr. Drilling's
architect.
Mr. March stated that Council needed to indicate a dollar amount for trail improvements
to be made to the previously installed trail at the Apple Tree Square facility.
Mr. Drilling questioned whether repairs to the trail were included in the Developer's
Agreement for this property. Mr. March explained Council wanted to see the trailway
completed in conjunction with this project. Mr. Drilling stated that he did not have a
problem with same; however, additional factors may need to be considered, Le., Anoka
County and the Rice Creek Watershed District. Mr. March stated he would like to
escrow a dollar amount for completion of the trail and if the trailway was not completed,
the City could draw on the letter of credit. Mr. Drilling stated that he was unprepared for
the City to tie the trailway project with the proposed project. Mr. Drilling questioned the
estimated cost of same.
Mr. March stated that Mr. Peterson would provide the dollar amount for the trailway
project.
Mr. Drilling stated he was willing to spend $5,000 if the City was willing to contribute
the remainder to complete the project. Mr. Drilling stated that he did not feel it was fair
to tie this project in with the proposed project due to the trail being installed to standards
and City requirements not being presented to him prior to installation. Mr. Drilling
requested that the City remove the trailway repairs from the Developer's Contract. Mr.
Drilling stated his willingness to work in conjunction with the City on the trailway and
suggested that the City agree to a completion date of June 1, 2003 for the trailway.
Council Member Capra questioned the appropriate action to be taken on this matter. Mr.
Peterson stated that trailway is not in the Anoka County right-of-way. Mr. March stated
that Anoka County had stated that they would not require the ditch to remain there if the
City uses a piping that meets their drainage requirements.
February 15, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether approval of the site plan hinged on the western
trailway issue being resolved. Mr. March stated that once the City approves the plan, the
only assurance of completion of the western trailway would be Mr. Drilling's word that
he will complete it.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Council was being asked to approve the
Developer's Agreement this evening. Mr. March stated that it was Council's discretion.
Mr. March stated he would like to have Mr. Peterson provide an estimate of the costs to
complete the western trailway.
Council Member Capra stated she felt the plan was a good plan but felt uncomfortable
approving the Developer's Agreement without review. Council Member Capra
concurred with Mr. March in regards to providing estimated costs prior to the next
meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether the house to the east would have
its front window screened from headlights. Council Member Broussard Vickers asked
Mr. Drilling to make sure that the house is screened from headlights even if it meant
extending the fence and berm along the eastern property line. Mr. Drilling stated that the
fence and berm ended at the window of the house to the east and gave Council his
assurance of same.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she would also like to see some low-lying
Arborvitaes on the exterior of the fence on the Shad Avenue. Council Member Broussard
Vickers stated that she was fine with the Developer's Agreement and stated she did not
want to tie the western trailway to this development. Council Member Broussard Vickers
stated the fact that Mr. Drilling is willing to invest in redeveloping the trailway, is above
and beyond what the City can require. Council Member Broussard Vickers also stated
that the City has no right to ask him to do so as there were no standards in place at the
time the trailway was installed. Mr. Drilling has already made a good faith effort by
stating he would share in the costs with the City and requiring him to pay for the
complete trailway is beyond reason. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she did
not want the western trailway to be contained in the Developer's Agreement. Council
Member Broussard Vickers felt that the City made the mistake with the current trailway
and not Mr. Drilling. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the site plan meets
with her approval provided the house to the east is properly screened.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested copies of the completed Developer's
Agreement be included in their packet for the next meeting for consideration.
Council Member Nelson stated her fondness of the location of shrubbery on the exterior
side of the fence, as its visibility from Main Street would be likely. Council Member
Nelson also stated that she felt the western trailway was a joint responsibility between the
City and Mr. Drilling and not anyone (1) party was wholly responsible. Council
Member Nelson stated that she would agree with a separate document covering
completion requirements of the western trail way rather than containing same in this
Developer's Agreement.
February 15,2001
Colll1Cil Meeting Minutes
Mr. Drilling stated his willingness to enter into an agreement with the City to share in the
expenses to repair the existing trailway.
Council Member Travis stated he had no problems with the architecture of the building
and he believes that Mr. Drilling has addressed all issues raised and then some. Council
Member Travis stated he would like have the figures associated with the western trailway
prior to entering into an agreement with Mr. Drilling to complete same. If there needs to
be a major redesign of the ditch it may be cost prohibitive to rebuilt the trailway to gain a
mere two (2) feet on the path. The end result may not justify the costs endured by the
City. The dips in the current trailway are needed for drainage. Council Member Travis
stated that he would like to see a joint effort on the part of the City and Mr. Drilling in
regards to the existing trailway. Council Member Travis felt that the Developer's
Agreement and the trailway issue should be separate issues.
Mayor Swedberg clarified Council's desire to review the Developer's Agreement prior to
consideration, a separate document governing the completion of the western trailway, an
estimate of costs from Mr. Peterson, screening of the home to the east of the building,
and Arborvitaes placed on the exterior of the fence closest to Shad Avenue.
Mr. March questioned whether Council approved of the landscaping plan as submitted.
Council concurred.
Mayor Swedberg questioned Mr. Hoeft as to the appropriate action to be taken at this
time and Mr. Hoeft suggested tabling the item.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Caora to table aooroval of the Develooer's A2reement to the next Council meetin2
to allow Council amole time to review the document. All in favor. Aves - 4 Navs -I
(Travis). Motion carried.
Council Member Travis stated he is opposed to tabling the item as he feels Mr. Drilling
has met each and every requirement of the City and residents alike.
Mr. Drilling questioned whether all requirements had been met with the exception of
Council reviewing the Developer's Agreement and Mr. Peterson preparing estimates for
the western trailway. Council concurred and Mr. Drilling thanked Council.
2. Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park - Electrical Installation Request
Mayor Swedberg stated that previously Council had discussed Parks and Recreation
Committee'slFete des Lacs Committee's request for installation of electricity at Laurie
LaMotte Memorial Park. Mayor Swedberg stated that Ms. Karla DeVine was present to
discuss this item with Council.
Ms. DeVine explained that the Parks and Recreation Committee had made a motion to
request that Council commence requests for proposals to install electricity to Laurie
LaMotte Memorial Park. Ms. DeVine explained the costs associated with same are not
contained in the Parks and Recreation Committee's budget for 2001 or 2002. The Parks
and Recreation Committee feels that the entire community would benefit from the
February 15, 200 1
COWlcil Meeting Minutes
installation and requests that Council consider using general funds to assist in same. Ms.
DeVine stated that providing electrical services to the park should be a priority allowing
additional improvements to follow. Ms. DeVine relayed horrendous problems relating to
the festival last year with not having electricity available for R.V., rides, vendors, etc.
Ms. DeVine stated that the Centerville Lions Club is considering construction of a
concession stand at the park and the need for electric sources for same.
Mr. Peterson reviewed the estimated costs for installation of electricity at the park with
Council noting that the park would benefit from sewer, water and parking lot
improvements at some point.
Council Member Capra clarified that $66,730 would provide power to electrical poles
and a main junction box in the park for a future building. Mr. Peterson concurred.
Mayor Swedberg summarized the costs stating that sewer would cost approximately
$15,000, water would cost approximately $3,000, paving of the parking lot would cost
approximately $62,000, concession building would cost approximately $125,000, and
electrical installation would cost approximately $67,000. Mayor Swedberg stated that the
City could choose to phase in various improvements, do no improvements or complete all
improvements at one (1) time.
Mr. Peterson stated that consideration should be given to the order of improvements if
improvements are desired. For example the parking lot should not be paved until sewer
and water are installed at the park. Mr. Peterson also explained that the City has yet to
receive approval for a submitted permit to connect to the MCES lift station.
Ms. DeVine stated that funds for paving of the parking lot are contained in the Parks and
Recreation Committee budget for 2002 or 2003. However, the Parks and Recreation
Committee was intending on paving the parking lot when LaMotte Drive was repaved.
Mayor Swedberg stated the proposed entire project would cost $312,000.
Ms. DeVine reminded Council the CenterviUe Lions Club has proposed paying $125,000
for construction of a concession stand and the $62,000 for paving the parking lot would
be expended from the Parks and Recreation Committee's budget.
Mr. Bill Bisek, Kelly's Korner, appeared before Council and requested that Council fund
the electrical installation as it would be a great asset to the community to improve the
park and be able to host various recreational activities. Mr. Bisek explained that the park
does not need everything proposed right now, but simply the electricity to make it
functional.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked Mr. Bisek if the park had electricity and the
City hosted softball tournaments, how the fees would be distributed. Council Member
Broussard Vickers questioned whether the City would retain a portion of the fees.
Mr. Bisek explained the teams are each charged an entry fee which in applied for
purchasing trophies, maintenance of the fields, and other costs. The City could profit
from concessions, parking, and by drawing people to the community.
February 15,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if it would be fair to say there would be, at
some point, money to be made by the person or entity hosting the tournament and monies
left over for the City. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that it would be helpful
if the City could rely on recouping improvement costs in a certain amount of time.
Mr. Bisek stated a good park and recreation program would support itself. One (1)
tournament will not pay for the costs to improve the park but over the course of several
years it will generate income and become profitable.
Mayor Swedberg clarified Council had asked Mr. Peterson for a cursory estimate of what
the various aspects of improvements would cost prior to considering installation of
electricity or agreeing to undertake any of the other parts of the estimate.
Mr. Bisek stated that the Parks and Recreation Committee is simply requesting a
solicitation for bids for installation electricity at the park.
Council Member Broussard Vickers explained before Council can request bids, it needs
to know if it can pay the general amount. Council has requested estimates to ascertain
the funding needed if improvements are desired.
Mr. Bisek reminded Council there was electricity at the park but it was totally destroyed
and Council needs to decide if it wants to fund electricity to make it a functional park or
not. If Council waits too long to improve the park, surrounding communities will
improve their parks and draw residents away from the City. Mr. Bisek request that
Council not to cloud the picture for the park by adding all the various things discussed,
simply consider adding the electricity to make the park functional. .
Council Member Capra stated she agrees the City has a need for recreation but stated
there are some nice, functional parks in the City that do not have ball fields. She then
clarified Council is simply looking at approving electricity at the park at this point, but
wanted an idea as to what the other costs would be.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the 64-team regional softball tournament is a
sure thing if electricity is installed in the park
Mr. Bisek explained he was asked to set up a softball tournament for the Fete des Lacs
Festival again this year. The Festival was moved to a date one (1) week later than last
year and the plan was to draw a state-qualifying tournament. It was discovered that the
Festival was on the same weekend as a regional tournament. Mr. Bisek contacted the
head of USSSA for clarification on the qualifications and found out that the league had
an opening for a regional tournament, which is 100010 paid for by the state. The City
would get 100010 of the revenues from parking and concessions. Last year there were 64
teams in the Region I tournament, which adds up to approximately 640 players. Since
then, Mr. Bisek has found out that the City will be hosting a Region 5 tournament, which
has 36 teams. Mr. Bisek estimates the softball tournament will draw approximately 1,000
people into the City. The City has been named host of the tournament and it is possible
to host the tournament without Council support if needed.
February IS, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. March noted it would not make sense for the City to have invested a half million
dollars in the purchase of the property and improvements to the park if the City did not
intend to make good use of the park by continued improvement. What this boils down to
is the next logical step for the park, which seems to be installing electricity to make the
park more functional for a variety of uses. The problem IS the city wiH spend aimoSt
$70,000 for electricity, which is not something that looks glamorous or is noticeable
when completed. Mr. March recommended a workshop to discuss how to fund the
electrical installation and time frame for other improvements. Mr. March stated he
anticipates all of these items will happen in the park over time but Council needs to
determine timeframes. Mr. March stated that the 1987 street bond and the City Hall
building will be paid for in a couple of years and there will be more money available for
park improvements.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked Mr. March if it were possible to take the funds
out of the general account this year. Mr. March stated it was possible, but Council should
discuss the issues involved with same in a workshop setting.
Mayor Swedberg questioned when the softball tournament was scheduled to take place.
Mr. Bisek said the tournament was in August. Mayor Swedberg then asked if the
tournament could be run without lights.
Mr. Bisek stated if there were 32 teams with the tournament starting on Friday night it is
possible to host all the games at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park, provided there were
lights. If there were 64 teams or if there is no electricity, then some of the games would
be held in Lino Lakes at lighted fields. The Festival Committee would need to pay
$16.00 per hour to use the fields.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the City would be charging residents to park
for the Festival. Mr. Bisek stated it has been discussed. The income generated from
charging for parking could be used to help fund the parade.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated Council would set a workshop date to discuss
funding for the electrical installation. Once funding is determined, there would be
discussion of the bids.
Mayor Swedberg stated Council was not prepared to make a decision at this meeting on
funding for the electrical installation, as it needs further discussion and consideration.
Ms. DeVine questioned why Council could not decide to authorize the bid process.
Council Member Capra explained Council needs to further discuss funding sources for
the electricity and the time frame for improvements to the park prior to soliciting bids for
same. Council Member Capra stated she believes it is possible to have an answer on
whether and when electricity will be installed in Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park
sometime within the next two (2) or three (3) weeks.
Mr. Peterson stated that electrical installation is a smaller project and would not take long
to complete.
Febmary 15,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. DeVine stated she did not believe it costs the City any money to solicit for bids and
suggested Council solicit for bids and then decide the funding for those bids.
Council Member Broussard Vickers explained it does cost money and Council has not
given the final approval for moving ahead with installing electricity at the park. She then
asked Ms. DeVine to have the Parks and Recreation Committee determine which field
would be the second field to have power installed the south or the east field and report
back to Council.
Mayor Swedberg stated that Council needs to consider budgets to determine where the
needs lie and decide where the funds will be expended from for the installations.
Mr. Bisek stated there may be funds available through Xcel Energy and suggested the
City contact them to see if they would be willing to run the power, at little or no cost to
the City, knowing they will reap the benefit of usage of that power.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated Council needed to determine the final scope of
the project prior to soliciting bids.
Consensus was to set a workshop date to discuss these issues.
3. Ad Hoc Communications Committee
Ms. Theresa Brenner, 7206 Clear Ridge, submitted a list of ideas for organizing the
committee.
Council Member Capra questioned whether six (6) months was an ample amount of time
to make recommendations to Council. Ms. Brenner stated she did not want the process to
go into the fall and stated she felt the group would stay more focused if there were a
definite deadline.
Council Member Capra asked Mr. Hoeft if the City agrees to form this ad hoc committee
as an advisory committee, would there need to be minutes and formal notice of meetings.
Mr. Hoeft explained that since the Committee would not be conducting any official City
business, but merely acting in an advisory capacity, Council would set the only
requirements.
Council Member Nelson complimented Ms. Brenner on the outline presented and stated
she would like to know what the costs of improved or different means of communication
would be.
Council Member Capra stated she would like to see the committee open to as many
residents as are interested in serving.
Ms. Brenner stated she was concerned that the Committee not violate the open meeting
law. Mr. Hoeft stated the Committee would not need to worry about the open meeting
law because it would not deal with official City business. There is no quorum
February 15,2001
COlIIlCiI Meeting Minutes
requirement and no posting requirements as the meetings are strictly for informational
purposes.
Mayor Swedberg stated he would like to try and create a system where Council depends
on public input and this Committee helps Council gather and interpret same.
Council Member Capra stated she would like to see the Committee meet with and get
information from the current communications people.
Council Member Travis stated the people usually at the Council meetings are there in
opposition to something and usually the main complaint is lack of knowledge. Council
Member Travis stated any way the City can improve communication with residents is a
good idea.
Ms. Brenner questioned where Council would like to start. Council Member Broussard
Vickers stated she thought it would be appropriate to start with the website and cable
channel. Council Member Capra suggested the Committee prioritize the list and present
it to Council.
Council Member Nelson stated she would like a centralized way to distribute information
from residents to Council Members such as one phone line that feeds into the voice mail
of all Council Members.
Council Member Nelson suggested an area on the website that residents could post
questions for the City to answer.
Council Member Travis requested the City use systems already in place but work to
improve them.
Mr. March stated the citizen survey may be a valuable tool for communications and
suggested the City use it and look into other alternatives to reach those that do not read
newspapers or watch television.
Mayor Swedberg suggested using information from The League of Minnesota Cities to
get information on ways to inform citizens.
Mr. March stated Council would need to assign some costs to the technology and time to
inform residents. If the communication suggested would be overtaxing to current City
capabilities that would need to be discussed in the report, as the City may need to hire
additional staff.
Council Member Capra stated she would like to make sure the Committee does not run
into conflicts of interest by having members benefiting financially from suggestions
made by being on the Committee.
Motion bv Mavor Swedbel'2. seconded bv Council Member Travis to authorize the
formation of an Ad-hoc Citizen Communications Task Force and aoPOint Theresa
Brenner as chair. AU in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
F ebrnary 15, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson left the room at 8:09 p.m.
4. Resolution #01-003 (Cable Franchise Extension)
Mr. March explained the cable franchise is in negotiations to extend the franchise until
May 28,2001.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
CaDra to extend the cable franchise to Mav 28. 2001. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
Council Member Nelson was not present for the vote.
5. Police Commission Chair - Ms Karen Varian
Mr. March recommended that Karen Varian be appointed as the Chair for the Police
Commission. All the candidates impressed the panel, and it was a difficult decision.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Travis to acc~Dt the recommendation of the nine-member Danel and aDooint Karen
Varian as Chair of the Police Commission. AU in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
Council Member Nelson was not present for the vote.
6. Staffing Update
Mr. March recommended that Kris Sweeney be promoted to the position of Account
Clerk IT with a 60-day probationary period. If at the end of the probationary period Kris
is performing the duties of the position then the City will advertise to fill the a full time
Receptionist position. If at the end of the probationary period Kris is unable to perfonn
the duties of the accounting position, then she would be moved back to the Receptionist
position and the City would advertise to fill the accounting position. During the 60-day
probationary period, Jill Lien will add an additional day per week to her nonnal work
schedule of three days per week.
Council Member Capra asked if Ms. Lien would be going to full time pennanently. Mr.
March stated his recommendation is to increase her work schedule to four (4) days per
week until the City hires a full time Receptionist and then she would go back to three (3)
days per week.
Council Member Nelson asked how many days per week Laura Thompson had been
working. Mr. March indicated she was working roughly 32 hours per week.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested if at all possible any new hire be computer
literate to bring a stronger technical knowledge base into the City.
Mr. March stated that if within 30 days Ms. Sweeney has not demonstrated the ability to
pick up the task, the City would begin advertising for the position.
February 15,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg clarified that if after the probationary period expires and it is
determined that Ms. Sweeney is not fulfilling the duties of the accounting position she
would be returned to the Receptionist position. Mr. March concurred.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Canra to accent the recommendation of Staff to offer the oosition of Account Oerk
n to Kris Sweeney with a 6o-dav orobationarv oeriod commencin3 on Februarv 16.
2001. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
7. Resolution #01-004 (Downtown).
Mr. March explained this is just the first step in the formal process as outlined in Chapter
429 for assessment and improvement projects. The City received a petition and needs to
accept it by resolution. A feasibility study will be prepared as the next step if the Mr.
Peterson does not need to update it then Council would accept it at the next meeting and
follow the steps as outlined for the process.
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to
aonrove Resolution #01-004 (Downtown) accentinS! the netition for assessment and
imorovements. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
8. Meeting NoticeslDateslTimes
Mayor Swedberg explained this item is on the agenda to discuss proper dates, times, and
proper noticing for Council meetings.
Mr. March stated one of the suggestions he received was to place the notice of a meeting
change on neon colored paper in the front vestibule of the building to draw attention to
the notice. He then suggested Council discuss when it is appropriate to change the date
of a Council meeting and setting a regular day for workshops.
Council Member Nelson inquired as to the costs to publish the agenda for the Council
meeting. Mr. March explained publishing legal notices is expensive and stated he is not
sure how much it would cost to publish the Council agenda.
Mayor Swedberg asked Mr. Wilharber his opinion on how to get the word out to people
on Council meeting dates. Mr. Wilharber stated that people are creatures of habit and do
not like when the schedule changes. He suggested picking a date and time and sticking
with that barring an emergency.
Mayor Swedberg noted Council had decided the second and fourth Wednesdays would
remain the days for the Council meetings.
Mayor Swedberg noted the notice in the paper should be the same as what is put on the
cable access channel. He also suggested advertising the committee meetings and
including the topic for the meeting.
Council Member Capra suggested Staff look into the cost to list the topic of the meeting
in the newspaper.
February 15, 200 I
ColDlcil Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg stated he was willing to spend a little money if need be to keep
residents informed.
Mayor Swedberg stated it was hard for him to get to the meetings at 6:00 p.m., as he has
to take vacation time to get here on time. He questioned if it would be all right with
Council to move the meeting to 6:30 p.m. He also suggested that whatever time is set for
the Council meeting the same time be set for all committees within the City.
Council Member Travis indicated he was fine with the 6:00 p.m. start time and stated he
would be okay with 6:30 p.m. but no later as the meetings have a tendency to run late.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she would make 6:30 p.m. work but no later
as the meetings run long. She also stated she did not feel Council should set the times for
committees as she feels they should at least have the authority to decide the time of their
meeting.
Council Member Capra stated she has a hard time making a 6:00 p.m. meeting and stated
6:30 p.m. would be easier for her.
Council Member Nelson stated she was okay with a 6:30 p.m. start time but not any later.
She also stated she would like to communicate to the committees that Council would
prefer them to hold their meetings at the same time as Council.
Mr. Wilharber noted that sometimes Council would get a presentation that went on for
hours and hours or a resident that goes on for quite some time so the Council meetings
were changed to an earlier start time to accommodate that.
Council Member Capra stated she felt Council needed to limit people's comments at
public hearings and suggested a time limit of ten (10) minutes with one chance for
rebuttal
Mr. Wilharber noted many cities have a five (5) minute time limit and allow a resident to
speak only once on a particular subject.
Mr. Hoeft stated five (5) minutes is the standard time limit for resident input. In larger
cities there is actually a podium with lights that change from green to yellow to red to let
the resident know they need to wrap up their comments.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Caora to chant!e
the start time of the Council Meetino to 6:30 o.m. be2inoint! with the first meetint!
in March. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Council Member Travis stated he was not in favor of regularly scheduled workshops. He
stated that when there is a need for one he has not missed one but is not in favor of
scheduling them just for the sake of having a meeting.
Council Member Capra stated she feels there is a lot of information that will need to be
discussed and that Council could shorten the length of the regular meetings by having
discussion at a workshop.
February 15, 2001
COImci1 Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra noted the Planning and Zoning Committee had a workshop that
was attended by the public. She questioned whether the Committee has to allow public
input at the workshop. Mr. Hoeft stated the City does not have to answer to the public at
the workshop.
Council Member Capra clarified the meeting is open to the public but there is no need for
comments or questions to Council or the Committee.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she was not in favor of regular workshops as
she feels residents are used to Council discussing issues at the regular meeting. She then
stated she is not willing to come to a workshop once a month as she would rather stay late
at a Council meeting rather than attend a regular workshop meeting. She also questioned
when Council intended to discuss Council liaisons to committees.
Mayor Swedberg asked Council Members Travis and Broussard Vickers if there appears
to be a need for a workshop on a specific subject would they be willing to meet for a
workshop.
Council Members Travis and Broussard Vickers stated they were fine with an occasional
workshop on an as needed basis but did not see the need for a monthly workshop.
Council Member Capra suggested discussing the liaisons to committees at the workshop.
Mayor Swedberg stated he thought Council needed to state what would be discussed at a
workshop and stick to that subject. Mr. Hoeft concurred.
Council Member Nelson stated she would like to have goals and budgets for the Park and
Recreation Committee available at the workshop.
Consensus was to schedule a workshop for February 27, 2001 at 6:30 p.m.
Mr. Wilharber requested Council carefully consider future development when
considering how to proceed with the park and cautioned Council against doing anything
half way as that would end up costing the City and taxpayers more money in the long run.
Council Member Capra stated she had spoken to Father Fitzgerald and he told her the
Archdioceses had given the church the okay to develop a plan for either expanding the
current church building or building a new church. She noted the church seemed willing
to work with the City on a possible land swap.
Mr. Wilharber pointed out he attends St. Mary's and St. Genevieve's and when St.
Mary's reconstructed the original church they were careful to keep the historical nature of
the building which is something he hopes St. Genevieve's keeps in mind for their
expansion.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Caora to
schedule a workshon for Februarv 27. 2001 at 6:30 n.m. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
Februmy 15,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
9. Ms. Patricia Scott Letter
Mr. March explained Ms. Patricia Scott, 7067 Goiffon Street, had submitted a letter to the
City requesting payment for services she would have provided the City for taping the
City Council meeting on Wednesday, February 14, 2001. She stated in her letter she was
not properly notified of the change of meeting date and as she was previously booked
was not able to attend. If the meeting had taken place on Wednesday as scheduled, she
would have been available and, as such, she feels she is entitled to payment.
Mr. March stated the City typically would not pay someone in this type of situation,
which is why this item is before Council.
Council Member Capra questioned whether there was an agreement between the City and
Ms. Scott stating she would be paid if the meeting was not held on a scheduled date. Mr.
March indicated there was nothing in writing.
Motion bv Council Member Caora. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to deny
the reauest for oavment from Ms. Scott.
Council Member Travis stated he had no problem paying her, as it was not her fault the
meeting was changed without much notice.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that even though there is nothing in writing
concerning Council meeting dates it has been the same two Wednesdays of the month for
a long, long time. Ms. Scott is a freelance professional who books her time and counts on
her income. She had booked Wednesday evening and was available to the City even
though the City changed the meeting date. She then stated she feels Ms. Scott should be
compensated for the meeting as she was available and the City did not provide much
notice to her of the change in meeting date.
Council Member Nelson asked how much notice Ms. Scott received. Mr. March stated
he believed she got approximately a nine (9) day notice.
Council Member Capra asked Staff to formally contact the cable operator and recording
secretary in the event of any future change in meeting dates or times.
All in favor. Aves - 2 (Caora. Nelson) Navs - 3 (Swedbel'2. Travis. Broussard
Vicken). Motion failed.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vicken. seconded bv Council Member
Travis to Day Ms. Scott the amount she would have received had she been oresent
for the meetinl!. All in favor. Aves - 4: Navs -1 (Caora). Motion carried.
Council Member Capra requested a friendly amendment to suggest a specific time to give
notice of a change of meeting. Council Member Broussard Vickers denied the friendly
amendment request.
10. Sensus $quipmentJInstallationlUpgrades - Software)
February 15,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Pa1zer was not available to discuss this matter as he was videotaping the meeting.
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to table discussion of tbis item to tbe next Council meetinS!. AU in favor.
Motion carried unanimouslv.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City ofCenterville January 25, through February 9,2001 Expenditures
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve tbe Consent Al!enda for items 1. and 2. as presented. AU in
favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
x. COMMITfEE REPORTS
None.
XL ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. March reported that Mr. LaMotte had resigned his position on the Planning and
Zoning Commission.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the City would be doing something to thank Mr.
LaMotte for his years of service to the City. Mr. March stated Mr. LaMotte would be
recognized at the holiday event and given a plaque to thank him for his years of service to
the City,
Council Member Nelson stated it might be nice in the future to put a note in the paper
when committee members resign from service as a way of recognizing them along with
the holiday event and plaque presentation.
XIL ADJOU~NT
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to adiourn tbe February 15.2001 City Council Meetinl! at 9:17 p.m. AU in
favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Proofed by:
Teresa Bender, ClerkfIreasurer
.
.~.
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 28, 2001
6:00 p.m.
E-mailed to Council Memb
3/8/01 at 10:10 a "
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly sc
meeting on February 28, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
Council Member Mari Nelson
ABSENT: None
STAFF: City Administrator, Jim March
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
Public Works Director ildi g
I. TO ORDER
e rua 28,200, Counc' meeting to order at 6:06 p.m.
S outs ere resent in the audience to learn about
ssi t them' obtaining a merit badge.
II.
er Broussard Vickers seconded b Council Member
nda with the above stated amendment. All in favor.
III.
IV.
None.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Council Member Nelson requested that the following modifications be made: On Page 2,
Petitions, modify the reference to Mayor Swedberg being out of town to read "it had been
February 28, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
noted the Mayor Swedberg was out of town and would return on Thursday". On Page 4,
Mr. Wilharber called Mayor Swedberg a council member; modify the reference to Mayor
Swedberg. On Page 8, reword it to state the City is "intending on paving the parking lot".
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the February 15. 2001 Council minutes as amended. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
Council Member Capra read an e-mail received from Ms. Michele Wroblewski
concerned about snow removal from sidewalks. The e-mail requested that the City
enforce the snow removal policy for the safety of residents, especially children. Ms.
Michele Wroblewski stated that she had spoken with Mr. March who had stated that the
City does not enforce the snow removal ordinance. Mr. March clarified the discussion
that he had with the resident. Mr. March stated that the City does not actively enforce the
ordinance, meaning that the City does not inspect sidewalks following snow falls,
however, addresses issue on a complaint basis. Mr. March also stated that the resident's
complaint was not for one (1) specific area, but for several.
Council Member Capra questioned whether other ordinances are enforced on a complaint
basis also. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that most ordinances are and
suggested that the City forward a letter reminding residents of the snow removal
ordinance.
Mr. March stated several cities hire seasonal workers to bring code violations to the
attention of the City. Mr. March stated that it is impossible for the existing Public Works
Staff to act as code enforcement personnel. Mr. March also stated that if the City had
code enforcement personnel to cite residents in violation of ordinances, the issue of
residents not getting along with their neighbors and complaining about each other would
cease.
Mr. Hoeft stated that the procedure of enforcing ordinances on a complaint basis was an
appropriate practice.
Council Member Nelson suggested that Staff look into the costs associated with the
hiring of a code enforcement officer. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated the fines
for ordinance violations should be significant to cover the costs of same.
Mayor Swedberg requested that Staff research the complaint and discuss the snow
removal ordinance with neighbors and request that they remove the snow from the
sidewalks in question.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested that Staff place an announcement
concerning snow removal from sidewalks on the sign outside City Hall, in the LeJournal
and Quad Community Press.
Council Member Travis suggested that friendly reminders be forwarded to residents
requesting the removal of snow from the sidewalks.
Page 2 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. CommerciallRetail Center - Llovd Drilling
Mayor Swedberg stated that Council had reviewed the Developer's Agreement and
questioned whether Council had any concerns that it desired to be addressed.
Council Member Capra questioned the private improvements completion date of 2002.
Council Member Capra expressed her concern for residential property abutting same.
Mr. Peterson stated that it is common to allow a year for final improvements to be made
and allow ample time for settling and grass or sod installation.
Council Member Travis questioned whether Me. Drilling had a problem with requiring
the improvements to be completed by December 31, 2001. Me. Drilling stated that
completion would be subsequent to weather conditions. Mr. Drilling stated his desire to
complete same by the end of the year.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the City typically allows one and a half (1
Y>) seasons to complete a project in order to accommodate weather conditions.
Mr. March stated that releasing the letter of credit provided by the developer is incentive
for completion of the project.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether Mr. March reviewed the Developer's
Agreement to ensure that all ordinances were met. Mr. March concurred. Mr. March
stated that language regarding the western trail had been excluded from the agreement.
Council Member Nelson stated that she believed Council consensus was to enter into a
separate agreement for same.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested that Mr. Drilling check with the City to
ensure that no changes had been made in the trail requirements prior to construction of
same.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Travis to approve the Developer's Al:reement as presented. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
Mr. Drilling requested that Council approve combining the two (2) parcels in order to
receive a new property identification number. Consensus was to approve same.
Council Member Nelson requested that Staff research trail requirements for this area with
Anoka County and the Rice Creek Watershed District. Mr. March suggested that Council
Page 3 of 14
February 28,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
direct Mr. Peterson to prepare a cost estimate for same. Council requested that Mr.
Peterson prepare a cost estimate and research the requirements to fill in the ditch and
reconstruct the trail to correct the slope noting Council desired to know the possibility of
reconstructing the trail by filling in the ditch and associated costs. Mr. Peterson
requested delaying this item until spring allowing ample surveying of the property.
2. Sensus (Equipment/lnstallationlUpgrades - Software)
Mr. March referred to a memo submitted by Staff requesting purchasing of software. Mr.
March that the funds to purchase same would be expended from the Water Fund. Mr.
March stated that the software would save time and steps in posting information to the
accounting software.
Mayor Swedberg stated that caller identification and a dedicated phone line would also
need to be installed and not included in the recommended software purchase in the
amount of$4,685.
Mr. Palzer stated that Council would need to decide if it desired to charge residents a
$100 installation fee for units to be installed in homes more than three (3) years old.
Council Member Capra stated she had received concerns from residents who may have
purchased homes that had previously been modified without appropriate permits.
Council Member Capra stated that residents are concerned about ramifications from the
City in regards to same. Mr. March explained that Staff would more than likely do sump
pump inspections at the same time as meter programming/installation. Mr. March stated
that the City would ensure proper use of same. Mr. March stated that in his opinion, the
City does not desire to "heavy hand" residents and charge them for modifications that
may have been completed without appropriate permits.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether a resident could refuse the installation of the unit.
Mr. Hoeft explained that a resident could refuse same, however, an Administrative
Search Warrant could be obtained by the City to allow access and installation of same.
Mr. Palzer stated that Staff would not be looking to fine residents, however, if an
immediate safety concern existed it would need to be addressed.
Council Member Nelson suggested notifying residents that they can expect to pay $100
for the unit. Mr. March stated that he anticipated this to be a fairly lengthy installation
process so residents would not see the unit installed for some time.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to approve the purchase of the Sensus software as presented. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
3. Pheasant Marsh
Mr. March stated that Ground Development was present to request permission to amend
the Comprehensive Plan for the MUSA land swap. Ground Development would escrow
Page 4 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
money with the City to contract with the firm that drafted the original Comprehensive
Plan to amend and re-submit same to the Metropolitan Council for their approval.
Council Member Capra questioned whether there were additional amendments that
needed to be addressed. Mr. March explained that Staff would research same and if
needed, submit those along with Ground Development's amendment.
Mayor Swedberg questioned Mr. Terry Hannah for clarification on the MUSA land swap.
He then questioned whether Dupre Road would continue through the development in the
beginning or if it would be expanded in stages. Mr. Hannah explained the three (3)
phases of construction.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Travis to approve the request for permission to pursue a MUSA swap and
Comprehensive Plan amendment. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
4. Design Proposals
Mr. March stated that he had. received two (2) design proposals from landscape
architecture firms for idea$ in regards to streetscapes and building designs within the
City. Same was contained in Council packets for review. Staff would be receiving two
,ll.i .... ,
(2) more proposals and would forward them to Council. Mr. March suggested Council
arrange interviews with all four (4) companies either in a workshop or Council meeting
subsequent to receipt and review of all submissions.
Council Member Capra questioned the difference between a City Planner and a City
Engineer. Mr. Peterson explained that a Landscape Architect researches details of
landscaping and building~ and a City Planner researches zoning requirements and larger
issues surrounding the City's growth.
Council Member Capra suggested the City investigate hiring a City Planner on an as
needed basis. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that a planner is very
expensive. Mr. March stated that a City Planner primarily focuses on zoning issues and
ordinances. A Landscape Architect actually provides sketches and diagrams for a
specific landscaping and architectural style for the City.
5. Traffic Study - Intersection of Main Street and Centerville Road
Mr. March stated that Anoka County would be performing a traffic study of this area in
the near future.
6. Turcotte Prooertv.
"
Mr. March reported that Staff has continued discussions with Mrs. Turcotte regarding the
purchase of the property. Mrs. Turcotte has indicated she no longer has tenants and
anticipates her ability to move into a Senior Housing Unit in the near future. Staff has
discussed the possibility of purchasing the land and renting her a unit until such time as
she is accepted into senior housing.
Page 5 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. March briefly discussed the downtown redevelopment.
7. TlF (First Class Concrete)
Mr. March stated that First Class Concrete is proposing to construct an office/warehouse
facility on the property located north of R & R Leasing on 20th Avenue and is requesting
tax increment financing. Mr. March stated that the City currently has a tax increment
financing policy in place.
8. Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park
Mayor Swedberg stated that Council recently met with the Parks and Recreation
Commission to discuss Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park and improvements to same.
Mayor Swedberg stated that he received a lot of information and got clarity on many
issue at the meeting.
Mr. March explained that the City is intending on submitting a grant application for
playground equipment, concession/shelter building, electricity, and a skate park to be
used in conjunction with' 'the existing hockey rink. He stated that the City forwarded
letters to residents that own property within 500 (five hundred) feet of the park and
invited them to a public hearing at the next Parks and Recreation Meeting. Mr. March
explained that the meeting between Council and the Parks and Recreation Committee was
to discuss funds available and how to proceed with the improvements. Consensus of the
Parks and Recreation Committee was that they were interested in providing electricity to
the park and desired to wait for public input prior to deciding whether or not to run
lighting to the baseball fields. Mr. March stated that the primary issue is to have
electricity installed prior to the Fete des Lacs Festival in early August. The Centerville
Lions Club has volunteered to provide labor to construct a concession stand/shelter, but
currently, no funds are available.
9. Council Information and Process
Council Member Nelson submitted information from the League of Minnesota Cities
Handbook for Council review.
Council Member Nelson stated that she thought Council should discuss the concerns
raised by Mr. Wilharber <j.t the previous meeting in more detail. She stated that she was
disappointed that Staff did not ascertain everyone's input prior to modifying the date of
the previous meeting. She then stated it would have been more appropriate for the entire
Council to discuss the complaint received and decide whether representatives of Council
would meet with the local business owner to investigate the complaint. However, there
was a concern for negative publicity for the business owner. Council Member Nelson
stated that she believed Council needed to work as a team in the future.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that there is a process for handling complaints that should be
followed. Council Member Nelson stated that Council did not follow the process. Mr.
Page 6 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Hoeft agreed Council did not follow procedure and suggested that since there is a policy
in effect, it should be followed. He then recommended avoiding addressing last minute
complaints at council meetings, stating if the information is not in Council packets, it
should be held until the next council meeting.
Mayor Swedberg stated that was a complaint and that he had questioned Mr. Hoeft and
Police Chief Heckman for their opinion on how to proceed. Mayor Swedberg then stated
that some complaints are unwarranted and he feels residents and business owners are
entitled to privacy.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether Council was under an obligation
to name names or if Council could give generalized information and investigate the
complaint further.
Mr. Hoeft explained that a resident should not have an expectation of privacy if they are
writing to the City, they.should realize what they write is public information and same
goes for information writte~ to a Council Member.
Council Member Broussa~~f Vickers stated that there should be a process that if a Council
Member takes a complaint, the Council Member should inform the resident they are not
acting or speaking on bel1~lf of the entire Council. Council Member Broussard Vickers
concurred with Mr. Hoeft in regards to information being contained in Council packets.
Consensus was that if information was not contained in Council packets, the item would
be reserved for the next Council agenda.
Council Member Capra questioned the desire of Council on the process for addressing
complaints heard at a meeting. Mr. Hoeft suggested thanking the resident for their
comments and acknowledging the complaint. Mr. Hoeft advised Council to state that the
City would investigate the matter and place the item on the Council's next agenda for
discussion.
Council Member Capra clarified that there were two (2) issues, one (1) for the original
complaint and one (1) for the handling of the complaint.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the complaint should have been placed in
the standard process, noting if it were a matter of public safety or an emergency, it would
be handled appropriately. In this case, there was no emergency, so the complaint should
have waited until the next Council meeting.
Mayor Swedberg stated that he is concerned for business and resident privacy. Mr. Hoeft
explained that the City n~eded not to be concerned for privacy as there are other laws to
protect individuals if someone should bring a frivolous complaint.
Mayor Swedberg clarified the written complaint process if received in Council packets
and stated that it would be discussed at the meeting, however, if no information is
provided in the packet regarding a complaint, it would be placed on the next meeting
agenda for discussion. If Council receives a verbal complaint at a meeting, Council
Page 7 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
would acknowledge same, not act on it and place the complaint on the next meeting's
agenda for discussion.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she would like to see something in
writing from residents or business owners concerning the complaint. If a resident refuses
a written complaint, a Council Member could relay the information to Council for
discussion on the resident's behalf. Council Member Broussard Vickers also stated that
she believed anyone who requests that Council formally discuss an issue, should be
willing to put their concerns in writing.
Mr. Hoeft suggested shying away from relaying information for someone as the Council
Member could get into the "hot seat" if a resident later recants and states that they never
made the complaint. It is far better to have the resident come before Council with their
complaint.
Mayor Swedberg stated he disagreed with Mr. Hoeft and Council as he thinks people's
privacy is very important, however, he would go along with Council's desires on
complaint procedures.
10. Planning and zont~~ fommission Training
Mr. March reported he had provided information in Council packets concerning resources
for training for Planning and Zoning Commission Members. Mr. March explained that
the information would be forwarded to the Commission in their packets.
Mayor Swedberg stated that he desired that the City pay for AP A membership for all
Planning and Zoning members. Mayor Swedberg encouraged Council to attend the
League of Minnesota Cities annual meeting in June.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she had participated in several classes in the
past and that they were good, however, she expressed a desire to participate in training
sessions that took place on Saturdays so that same would not interfere with work
schedules.
Mayor Swedberg requested that Mr. March investigate whether GTSI would provide on
site training. .
11. Resolution #01-005 - Accepting Downtown Feasibility Study
Mr. March stated that the Resolution is the next step in the process following the receipt
of the petition from downtown property owners for utilities and streetscaping in the area.
Council Member Capra questioned whether Centerville Elementary would be assessed
for water services they already have. Mr. Peterson stated that the school would be
excluded from the assessment roll. Council Member Capra questioned whether the
Public Works site located at 1694 Sorel and the Turcotte property would also be excluded
from same and its ramifications.
Page 8 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. March stated that the primary issue is whether it is feasible to run utilities to the
downtown area. The hearing would bring resident input.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to waive the readinl! and approve Resolution #01-005. a resolution receivinl!
the report and callin~ for a hearinl: on water main extension and streetscapinl! for
the downtown area. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
12. Committee Liaisons
Council Member Capra referred to the information she submitted in Council packets
concerning a synopsis of what type of decision would be made in regards to what form of
liaison role the Council would have with committees/commissions.
Council Member Nelson stated she was concerned for a liaison acting on their own at a
meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the Planning and Zoning Commission and
'.'-,: -.
Parks and Recreation Coriuuittee both desired liaisons. The Economic Development
Committee (ED C) had stated they desired a liaison in the capacity of being called upon
when needed. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that individuals that serve on
committees/commissions are volunteers and to request that they attend a Council meeting
is requesting a bit too much. Council Member Broussard Vickers also stated that her
impression of a liaison is to give a more general feel as to how to arrive at a decision that
needs to be made. A liaison may be privy to information the committee/commission may
not be and may have the ability to steer the committee/commission down the correct path
to ascertain the most responsible decision.
Council Member Capra stated that one (1) of the members of EDC had stated the
necessity for rotating liaispns.
Council Member Capra stated she had learned that committee/commission members
received a stipend. Council Member Capra stated that she desired to empower
committees/commissions and have a representative attend Council meetings to forward
communications and status reports. Council Member Capra also stated that she had
received comments that the liaison takes over the meetings and almost acts as Chair at
times. Council Member Capra desired to increase the current stipend of $10 per meeting
attendance.
Mr. Ray DeVine, 1837 Revoir Street, stated that he was present at the Joint
CouncillPlanning and Zoning Commission meeting and it was clear that the Commission
desired to retain having a liaison at their meetings. Mr. DeVine commented that liaisons
were also desired for both Parks and Recreation and Fete des Lacs Committee. Mr.
DeVine stated that he cannot understand how Council could even consider dropping the
liaisons when 95% of th~ people at the meetings desire to retain same.
Council Member Travis concurred with Council Member Broussard Vickers comments
regarding requesting volvnteers to spend additional time attending Council meetings.
Page 9 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Travis stated that information received at Council meetings from the
liaisons is beneficial, as it is not always found in the minutes of the various
committees/commissions. Council Member Travis also stated that he feels the members
of committees/commissions are providing a tremendous service to the City and should
not be requested to attend Council meetings. Committee/Commission members feel
support of Council when a representative from Council is present and can provide insight
on various issues. Council Member Travis noted that he is not in favor of eliminating
Council liaisons, however; would feel more comfortable with splitting up the liaison
duties differently.
Mr. March questioned the possibility of a Council member being biased on an issue when
presenting same to Council. He then suggested asking the Chair from each
committee/commission to come to Council once a quarter to help facilitate two-way
communication.
Mayor Swedberg stated th,at the Planning and Zoning Commission needs to know more
about the laws and ordinances and guidance on same. Mayor Swedberg questioned
whether Mr. Peterson would be willing to alternate attendance of Council and Planning
and Zoning Commission meetings. Mr. Peterson stated that he would be available on an
on-call basis when engineering issues were being discussed, but did not feel the necessity
of regularly attending PI~~ni~g and Zoning Commission meetings. Mayor Swedberg
stated that Council would 'require more detail from the Planning and Zoning Commission
and there may be a need for a City Engineer at those meetings.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she did not feel engineering services were
typically needed at Commission meetings. The City has ordinances and the Commission
needs to consider compliance of same. The Commission relies on Staff for guidance.
Council Member Broussard Vickers also stated that she felt if there were particular issues
Mr. Peterson should be called upon, but it is not warranted or cost effective to have him
attend on a regular basis.
Mayor Swedberg stated it is important that committee/commission members receive
professional input that they need to make responsible decisions.
Council Member Capra stated that she felt it was un-necessary to have a liaison appointed
to the Fete des Lacs Committee. Council Member Capra stated that she desire to have a
committee/commission member attend Council meetings on a quarterly basis. Council
Member Capra also stated that Council should make itself available to
committees/commissions on an as needed basis for larger issues.
Council Member Nelson stated she was in favor of the Chairperson from each
committee/commission attending Council meetings on a quarterly basis. Council
Member Nelson stated that if a committee/commission desired a liaison one (1) could be
appointed to attend meetings.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether a document concerning liaisons would need to be
amended.
Page 10 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. March suggested forwarding Council's decision to all committees/commissions to
ascertain their desires on this issue.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she felt if a representative of a
committee/commission desired attending a Council meeting, a standing invitation exists
for same.
Mayor Swedberg requested that Mr. March contact committee/commissions to ascertain
their desire for liaisons, to request that if larger issues arise, to keep Council abreast of
the situation, forward Council's support and Council's desire to provide the necessary
professional expertise if deemed appropriate. Mr. March stated that he would draft a
policy for same.
Council Member Capra requested that Staff investigate which committees/commissions
received stipends and amounts. Council Member Capra also stated the possibility of
increasing same and that EDC did not receive a stipend.
, I!
13. Union Contract
This item would be discussed III a closed Executive Session following the
Administrator's Report.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City ofCente~ille February 10, through February 28,2001 Expenditures
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the Consent Aeenda as presented. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS
None.
XI. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. March reported that he had a meeting with an architect to discuss the City monument
SIgn.
Council Member Capra requested that Mr. March update Council on the status of a lot
contained in Buechler Estates.
Mr. March explained the developer who is in the process of building on the last lot in the
development, approached Staff with house plans showing a revised grading plan that
called for a portion of the garage to be off of the building pad. The Building Official
indicated to Mr. Buechler.that he needed to revise the grading plan or adjust the house to
fit on the existing plan. Mr. Buechler contacted his attorney who advised him that it was
illegal for the City to hold the building permit subject to setback requirements. Staff
Page 11 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
contacted Barna, Guzy and Stephen and spoke with Mr. Darrel Jensen in this regard. Mr.
Jensen was filling in for Mr. Hoeft who was out of the office. Mr. Jensen stated that if
the builder met the setback requirements, it did not matter whether or not the building
was built on the pad and the City was required to issue a building permit. Mr. Jensen
stated that the City may choose to require soil boring tests if the building was built off of
the building pad. Soil corrections would need to be completed if deemed appropriate.
Mr. March requested Mr. Jensen's opinion in writing and received same via
facsimile later that day. Mr. March stated it was a matter handled in the ordinary course
of business and he did not feel Council needed to be made aware of the situation.
Council Member Capra 'questioned the amount of contact Staff has with the City
Attorney per day and questioned whether Council should be aware of same. Mr. Hoeft
stated that he speaks with Staff approximately once per week.
Council Member Capra stated that if a developer is going to deviate from a plan approved
by Council, she feels the plan should again be reviewed by Council. Council Member
Broussard Vickers stated, ,that she did not feel the need of Council being aware of
administrative, day-to-daY operations of Staff. Mr. Hoeft stated that all setback
requirements need to be met and any agreement between Mr. Buechler and the purchases
of the property for placel11emt of a home, the City is not privy to nor may control. The
owner may place the hous,e\vherever he/she desires on the lot as long as setbacks and soil
boring requirements are met. The City does not determine the placement of a house on
the property, except for s~tback requirements.
Council Member Nelson suggested that legal issues be addressed in the Week in Review.
Mayor Swedberg stated that he was not interested containing same in the Week in
Review.
Mr. Hoeft explained if the 'matter is attorney/client privileged, it would not be discussed.
If there is a less substantial issue, he or Staff would present whatever information a
Council Member wants, noting he does not prepare a report on day-to-day dealings with
Staff for any other community he represents.
Mayor Swedberg directed Staff to alert Council to potentially large issues; however, Staff
should continue to handle small situations appropriately.
Mr. March stated he is a'professional who would forward information, as he deemed
appropriate, to Council to keep them abreast of issues.
Council Member Capra stated that she would prefer not to act in the capacity of
investigator but rather hav~ concerns brought to the attention of the entire Council.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested if Council Member Capra had a question
or concern that she contact Staff to discuss the matter.
Mr. March suggested th~tdiscussion of items of concern take place prior to Council
meetings to allow Staff ample time to prepare information to be forwarded to the entire
Council for review.
Page 12 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra stated that she thinks there are things that transpire on a day-to-
day basis that she, as a Council Member, should know. Mr. Hoeft stated it is not a
Council matter, but noted she could ask as an individual. The matter had nothing to do
with Council, so Council would not be getting information on those types of items in the
future. Mr. Hoeft suggested that Council Member Capra refer to the League of
Minnesota Cities Handbook because the League is very conscious of the fact that Council
Members think they have to know everything that is going on in the City and that is not a
Council Member's job.
Council Member Travis reminded Council that the Week in Review started as a courtesy
from Mr. March. He then stated that Staff handled the issue very well and complimented
Staff on a job well done.
Mr. March stated that if any member of Council is unhappy with a response from him,
they should address the entire Council regarding same. Mr. March requested that
Council allow Staff to do their jobs.
Council Member Capra siat~d that she brought up the issue because she did not want to
research the issue herself br I,)e accused of micromanaging Staff.
'-., !,"
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to recess to the E.xecutive Session at 9:02 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
Union contract negotiation discussion occurred during this Executive Session.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Capra to approve the Union Contract as submitted. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to close the Executive Session at 9:30 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to continue the Council Meetine at 9:31 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Travis to
adjourn the February 28. 2001 City Council Meetine at 9:32 p.m. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
Page 13 of 14
February 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TI.'meSaver pjJ~ite ecre arial, Inc,
,-- .._'--... ---/ '\
~_.".~
Proofed by:
Teresa Bender, C1erk/Treasurer
Page 14 of 14
.
. ~
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MARCH 14, 2001
6:30 p.m.
March 14, 2001
Council Meeting utes
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly sc eduled
meeting on March 14,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Mari Nelson
ABSENT:
STAFF:
City Administrator, Jim March
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
Public Works Director/B I1 ng
Clerk/Treasurer, Te sa en er
I.
II.
a led h M r hI, 2 1, Ci Council meeting to order at 6:32 p.m.
e ber Nelson seconded b Council Member Ca ra to
ith the re uested addition. All in favor. Motion carried
II.
CES/A WARDS
Page 1 of 15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Council Member Capra requested the following change: On Page 9, Section 12 in the
third paragraph down add "too much" to the sentence. She then asked Staff to add
discussion of Committee stipends to a future agenda.
Council Member Travis requested the following change: On Page 10, in the second
sentence insert the word "council" before liaison.
Mr. March requested the reference on Page 12 to the house being built off the building
pad be changed to the "building."
Mayor Swedberg requested the following change: On Page 10, in the first sentence strike
the words "he had heard at that meeting" and leave there was a need to know more about
the laws and ordinances. Also strike "he desired to make sure" and add "it is important".
Mr. March requested the following change: On Page 12 clarify that Staff speaks to the
City Attorney approximately once per week not a total of one day per week.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the Februarv 28. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
1. Mr. Wayne Blake. 1275 Mound Trail
Mr. Blake addressed Council and explained that he bought a lot on Mound Trail that is on
the lake and was purchased about a year prior to building on it. He explained he and his
wife had reviewed the approved site plan for the development, and were under the
impression that all of the homes would be built on the building pad as shown on the site
plan.
Mr. Blake explained that when he and his wife decided to build on the lot they decided it
would be nice to be closer to the lake. When they contacted the City they were told that a
Variance would be required if they intended to seek permission to build off the building
pad as designated by the site plan. Mr. Blake explained rather than going through the
City, he contacted Mr. Buechler to request permission to build off the building pad. Mr.
Blake explained that Mr. Buechler threatened to involve an attorney if the Blakes
attempted to build off the building pad. Seeing that type of resistance he and his wife
decided to build on the building pad.
A year later, Mr. Buechler staked out a home he is building for himself and it is not on
the building pad. Mr. Blake explained he contacted Mr. Cook at the City who told him
not to worry because if Mr. Buechler wanted to build off the pad then he would also need
to request a Variance. That would require neighboring property owners to be notified. A
few days went by and the hole for the foundation was dug. Mr. Blake then questioned
how it is possible that Mr. Buechler got approval to build off the building pad when he
Page 2 of 15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
and his wife were told it would require City Council and neighbor approval to do so. He
then voiced concern that proper procedures were not followed.
Mayor Swedberg explained the City contracts a law firm and that when the primary City
Attorney is not available, another attorney will step in to act on behalf ofthe City.
Mr. March explained Mr. Buechler had dropped off pictures earlier today at City Hall but
stated he was not sure what those pictures represented. Mr. March then explained what
had happened that allowed the building permit to be issued. Mr. Buechler came to City
Hall requesting the building permit. Mr. March told him a Variance would be required to
build off the building pad and explained the Variance procedure to Mr. Buechler. Mr.
Buechler then told Mr. March he was going to contact his attorney to discuss the matter.
Mr. March then determined it would be appropriate to contact the City Attorney for his
opinion on the matter. Mr. March contacted the City Attorney's office and explained the
situation. He received an oral opinion which explained the building permit cannot be
held as Mr. Buechler is entitled to build anywhere on the property provided he meets the
City's setback requirements. Mr. March requested that opinion in writing and that is
included in Council packets for review.
Mr. March then stated he feels badly that the Blakes were given misinformation that
caused them not to pursue building off the building pad but explained he only learned of
this because Mr. Buechler had pushed the issue and the City needed to seek a legal
opinion on the matter. He then explained that the building pad means nothing other than
the soil has been corrected in that designated area ensuring anyone who purchases the lot
that the lot is buildable.
Mr. March stated he felt the City needed to tighten up restrictions for where the houses
are to be built by putting it in writing in the developer's agreement in order to have more
control over the development.
City Attorney Hoeft confirmed that the building pads are constructed to add value and
marketability to the lot, noting if they were not there the person buying the lot would
have to do testing and soil correction which costs money.
Mr. Blake questioned why Mr. March had to go to the City Attorney's office to make
sure it was okay to issue the building permit if Mr. March has the authority to issue
building permits. He stated he felt he was getting a lot of legal mumbo jumbo as an
explanation as to why they were given information that led them to believe they were not
able to build off the building pad. He then stated he relied on the information provided to
him by the City.
Mayor Swedberg explained that the day-to-day business of the City requires that City
employees call the City Attorney for advice. Noting that at any time there seems to be a
question as to what is appropriate for Staff to contact the City Attorney for verification.
Mr. Blake asked why they were not offered the same courtesy.
Mayor Swedberg explained that any kind of Variance goes before the Planning and
Zoning Commission noting that neighbors can protest, but the City does not rule on the
Page 3 of 15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Variance request based on neighborhood opinion. The opinion is heard and considered,
and if there is valid reason to grant a variance it is approved. He then stated if the Blakes
had taken their request one step further they would have gotten different answers.
Mr. Blake stated he spoke to the City Inspector and got the same answer, that a Variance
may be required.
Mrs. Blake noted she had read through Ordinance #4 and stated it seemed to her that
building off the building pad was an amendment to the plan, which is something that
required Councils approval.
City Attorney Hoeft explained that going off the building pad is not an amendment or a
change, and that Council approval is not required.
Mrs. Blake then read the responsibilities of the Building Inspector noting she felt Council
could prohibit Mr. Buechler from building the house as he is.
City Attorney Hoeft explained there is no violation existing that would warrant the
Building Inspector or Council taking action. City Attorney Hoeft further explained the
building pads are not significant with regard to the approved drainage plan. They are
there to improve marketability and, as such, they are shown on the plan but are not part of
the approved grading plan.
Mrs. Blake asked why she was told she would need a Variance.
City Attorney Hoeft stated that in any real estate transaction there are obligations on
behalf of the seller and the buyer that require due diligence to investigate the situation if
there is a question as to what City Code allows them to do with the property. In this case
the Blakes relied on information from the building inspector as to what they could or
could not do. Assuming, for the sake of argument, the information from the building
inspector was incorrect that would not create any liability on the part of the City. Mr.
Hoeft went on to explain that the Legislature has determined that City employees do not
control the legal document that contains the City's Codes and, if there is a discrepancy
between what a resident is told and what exists in the City Code, the Code governs. It is
part of the due diligence process to determine if the advice given is in accordance with
City Code.
Mr. Hoeft further stated if the Blakes received wrong information from the Building
Inspector that that information does not bind the City legally. He explained the reason
the Legislature has upheld that immunity is because if it did not exist and employees
could be held responsible then it would be costly to cities. That cost is something the
Legislature did not want to be borne by taxpayers. Mr. Hoeft then explained that if the
Blakes were given wrong information, it was a mistake that was made, and that mistake
was corrected when Mr. Buechler brought the matter to the City's attention.
Mr. Blake clarified that he and his wife are not looking for restitution. He then stated he
relied on information received from City officials that if anyone else would be building
off the pads that they, as neighboring property owners, would be informed. He stated he
feels they were not treated decently. He also stated that they are the general public and
Page 4 of 15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
not attorneys, who thought that information received from the City could be comfortably
relied upon.
Council Member Capra commented she had met with the Blakes and understands their
concerns with regard to varying from the approved plan. She stated she understands the
importance of the line of sight with lake front property. She stated she feels City
employees did what they felt was appropriate at the time, and that it is unfortunate that
the information the Blakes relied upon was incorrect. She then offered her apologies to
them for the way the situation was handled.
Council Member Travis suggested the City should do some research as he believes in
most communities there is a minimum and a maximum setback requirement.
Mrs. Blake stated she does not want restitution but wants a consistent plan that will be
followed for all residents. She then stated she felt they were treated unfairly and she
hopes there is a way to correct the problem from this point forward.
Council Member Nelson apologized for the way the Blakes were treated. She stated it is
important to her that all residents are treated fairly and she thinks Staff does that. She
stated it is unfortunate that the information Staff relied upon when advising the Blakes
was incorrect. She agreed with Council Member Travis that the City needs to look at
amending the ordinance with minimum and maximum setback requirements.
Mrs. Blake thanked Council for its time.
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Eagle Pass Sketch Plan
Mike Quigley representing Gor-em Development addressed Council and showed the
sketch plan for Eagle Pass. He explained Council Member Broussard Vickers had asked
at the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting that something be done to screen the
road that went through the back yards of the existing homes. He pointed out how the
street was redesigned to screen it from the backyards with different types of plantings.
Mayor Swedberg asked several clarifying questions of the Developer. He then asked Mr.
March if there was a designated time for developing the Outlot. Mr. March explained the
outlots were left large enough to be built on in the future but there was nothing specific in
the first plan.
Council Member Nelson noted the buildings on Lots 11-18 looked smaller than the other
homes. The Developer explained they are smaller as they are single detached townhomes
rather than twin homes.
Council Member Travis asked when the Developer would be starting construction.
Page 5 of15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
City Attorney Hoeft noted construction is subject to various approvals, and that Council
will have the opportunity to further review this matter before final approval.
Mayor Swedberg noted there is concern for development impacting the school district.
Mr. March noted any City concerns would be addressed through the plat approval
process. He then explained he heard today there was concern from the Chauncy Barrot
Gardens residents that a lot of people are using a path from the back door of the senior
housing to access Ojibway Drive, noting there may need to be a trail connecting the two.
Mr. Drewlo expressed concern that there is no trail-way, which means he has to trespass
to go for a walk. He then thanked the Developer for the hours of wildlife viewing they
have gotten from the Outlot.
Mr. Jim Juhl, President of Eagle Pass Single Townhome Association addressed Council
and noted the main concern for the Association is that they can only add seven (7) more
units to their Association according to the bylaws. He then stated his Association would
appreciate it if the new buildings had a new Association created for them. He outlined
various civil issues the Association has with the builder.
Mr. Juhl noted the park on Dupre Road has never been finished, and the short concrete
pad is acting as a magnet for teenage kids to gather, smoke and talk smart. He asked that
something be done to curb that. He then stated he would like to see more streetlights in
the new development, and possibly some added to his current development.
Mr. Juhl told the Developer he had information that led him to believe the Outlots are
deeded into his Association. The Developer noted he would research that issue and
thanked Mr. Juhl for the information.
Council Member Capra asked if the bylaws of the Association could be amended to
include more homes. Mr. Juhl explained he believed they could be amended but a
request for an amendment would need to go through the State. He understands it is a
costly procedure.
Council Member Travis asked why the Association did not want more homes in the
Association. Mr. Juhl explained the reason is mainly because the roads are private roads
that must be maintained, and that is a big expense for the Association.
Mr. March noted this sketch plan would go through the preliminary plat process as if it
were a bare piece of land being subdivided.
City Attorney Hoeft noted that either Swift or Gor-em Developers would be submitting
townhome documentation for him to review.
Mr. Quigley clarified that the intent of the Developer was for the homes built on the
outlot to have their own Association. Mr. Quigley further clarified the park pad was
intended to be a full size tennis court, but the Developer was caught with an asphalt plant
Page 6 of 15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
shut down. He also noted that if residents want more lighting in the development, it is an
issue to be resolved with the City and Xcel Energy.
Mayor Swedberg asked Mr. March if residents could request more streetlights from the
City. Mr. March explained street lighting could be assessed to those who receive the
benefit.
Ms. Tracy Hallstrom asked the Developer if Swift would be the builder and, if so, if the
structures would be the same as the existing structures. The Developer stated Swift
would be the builder and the structures would be the same.
Council took a five-minute break at 7:50 p.m.
2. Kellv's Komer Drainage
Mr. Bill Bisek (7098 Centerville Road) explained to Council there is a drainage issue in
the downtown area that is negatively impacting his business. He further explained the
issue dated back to sometime in the 1940's or 1950's. He would like Council to step in
and resolve the issue.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the drainage issue was a public or private
drainage issue. She then asked where the storm water from the downtown area flows.
Mr. Palzer explained the storm water from the downtown area flows into lines that flow
into the lake. He further explained that none of that water is being treated and
commented there may be a need for a retention pond.
Mr. Bisek explained the drain installed on the property next to his is not working properly
right now. He would like to have it looked at to see if it is plugged, crushed or broken.
Then, possibly set up an alternative plan to pump the water out to Main Street so it is not
causing problems for the businesses in the area. Mr. Palzer stated it is possible that the
line is frozen which is why it is not draining.
Mr. Bisek stated he feels there is City water that flows in to contribute to the problem.
Because of this, he feels the City should help him with the issue. He further stated he is
willing to sign an agreement to authorize the City to fix the drain if need be.
Mayor Swedberg told Mr. Bisek that Staff would look into the issue and get back to him.
City Attorney Hoeft mentioned he had spoken to Mr. Palzer and Mr. March who had
given him information that indicated a private drainage line put in a number of years ago.
This line illegally tapped into the City sewer is causing the problem. He then stated he
did not feel it was advisable for the City to take over the maintenance of that drain
without receiving easements over the various properties involved. He stated if there is
water coming from a larger area, there might be a need to put in a properly sized pipe and
make sure the engineering is correct to ensure proper drainage. He further stated there
might be a need for an area wide assessment to the benefiting properties rather than just
the two property owners currently having the issue, in order to fund the improvement to
the drainage.
Page 7 of15
March 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. March asked if the property owners were interested in having the costs assessed to
them if it would be possible to obtain a waiver to clean the line now, and assess those
costs as part of the costs to improve the drainage.
City Attorney Hoeft explained the cost to clean the line could not be assessed to the
property at a later date. He explained the City would need to get permission from all
owners of property that the City would need to step on to take a look at the drain. He
further explained that as a temporary matter, to clean out the line, the City would have to
reach an agreement with the property owner(s) as to the cost and who will pay for it.
Mr. Bisek stated the drain is on his neighbor's property. He also stated he did not want to
fight with his neighbors on this issue. He then granted the City permission to access his
property if need be.
Mr. March noted the City had jetted out and televised some lines within the City and
asked Mr. Palzer the approximate cost to jet and televise 150 feet of line. Mr. Palzer
indicated that to televise would cost approximately $200 and to steam it would be
between $150 and $200. He also noted if the pipe is broken he is unsure how much it
would cost to fix it.
Mr. Bisek noted that in years past, they would use whatever they needed to as a tool to
free up the drain and get it flowing. However, the last couple oIyears they have not been
able to free it up enough to drain properly. With the amount of snowfall this winter
drainage will be a larger issue than it has been in years past.
Mr. March asked if Mr. Bisek would discuss with his neighbors the possibility of the City
charging them to clean or repair the drain. He also asked Mr. Bisek to discuss the option
of petitioning the City to put in a larger line to correct the problem for the future.
Mr. Bisek stated he would discuss splitting costs with his neighbors to eliminate the
immediate problem. He then stated he feels there is some City responsibility to solve the
problem for the future.
Mayor Swedberg stated the drainage is a long standing issue that Council is unsure how
to solve at this point. He asked Staff to research the matter and present possible solutions
to the problem. He then told Mr. Bisek he may need to solve the problem on his own for
this spring as the issue will take time to resolve.
Mr. Bisek stated he could solve the problem by pumping water out of his lot into the
street. That would then cause a drainage problem for someone else. He then stated that
would not be a solution to the problem and he feels the City should help him solve the
problem.
Mayor Swedberg stated the City could not immediately solve the problem and stated Mr.
Bisek could.
Council Member Travis asked Mr. Bisek how he wished the City to solve the drainage
problem.
Page 8 of 15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Bisek stated City Staff could jet the line from Progress Street and televise the pipe to
look into what the problem is.
City Attorney Hoeft stated the City does not have a practice of jetting private drainage
lines and cautioned against doing so.
Mr. Bisek asked Council what he should do to solve the drainage issue, noting he came to
Council to make them aware of the problem and instead feels he is getting a line of legal
mumbo jumbo.
Mayor Swedberg stated Council was not prepared to solve a forty-year problem this
evening and told Mr. Bisek Staff would research the matter and contact him.
Council Member Nelson stated she would like to have a workshop to discuss City
infrastructure issues to get a head ofthese types of issues for the future.
Mr. Bisek noted all the drains from the downtown area drain into the lake and nobody at
the City knows about it.
Mr. March noted he understands why the City does not want to set a precedence for
jetting private drainage lines, but questioned what type of liability or obligation the City
has for drainage coming from City property.
City Attorney Hoeft stated the City would not have responsibility for drainage coming
from City property. He then stated the only thing that is known for certain is there is a
private drainage system on private property that the property owner needs to deal with.
3. Fete des Lacs 2001 Budget Process
Mr. Ray DeVine, Chairperson of the Fete des Lacs Committee, appeared before Council
to ask if Council had any questions on the budget information he had provided in the
Council packets.
Mayor Swedberg asked for a one page summary sheet with a table comparing actual
amount, budget amount, the difference between the budget and actual amounts, and a
column for the 2001 budget amount.
Mr. DeVine explained the Festival has up front expenditures that will need to be paid for
by the City in an amount that is slightly greater than the monies that will be made during
the Festival and refunded to the City.
Council Member Nelson thanked Mr. DeVine for the detailed report but agreed the one
page summary sheet would be helpful.
Council Member Nelson noted there was not much record keeping last year and asked
that there be better records kept this year.
Mayor Swedberg noted he was not in favor of charging for parking at the Festival.
Page 9 of 15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. DeVine explained the Festival Committee is considering charging for parking based
on a recommendation from the Minnesota Recreation Association.
Mr. DeVine told Council he would provide the requested summary page to Council at the
next Council meeting.
4. Resolution #01-006 - Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park Improvements Grant
Application
Mr. March noted there was not a dollar amount in the resolution and indicated Staff
intended to submit the playground equipment in an amount not to exceed $50,000 and a
concession/shelter building.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the City's portion of the matching grant is
included in the Parks and Recreation budget. Mr. March noted it has not been clearly
stated where the matching funds would come from, stating if the grant is approved it
would be before Council to discuss.
Mayor Swedberg asked when the City would know if it received the grant. Mr. March
stated it would be mid to late summer.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve Resolution #01-006. Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park Improvements Grant
Application. All in favor. Ave - 5 (Mavor Swedbere. Council Members Travis.
Capra and Nelson) Nay - O. Motion carried unanimously.
5. Resolution #01-007 - Pheasant Marsh
Mr. March explained Ground Development has requested the City finance its proposed
development through the 429 Process, and this Resolution is a Resolution to declare the
adequacy of the petition, and authorize the preparation of a feasibility study.
City Attorney Hoeft noted he would be preparing a draft of the Developer's Agreement
for review.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Travis to approve
Resolution 01-007 as presented. All in favor. Ave - 5 (Mavor Swedbere. Council
Members Travis. Capra and Nelson) Nav - O. Motion carried unanimouslv.
6. Residential Street Crack Filling
Mr. Palzer explained he had received five (5) quotes for crack filling, noting the City is
on a program where it requests quotes for a three (3) year period to hedge off costs in the
future. The bids are based on 15,000 feet of crack filling. He then recommended
Council accept the bid from Allied Blacktop Company for 39 cents per lineal foot, for the
next three (3) years.
. Page 10 of15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg questioned how the blacktop companies could afford to keep the prices
consistent for three (3) years based on the fluctuation in petroleum prices. Mr. March
noted it is surprising they are able to quote a price for a three (3) year period but stated it
appeared to be a good deal for the City.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Travis to accept
the bid of Allied Blacktop Company for years 2001-2003 for 15.000 feet of crack
fillinl!: at 39 cents per lineal foot. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
7. Additional Office Upgrade (Storage/Packet Preparation Area - Unit).
Mr. March noted Staff is in need of more storage and work surface for packet
preparation. He then noted Staff is requesting approval to purchase off the rack
residential cabinets with a countertop that public works will stain and varnish. Staff
anticipates these cabinets should cost approximately $600.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve StaWs request for cabinets and countertops in an amount not to exceed
$600. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
8. Authorization to Advertise for Full-Time Receptionist
Mr. March stated he was pleased to report that Ms. Sweeney is picking up the
bookkeeping quickly and he would like authorization to recruit for an entry-level
receptionist.
Mayor Swedberg noted that Council Member Broussard Vickers had voiced a concern
that future City employees have more computer knowledge and then suggested this
matter be tabled to the next meeting to allow for Council Member Broussard Vicker's
input.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to table
this matter to the next Council meetin\:. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. March noted Staff might not be able to keep up with things the way they would like
to because they are short staffed. He then noted there were some things that were not
kept up with, the previous way the accounting was being done.
9. Flammable Waste Traps
Mr. Palzer explained to Council that a flammable waste trap is a trap that catches salt,
sand and flammables such as gas and oil, and only allows the water to flow into the City
sewer. He explained the new public works building does not have a flammable waste
trap and is not connected to City sewer. He recently was made aware that the waste from
the public works building flows directly into the creek without being treated. He then
explained it would cost approximately $35,000 to run City sewer and water and to add
the flammable waste traps.
Page 11 of 15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra asked if the money could come out of sewer and water funds.
Mr. March concurred.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the previous owner had any liability to help pay to remedy the
situation.
City Attorney Hoeft stated he would need to investigate the issue but noted he felt it
would be more cost beneficial for the City to fix the problem rather than to try to get the
previous owner to share in the costs to do so.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether a portion of the improvements could be
made or whether the entire expenditure was necessary. Mr. Palzer noted the City would
save $11,000 of the estimate ifit did not run City water to the site.
City Attorney Hoeft stated the City needed to get the problem fixed sooner rather than
later, noting if the City keeps moving forward toward resolution of the matter it should be
fine.
Council Member Travis suggested it may be possible to tie the public works facility into
the upcoming Pheasant Marsh utilities.
City Attorney Hoeft stated it would be fine to wait for two months to tie the project into
the Pheasant Marsh project.
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to table
this matter for more information. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
10. Parks and Recreation Recommendations
Mr. March reviewed with Council a Memo from Jill Lien concerning Park and
Recreation Recommendations. He further explained there were approximately ten (10)
people at the public hearing on Laurie LaMotte Park and there was no opposition to
lighting the fields.
Council Member Capra asked what the price difference was between lighting one field
versus lighting all three. Mr. March noted if the City intended to light the other fields in
the future it would save money to install enough power now to the main hub to do so.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
authorize a request for bids for runnin!! 600 amp electrical service at Laurie
LaMotte Memorial Park. per the specifications provided bv the City Eneineer. All
in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City ofCenterviIIe March 1, through March 14,2001 Expenditures
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
3. Fete des Lacs Committee's recommendation for appointment of Ms. Patricia Scott
Page 120f15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
4. Successful completion of year 4 (Account ClerkJReceptionist, Jill Lien)
Recommended Step Increase from Step 4 to Step 5
5. St. Genevieve's Temporary Gambling Permit Requests
Mayor Swedberg requested the City Expenditures be pulled from the Consent Agenda for
discussion.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the Consent Al:enda for Items 2. 3. 4. and 5 as presented. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Swedberg noted the year to date figures do not add up on the City Expenditures
information and asked that Mr. March review them.
Motion bv Mayor Swedbere. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to approve
Consent Al!enda Item 1. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS
None.
XI. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. March gave several handouts to Council. He then noted he had become aware of an
organization called the Minnesota Association of Government Communicators that
sounded interesting so he gave information on the group to the Ad Hoc Committee for
communications.
Mr. March reported he has been gathering information for the Comprehensive Plan
Amendment for Pheasant Marsh and has discovered the Comprehensive Plan is severely
out of date. In light of that fact, he noted he had spoken to Mr. Johnson and was told it
would not be very expensive to have all the changes done at the same time.
Council Member Capra asked if a Surface Water Management Plan IS III the
Comprehensive Plan.
Mr. March went on to explain there are new requirements for the Comprehensive Plan
and one of those is a Surface Water Management Plan.
Mr. March reported it would be easier for City Staff if the City had access to the GIS
system for mapping. He noted he had checked into it and the system can be obtained for
$250.00 per year. He then noted the GIS system would be helpful in drafting the
Comprehensive Plan Amendments as well as when noticing residents for Public
Hearings.
Mr. March suggested scheduling a work session to interview design firms sometime in
April.
Page 13 of 15
March 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg stated he would like the work session to be scheduled before the middle
of April.
Council Member Capra asked Staff to get a proposal from the firm that did a plan for the
City of Vadnais Heights.
Council Member Nelson stated she would like to get a bid from the fifth firm and narrow
it down to three firms to interview.
Mayor Swedberg stated he would like to hear from all five firms.
Mr. March noted he had copied and handed out an article from the Hugonian and asked
Council to read it as it seemed timely in light of recent events.
Mayor Swedberg thanked Mr. Hoeft for the fine letter he recently provided to him.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion bv Mavor Swedberl:. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to adjourn the
March 14. 2001 City Council Meetine: at 9:38 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 14 of 15
.. .
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MARCH 28, 2001
6:30 p.m.
March 28, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly sch
meeting on March 28,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Marl Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Administrator, Jim March
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
Public Works Director, Pial
I. CALL TO ORDE
ouncil meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
II.
seconded b Council Member Broussard
resented. All in favor. Motion carried
II.
I .
1 uechler, 1 6 Mound Trail, addressed Council requesting an overweight
llo ing a c ane to be brought in to assist in building his home. Mr. Buechler
fi It he deserved the permit due to construction delay. A recent complaint
e placement of the home had been submitted to Council. Mr. Buechler stated
d in front of the home would be repaired subsequent to the completion of his
Mr. March explained that the road in front of Mr. Buechler's home is not a road, rather a
sub-base for the road that Mr. Buechler intends on completing upon the placement of the
Page 1 of 10
March 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. March stated that the road from Mound Trail to Main Street up to the first lot is in
good condition and is not being replaced.
Council Member Capra questioned whether Council could consider Mr. Buechler's
request or if it needed to wait; noting that Council had decided to address received
complaints at a subsequent meeting, allowing ample time to research same. Mr. Hoeft
explained that due to the short time frame involved, Mr. Buechler desired to have a truck
come in Friday of this week or Monday of next week, and it would be appropriate for
Council to consider this issue this evening.
Council Member Travis stated he did not feel it was a problem to issue the overweight
permit for a one (1) trip, empty truck. Council Member Travis requested that Staff
ensure that Mr. Buechler's letter of credit be in place for repairing the remaining portion
of the road prior to granting the permit. Mr. Peterson stated that the tonnage of the truck
that Mr. Buechler is requesting should not cause damage to the road. Mr. Palzer
concurred. Mr. Buechler stated that he located the smallest crane feasible to do the work
that is needed.
Council Member Nelson stated she felt there would always be an exception to the rule;
however, Council needed to stand firm on policy decisions made in the past. Council
Member Nelson stated that if the entire road needed to be replaced, she would consider
granting Mr. Buechler the overweight permit; however, a portion of the road is in good
condition and she opposes granting the permit.
Mr. Buechler stated that the crown of the road has good elevation and explained that a
garbage truck is heavier than the truck he is requesting. He then stated the road currently
is posted slightly higher than the weight of a pick up truck.
Mayor Swedberg stated he felt the City Administrator and the City Engineer should
determine whether or not to issue the overweight permit. Mr. March stated he has been
adhering to procedure directed by the previous Council regarding spring road restrictions.
Council Member Nelson stated she felt if Mr. Buechler was granted an overweight
permit, exceptions would need to be made for everyone.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that due to annual, seasonal differences,
addressing overweight permits on an individual basis was appropriate action. Mr. Palzer
stated that in his opinion, it would be acceptable to grant the overweight permit
requested.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she would not have a problem telling the next
person they could not have a permit if the conditions involved did not warrant same.
Council Member Broussard Vickers also stated that Mr. March should continue with the
procedures directed by Council. Mr. Hoeft stated that handling overweight permits on a
case-by-case basis was an appropriate procedure.
Motion by Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to direct Staff to issue an overweil!ht vehicle oermit to Mr. Buechler. Ayes
Page 2 of 10
March 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
- 4 (Mayor Swedber~. Council Members Broussard Vickers. Capra and Travis)
Nays -1 (Nelson). Motion carried.
Council Member Capra commented that consistency was important and questioned how
many days Mr. Buechler needed the permit. Mr. Buechler stated he would have the truck
come early in the morning and leave right away.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Council Member Nelson requested the following changes: On Page 4, second paragraph,
last sentence change "would" to "may". On Page 5, first paragraph, first sentence change
"borne" to "bore". On Page 12, second paragraph after Council Member Capra asks if
the money could come out of the sewer and water funds add that Mr. March stated that it
could.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Nelson to
approve the March 14. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor. Motion
carried. Council Member Broussard Vickers abstained.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Communications Ad Hoc Committee
Ms. Theresa Brenner, Chairperson, requested that Ms. Andrea Witzel be added to the list
of residents that desired to be appointed to the Committee.
Council Member Capra expressed concern with appointing Ms. Patricia Scott to the
Committee as she is a subcontractor for the City and has a financial interest in the
outcome of the Committee.
Ms. Brenner stated she felt the Committee needed Ms. Scott's input due to her knowledge
and expertise. Council Member Capra stated she thought it would be fine to interview
Ms. Scott but did not feel Ms. Scott should be appointed to the Committee, as it is a
conflict of interest.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that Ms. Scott would be one (1) of six (6)
individuals serving on the Committee and there are many individuals who do business in
the City who are on Committees. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she felt that
volunteers are bound by their integrity not to be involved in a decision they would benefit
financially from. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the Committee is an
Page 3 of 10
March 28, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
advisory Committee that makes recommendations to Council, with Council making
decisions.
Council Member Travis stated he had no problem appointing Ms. Scott to the Committee.
Council Member Capra stated she felt strongly that Ms. Scott should not be on the
Committee. Mayor Swedberg concurred that Ms. Scott had a large amount of knowledge
the City could benefit from; however, she also had financial and contractual interest.
Mayor Swedberg also concurred with Council Member Capra regarding conflict of
interest.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to appoint
Ms. Theresa Brenner. Mr. Tom Fairbrother. Mr. Loren Abrahamson. Mr. Crail!
Bode. and Ms. Andrea Witzel to the Communications Ad Hoc Committee.
Council Member Travis questioned how Council Member Nelson could move to keep
someone off the Committee after making a statement that she did not really know any of
the people recommended.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated the Committee Chair had requested approval
of the individuals on the list, noting that there are others who may also have a financial
interest Council Member Broussard Vickers felt that Council should support the
recommendation of Ms. Brenner and stated that she finds it incredible that Council
Members have chosen to pick Ms. Scott as the one (1) to tighten up the rules on.
Mayor Swedberg stated that the League of Minnesota Cities states that a person cannot
make decisions if they have a contractual interest.
Mr. Hoeft stated that the Committee is an advisory board and members of same are
required to disclose any financial interest they may have, even though it technically is not
a conflict of interest.
Mayor Swedberg stated he believed Council, commission/committees are bound by the
same rules. Mr. Hoeft explained that commission/committee volunteers are bound to
disclosure financial interests and should abstain from discussion or voting on an item if
they feel it is appropriate; however, they are not required to do so. Mr. Hoeft stated that
if Council acted on an item forwarded from a commission/committee where an individual
had not disclosed a financial interest and did not abstain from the voting process, that
individual would be held responsible for their action.
Council Member Nelson stated that after hearing the advice of Mr. Hoeft she perceives
Ms. Scott to have a conflict of interest.
All in favor. Aves - 4 (Mavor Swedbere. Council Members Capra. Nelson and
Vickers) Navs -1 (Council Member Travis). Motion carried.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Travis to appoint Ms. Scott to the Communications Ad Hoc Committee. Aves - 2
Page 4 of 10
March 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
(Council Members Broussard Vickers and Travis) Nays - 3 (Mayor Swedbere:.
Council Members Nelson and Capra). Motion failed.
Ms. Brenner requested that Council permit tape recording of the Committee's meetings to
allow for transcription at a later date. Mr. March concurred.
Ms. Brenner stated that an item of discussion for the Committee's first meeting was a
survey and questioned whether the Council had plans for same.
Council Member Capra stated the Economic Development Committee had discussed
doing a survey with local businesses.
Mayor Swedberg stated that if Council adopted the National League of Cities Index, there
are survey methods that could be used utilized.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated it would be fine for the Committee to put
together the majority of the survey with input from commission/committees if desired.
2. Authorization to Advertise for Full-Time Receptionist
Mr. March requested that this item be tabled allowing additional time to ascertain the
appropriate level of Staffing needed. Mr. March stated that he is researching the
availability of interns for the summer months for code enforcement and other issues that
may affect Staffing needs.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to remove
this item from the aeenda. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Nelson questioned the speed of the LaserFiche software when Mr.
March was reviewing same. Mr. March stated that he had arranged for a LaserFische
representative to review the City's computers and files on April 5, 2001. It was
anticipated that this information would provide enough resources to allow a proposal to
be submitted by Crabtree Companies, Inc. Mr. March stated that the system appeared to
be fast.
3. Fete des Lacs 2001 Budget
Mr. Ray DeVine, Chairperson, appeared before Council to ascertain whether Council had
any questions on the budget information submitted in the packet.
Mayor Swedberg stated that the Fete des Lacs - City Celebration was important to the
City as it shows City pride and features the best of what CentervilIe has to offer. Mayor
Swedberg also stated that contained in his goals presented to Council, a revolving fund or
special fund containing $35,000 for expenditures associated with the Celebration. Mayor
Swedberg stated that monies would be replenished from revenue earned from the
Celebration. Mayor Swedberg requested that Mr. March assist in financial accountability
for the committee.
Page 5 of 10
March 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. DeVine stated that information provided form the 2001 Celebration would assist
those who plan for the 2002 Celebration.
Mr. March stated that the Funds that the Mayor had referred to would be an account
accessible by Staff to advance funds, up to $35,000, as needed. Funds would not be
dedicated to a Celebration account.
Mr. March announced that a carnival had been retained for the Fete des Lacs - City
Celebration.
Mr. DeVine thanked Mr. March for his efforts in arranging a carnival and stated that the
addition would make a large contribution to the Celebration.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Travis to establish a City Celebration fund. to be named by the City Administrator.
which authorizes Staff to advance UP to $35.000 for the Fete des Lacs City
Celebration. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. DeVine explained he had received an invitation to attend a meeting for cities/events
that are hosting a regional or state softball tournament.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the Fete des Lacs Committee was subject to
the open meeting laws. Mr. Hoeft stated that the formal meeting is open to the public and
suggested that there not be a quorum of members present for subcommittee meetings.
Mr. DeVine indicated that the Committee has limited the subcommittees to two (2)
formal members of the larger Committee and is using outside residents to make up the
rest of the subcommittee.
4. Anoka County Agreement for Residential Recvcling Program
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to authorize the acceptance of the Anoka County Aereement for Residential
Recycline: Proe:ram. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
5. Sprinl! Lake Park Lion's Charitable Gambling Premise Permit Renewal
Mr. March stated that the Spring Lake Park Lion's have requested renewal of their
gambling premise permit to operate at Kelly's Komer. Mr. March explained the City of
Centerville receives part of the proceeds and those proceeds are being placed into a fund
to be used for either an entrance monument sign or possibly a park shelter building.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to approve the renewal of the charitable eamblinl: oermit for the Sprine:
Lake Park Lion's at Kelly's Korner. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Page 6 of 10
March 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
6. Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park Grant
Mr. March stated that Staff would be assembling the final grant application package the
following day for submission.
Council recessed at 7:40 p.m.
Council reconvened at 7:45 p.m.
7. Turcotte Purchase Agreement
Mr. Hoeft stated that the only modifications contained in the draft Purchase Agreement
was not limit the purchase agreement to a specific time frame as had been done
previously. The price remains at $139,000.
Council Member Capra questioned whether Mrs. Turcotte desired to live there until she
found another place to live. Mr. March stated Mrs. Turcotte had indicated she would be
accepted into the facility she desires to enter at any time. Mr. March stated that he had
mentioned to her, that at some point in time, the City would want a specific date when
she would be moving out and she seemed to understand.
Mayor Swedberg requested that Mr. March give some background on the Turcotte
property. Mr. March explained that the Turcotte property is located at 7073 Centerville
Road and is a duplex that has had numerous structural additions. Mr. March stated that
the property abuts the old Public Works site and acquiring same would be an asset for
downtown revitalization of the entire block.
Mr. Hoeft requested that Council direct Staff to enter into negotiations with Mrs.
Turcotte. Mr. Hoeft stated that subsequent to an agreed upon sale price, Staff would
forward the agreement to Council for approval.
Council Member Nelson requested that a typographical error in the purchase agreement
be corrected. Council Member Nelson questioned the use of the $139,000 purchase price
when the home and property were appraised at $138,000. Mr. March stated that Mrs.
Turcotte expressed desire to sell the property for $139,000.
Mr. DeVine questioned whether a public hearing was required to purchase the property.
Mr. Hoeft stated that Council would not; however the Economic Development Authority
(EDA) would need to.
Consensus was to direct Staff to enter into negotiations to purchase the Turcotte property.
8. Council Communication
Council Member Capra stated that she discovered that a letter from Mr. March to Mr.
Buechler had indicated it was copied to Council but that she had not received it. Council
Page 7 of 10
March 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Member Capra requested that Council receive copies when referenced accordingly in
Correspondence. Council Member Capra requested that this practice be ensured in the
future. Mr. March apologized for the oversight.
9. Committee Stipends
Council Member Capra stated that she felt the stipend dollar amount for
commission/committee members needed to be increased to cover babysitter fees if
needed.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned the amount of commission/committee
members serving. Council Member Nelson stated that increasing stipends from $10 per
meeting to $20 per meeting would increase expenditures from $3,360 to $6,720 per year.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to increase Committee Member Stipends to $20 per month. AU in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
10. Draft Goal Directives Proposal
Mayor Swedberg stated that Council had been going through a process of setting goals
for a two-year period. Mayor Swedberg requested that Council adopt the Civic Index
from the National Civic League as a tool to guide civic infrastructure.
Motion by Mayor Swedberl:. seconded by Council Member Nelson to adopt the
Civil Index from the National Civic Leal:ue.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned why Mayor Swedberg felt the City
needed to adopt the Civic Index formally. Mayor Swedberg stated he wanted to be
formal, as he feels the index contains ideas that are important for the City to follow.
Council Member Nelson stated she would like to see a poster with the ten items listed.
All in favor: Ayes - 4 (Mayor Swedbere. Council Members Capra. Nelson and
Travis) Nays -1 (Broussard Vickers). Motion carried.
Mayor Swedberg noted he had scheduled an open house at City Hall on April 7, 2001 at
7:00 p.m. and April 10, 2001 at 7:00 p.m. to discuss the goals of the City.
Council Member Capra requested that Mr. March have the goals placed on the website.
Mr. March requested that the Mayor share his expectations of the open house with
Council. Mayor Swedberg stated he would be present and invited any other members of
Council to be present as well.
Council Member Capra stated it may be easier for residents to attend a Saturday morning
meeting.
Page 8 of 10
March 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Consensus was to modify the meeting of April 7, 2001 to 10:00 a.m. and to modify the
meeting of April 10, 200 I to 6:30 p.m.
Mayor Swedberg reviewed the submitted draft goals and requested input from Council.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she would be more comfortable if dollar
amounts were removed from the document before the document was made available to
the public.
Mayor Swedberg indicated the document would be edited as requested and presented to
the public at the open houses.
Council Member Nelson thanked Mayor Swedberg for his efforts to draft the document.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City ofCenterville March 15, through March 28, 2001 Expenditures
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
3. Planning and Zoning Commission's Recommendation to Appoint Linda
Broussard Vickers as Council Liaison
4. LeJournal (Proof)
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to approve the Consent A!!:enda as presented. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Mayor Swedberg noted he had read through the minutes from the Planning and Zoning
Commission's discussion concerning mini-storage facilities. He noted the Planning and
Zoning Commission had held a thorough discussion and thanked them for their
consistency in following Ordinance #4.
Xl. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. March requested that Council set a work session date to interview design firms.
Consensus was to schedule a work session for April 17, 200 I.
Mayor Swedberg requested Council schedule a work session to discuss budgets and
economics for Tuesday April 24, 2001. Mayor Swedberg requested that Mr. March
attend same.
Mr. March reported he had spoken to Mr. Bisek, Kelly's Korner, who indicated the water
is not pooling in his parking lot as it has in the past. Mr. March then recommended
Council consider the drainage issue as part ofthe downtown redevelopment project.
Page 9 of 10
March 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. March presented a letter from Mr. Wilharber regarding outstanding customer service
that he had received from Waste Management. Mayor Swedberg asked Mr. March to
forward the letter to Waste Management.
Mr. March presented modifications for the Comprehensive Plan and requested that
Council review same and provide comments.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion bv Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to adiourn the
March 28. 2001 City Council Meeting: at 9:00 p.m. AU in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
_ProoJd by: '). d'~
c-=)~ )C.k~~
Teresa Bender, Clerk/Treasurer
Page 10 of! 0
.
:(--
.
CITY OF CENTERVlLLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 11, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereo~ the City of Centerville held their regularly
meeting on April 11, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Marl Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Administrator, Jim Marc
City Engineer, Tom Peter
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
I.
II.
t the City ofCenterville Expenditures be removed
sted that Ms. Diane Mester, 6961 Dupre Road, be added
laiDts.
1 Mr. March report on the tornado warning sirens in the
ction of the meeting.
1. Anoka County Board of Review
Mayor Swedberg opened the public hearing at 6:35 p.rn.
.
April!!, 200!
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg noted that Ms. Sue Reinhart and Mr. Jason Dagostino, Anoka County,
were present to hear resident concerns regarding property valuation.
Mr. Dagostino requested that residents come to the rear of the room and they would
review their information on an individual basis. Mr. Dagostino explainded that if the
County had not recently visually inspected the property, he would need to schedule an
appointment to do so. Mr. Dagostino referred to the hand out submitted to Council
indicating the increase in taxable values of 8.3%. Mr. Dagostino stated that at this
evenings meeting, the County would be reviewing assessment values not taxes.
Mr. March explained that in the past, Council has accepted the findings of the Board of
Review rather than get involved in the procedure. He then noted there is a process that
allows a resident to appeal the decision of the Board of Review if they are not happy with
their findings.
Mr. Dagostino stated it was Council's discretion if they desired to leave the hearing open
and remain involved in the process or accept the recommendation of the Board of Review
and allow residents to appeal. However, the hearing must close within ten (10) business
days from this meeting.
Ms. Reinhart requested a copy of the letter received from Ms. Roberta Wirth. Mr. March
presented same.
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
None.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Council Member Capra requested the following modifications: Page 4, the reference to
Council Member Capra should be changed to Council Member Nelson was asked by
Council Member Travis. Page 4, change the vote on the motion from three to four. Page
8 clarifY that the City increased the stipends from $10 to $20 per month making the new
total amount the City will pay for stipends $6,720.
Council Member Nelson requested the following modification: Page 7, delete the word
"the",
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested the following modifications: Page 3,
under Consideration of Minutes reflect that she abstained from voting, as she was not
present at the meeting.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to approve the March 28. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
Page 2 ofl4
April 11, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
1. Ms. Diane Mester, 6961 Dupre Road
Ms. Mester provided a hand out to Council that was a request to flatten the curb at the
townhouse she is moving into in Eagle Pass to allow access for her son's wheelchair.
Mr. March indicated Public Works had ground down another curb in the area and added
asphalt to make it easier to pass.
Motion by Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Nelson. to table
this matter to aUow Public Works to research and determine if the curb can be
2round down to make it accessible. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
2. Mr. Terry Sweeney (Questions - Mayor Swedberg's Goals)
Mr. Terry Sweeney addressed Council concerning the e-mail he received with the
Mayor's list of goals attached. Mr. Sweeney noted the copy of the document he received
had the dollar amounts listed and the price for some of the items concerned him.
Mr. Sweeney stated that he felt the dollar amounts suggested to go toward recreation
programs could be better spent in the parks rather than with program duplication. He also
noted he felt lighting the park to allow for adult softball games would bring money into
the City.
Mr. Sweeney noted he felt it was good to have an overall idea concerning trail
development within the City. Mr. Sweeney stated that in his opinion, things will change
based on how the City develops and he is concerned for setting a specific plan for the
trails.
Mr. Sweeney stated he felt the committees should bring their goals to Council and have
Council take it from that point. He also stated he felt committees should be making
recommendations to Council and that there is a need for Council Liaisons on
committees/commissions.
Mayor Swedberg told Mr. Sweeney he was correct with his concerns and thanked him for
bringing them up. He then noted there was good public input at the open houses
concerning the goals list and that it was not a finished document. He then stated some of
the concerns could be based on how the document was written and he apologized for his
writing style.
Mr. Sweeney stated he was concerned for the number of work sessions Council has
scheduled. He pointed out the raise for Council Members was approved based on the fact
that Council Members were actively involved in other committees/commissions within
the City by acting as liaisons. He stated he was upset when the current Council decided
not to have liaisons. He then stated he felt that in order for Council to have a good grasp
Page 3 of 14
Aprilll, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
of what goes on in the City that Council needed to go to the conunittee/commission
meetings. He further stated that it helps the conunittees to have a member of Council in
attendance.
Mr. Sweeney stated he was concerned that the document was sent out by the Mayor as
being endorsed and approved by Council when it does not appear that the entire Council
completely supports the document.
Council Member Capra stated Council held workshops to discuss goal setting. She also
stated that Council went to all committees/commissions as a whole, in February to see
what they needed for the year. She further stated that, from her perspective, Mayor
Swedberg had gathered all the information received and put it into a document for
review.
Mr. Sweeney stated it was nice to get the information, but said he feels it was a bit
premature because it created a large amount of controversy and discussion. He further
stated the document might have been better received if there had been a complete
consensus of Council prior to submission.
Mayor Swedberg stated that Council continues to gather information and explained that
the document is a work in progress.
Mr. Sweeney stated he understood the Mayor's position, but stated that the document
seemed to be a final document containing the goals for the City.
Mayor Swedberg explained the document was written in a very active voice and his
writing style may be the cause of some of the confusion.
Mr. Sweeney noted he is aware of the budget surplus in the City and asked Council to
consider dredging the pond behind Brian Drive to improve drainage. Mr. Sweeney
requested that Council research the removal of the barrier near Acorn Park as there are
also water concerns in that area.
Council Member Capra requested that Mr. March to have Staff look into the Acorn Park
issue.
Council Member Travis stated he believed the frost heaved the barrier out and the area
started to flood so the barrier was pulled out.
Mr. Sweeney stated he felt the City newsletter should remain as an independent operation
because he feels it has less of a bias if the newsletter is not run by the City or Council.
Mayor Swedberg questioned Mr. Sweeney as to his opinion regarding the frequency of
the newsletter and its format for delivery to residents.
Page 4 of14
April 11, 2001
CoWlCil Meeting Minutes
Mr. Sweeney did not comment on how often the newsletter should be mailed but
reiterated he would like to see it independently run.
Council Member Nelson commented that when the newsletter first started it was
reviewed at the Council level and Staffwas drafting it.
Council Member Capra asked Mr. March to forward Mr. Sweeney's comments
concerning the newsletter to the Communications Ad Hoc Committee.
Mayor Swedberg stated that his capacity regarding the newsletter has been acting as a
copy editor.
Council Member Capra stated she feels that if the newsletter comes from the City that
Council has a responsibility to review same prior to printing because Council is
responsible for the content.
Mr. DeVine questioned whether the newsletter is paid for by advertising. Council
Member Nelson stated that the advertising does not pay for the entire newsletter. Mr.
March concurred.
Council Member Broussard Vickers commented that when Council decided to have a
newsletter, it was hoped that it would become close to self-sufficient over time.
Mr. Sweeney stated he felt Council should have input, but not complete control of the
content of the newsletter.
Mr. March stated he felt that the City pays for the newsletter and should be able to use it
as an avenue to get accurate information to the residents. He then noted that there are
two newspapers covering the City and its Council meetings that should provide ample
independent reporting. Mr. March suggested that an editorial page be added to the
newsletter for resident comments and concerns.
Council Member Nelson stated she felt that one (1) of the reasons for putting more
money into the newsletter was to have an avenue where Council could give information
to residents.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to close the Board of Review DubUc hearinll. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
Mr. Dagostino noted that Mr. Barrett had contacted him early in the afternoon and did not
leave a telephone number to be called back. He stated that if he had left a number he
would not have had to come to the meeting.
..
Mr. Dagostino noted Mr. Barett's property needs to be reviewed and an appointment was
arranged for Friday, April 13, 2001. Mr. Dagostino stated that it appeared that Mr.
Page 5 of14
Aprilll,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Barett's property may be overvalued. Mr. Barett's property is located at 6953 Centerville
Road.
Mr. Dagostino noted that Mr. Buckbee was at the meeting to discuss a 2001 tax issue,
which had been previously discussed on the telephone. Mr. Buckbee was told there was
nothing that could be done at this time and that an abatement for the assessment in the
year 2000 is being worked on. Mr. Buckbee's property is located at 7381 Peltier Circle.
Mr. Dagostino noted he had spoken with Ms. Roberta Wirth on March 23 and the letter
provided to him stated everything she stated in the telephone conversation he had with
her. He explained he went through the options available to her and noted that her home
has not ever been seen by the Assessor. He stated he had offered to arrange an
appointment, however, was declined. He also stated that, in his opinion, Ms. Wirth's
property may be undervalued not overvalued. He further explained that Minnesota
Statute Section 274.01 states that the Board of Review, if denied entry, cannot make a
change in valuation.
Mr. March stated that as there were a small number of people interested in having their
properties reviewed, but he did not see the need to keep the meeting open.
Mayor Swedberg thanked the Board of Review for attending the meeting to gain resident
input and address their concerns.
2. Mr. Wayne LeBlanc, Lighting - Hunter's Crossing
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to refer Mr. LeBlanc's reQuest to the Plannin!! and Zonin!! Commission for
consideration. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
3. Mr. Bert Casper, Additional Lighting in Eagle Pass
Mr. March told Council the developer had dropped off the preliminary plat and stated he
thought the City could get additional lighting in the two areas of concern while the lights
for the new development are going in. He then noted Council needed to decide if the
City would pay for the lights or if residents needed to petition for the lights.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she had driven through the development in the
evening and did not feel it was any more or less lit than other neighborhoods but stated if
residents feel they need more lighting that Public Works should investigate in terms of
placement and costs. She then stated she felt additional lighting would be an assessment
to homeowners who benefit otherwise the City will have to put lights everywhere and the
City cannot do that.
Council Member Capra stated she drives that street quite a lot from Meadow Lane to the
park and it is darker than other areas. She then noted that if the expansion goes through it
should light up the area and recommended reviewing the lighting at that time.
Page 6 of 14
April 11, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg stated it seemed like the City puts lights at the end of cul de sacs and at
intersections. He then asked if there were City specifications for lighting. Mr. March
noted the City does not have any language in the Code governing the specific level of
lighting required.
Council Member Capra asked Mr. March to e-mail Mr. Casper to let him know that
Council will review the matter when development occurs but be sure not to indicate that
the City would pay for the lighting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked that Staff also let Mr. Casper know there is a
process to petition Council for more lighting and explain that process to him.
Mayor Swedberg noted that Mr. Jewell had asked the differences between a public versus
a private street. He had also asked how to make a private street public. Mayor Swedberg
asked Mr. March to provide the answer to Mr. Jewell.
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Draft GoalslTrailways Discussion
Motion bv Mavor Swedben!. seconded by Council Member Nelson to table the draft
2oals/trailways discussion. AU in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned why this item keeps coming back to
Council.
Mayor Swedberg stated the residents were interested in pedestrian access.
Mr. March stated he has asked the Parks and Recreation Committee to review any items
that pertain to the Comprehensive Plan so that those changes can be submitted with all
the other changes to the Comprehensive Plan.
2. Ordinance #39 (SignalZe)
Motion by Council Member Nelson. second bv Council Member Capra. to waive the
readinu: and approve Ordinance #39 (Siu:nau:e) as presented. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
3. Monument Sign Design (Shea's Proposal)
Page 7 of 14
April II, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. March passed around a colored version of the design for the sign. He noted there
were two (2) separate proposals in the packets. The first is from Shea Architects to
develop and present three (3) options for the sign, develop pricing documents to get
quotes, and then review shop drawings, review construction, and installation. They are
also asking for reimbursable expenses of$200.
Mayor Swedberg asked where the money would come from Mr. March noted it had
been discussed that the money would come out of the charitable account.
Mr. March noted he was not impressed with the design sketch provided by Color Sign
Systems. He then noted County Bank needed to know the location for the sign in order to
have the electrical roughed in for it.
Council Member Nelson stated she would like to get some other quotes, as this quote is
quite high.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she did not want to pay for someone to design
a sign. She then stated that if the City has a rough picture of what it would like the City
could give the design to the manufacturers and have them give prices.
Council Member Capra stated she wanted to see the sign done and wanted to work with
County Bank to run the power. She then stated she felt she could get ideas from
volunteers and would work with Mr. March for design concepts, as she does not want to
pay money to design the sign.
Mr. Bode, from County Bank, indicated the exact location did not need to be determined
this evening, as he will have an extra fifteen (15) feet of wire run.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson. to table this matter while Council Member Capra and Mr. March
investi2ate desi2ns for the si2n. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
4. County Bank (Request)
Mr. Craig Bode, County Bank, requested that Council consider splitting the cost of
running the water main to the bank building.
Mr. Peterson explained that the pipe was originally part of the Hunter's Crossing
development and was added as an alternate at the time. He noted he received quotes to
do the work but the City elected not to install same. He stated he got a call from Mr.
Rehbein about the water main. sent him the same map, and it was put in according to the
Hunter's Crossing pIan. Mr. Peterson then explained that a six (6) inch pipe is the
smallest pipe used and anything larger than the six (6) inches is considered a trunk main.
He further explained the pipe could be used for looping in another development if the
City desired.
Page 8 of14
April 11, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. March stated he had spoken to Mr. Milo Bennett, Centennial Fire Chief, who had
explained the issue was that there was no road built to the hydrant on the other side of the
building so the Fire Department would not have proper access to same. Mr. March also
noted he was unaware that the pipe was a six (6) inch water main. Mr. March noted that,
if the pipe were oversized or extra deep, that would be a typical City cost and he is not
sure how this line would service development to the north.
Mr. Peterson noted the City would connect to the water pipe at some point as it is in the
right-of-way for 21st Avenue. If 21st Avenue is extended straight north, the hydrant
would be removed and the City would connect to the pipe and continue the main.
Council Member Capra stated she had spoken with Mr. Bennett and he had indicated the
hydrant is a standard request and not out of the ordinary.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned why the City decided not to install the
pipe at the same time as Hunter's Crossing.
Council Member Travis asked if this was a development cost or a City infrastructure cost.
Mr. Peterson indicated it was both. Mr. March indicated if the pipe were a larger trunk it
would have been a City cost. He also stated that, if the City can use the pipe to loop in
future development, there might be a dollar amount for the City to contribute.
Mr. Bode questioned why the hydrant and water main were not discussed at the site plan
review level. Mr. March indicated he was told by Mr. Bennett the water main and
hydrant were on the plan originally.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she would like the minutes reviewed to
determine why the City decided not to have the pipe installed at the same time as the
Hunter's Crossing development.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Nelson to table
this matter for more research. to direct Staff to review the minutes to determine
why the City decided not to install this pipe as part of the Hunter's Crossinll
development. and to review the site plans for County Bank to determine if the water
main and hydrant were included in the orillinal plans. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Mr. Bode questioned whether there were plans to continue 21st Avenue to the north. Mr.
March indicated there currently was no plan to do so.
Council Member Travis asked how much Mr. Bode was asking the City to pay. Mr.
Bode indicated he would like the water main paid for by the City. He then noted the
Bank should be assessed for the value of having water run to its property.
Page 9 of14
April 11, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
5. Cable Franchise Update
Mr. March reported he and Council Member Capra had attended a joint meeting to find
out the status of franchise negotiations and found out that AT&T Broadband has halted
all negotiations. He noted the attorneys that serve the seven-city Cable Commission were
dealing with AT&T Broadband and two other companies, Everest and Wide Open West
who had expressed an interest in overbuilding the area. Both of those companies have
backed off and the Cable Commission has no choice but to deal with AT&T Broadband.
He noted one of the sticking points goes back to a memorandum of understanding from
1996 regarding PEG fees.
Council Member Capra commented that whatever is agreed to is a 15 year commitment
for the City.
Mr. March explained the Cable Commission has been in an informal review and now
wants to go to the formal process that could be very expensive. The Cable Commission
would need to prove that AT&T Broadband has not been responsive and has not met the
needs for service in all areas of the communities involved. The Cable Commission voted
unanimously to present a resolution to the cities for approval. Council Member Capra
noted she would like it reviewed and voted on at the next Council meeting to bring it
back to the board the first Wednesday in May.
Mr. March explained the Cable Commission is investigating having the cities take over
the cable system.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked how the Cable Commission could force
AT&T Broadband to accept the terms the Cable Commission wants.
Mayor Swedberg explained that this is a federal FCC process that is an umbrella over all
of the cable operations.
Mr. Sweeney noted the way he understands it is that cable is something that has to be
provided and AT&T Broadband cannot just pullout and not provide cable.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked who benefits by extending the franchise. Mr.
Sweeney stated he did not feel anyone benefited as there are advertisements for
Broadband but it is not really available to Centerville or Lino Lakes. He then noted the
Commission wants Broadband accelerated into all areas that are being served as part of
the franchise agreement. Mr. Sweeney noted another issue is internet access as the Cable
Commission wants PEG fees from internet access and AT&T Broadband disagrees.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned if going through the formal process and
spending extra money would bring this to a conclusion.
Page 10 of14
Aprilll,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra stated that AT&T Broadband currently is not fulfilling its
agreements under current franchises with other cities. As such. Commissioners are eager
to go to the formal process.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked where the money would come from to fund
the formal process. Mr. March indicated there is $75,000 in reserve and that anywhere
along the way the Cable Commission can opt to stop funding the process. Mr. March
indicated the cable fund may be depleted but explained that the fund is continually added
to.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the Commission or the City had any leverage. City Attorney
Hoeft stated the only leverage for either side knows how much you want to put the other
side through the process.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if there is any kind of negative publicity that
would reflect on AT&T Broadband in this situation. Mr. March noted AT&T Broadband
is telling customers that the cities are holding up the franchise so they cannot offer
customers Broadband.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers, seconded by Council Member
Capra to waive the readine: and approve Resolution 01-010 as presented. AU in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council recessed at 8:28 p.m
Council Member Travis left the meeting at 8:28 p.m
Council reconvened at 8:35 p.m
6. Parks and Recreation Recommendations
Council Member Capra noted she had spoken with Ms. Lien regarding the dollar amounts
and sees no problem approving the recommendation.
Motion by Council Member Capra, seconded by Mayor Swedbere: to approve Parks
and Recreation Recommendations and to approve an amount not to exceed $800 for
proe:rams at the Ware:o Nature Center and an amount not to exceed $500 for
advertisine: those proe:rams. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Mayor Swedberg asked if anyone was interested in serving as the liaison to the Parks and
Recreation Committee.
Council Member Nelson stated she did not feel it was appropriate for a Council Member
to have an influence at the committee meetings.
Council Member Capra stated that Wednesday nights do not work for her.
Council Member Broussard Vickers volunteered to be the liaison.
Page 11 of 14
.
April 11, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
It was the consent of Council to appoint Council Member Broussard Vickers as the Parks
and Recreation Council Liaison.
7. Community Gardens
Mr. March noted this item was in packets for informational purposes. Mr. March further
noted there were rumors flying around town about the expense for the garden but stated
he felt the community gardens could be self-sufficient or actually make money in the
future.
Council Member Capra asked how much would be charged for a plot. Mr. March
indicated a 15x40 plot would cost $35 for the growing season.
Mayor Swedberg stated he thought Public Works could dig up plots so the cost estimate
surprised him.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked that an article be put in the newsletter to
determine the interest level and recommended that the gardens start small and grow as
interest grows.
Mr. Sweeney noted that putting the garden behind City Hall may be a problem as there
may not be parking for firefighters when responding to a call.
Mr. March noted there should not be a traffic jam as those interested in gardens have
varied schedules and he did not expect all gardeners to be there at the same time.
Council Member Capra asked to have a statement concerning the gardens put on the
cable channel and investigate putting plots at Chauncey Barrett Gardens.
Council Member Capra asked Mr. March to research with the County whether the County
property could be used for a garden.
8. Resolution #01-008 (Abatement Parkview Assessment)
9. Resolution #01-009 (Abatement Hunter's Crossirn! and Re-Allocation
Assessment)
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to waive the readiR!! and approve Resolutions 01-008 and 01-009 as
presented. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City of Centerville March 29, through April 11 , 2001 Expenditures
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
Page 12 of14
.
Aprilll,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
3. Pay Estimate #4 (Northdale Construction - Hunter's Crossing)
4. Water Testing MCES Lift Station #4 (Stork Twin City Testing Corp.)
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to
approve Consent Aeenda Items 2. 3. and 4 as presented. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
Council Member Nelson noted she had a question with the financial statement and had
asked for clarification from Staff.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the City of Ceoterville March 29. 2001 throueh April 11. 2001
expenditures. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council Member Capra reported the Life Time Achievement Committee is forming again
and she made a nomination so she will not be chairing the committee. She noted Paul
Montain would be the chair. Council Member Capra noted Mr. Wilharber and Mrs.
Sharon Smith (in memory of) have been nominated to receive the award. Council
Member Capra noted she had asked Council Member Nelson to serve on the committee
as Council Members Broussard Vickers and Travis have made recommendations to the
committee.
Council Member Broussard Vickers reported she was not able to attend the last Planning
and Zoning Commission meeting.
Mayor Swedberg noted he attend the Police Commission meeting where he received
statistics that indicated crime is 35% lower than this time last year.
XI. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. March reported the tornado siren did not go off during the test last week. He
indicated there have been problems with the siren and the City replaced a decoder board
last year. This time a technician came out and a bad switch was repaired to make the
siren operational.
Mr. Sweeney stated that at one time, Council discussed adding another siren in town.
Mr. March stated he had asked Mr. Palzer to set up a meeting with the Fire Chief to
discuss placing a siren on top of the fire department that would be connected to the
generator so that, in the event of a power outage, the siren would still function. He also
noted that a siren on top of the building might carry farther and alert more residents.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the City had considered battery back ups for the system. Mr.
March explained the need to replace the batteries and cost effectiveness of same.
Page 13 of 14
,
.
April II, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council directed Staff to gather more information and report back to Council at the next
meeting.
Mayor Swedberg expressed concern that the sirens may go off in Hugo but as Hugo is in
a different county the sirens would not go off in Centerville.
Mr. Sweeney explained that the National Weather Service dictates when the sirens go off.
He then noted fire department firefighters are automatically paged when the sirens go off
but the protocol is not to report to the station unless there is a disaster and the tones are
sounded.
Mayor Swedberg noted Anoka County is in need of updating the communication radio
system for police and fire.
Mr. Sweeney noted there are times when firefighters at the end of town do not receive
their page.
Mr. March reported he had spoken to Mrs. Turcotte who told him she had turned the
purchase agreement over to her attorney and her attorney will call Mr. Hoeft to discuss
same.
Mr. March reported Council has set an interview date of April I?, 2001 to interview the
four (4) design consuhants.
XU. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Capra, seconded by Council Member Nelson to adiourn
the April 11. 2001 City Council Meetinl! at 9:10 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Proofed by:
c---y/~~
Teresa Bender, Clerkffreasurer
Page 14 of 14
~~ .
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 25, 2001
6:30 p.m.
E-Mailed 10 Council on 5/3/0 I at 11:34 a.m.
April 25, 2001 Council Minutes
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly sched
meeting on April 25, 2001, at City HalI, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Marl Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
I.
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Administrator, Jim March
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
cll meeting to order at 6:35 p.rn.
D.
y Pell be added under Petitions and Complaints
roussard Vickers seconded b Council Member
e a as amended. All in favor. Motion carried
01.
IV.
fthe Year Award Presentation (Wayne leBlanc)
Mayor Swedberg presented Mr. Wayne LeBlanc with the Citizen of the Year award.
Mr. LeBlanc thanked the City and those that he has worked with for the award.
Page 1 of 12
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/01 at 11:34 a.m.
April 25, 2001 Council Minutes
2. Ad Hoc Communications Committee Update
Ms. Theresa Brenner, Chair, gave a brief update on the progress of the Committee. Ms.
Brenner provided copies of the proposed surveys for review.
Mr. March requested that prizes be designated rather than listing dollar amounts on the
survey.
Ms. Brenner stated that the Committee has made several recommendations and reviewed
same: Update the City's web page contact list, Cablecast Council meetings during the
day, subsequent to the actual meeting and provide the Week in Review to residents
expressing interest in receiving same.
Council Member Capra questioned whether Mr. March could post the Week in Review
on the City's website. Mr. March concurred and offered to e-rnall same to residents who
expressed interest in receiving the Week in Review.
Mr. March stated that Ms. Patricia Scott had submitted a letter of resignation for
providing newsletter services to the City. Mr. March also stated that he had received a
telephone call from the person who was the associate editor of the White Bear Press for
five (5) years and currently produces a twenty-five (25) page, glossy magazine. Mr.
March stated that this might be a viable avenue for the City to present information to
residents and the surrounding communities. Mr. March also stated that he would
research this item further.
Motion bv Council Member Travis seconded bv Council Member Capra to
authorize the Communications Ad Hoc Committee to print and mail the presented
survevs. AU in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Council Member Capra requested the following change: Page 11 change "City of
Centerville" to "Cable Commission".
Mayor Swedberg requested the following change: On the last page indicate that the
interviews were set for April 17 , 2001 not May 17, 2001.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the April 11. 200t Council Minutes as amended. AU in favor. Motion
carried unanimousw.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
1. Ms. Kathy Peil
Page 2 of 12
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/0 I at It:34 a.m.
April 25, 200t Council Minutes
Ms. Kathy Peil, 1859 - 73rd Street, stated that she and her husband have been trying to
build an in-ground pool in their backyard fur two (2) years. Ms. Peil requested that
Council agree to release her building permit on Tuesday, May 1, 2001 pending a
favorable outcome at the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting regarding Ordinance
#4 amendments and requirements for pools.
Council Member Capra questioned Mr. Hoeft whether the City could legally agree to
comply with Ms. Peil's request.
Mr. Hoeft suggested releasing the permit su~ect to the approval of the Planning and
Zoning Commission. Mr. Hoeft also suggested that if Council had concerns in regards to
pool requirements, they should address same at a special meeting or attend the Planning
and Zoning Commission meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned the approval of Council prior to the
process being completed.
Council Member Travis clarified that pools are not currently addressed in Ordinance #4
and Staff is treating them as an Accessory Structure.
Mr. Hoeft stated that Council has the authority to release the permit. Mr. Hoeft also
stated that this request is not a Variance and is not governed by Ordinance #4.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the feelings of Ms. Peit's neighbors. Ms. Peil stated that she
had discussed the pool and required fencing with her neighbors as signatures would be
required to install the fencing on the property line.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether additional pool requirements would need to be in
place if Ordinance #4 is amended regarding pools. Council Member Broussard Vickers
stated that most pool requirements are covered under building codes and state law.
Mayor Swedberg suggested calling a special meeting the night of the Planning and
Zoning Commission meeting to discuss this matter.
Council Member Nelson suggested a telephone vote. Mr. Hoeft stated that a specialomeeting or a telephone poll would need to be published.
Council Member Travis stated he felt this was a formality and he was fine with approving
the release of the permit contingent upon Planning and Zoning Commission approval.
Ms. Peil questioned the possibility of residents raising concern with the amendments to
Ordinance #4 regarding the pool requirements subsequent to approval and during the
publication period. Mr. March explained that upon two (2) consecutive publications of
the amendments, they would become effective.
Page 3 of12
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/0 I at 11:34 a.m.
April 25, 2001 Council Minutes
Council Member Nelson questioned the requirements for pools if the current Ordinance
#4 does not cover pools. Mr. March explained that Staff has interpreted that pools fall
under the definition of Accessory Structure and, therefore, pools are limited to two
percent (2%) of the rear yard similar to that ofa shed.
Council Member Nelson questioned the appropriateness of a Variance in this case.
Council Member Broussard Vickers explained that would not work due to time
constraints and the requirement of holding a public hearing.
Council Member Capra stated that Council usually approves the recommendation of the
Planning and Zoning Commission. However, she would prefer a telephone poll
following the meeting.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Ms. Peil has contacted other construction firms to
construct the pool. Ms. Peil stated that she had and that no other contractors were
available prior to August.
Mr. Hoeft suggested that Council either attend the Planning and Zoning Commission
meeting, call a special meeting or have a telephone poll following the meeting.
Mayor Swedberg questioned what would happen if someone raised major concerns about
pools at the public hearing. Mr. Hoeft stated that there could be a possibility of that
happening and suggested calling a special meeting following the Planning and Zoning
Commission meeting prior to releasing the permit. Mr. March stated that he did not
believe the public hearing would be of interest to very many people.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
schedule a special meetin2 of the City Council on Mav 1. 2001 at 7:00 p.m. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS
Mr. March stated that Staff had located the actual bid for Hunter's Crossing that listed
four (4) alternates. Mr. March stated that the City chose Northdale Construction, which
had the highest cost for the alternates and that may be the reason the project was not
awarded. Mr. March stated that Mr. Peterson had indicated in a letter that funding should
be discussed prior to approving an alternate. Mr. March also stated that at the time the
bid was awarded, no commitment had been received from The County Bank.
Mr. March submitted copies of the building permit plans that show an "X" where the
requested hydrant was drawn on same by the Centennial Fire District. Mr. March stated
Page 4 of12
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/01 at 11:34 a.m.
April 25, 2001 Council Minutes
that The County Bank's contractor moved the hydrant to the north and did not build it
according to the submitted plans.
Council Member Capra clarified that the Fire Department required that the hydrant be
located where it is.
Mayor Swedberg questioned Mr. March in regards to whose financial responsibility the
water main would be. Mr. March recommended that the City request that Mr. Peterson
place a value on the benefit of the water main installation for future development to the
north of the site.
Mr. Peterson stated that typically the property owner would be assessed at the time the
property is developed. Mr. March stated there might be some value to the City if the City
intends on looping into the water main east of the Willow Glen development for future
growth.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that the City would not loop into the system
until the property to the north develops and those properties would be assessed at that
time for same. Mr. March stated that the City has given credit for looping, extra depth
and over-sized water mains in the past. Mr. Peterson agreed that the City did receive a
slight benefit as the water main is extended farther than it would have needed to be.
Council Member Travis questioned whether the water main makes a 900 turn at the
hydrant and if the water main extended to the north property line. Mr. Peterson stated
that the hydrant is positioned directly on the water main. Mr. Peterson stated that the
City realized a 15% value. Mr. March recommended that Staff continue to investigate
the issue and report back.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers seconded by Council Member
Nelson to table this matter pendiDll additional investie:ation. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
IX. NEW BUSINESS
1. Centennial Fire District puTlJtlB Bids
Mr. March stated that the Fire Steering Committee had recommended acceptance of the
bid from General Safety fur the purchase of a new pumper truck in the amount of
$234,713.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to aDDrove the recommendation of the Fire Steerine: Committee to Durchase
a new Dumper truck from General Safety in the amount of $234.713. AU in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
Page 5 of12
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/0 I at 11 :34 a.m.
April 25, 2001 Council Minutes
X. CITY ENGINEER'S REPORT
1. Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park Electrical plAns
Mr. Peterson presented electrical plans for Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park for Council's
review.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the City could tap into the electrical line at any
point if future wiring is determined. Mr. Peterson stated that the transformer is the most
viable starting point for same.
Mr. March questioned the purpose of the power-line crossing overhead versus under the
parking lot. Mr. Peterson stated that same was determined by Xcel Energy. Xcel Energy
suggested that burying feeder lines under asphalt was not a good idea due to potential
problems, accessibility and cost effectiveness. Mr. Peterson stated that he would contact
Xcel Energy to ascertain if they may have additional suggestions for the line.
Mr. March stated he would prefer under ground power, if possible, to preserve the
appearance of open space in the park.
Consensus was that the power line be placed underground depending upon cost. Mr.
Peterson stated that the power would be under ground subsequent to crossing the parking
lot.
Mr. Ray DeVine requested that Mr. March forward copies of the plans to the Parks and
Recreation Committee for their review.
Mr. March questioned whether the timeline for completing the project would be
jeopardized by waiting for input from the Parks and Recreation Committee. Mr. Peterson
stated that he could issue an addendum for up to five (5) days prior to the bid and did not
believe it to be a problem.
2. Surface Water Management Plan Proposal
Mr. Peterson briefly reviewed the Surface Water Management Plan.
Mayor Swedberg clarified that the City is required to have a Surfuce Water Management
Plan that is complimentary to its Comprehensive Plan and. in order to do that, tasks 1
through 6 need to be completed. Mr. March concurred. Mayor Swedberg questioned
whether Public Works Staff or Mr. Peterson would perform the other items contained in
the report. Mr. Peterson stated that he would develop a checklist and Public Works Staff
could complete some of the tasks to reduce expenditures.
Page 6 of12
:
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/0 I at 11 :34 a.m.
April 25, 2001 Council Minutes
Mr. March questioned whether the modeling and associated costs were needed as same
was completed previously. Mr. Peterson stated it would be dependent upon Rice Creek
Watershed, as modifications have been made since 1997.
Mr. March stated that when the City compiled its Comprehensive Plan in 1997, Rice
Creek Watershed District had not submitted a plan to the Metropolitan Council. At the
time, the City requested that H.R Green complete a Surface Water Management Plan for
review by the Watershed District. At that time, the City was infonned that they would
have two (2) years following the completion of the Watershed District's Plan.
Mr. March suggested submitting all documentation regarding this matter to Mr. Peterson
and letting him determine if additional information is needed.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether the funds would be expended
from the Water Tower Fund. Mr. March stated that in his opinion, the funds should be
expended from the Storm Sewer Fund as the plan relates to drainage.
Council Member Capra requested an evaluation of the ponds to be completed by Mr.
Peterson prior to arranging any maintenance schedule.
Mr. March stated he would like Mr. Peterson to instruct the Public Works Staff on pond
maintenance for the pond that has received the most complaints.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether there was standard protocol for pond maintenance
determined by the Rice Creek Watershed District. Mr. March indicated that the
Watershed District may have standards and stated he would research same.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the Surface Water Manae:ement Plan for the reouired work as
presented and to submit the current plan to the City Enldneer for necessary
corrections. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
3. Downtown Revitali?ation Project
Mr. Peterson thanked Council for selecting Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik & Assoc. and
requested that Council define the portion of the project they would be responsible for and
what Shea Architects would be responsible for. Mr. March explained Shea Architects
would be focusing on building components around the commercial properties and
Bonestroo would provide ala carte streetscape amenities.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she felt there was enough information for a
basic meeting with the downtown businesses and residents.
Mr. March suggested holding the meeting in mid~May. Mayor Swedberg suggested that
the meeting be held near the downtown area.
Page 7 of 12
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/01 at 11:34 a.m.
April 25, 2001 Council Minutes
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the meeting could be held at Mr. DeVine's
office. Mr. DeVine stated that they bad recently leased the main floor level of the
building and offered the use ofhis conference room for the meeting.
Consensus was to hold the meeting on May 15, 2001 at 7:00 p.rn. at Mr. DeVine's
Office.
4. Trail in Front of Apo1eTree Square
Mr. Peterson stated that there are two (2) options for the trail. One option is to pave over
the existing overlay of the trail. The maximum width of the trail would remain six (6)
feet wide. Mr. Peterson noted that three (3) drainage locations would need to be
installed. Mr. Peterson advised same to be concrete swales that would allow movement
of water across the trail and into the ditch. The second option is to fill in the ditch and
make the trail eight (8) or ten (10) feet wide. The approximate cost for the first option
would be $3,000 and the second option would be $10,000 to $11,000. Mr. Peterson
stated that the second option would need Anoka County approval to fill in the existing
ditch.
Council Member Nelson questioned the possibility of using metal grates instead of
concrete swales. Mr. Peterson explained that metal grates do not work well during the
freeze/thaw cycle and are not recommended.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the same option could be utilized for the new
strip mall development. Mr. Peterson stated that the trail would drain into a catch basin
at that site.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to offer
the first option to Mr. Drilline: for the trail on the west side of AppleTree Square.
AU in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Motion bv CODncil Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to approve the commencement of acceptine: Request for Bids ree:ardine: the
Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park Electrical Plans based on any amendments from
the Parks and Recreation Committee. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
XI. PUBLIC WORKS REPORT
1. 6961 Dupre Road (Driveway Accessibility)
Mr. March stated that the City would incur $365 to rent a bobcat with a mill attachment
and trailer. It was anticipated that the project would take four (4) hours to complete.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the City incurred the expenditures with the
previous accessibility request. Mr. March stated that the equipment bad been donated
and the City bad incurred minimal expense for asphalt.
Page 8 of12
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/01 at 11:34 a.m.
April 25, 2001 Cooncil Minutes
Motion by Council Member Travis. seconded by Mayor Swedbere to proceed with
the miUinl! and fWD!! of the curb at 6961 Dupre Road. Ayes - 4. Nays - 1
{Broussard Vickers}. Motion carried.
2. Temnorary Summer Help
Mr. March stated that the Public Works seasonal worker from the previous year has
expressed interest in working for the City again this year. Mr. March explained that A.J.
has agreed to work for the same rate as last year ($IOlhour), excluding benefits.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Nelson to
authorize the hinD!! of temporary. seasonal help for the Public Works Deoartment.
All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
3. Civil pefense Siren
Mr. March stated that he had met with a representative from Federal Warning Systems in
regards to the current siren and the possibility of securing an additional siren. A proposal
would be forwarded for review. Mr. March also stated that the additional siren would be
located at City Hall and would be powered by the generator. The existing siren would be
relocated to ensure 100010 coverage for the City. Mr. March explained that the
representative had recommended keeping the controls for the siren inside the building to
make the siren more reliable.
Council Member Capra questioned the approximate cost for the siren. Mr. March
indicated an additional siren would be approximately $17,000.
Motion by Mayor Swedbere. seconded bv Council Member Broussard Vickers to
accept the future recommendation of the Fire Chief with rel!ards to the Tornado
WamiDl! Siren. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
4. 7121 Centerville Road (Baron Prooerty)
Mr. March updated Council on the Baron property.
Council Member Nelson stated she felt it would be okay to extend the deadline due to a
late thaw and excessive rain.
Council Member Capra questioned the recourse Council would have if the property was
not brought into compliance by June 1,2001. Mr. Hoeft indicated the City would have to
cite the property owner with a violation of the Code, which puts the matter into the
criminal court system which subjects the property owner to fines if the property is not
cleaned up. This may provide a financial incentive to the property owner to clean up the
property.
Page 9 of12
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/0 I at II :34 a.m.
April 25. 2001 Council Minutes
Mr. Tom Wilharber, 6849 Centerville Road, stated the City has been dealing with the
property in question for a number of years and has consistently received the same excuses
as to why the property cannot be cleaned up. Mr. Wtlharber requested that Council
consider the residents living near the property who have put up with the conditions of the
property. Mr. Wilharber requested that Council not grant an extension. Mr. W1lharber
stated that in his opinion, the privacy fence currently being installed is not an answer to
the existing problem.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that Council had agreed, if progress was
made, to grant an extension until June I, 2001. Council Member Broussard Vickers
requested that Staff indicate that the drop-dead date for bringing the property into
compliance was June 1,2001 and no further extension would be granted.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seeonded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to extend the deadline to brine: tbe property into eompliance to June 1. 2001
and indicate that no furtber extensions would be e:ranted. AU in favor. Motion
carried unanimoush:.
5. Thermal Heat Patches
Mr. March reported that Mr. Palzer is recommending that 150 heat patches be completed.
Mr. March stated that thermal patching has been very effective in the past.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Capra to approve the Quote from Berman for 150 thermal beat patcbes. AU in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Nelson questioned Mr. Palzer's recommendation for the services to be
provided by Berman when another firm was the lowest bidder. Council Member Travis
stated that the low bidder was providing crack filling services which was a totally
difference issue.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the road could be raised in the areas where the heat
patches would be installed. Mr. March stated that the asphalt is heated up and smoothed
out, but the existing grade is not changed. Mr. March stated that the heat patches would
be installed in several areas where the streets are deteriorating, however, these same areas
may also require overlay.
XII. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City ofCenterville April 12, through April 25, 2001 Expenditures
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seeonded bv Council Member Capra to
approve Consent Ae:enda Items 1 and 2 as presented. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Page 10 of12
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/01 at 11:34 a.m.
April 25, 2001 Council Minutes
XDI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council Member Capm reported that in her capacity as City Historian, she attended the
Around the County Meeting at the Anoka County Historical Society. She then noted the
Historical Society would be moving into the Anoka County Library.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the thempeutic massage business was still interested in coming
to Centerville. Mr, March stated he had received no formal application and the Planning
and Zoning Commission may amend the current ordinance or create an ordinance to
cover therapeutic massage for future use.
Council Member Broussard Vickers reported several Planning and Zoning Commission
Members had attended a training seminar and felt it was very informative. Council
Member Broussard Vickers stated that she had given Mr. March the information obtained
at the seminar to distribute to those that desired reviewing same.
Mayor Swedberg reported that the Police Commission is interviewing candidates for an
officer position. Mayor Swedberg stated that the physical/fitness examinations had been
completed and the oral interviews were scheduled for May 5, 2001.
Council Member Tmvis reported that the Economic Development Committee (EDC)
meeting had been re-scheduled for April 26, 2001.
XIV. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. March stated that the League of Minnesota Cities Annual Conference was upcoming
and requested that those who desired to participate inform him of same.
Mr. March submitted a letter from the Anoka County Assessor's Office revealing the
results of the Board of Review proceedings.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to accept tbe findiD2s of tbe Board of Review. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Mr. March reported he had received a copy of the response from Mrs. Turcotte's attorney
received by Mr. Hoeft. Mr. March requested that Mr. Hoeft discuss this issue.
Mr. Hoeft stated that Mrs. Turcotte desired $139,900 for the property in question rather
than $139,000 as previously understood by the City. Mrs. Turcotte's attorney has also
requested that the City pay the costs usually attnbuted to the seller in a real estate
transaction. Mr. Hoeft estimated the associated cost of closing to be approximately
$1,000. Mr. Hoeft stated that he would be requesting Mrs. Turcotte to sign a waiver for
relocation benefits when the property is leased back to her.
Page 11 of12
E-Mailed to Council on 5/3/01 at 11:34 a.m.
April 25, 2001 Council Minutes
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Travis to authorize Staff to accept the new purchase price of $139.900. to aeree to
Dav the seller's closine costs. and to require that Mrs. Turcotte sien a waiver of
relocation. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. March stated that an individual. who was interested in relocating Mrs. Turcotte's
residence, alleviating demolition costs that would be incurred by the City, had contacted
him.
Mr. March requested that Council arrange a work session date to discuss employee
benefit issues.
Consensus was to schedule a work session for May 30, 2001 at 6:30 p.rn.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested that any items Staff or Council feels need
to be addressed in a work session environment, be added to the next regularly scheduled
meeting agenda. Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested that no work sessions be
scheduled for the summer.
XV. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to adiourn
the April 25. 2001 City Council Meetiu at 8:43 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
c
~~
Teresa Bender, Clerkffreasurer
Page 12 of12
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 9, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly sc
meeting on May 9, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Man Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called t
II.
eti g to order at 6:34 p.m.
Candidate
ity Goals be added under Unfinished Business.
er Nelson seconded b Council Member Ca ra to
ded. All in favor. Motion carried unanimousl .
III.
IV.
1. Mr. Dean Havel. Bald Eagle Water-Ski Club
Mr. Dean Havel requested permission for the Bald Eagle Ski Club to install its water ski
jump in front of Waterworks Beach Club. Mr. Havel stated that Council approval is
required prior to Anoka County issuing a permit for same.
Page 10f9
May 9, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra questioned whether Anoka County had expressed concern due to
the high lake level. Mr. Havel stated that Anoka County did not anticipate a problem
being that the lake level was dissipating. Mr. Havel stated that the ski club would delay
activity until the water level is lower to comply with the wake zones.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the ski jump would be the same as previous
years. Mr. Havel concurred.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to authorize the installation of the ski iump in front of the Waterworks Beach
Club by the Bald Eae:le Water Ski Club pending all required permits and approvals
bv other entities. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
2. Mr. Buechler
Mr. Buechler stated that he had not used the previously received overweight permit
granted by Council due to the use of a vehicle that weighed under the posted tonnage.
Mr. Buechler requested that Council consider granting an additional overweight permit
for seven (7) tons in order to bring a pumper truck into the construction site and pump
concrete for the floors.
Mr. Peterson questioned if Mr. Buechler would be bringing in only one (1) truck. Mr.
Buechler concurred.
Council Member Capra questioned whether a permit would need to be granted due to
road restrictions being anticipated to be lifted within several days. Mr. Peterson stated
that Mound Trail is posted for five (5) tons when weight restrictions are removed. Mr.
Peterson stated that Council previously approved Mr. Buechler's request because Mound
Trail is in good condition and stated that he felt that one (1) vehicle would not degrade
same.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether the concrete trucks would also
be over the roads posted limit. Mr. Buechler stated that the trucks would not be filled to
maximum capacity.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the wet conditions in the area posed a
problem for the roadway. Mr. Peterson recommended approval of the permit.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Travis to approve a seven (7) ton. one-time overweie:ht permit for Mr. Buechler. All
in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Council Member Nelson requested the following changes: Page 3, change "her" to "she"
and Page 8, change "stripe" to "strip". Under the Public Works Report, change the
sentence to indicate that the bobcat rental would cost the City a total of $365 plus tax.
Page 2 of9
May 9, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra requested the following change: Page 7, indicate that Council
Member Capra requested an evaluation of the ponds to be completed by Mr. Peterson
prior to setting any type of maintenance schedule.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
ap{>rove the April 25. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. City Goals
Mayor Swedberg stated that he agreed with Mr. March regarding the removal of the
dollar amounts previously included in the document. Mayor Swedberg stated he would
like Council to adopt the goals this evening.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether to forward the goals to the other
committees/commission for their review.
Mayor Swedberg stated that residents had been given the opportunity to express their
feelings and no major modifications were requested. Mayor Swedberg thanked the Quad
Press for publishing an article on the goals.
Council Member Capra stated that several of the goals had already been enacted and she
felt that only the community garden item was questionable.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to adopt
the goals document as drafted bv Mayor Swedberg and forward same to
committees/commission for their review.
Council Member Travis questioned whether, subsequent to obtaining public input, any
modifications were made to the document.
Mayor Swedberg concurred. Mayor Swedberg stated that residents reacted to the
presented document and did not offer any significant modifications.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she did not find anyone who said the entire
document was wonderful and no one said the idea was terrible. She indicated she had
gotten the impression that residents were fine with the goals provided taxes were not
raised and current City services were not sacrificed in order to pay for the goals. Council
Member Broussard Vickers stated that she would prefer to see the original draft rewritten
slightly prior to acting on same.
Page 3 of9
May 9, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg stated that Council could adopt the document with any requested
modifications. Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she would like to review
any modifications prior to feeling comfortable enough to vote on same.
Motion by Mayor Swedber~. seconded by Council Member Nelson. to table
adoption of the goals document until the document is edited and provided to
Council for review. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Swedberg stated Council Members would receive a copy of the document for
reView.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS
1. County Bank Reimbursement Request
Mr. Peterson presented Council with a sketch of the water mains in the area of the
Willow Glen Development and Main Street. Mr. Peterson stated that the water main had
been extended an additional 300 feet.
Mr. Peterson explained the estimated value to extend services further north, the City of
extended water main. Mr. Peterson estimated a cost of $50,000 to extend services further
north. Mr. Peterson explained that three (3) parcels, totaling fifteen (15) acres would
benefit from same. Mr. Peterson stated that The County Bank would be responsible for
$8,700 and the City's portion would be approximately $5,000. Mr. Peterson also stated
that The County Bank did obtain a permit to extend the water main and expressed
concern that there is no right of way to the north to run utilities.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested deducting the permit fee from the $5,000
and then asked Mr. Hoeft what should be done concerning the easement situation.
Mr. Hoeft stated that the City needed to obtain an easement as part of the resolution of
this issue. Mr. Hoeft also stated that if the water main is located on private property,
there is no benefit to the City.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to direct staff to inform Mr. Bode of the $5.000 amount and the fieures used
to determine that amount. to direct staff to investieate the easement issue. and to
direct staff to investieate the permit situation. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
2. Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park Electrical Specifications
Mr. Peterson explained he had consulted with Xcel Energy and they had agreed to install
a power pole along the street and then run the power under ground rather than overhead.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she and the Parks and Recreation
Committee were concerned that Council voted to expend funds from the Park Dedication
Fund rather than to expend funds from the General Fund for the electrical services.
Page 4 of9
May 9, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that if Park Dedication Fees were used for the
project, the Committee would be unable to accomplish their goals for the year.
Mayor Swedberg stated that previously Council met with the Committee to discuss goals
for the year 2001 and the Committee expressed that their two (2) priorities were to
provide electrical services at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park and the Wheels Park.
Consensus of the Committee was to use Park Dedication Fees for these projects.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that it was her understanding from that same
meeting, that the Committee did not want to expend Park Dedications Fees for the
electrical services due to the fact that numerous community events take place in the park.
Council Member Travis concurred with Council Member Broussard Vickers but added
that the Committee determined that they had an ample amount of money in their budget
to cover same.
Council Member Capra stated that Council anticipated that the Parks and Recreation
Committee would request additional funds for other projects at the time Council made
their decision to expend funds from the Park Dedication Funds.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she was unsure whether the Committee
had enough money to fund its current projects.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she desired Council to consider requests
for future funding form the Parks and Recreation Committee. Consensus was to consider
future requests from the Parks and Recreation Committee.
IX. NEW BUSINESS
1. Bald Eagle Ski Jump
This item was previously considered.
2. Planning Intern
Mayor Swedberg suggested that due to Mr. March's absence, this item be tabled.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that if Council considered this item this
evening, rather than waiting, which would expedite the process.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Travis to authorize the hirine of a Plan nine: Intern as recommended bv Mr. March.
All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
3. 21st Avenue Feasibility Study
Mayor Swedberg expressed surprise and concern for the request received from the City
of Lino Lakes to share in the costs associated with the reconstruction of 21 st Avenue.
Page 5 of9
May 9, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra stated that she had concerns with the projected timetable for the
reconstruction and discussed same with Mr. Palzer. Mr. Palzer stated that Staff has been
unable to locate a signed agreement between the two (2) for the joint reconstruction
effort.
Mayor Swedberg stated that the City had received a letter from the City of Lino Lakes
requesting sharing of the expenditures along with the Feasibility Study.
Council Member Capra requested that Mr. Peterson contact the City of Lino Lakes'
Engineer to ascertain whether the proposal meets the City's criteria for road
reconstruction. Mr. Peterson stated that he had contacted the Engineer and found several
issues that needed to be addressed. Mr. Peterson stated that the City of Lino Lakes
Council would be holding a public hearing on this matter on May 28, 2001. The Lino
Lakes Engineer was unsure of the project's likelihood of approval due to costly
assessments associated with same. Mr. Peterson stated that five (5) Centerville parcels
would be affected by same and that the cost would be approximately $188,000.
Council Member Capra stated she did not feel there was any Centerville drainage in the
area. Mr. Peterson disagreed and stated that half of the street is owned by the City of
Centerville. Mr. Peterson stated that the cost associated with the reconstruction appears
to be appropriate and added that the City of Centerville has different criteria for road
construction and same was not included in the original estimate.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the need for the City to obtain an easement from the City of
Lino Lake for the pond.
Council Member Travis stated that a parcel in the vicinity had yet to give an easement for
same.
Mayor Swedberg noted that a plan of this magnitude would take time to prepare and
questioned why Centerville was not made aware of it until this point. Mr. Peterson stated
that the plan has been in the works since 1998.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the City anticipated the request this year.
Council Member Broussard Vickers commented that the request is being driven by
development on the Lino Lakes side of the street. Mayor Swedberg stated that not
enough properties benefit from the reconstruction with the City of Centerville to offset
the associated costs of the road. Mr. Peterson stated that the road itself is a sufficient
benefit to the City.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether a bridge would be constructed over the creek. Mr.
Peterson stated that the current culvert would remain so there would be no need for a
bridge over the creek.
Mayor Swedberg stated that he was concerned that the City was just reviewing the plan
in May and the City of Lino Lakes was considering approval on May 28.
Page 60f9
May 9, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that if the City signed the agreement then they
are bound to the agreement. Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested tabling this
item to allow further investigation.
Council Member Travis stated that installation of the road would allow approximately 80
acres to be developed.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that Arcade Asphalt is operating under a
Special Use Permit until the road is installed.
Mayor Swedberg stated he would like staff to ensure that the road is built to handle the
heavy truck traffic it is proposed to have. Mr. Peterson indicated the road would be
constructed to ten (10) ton road specifications.
Council Member Capra stated she would like the City of Lino Lakes to meet
Centerville's standards when reconstructing the street.
Mayor Swedberg expressed concern for traffic management in the area and questioned
whether traffic would be looked at as part of the process of reconstructing the street.
Mayor Swedberg stated that the City of Lino Lakes could allow only commercial
development in the area and that may cause congestion problems.
Council Member Travis stated that the City of Centerville could also allow commercial
development in the area, expanding its commercial base.
Motion by Mayor Swedberg. seconded by Council Member Nelson to table this item
for further investigation by Staff. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
4. Parks and Recreation Candidate Recommendations (Ms. Kathv Peil & Mr. Tom
Lee)
Council Member Broussard Vickers explained that there were three (3) items on the list
of recommendations from the Parks and Recreation Committee. The Committee
requested that the first item be removed for consideration. The second item was to
consider placement of an ADA accessible satellite at Eagle Park. Council Member
Broussard Vickers stated that several complaints had been received and the satellite was
relocated. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the Committee is
recommending the appointment of Ms. Kathy Peil and Mr. Tom Lee.
Motion by Mayor Swedbere:. seconded by Council Member Nelson to appoint Ms.
Kathy Peil and Mr. Tom Lee to the Parks and Recreation Committee. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
x. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City ofCenterville April 26, through May 9, 2001 Expenditures
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
Page 7 of9
May 9, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve Consent Agenda Items 1 and 2 as presented. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council Member Broussard Vickers reported that the Parks and Recreation Committee
would be holding a public meeting concerning the Wheels Park next Wednesday.
Council Member Broussard Vickers reported there would be a public hearing to discuss
the proposed amendments to the Comprehensive Plan at the next Planning and Zoning
Committee meeting.
Council Member Nelson requested that the financial reports reflect the appropriate CD
renewal dates.
Mayor Swedberg reported that the Police Commission had interviewed eleven (11)
candidates for the available position.
Council Member Travis reported that the Business Appreciation Dinner was scheduled
for Tuesday, May 15,2001 at 6:00 p.m. Council Member Broussard Vickers noted that
there would be a presentation of a water feasibility study and discussion of downtown
streetscaping would immediately follow the dinner.
XII. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mayor Swedberg reviewed the memorandum submitted by Mr. March.
Mayor Swedberg stated that Mr. March requested that Council Members interested in
attending the LMC Conference in Duluth contact City Hall by 10:00 a.m. of Friday, May
II.
Mayor Swedberg stated that Mr. March would be meeting with On-Sync Corporation and
he would be notifying members to ascertain their interest in attending same. On-Sync
Corporation is a document imaging software vendor.
Mayor Swedberg stated that the final version of the Turcotte purchasing agreement was
anticipated the following week.
Page 8 of9
May 9, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Nelson to
adiourn the May 9. 2001 Citv Council meeting at 7:40 p.m. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Proofed by:
C--.~~
Teresa Bender, Clerk/Treasurer
Page 9 of9
,~
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 23, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly sched
meeting on May 23,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Marl Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
STAFF: City Administrator, Jim March
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
ting to order at 6:30 p.rn.
ABSENT: None
I. CALL TO ORDER
ll.
of the lifetime achievement nominees be
rarily suspending the newsletter be added to the
to
III
CES/A WARDS
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Page 1 of 12
City CoIlIlCiI Meeting Minutes
May 23, 2001
Council Member Capra stated that Council bad given the incorrect time for the Business
Appreciation dinner held on May 15, 2001. Council Member Capra stated of6:oo p.m.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the May 9. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. AU in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS
1. Downtown Revitalization TimeIine
Mr. March stated that the item was placed on the agenda to establish a timeline for the
project. Mr. March desired that Council arrange a meeting with property owners to
inform them of the City's proposed changes and to forwards letters to them regarding
same.
Mr. Peterson stated he had sketched a timeline and if the City desired to commence
construction this year, Council would need to schedule meetings to review the scope of
the project, costs, and determine whether to bond for the project. Mr. Peterson stated that
Council would need to approve plans at their June 13 meeting in order to commence the
bid and construction process by August.
Mr. March stated that it may be possible to bond for both the 21st Avenue project and this
project.
Mayor Swedberg directed Staff to forward a letter to residents concerning the downtown
revitalization project.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. second by Council Member Capra
to schedule a work session on June 12. 2001. at 6:30 p.m. to discuss the downtown
revitalization proiect. AU in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
2. Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park Improvements
Mr. Peterson stated that the bid opening was May 22,2001 for this project and Vinco,
Inc. was the lowest bidder at $136,480.29.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. second by Council Member Capra
to award the LaMotte Memorial Park electrical contract to Vinco. Inc. in the
amount 0($136.480.29 to Vinco. InCo AU in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Page 2 of 12
City Council M~ing Minutes
May 23,2001
3. Goals Document
Mayor Swedberg reviewed the goals docwnent and requested input.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Nelson to
approve tbe 20al$ document as presented.
Council Member Nelson requested that the document be grammaratically corrected prior
to forwarding to committees and commissions for their review.
Council Member Travis stated that he feh some of the goals were lofty, but stated that all
the items in the document were good items for the City.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she bad an issue with the sentence that
implied that the City would build a muhi-purpose :facility.
Consensus was to remove the sentence referenced by Council Member Broussard
Vickers.
Mr. Brian Walters, 1855 Quebec, stated that his issues with the document stemmed from
the tone of the document which implied that Council would inform
commissions/committees as to what they would do rather than let the Committees
formulate ideas based on public input and present them to Council. Mr. Walters was
comfortable with the document subsequent to Council's modification.
Mayor Swedberg thanked Council Members for going through the process to approve the
goals document.
Council Member Nelson explained to Mr. Walters that she feels it is Council's job to
keep commissions/committees focused so issues and efforts are not duplicated.
Ms. Brenner, 7206 Clear Ridge, thanked Mayor Swedberg for all ofhis work on the goals
document and stated that she feh it was a valuable tool.
IX. NEW BUSINESS
1. Eagle Pass Town Home Association Petition
Mr. Hoeft stated he had reviewed the petition and there were no specific procedural
obligations on the part of the City for potentially accepting responsibility for Ojibway
Drive. Mr. Hoeft stated that the primary concern of residents is maintaining the street,
however, Council needs to consider the substandard width and unknown base of the
street.
Council Member Capra questioned the town home associations joint responsibilities.
Council Member Broussard Vickers explained that the ~tential members of the third
town home association, that would be formed with the 2 Phase, would be driving across
Page 3 ofl2
City Council Meeting Minutes
May 23, 2001
the other town home association' road. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that
following Council Member Capra's suggestion, the developer would need to completely
modifY his plans.
Mr. March stated that he suggested to Mr. Quigley to attempt to resolve the issue
regarding maintaining Ojibway Drive prior to coming before Council. Mr. March
suggested tabling this matter in an attempt to allow ample time for the meeting to occur.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that most of the residents were unaware or did
not understand the issues surrounding being responsible for a private street. Council
Member Broussard Vickers stated that while these issues are civil issues, she feels if the
City were to take responsibility for the road it would go a long way toward smoothing the
way for the rest of the development.
Mr. March stated that other communities have private streets and in his opinion, the City
did not make a mistake with the original development and the private street. In Mr.
March's opinion there would not be an issue if residents were members of one (1)
association rather than two (2) or three (3).
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Voyager Court was also a private road. Mr. March
concurred.
Council Member Nelson stated that she feh if the City assumed Ojibway Drive, it would
be setting a precedence.
Council Member Capra stated that she had concerns with the width of the road.
Mr. Hoeft stated that appears that the town home associations are trying to take the easy
way out and request that the City assume responsibility for Ojibway Drive rather than
coming to a mutual agreement between themselves. Mr. Hoeft stated that he does not
mean to say that the request is inappropriate, but sees the matter as the City inheriting a
potential problem. Mr. Hoeft recommended that the City look at what is in the best
interest of the City as a whole, rather than the town home associations.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the City had taken over any private roads in
the past. Mr. March stated that the City had not.
Motion bv Mavor Swedbere. seconded bv Couneil Member Capra to table this
matter for further information. All in favor. Motion earried unanimouslv.
2. 21st Avenue Update
Mr. March stated that he had scheduled a meeting with representatives from the City of
Lino Lakes to discuss the feasibility report for this project. Mr. March stated that one (1)
of the issues discussed is the fact that the City never signed the Joint Powers Agreement.
Mr. March stated that the Joint Powers Agreement will be revised to take into
consideration the City's standards for roadways and presented to Council for review.
Page 4 of 12
City Council Meeting Minutes
May 23,2001
Council Member Capra questioned whether the road would be extended south to Cedar
Street. Mr. March stated that they would only go as:far as the exception property, as the
Cities would need to condemn the house, as it is non-conforming. Mr. March stated that
this is not a desire.
3. Commercial BuiJrlil1" Design Concepts IDowntown Revitalization - Shea
Architects)
Mr. March stated he is requesting approval to expend $2,000 for plans to present to
potential, commercial developers who have an interest in developing in CentervUle.
Council Member Capra stated that she had recently spoke with a resident who Jives in the
Willow Glen town homes who stated that the architectural design of the County Bank
was very pleasing. Council Member Capra stated that she then asked the resident her
opinion regarding the design concepts for the City. The resident indicated that she was in
favor of more commercial developments modeled after the bank's design.
Mr. March stated that ifwould be nice to be a step ahead of developers and provide them
with a design concept when that approached the City.
Council Member Nelson questioned the :funding for the plans. Mr. March stated that the
funds would be expended from the General Fund.
Council Member Travis stated that the developer would own the property and nothing
ensures that the developer adheres to the plan that the City would provide them.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she was not comfortable paying $2,600 for a
plan that the developer does not have to adhere to. Council Member Broussard Vickers
also stated that the City does not ordinances in place to force the developer to use the
plan. Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested, if Council desires to provide some
guidance, referring developers to County Bank and indicating that the development
should be modeled after the bank. Council Member Broussard Vickers also stated that
she was not in favor of this for the same reason she did not desire to pay a consultant to
provide three (3) sign plans for the City.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
authorize Shea Architects to draft a plan for business development within the City
in an amount not to exceed $2.600.
Mr. March commented that if there is a plan in place, the City does not have to have an
ordinance to enforce the plan. Mr. March also stated that the developer would need City
approval to proceed with the project. Mr. March stated that in his opinion, $2,600 was
minimal to assist the City in providing aesthetically pleasing business construction.
Council Member Capra stated she liked that fact Shea Architects also works with
developers. Council Member Capra stated that the City of Vadnais Heights has a similar
procedure in place.
Page 5 of12
City Council Meeting Minutes
May 23,2001
Mr. March stated that he feh that the benefits would exceed the expenditure for providing
the plans to potentially developers.
Vote: 4 - Aves., (Mayor Swedbel'2. Council Members Capra. Nelson and Travis). 1
- Nay (Council ~ember Broussard Vickers). Motion carried.
4. Ad Hoc Communications Update
Ms. Theresa Brenner, Ad Hoc Communications Chair, stated that the survey had been
distnlmted in the spring newsletter. Ms. Brenner stated that the due date to return the
surveys would be June I, 200 l.
Ms. Brenner stated that the Committee had discussions with the North Metro
Telecommunications Commission representatives and intended upon following up on
ideas discussed.
Ms. Brenner stated that the Committee was in need of a way to tabulate and use the
information gathered from the surveys. She then asked Council for $100 to pay a
consuhant to design a computer program that would make it easy to input the data from
the surveys and to put that information into different types of reports.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the program could be utilized for additional
surveys in the future. Council Member Capra stated she thought that the program would
be set up for this specific survey and that the program would be beneficial.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve an amount not to exceed $100 for a computer proeram to
tabulate the results oCthe recent survey completed by the Ad Hoc Committee. AU in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Ms. Brenner requested that Council consider submitting a press release to the Quad
Community Press during the time the newsletter is not being published.
Mayor Swedberg directed Mr. March to provide the Week in Review to the Quad
Community Press for publishing during such time as the newsletter is on hold.
5. Pheasant Marsh Feasibility Study
Terry Hannah, Ground Development, was present and offered to answer questions
concerning the feasibility study.
Mr. March stated that the feasibility study had been received yesterday and Staff
forwarded same to Council Members' homes in the morning. Mr. March stated that no
action was needed at this point.
Page60f12
City Coweil Meeting Minutes
May 23, z001
Mr. Peterson stated that Council needed to review the project and noted that Council
needed to set a public hearing on the feasibility study in order to keep on the established
timeline. Mr. Peterson then reviewed the plan.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the trail would be constructed during Phase I.
Mr. Peterson indicated that due to the grading that would need to be done in the area of
the trail during Phase II the trail will not be constructed until grading is completed. He
then noted there is a triangle piece of trail that will be constructed during Phase I as it
would not be accessible after homes are built.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the City could mark a crosswalk on a County
road. Mr. Peterson indicated the City would need to ascertain County requirements.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether either the Parks and Recreation Committee
or the Planning and Zoning Commission had reviewed the plan. Mr. March explained
that the City has not committed to going forward with the project as there has been no
final plat approval, no finalized Developer's Agreement, and the MUSA swap has not
been completed.
Mr. Hannah stated that the MUSA consultant planned to have the documentation
completed by June 13, 2001. He then indicated that he planned to forward the
Developer's Agreement to Mr. Hoeft for review within a week to 10 days and that the
City should have it for review sometime during the month of June. Mr. Hannah further
explained that the final plat should be available sometime mid-June to July 1,2001.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the public hearing could be held without the
MUSA swap approval.
Mr. Hannah explained that the City needed to hold the public hearing and then submit the
MUSA swap plan to the Metropolitan Council who should be able to provide an answer
within two (2) to three (3) weeks.
Mayor Swedberg asked that Mr. Hannah have documents ready ahead of the hearing for
Council review. Mr. Hannah stated he would have documents to Council ten (10) days
prior to Council consideration.
Mr. March noted that Council has a copy of the 429 process and noted that the feasibility
report is the beginning step.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Phase ill would address access issues for the two
(2) properties to the north. Mr. Hannah explained that there would be a connection street
named Partridge Place allowing access to Pheasant Lane.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the developer needed to build Partridge Place or
whether the cul-de-sac could stay.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that both the Police and Fire Departments may
have a comment concerning closing otfthe street.
Page 7 of 12
City Council Meeting Minutes
May 23.2001
Mr. Ffllnnah stated that, as designed, it does not look like it would be difficult to take out
the street but stated he questioned whether it is practical to change the street this fur into
the process.
Mr. Hoeft indicated there would be no problem with proposing that the area remain a cul-
de-sac when the final plat is presented.
Council Member Capra recommended that Mr. J-Jannah check with the police and fire
departments to detennine whether they would have an issue with the street remaining a
cul-de-sac.
Mr. March stated that as there is no turn around on Pheasant Lane, the cul-de-sac would
need to be modified.
Mr. Brian Walters, 1855 Quebec, stated the Parks and Recreation Committee are unsure
of the location developer intended on placing the trail.
Mr. Hannah stated that the two (2) requirements presented to him were that the trail
connects to the Hunter's Crossing trail and continue to the northeast corner and run
through the upland area.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. second by Council Member Travis
to set a public heann!! on the presented feasibility study for June 13. 2001. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned the easement acquisition costs and
assessment amounts were determined. Mr. Peterson indicated they were estimated
amounts.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that there would be a resident who was
unhappy with the assessments and easement request as he was under the impression that
the property would not be developed.
Mr. Peterson explained that whenever sewer and water are extended, the assessment
amount is based on the nwnher offeet offrontage.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned the relationship of these assessments for
this improvement project and how they are related to the project to the north. Council
Member Broussard Vickers stated that most of the cost was bore by the developer.
Council Member Broussard Vickers also stated that the assessments for residents seemed
high in this case. Mr. Peterson stated that Ground Development would pay for 93% of
the overall costs to run the services.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned what percentage, in relation to where
there are residents, the developer is paying. Mr. Peterson indicated the developer is
paying 500/0 of the costs where there are residents. He then explained that the difference
could be because there were not clear-cut frontages for the assessments to the north.
Page 8 of 12
City Council Meeting Minutes
May 23,2001
Council Member Broussard Vickers pointed out that the developer owns almost half of
the land and the other developer owned very little of the land. Mr. Match stated the
percentage the developer would be paying is 44% or $51,000 out of total $115,000. Mr.
Peterson stated that the assessment amounts could be adjusted.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she felt the developer would need to pay 50%
of the cost and 50% of the other side as the developer owns the property.
Mr. March indicated that the assessments would be discussed and considered at a public
hearing.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the two (2) exception properties to the north would
be assessed for water service. Mr. Hannah stated that he had agreed to pay to stub the
water service to the lot line for both lots. Mr. Hannah asked Mr. Peterson to indicate on
the plan that the service for those two (2) lots would be the same as the City prepares for
the lots to be sold in the development.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether there were any major issues that
Council should be aware of. Mr. Peterson stated that Council would need to discuss the
Lundblad, Schoeberlein, and Wilharber properties.
6. Lifetime Achievement Awards
Council Member Capra stated that the Committee had met to review two (2) nominees
and had decided to recommend awarding the Lifetime Achievement Award to both, Mr.
Tom Wilharber and In Memory of Mrs. Sharon Smith. Council Member Capra requested
Council approval of same.
Motion by Mayor Swedbeh!. seconded by Council Member Nelson to approve Mr.
Tom Wilbarber and In Memory of Mrs. Sharon Smith for lifetime achievement
awards. AU in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
X. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City ofCenterville May 10, through May 23,2001 Expenditures.
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures.
3. Successful Completion of Year 7 (Public Works Director/Building Official, Paul
Patzer) Recommend Step Increase from Step 7 to Step 8.
4. Temporarily Suspend Publishing the Newsletter.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to
approve Consent Aeenda Items 1. 2. 3. and 4 as presented. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Page 9 of12
City Council Meeting Minutes
May 23, 2001
Council Member Capra reported that the Cable Commission moved its meeting in June to
the same night as the Council meeting so the City would not be represented at same.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether Council would be requested to
approve the candidate to fill the vacancy on the Planning and Zoning Commission at this
meeting.
Mr. March indicated that Mr. Wilharber was at the last meeting and expressed interest but
had not submitted a letter.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that. in discussions after the last Planning
and Zoning meeting, it was determined that the Planning and Zoning Committee wanted
to make the recommendation without a written submission from Mr. Wilharber.
Council Member Capra stated she would rather wait until Council received a
recommendation from the Committee.
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve tbe appointment of Mr. Tom Wilbarber to tbe Plannin!! and
Zonin!! Committee pendine approval of the Plannine and Zonin!! Committee. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Nelson requested clarification on Page 2 of the Planning and Zoning
Commission minutes concerning a standard landscaping plan within the City.
Mr. March stated that a statement regarding same had been made by a town home
resident unhappy with the landscaping in their development. The resident requested a
standard landscaping plan for the City.
Council Member Nelson stated that the last EDC meeting had lacked a quorum and she
feh that in the future, it would be appropriate for members that are unable to attend,
contact City Hall.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the Parks and Recreation Committee had
received requests to have the satellites relocated in some of the parks. The Public Works
Department bas completed same.
Mayor Swedberg explained that residents were concerned for inappropriate activity
occurring in/around the satellites. Mayor Swedberg stated that residents were advised to
contact Centennial Lakes Police Department when they witness suspicious activity.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the Lions would have ample funds to
construct a concession building at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park this summer.
Mr. March stated that he did not anticipate that the concession building would be
constructed this year as the City is waiting to find out if it receives grant funding and the
Lions do not have funds for materials at this time.
Page 10 of 12
City Council Meeting Minutes
May 23, 2001
Council Member Capra stated that on Page 3 of the Parks and Recreation Committee
minutes it noted that the Committee was going to speak to the church about using more of
its property. Council Member Capm stated that she feh that an issue such as that should
come to Council and Council should make the contact with the church.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that the Committee has two (2) members
that are members of the church and as this is a request to use the land for soccer fields,
the Committee feh that it was appropriate to have same contact the church.
Council Member Capra stated she feh the issue should have come before Council.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the Committee saw the issue as strictly a
Parks and Recreation issue that they took measures to handle.
Council Member Nelson questioned the comments on Page 5 of the Parks and Recreation
Committee minutes that indicated a resident had wanted to rent the softball fields but
would not be allowed to.
Council Member Broussard Vickers explained he is a coach who wanted to reserve the
softball fields at certain times. She further explained that he is part of the Centennial
Little League and there is already a structure they are supposed to use and go through.
The Parks and Recreation Committee decided not to circumvent the system. She also
noted that the fields were already booked.
XII. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. March reported he had received a call from a gentlemen interested in a garden plot
behind City Hall. He then asked if Council would allow garden plots.
Consensus was to allow garden plots behind City Hall.
Mayor Swedberg noted that, if needed, the Boy Scouts could add dirt and prepare plots
one (1) at a time as interest grows.
Mr. March reported that the City would need to reserve a room for the holiday party if the
City desired to hold the event at Majestic Oaks again this year. He then asked if the
event would be enlarged or kept the same size as last year.
Consensus was to retain the same size event as in previous years and to direct Staff to
reserve the room for December 14, 2001.
Mr. March reported that the tornado siren had been delivered to the Public Works site and
noted that Mr. Bennett is working with the electrician to install the siren on City Hall
property.
Mr. March reported that he had attended a meeting in Blaine concerning the countywide
radio system. He noted that the system would cost approximately $12 million dollars.
He then explained that, in the past, there have been federal funds available for fimding
Page 11 ofl2
City Council Meeting Minutes
May 23, 2001
communication systems. but that may not be the case this time. He further explained that
the City could be looking at a cost of between $2 and $5 million dollars for the handheld
units. He then noted that the City would be looking into various ways to pay for the
equipment, including asking the County to supplement the cost.
XllI. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to adiourn
the Mav 23. 2001 City Council Meetin2 at 9:00 p.m. AU in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial. Inc.
Proofed by:
r--~~- J ). ./ .
~~iU<<-11~ ~
Teresa Bender, Clerkffreasurer
Page 12 of12
..
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JUNE 13, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly
meeting on June 13,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Marl Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers (arrive
unc meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Administrator, Jim March
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
I.
II.
at Mr. Tom Wilharber's lot split be placed under
e son re ested that Mr. March update Council on the Ojibway Drive
o ank reimbursement issue under the Administrator's Report.
u ate as to whether The Quad Community Press was receiving the
. March.
facsimile received at City Hall from Amacomp, Inc. regarding
Council Member Nelson seconded b Council Member Ca ra to
he a enda as amended. All in favor. Motion carried unanimousl .
III. PUBLIC HEARING (S)
1. Pheasant Marsh Feasibility Study.
Page 1 of 25
Motion bv Mavor Swedbere. seconded by Council Member Capra to open tbe
public beann!!. All in favor. Motion earned unanimouslv.
Mayor Swedberg opened the public hearing at 7:42 p.m.
Mr. Peterson gave a brief overview of the proposed development and indicated that there
would be seventy-seven (77) residential lots constructed in three phases. He then
indicated that the improvements for sewer and water would run along the east side of
Centerville Road.
Mr. Peterson noted the draft report for assessments was meant to generate discussion and
the assessments were based on front footage. He then noted there are three (3) properties
to be assessed.
Mr. Peterson indicated that the two (2) exception properties to the north would not be
assessed as Ground Development had agreed to stub the water lines to the property line.
Terry Hannah, Ground Development, indicated he was not sure if there needed to be an
assessment or not as the agreement with the two (2) property owners was to bring water
to the curb in front of their houses. Mr. Peterson indicated there would not be a need for
an assessment for those two (2) properties.
Council Member Nelson indicated that the previous assessment for Mr. Wilharber totaled
$45,653 and was reduced to $22,826, which is half of the original assessment. She then
noted that the Dide assessment was approximately $1,638, more than half.
Mr. Peterson indicated there was a charge to run the pipe from the center to the edge of
the road.
Mr. Peterson explained the formula he used to arrive at the assessments for the Dide
residence and noted that typically both sides of the street would be assessed but indicated
there is no one to assess for the other side in this situation. He then indicated the
remainder of the assessment falls to Mr. Wilharber and Ground Development with the
majority going to Ground Development. He further noted that Mr. Vanderbeek could not
be assessed again and noted he had added that cost to Ground Development.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that no matter which formula is used, the estimate to the City
is $37,000 and noted there are really four (4) entities paying for the improvements, the
City, Ground Development, Wilharber and Dide.
Mr. Peterson indicated that Mr. Vanderbeek was assessed more than any of the three (3)
options on his property last year because that is the way the numbers worked out for that
assessment.
Page 2 of 25
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the costs were the same for Hunter's
Crossing. Mr. Peterson indicated that the Hunter's Crossing assessments were slightly
less as, in this development, the improvements need to be run farther than for Hunter's
Crossing.
Mr. March indicated that trunk costs are accounted for in the sewer and water fund.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether Council needed to select an assessment
schedule or if it would be completed at the public hearing meeting.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that the Comprehensive Plan does not show Dupre Road
connecting to Centerville Road and questioned whether the Comprehensive Plan needed
to be modified.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the Comprehensive Plan was a general
guide as far as actual streets go and indicated the main issue governed by the
Comprehensive Plan is land usage.
Mr. March indicated that the consultant had modified the form to indicate that the entire
development entered into MUSA rather than the City needing to amend the Plan at a later
date. He further noted that the consultant had indicated that the Metropolitan Council has
modified its policy on development and is encouraging cities to develop as rapidly as
they desire.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether there would be a sidewalk along Dupre Road as it
is a collector street with faster traffic.
Mr. Hannah stated he did not have the plan with him, but stated he believed there was a
sidewalk indicated on the plan as is required.
Council Member Travis indicated that there is a sidewalk on the north side of Dupre
Road.
Mayor Swedberg questioned pond cleaning and whether access would be available. Mr.
Peterson indicated the City would be responsible for cleaning out the pond and said it
would need to be done once every ten (10) to twenty (20) years.
Mayor Swedberg asked if there was a plan in place for a turn lane on Centerville Road.
Mr. Hannah indicated that he would need to comply with Anoka County highway
requirements. He then indicated he thought there might be a need for a turn lane. Mr.
Peterson indicated he did not think there would be a need for a turn lane.
Mr. Vanderbeek, 6892 Centerville Road, told Council that driveway access would need
to be maintained at his residence during construction as his wife operates a daycare
business out of their home. Mr. Hoeft indicated the developer is required to maintain
ingress and egress for them.
Page 3 of 25
Mr. Vanderbeek indicated that he had granted the City an easement when the Hunter's
Crossing development came in and was still owed several trees. He then indicated that he
is having some flooding problems with the ditch where the developer put down sod rather
than leaving it low. Mr. Peterson indicated that the issues with Mr. Vanderbeek's
property would be resolved during the construction ofthis new development.
Mr. Vanderbeek indicated he could not believe that two (2) pieces of property the same
size could be assessed two (2) different amounts one (1) year apart for the same
improvements.
Mr. Peterson indicated there was more than one (1) option for assessments on the new
development and noted that there are different costs associated with each new
development which led to the difference in assessments.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that different projects have different costs,
but noted that they are paying the same percentage of the improvements even though it is
a different number.
Mr. Vanderbeek felt that Council needed to standardize the assessments for residents'
improvements.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the assessment methods have been consistent in the
past.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that the City mayor may not have an assessment policy in place. If
an assessment policy is in place, the policy would describe how improvements are
typically assessed. Mr. Hoeft stated that the City needs to complete two (2) items. The
first is to establish that the method of assessing the amounts was an acceptable method
and the second is to determine whether the assessment to the property is less than or
equal to the benefit to that property. He further noted that, if the benefit were equal to or
less than the benefit to the property, the assessment would stand.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the final numbers for Hunter's Crossing were
higher. Mr. Hoeft indicated that they were but also noted the figures from the middle
column on the report were the same percentages as used in Hunter's Crossing.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that it is not uncommon to have higher assessments as the costs of
the project can change.
Mr. Hoeft indicated the City does not need to use the same method as was used for
Hunter's Crossing but indicated that Council may feel it needs to be consistent and do so.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the method used is the common method. Mr. Hoeft indicated
that the Hunter's Crossing development and this development are very similar and noted
Page 4 of 25
~
that there may not be other developments that are comparable so the assessment methods
used in other developments may not be the best guide for how to assess this development.
Mr. Vanderbeek questioned the elevation of the property behind his property. He then
asked if the ditch would stay open behind him. Mr. Peterson concurred and stated that it
will drain the entire Phase I portion of the project.
Mr. Vanderbeek indicated the pond in back of his property acts as a stopgap for runoff in
the spring holding water until it runs out into the ditch. Mr. Vanderbeek stated that if the
elevation of the property behind him changes the water would flow onto his property
rather than into the pond and out to the ditch.
Mr. Hannah indicated he would talk to the engineers; however, the area Mr. Vanderbeek
was referring to, would remain untouched, open space and should continue to hold water
as it currently does.
Mr. Vanderbeek indicated a previous plan for the property had contained a pond and this
plan does not. Mr. Vanderbeek stated concern that because there was no pond on this
plan.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether the ditch had ever been cleaned
out. Mr. Vanderbeek indicated it had not been cleaned out in the fifteen (15) years he
had owned the property.
Mr. March stated that he thought the ditch was cleaned several years ago.
Mayor Swedberg requested that Mr. March forward a letter to the Rice Creek Watershed
District requesting them to consider cleaning the ditch.
Mr. Vanderbeek indicated he had given the Metropolitan Council an easement on his
property to run sewer and they closed the ditch with the work they completed.
Mayor Swedberg stated that the Metropolitan Council had not completed repairing the
yards that were tom up during construction and noted there is erosion as a result. Mr.
March indicated the Metropolitan Council was not completed with the project.
Mr. Vanderbeek indicated the Metropolitan Council had three (3) months remaining to
finish the project.
Mr. Hannah indicated that the delineated wetland area has to be protected during
construction with silt fencing. Mr. Hannah stated that the Watershed District would
monitor construction to make sure the wetland area is properly protected.
Mayor Swedberg summarized Mr. Vanderbeek's issues to be that he is owed several
trees, flooding in front of his property, his wife's daycare business needs access during
Page 5 of 25
construction and the manhole cover is underwater. Mayor Swedberg stated that Mr.
Vanderbeek had indicated a concern for drainage behind his property.
Mr. Wilharber indicated there were some properties along Centerville Road that were
unable to be assessed due to side-yard frontage, which increased the costs for others.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that the developer cannot put more water on your property than
is already there. He then indicated that there were ponds behind his property and that he
was concerned that the ponds would become larger. Mr. Hannah has indicated no
additional water would be put on his property.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that the ditch behind Mr. Vanderbeek's house is not a County
ditch but was created by farmers who worked together to create a series of ditches to
drain their properties out to Centerville Lake. He then indicated that the only County
ditch in the area is Ditch #47.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that the ditch Mr. Vanderbeek has an issue with also drains his
property on the west. He then noted he had talked to Mr. Hannah about his concern for
drainage.
Mr. Wilharber indicated he received sticker shock when he received the first estimated
assessment amount. Mr. Wilharber stated that a portion of his property is not in MUSA
until 2006 and the remaining portion in 20 II. He further noted it is pretty tough to
swallow the assessment amount, as the property will not be in MUSA for quite some
time.
Mr. March indicated that the Metropolitan Council had indicated they would approve
putting the entire City in MUSA.
Mr. Wilharber stated that Mr. Peterson stated that typically both sides of the street are
assessed. Mr. Wilharber questioned why a portion of Hunter's Crossing is not being
assessed to run the improvements down to the new development. He further noted he
thinks the City should look at doing so.
Mr. Wilharber stated that, if the development goes through, he would like sewer run
under the road to him allowing a future hook up. He also stated that this would be in the
best interest of the City, as they would not disturb the outlet for the new development to
run sewer to his property in the future.
Mr. Wilharber stated that he would like to pay for the costs to run the sewer under the
road to the point where a roadway would be put in when his property develops in the
future.
Mr. Hannah, stated that he had been receiving a multitude of information and noted he
has had trouble contacting some of the players on his side of the deal to discuss the
Page 6 of 25
information. Mr. Hannah also stated that he would like two (2) weeks to consider the
assessment amounts and additional information.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that Council did not need to determine the assessment method at this
meeting and could wait for the public hearing.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether there was a maximum dollar amount for
assessments that would make the developer decide not to proceed.
Mr. Hannah indicated he could not speak to the number as the money would come out of
the principal owner's pocket, not his. Mr. Hannah stated he needed time to review the
matter with all the players.
Mr. Hannah indicated he would like two (2) weeks to review the matter and would like
the public hearing held in two (2) weeks.
Mr. Hoeft noted that, at the assessment hearing after receiving public input, Council
might decide to spread the assessments differently.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he would like Council to try to find a consistent method for
calculating assessments.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that, in prior years, there have not been
projects that went long stretches that affected other property owners until the Hunter's
Crossing project and this one. The City has not had a need to address issues similar to
this in the past.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted the City is trying to accomplish the best
procedure for the most people and stated she feels the City did a good job with the
assessments for the Hunter's Crossing development.
Mr. March noted the City does have an assessment policy and he reviewed it hoping it
contained black and white language as to how to do the assessment. He then noted that
the document leaves a large amount of discretion for Council to determine the assessment
method, provided the assessment does not exceed the realized benefit to the property.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that it might be possible to defer assessment for the Wilharber
property, as they are not able to use the improvements at this time.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that under State Statute, the City is allowed to charge interest at any
rate it desires, provided it does not violate the usury laws. Mr. Hoeft also stated that if the
City desired, it did not have to charge interest on the deferred assessments.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that he realizes there would be a benefit to his property;
however, paying almost half of the assessment and not being able to realize the benefit
until several years down the road seems unfair.
Page 7 of 25
Council Member Travis noted that Mr. Wilharber's property could develop in a manner
similar to Hunter's Crossing where there are several sideyards fronting on Centerville
Road. He then indicated that those with sideyards would not be able to be assessed for
improvements running along Centerville Road.
Mr. Wilharber indicated there could also be a wetland fronting Centerville Road.
Council Member Nelson indicated that this development seemed a lot like Hunter's
Crossing.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to close the public hearin~. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Swedberg closed the public hearing at 8:55 p.m.
Council recessed at 8:55 p.m.
Council reconvened at 9:08 p.m.
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
1. Mr. & Mrs. Michael Baron, 7121 Centerville Road
Ms. Baron stated that she and her husband were not pleased with the method in which
Mr. March chose to handle their situation. She indicated she and her husband were
excluded from the inspection and did not have input in same. Ms. Baron questioned why
they were not told of the inspection, which led to the citation.
Ms. Baron indicated that she and her husband feel they had a right to be present at the
time of the inspection and noted that, had they been there, they could have started all of
the vehicles and explained where all the different articles in the yard would be used. Ms.
Baron then handed out to Council a list of more than 40 homes also in violation of
Ordinance #4.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether Ms. Baron wished to make a complaint
against the residences listed, as the ordinance is enforced by complaint. Ms. Baron
indicated she and her husband were at the meeting to obtain information as to why they
were not informed of the inspection. Ms. Baron stated that she had received copies of
documents out of their folder at City Hall and found an e-mail dated June of 1999, which
referenced to her husband's health. Ms. Baron questioned why the City was discussing
her husband's health and indicated she was very disturbed by the e-mail and feels their
privacy has been invaded.
Page 8 of 25
Ms. Baron indicated she and her husband had received an extension on January 9, 2001
due to weather. She then suggested that there might be a conflict of interest involved in
the way the issue is being handled.
Ms. Baron indicated they have new neighbors who have gotten involved in the petition
with the ongoing harassers. She noted she and her husband have sought legal advice and
were told to seek restraining orders against two (2) of the neighbors. She then asked for
clarification as to why the City was discussing her husband's health and what it had to do
with this matter.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that since a citation had been issued Council needed to be cautious
when discussing the matter. He then indicated that, if the Barons wish to propose some
type of resolution, he would document that and forward it to Council for input.
Ms. Baron indicated that the lawyer they discussed the matter with indicated the City is
looking for compliance with the citation. She then noted the citation is vague and asked
what about her property was specifically not in compliance.
Mr. Hoeft indicated he would make a note of the request and noted that when the Barons
make their court appearance they should request the same information at that time. He
then noted that, if the information is in the court file, he would give it to them and if it is
not, he would get the information from Mr. March.
Ms. Baron questioned why there were e-mailsconcemingherhusband.shealth.Mr.
Hoeft indicated he was not aware of the e-mails and could not comment.
Council Member Nelson indicated that she would need to review her notes but stated, to
the best of her recollection, she had received a call from a neighbor with a complaint that
she forwarded bye-mail to City Stafffor review.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that Mr. March had provided him with a copy of a document that had
given the Barons a two (2) week extension to bring the property into compliance and
noted that the extension was granted based on the fact that Mr. Baron had injured his
back at work.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that the proper venue for this discussion was now District
Court.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that any information that the Barons wished to provide is welcomed,
but stated it should also be provided in the proper forum and noted that is at the District
Court proceeding.
Ms. Baron indicated her intention was to attempt to resolve this matter the easy way. She
then indicated that her husband may have hurt his back and, if that is the case, then she
apologizes.
Page 9 of25
Council Member Capra asked Mr. March to make sure that Ms. Baron has all the
information from her folder. Mr. March agreed to do so.
Ms. Baron indicated she had intended to ask for a second inspection.
Council Member Capra asked if residents are usually present for inspections.
Mr. March noted that, in reviewing the Barons' file, he discovered the City has sent out
11 notices in regards to ordinance violations over the last 13 years. He noted there were
more prior to his arrival the City. He then noted that Mr. Palzer and an officer viewed the
property from the street because Mr. Palzer had called twice to schedule the inspection
and was unable to reach the Barons. He further noted that when the officer viewed the
property, it was at his discretion whether or not to issue the citation and he felt the
citation should be issued.
Ms. Baron questioned the City's intent regarding the 40 (forty) residences on the list she
had provided.
Mr. Hoeft stated that, if Ms. Baron desires to make complaints against the 40 (forty)
residences, then the information would be forwarded on to Mr. Palzer or an officer to
view the properties.
Ms. Baron indicated she is concerned that she and her husband are not being treated the
same way as any other citizen in the community. She then noted that, if it is not okay for
them, it is not okay for the other properties.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the period of time the Barons would have to resolve the
matter prior to going to court.
Mr. Hoeft explained that there is an ample amount of time between the issuance of a
citation and the start of a jury trial.
Council Member Capra questioned the possibility of resolving the matter prior to going
to court. She then questioned who would determine what resolution would be required.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that, if at this point in time the Barons have a proposal for bringing
the property into compliance, they should propose it to his office either before their first
appearance, at the appearance, or after the appearance. He then noted he would forward
the proposal to Mr. March for Council consideration and, if the proposal is adequate, the
action would be suspended.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that he would not receive any information on the file until the first
appearance. He then noted it might be possible to obtain information from Mr. March if
the Barons wished to discuss the matter prior to the first appearance.
Ms. Baron indicated it would be helpful to them to know what the problem was.
Page 10 of25
Council Member Capra asked if Mr. March could get the information for the Barons. Mr.
March indicated he would get the information from Mr. Palzer.
Council Member Capra questioned whether mediation would be allowed for this matter.
Mr. Hoeft indicated mediation would not be allowed at this time.
Mayor Swedberg noted there was still a window open for the Barons to bring the
property into compliance. Ms. Baron indicated she understood that.
Council Member Capra indicated that, on a personal note, she knows how stressful these
situations can be and stated she hoped resolution could be obtained.
Ms. Baron asked when she could get information from Mr. March. Mr. March indicated
he would have Mr. Palzer contact her tomorrow with what needs to be done to bring the
property into compliance.
2. Mr. Steve McDonald (Abdo. Abdo. Eick & Meyers)
Mr. McDonald, Abdo, Abdo, Eick & Meyers, reviewed the audit with Council and
pointed out areas where improvements could be made with the City's record keeping.
Council Member Capra asked how the size of Centerville falls based on the sizes of the
other cities he audits. Mr. McDonald indicated Centerville fell right in the middle for the
size of cities he audits.
Mayor Swedberg indicated the management letter provided by Mr. McDonald was
helpful and well written and thanked him for it.
Council Member Nelson asked whether the discrepancies related to year-end adjustments
were due to not doing monthly bank reconciliation's.
Mr. McDonald indicated he would need to look at the details to be sure but stated he feels
year-end issues would playa role.
Mr. McDonald indicated he could schedule a meeting to discuss reporting formats and
what Council would like to see.
Consensus was to arrange a meeting to discuss reporting formats.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the City could get to the point of compliance with the new
laws. Mr. McDonald indicated that the City could get to the point of compliance.
Mayor Swedberg asked if depreciation would affect budgets. Mr. McDonald stated the
City should change to follow the financial statement format. He then noted the new laws
would need to be implemented by 2004 and would show up in the audit for 2005.
Page 11 of25
Mayor Swedberg thanked Mr. McDonald for his presentation and asked that he work
with Staff in regards to this matter.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Council Member Capra requested the following change: On Page 3 of 12 she asked that
Staff review the tape to determine her suggestion for sharing the responsibilities for
Ojibway Drive.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested the following change: On Page 7 of 12
change her comment to indicate that she had said police and fire may have a comment
concerning closing off the road.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Travis to
aoorove the May 23. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS
1. Downtown Revitalization
Mayor Swedberg indicated that there was a meeting last night to discuss the downtown
revitalization project.
Mr. March indicated that the purpose of the meeting was to gather input in regards to the
project. He then indicated that there were thirteen (13) property owners in attendance;
eight (8) of ten (10) with property on Centerville Road were not in favor of having water
service.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the City has a process for verifying the
signatures on a petition that is received. Mr. March indicated that the process is that the
clerk is required to measure and certify that 35% of the property owners for the scope of
the project have signed the petition. He then indicated that the clerk had indicated that
Staff had checked and 35% of the property owners had signed the petition.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether the requirement was 35% of the
number of lineal feet of the project. Mr. March indicated that the requirement is 35% of
Page 12 of25
the total project which is 1,000 feet oflineal water main which means there needed to be
property owners totaling 350 feet that signed the petition.
Mr. Bill Bisek, 7098 Centerville Road, indicated he was at the meeting last night and left
fairly discouraged with some of the remarks and the actions of some of the neighbors in
the area. He then indicated that based on previous research, there has been interest in
downtown revitalization.
Mr. Bisek indicated that he feels in order to revitalize the downtown area; the City needs
to bring water services to the downtown area. He then noted that the discussion turned
ugly and disrespectful to Council and the Mayor and there was very little discussion
concerning water.
Mr. Bisek indicated that even though his neighbors felt that the assessment is a major part
of the issue, they are also uneasy about the development of the downtown area and they
are using same to try and nix the project.
Mr. Bisek indicated he could understand not wanting to pay for something that you do
not need but noted that at some point water will be needed and then it will cost more to
run water downtown. He also noted that six (6) property owners in his area out of the
nine (9) had expressed an interest in receiving improvements. He further noted the City
would benefit, as a whole, if downtown were redeveloped and improved.
Council Member Nelson asked if Mr. Bisek had spoke with his neighbors prior to the
hearing or if he was surprised by the negative feelings rose at the meeting. Mr. Bisek
indicated he was not surprised that his neighbors rejected the idea but noted he was
surprised by the behavior that was exhibited.
Mr. Bisek indicated that the downtown is a Mixed Use district and noted that the business
owners communicate with one another and attempt to maintain good relations with the
residents in the downtown area.
Council Member Nelson asked if Mr. Bisek was waiting for water before doing some
updating at Kelly's. Mr. Bisek indicated he had been waiting for five (5) years and said it
is frustrating from his standpoint, as Kelly's has no curb appeal. He then indicated that
he would like to have a parking lot that does not flood every spring, but said it does not
make sense to pave the parking lot only to have to repave it when water does come to
downtown.
Council Member Capra indicated that she felt a lot was lost at the meeting based on the
feeling of residents that the City is planning on developing the Public Works site and is
not telling residents what is "really going on".
Mr. Bisek indicated that twenty (20) years ago would have been the logical time to bring
water to the downtown area when they did sewer. Council Member Broussard Vickers
indicated the City did not have the money to run water at the time it did sewer downtown.
Page 13 of 25
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the residents in attendance felt they
were entitled to their opinion even though not all of the opinions were based on fact. She
then noted that one (I) of the things she constantly reminds herself is that as a Council
Member, she needs to do what's best for the City as a whole and that being influenced by
a few people is not the best way to do that.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked Mr. Peterson if the City needs to loop
downtown into the water system to make the water system in town better, safer, more
reliable or more predictable. She questioned the ramifications of brining water to the
downtown area, timing and current infrastructure. She further noted that if the City
determines the need to install water service to the downtown area as it is important to the
City as a whole; perhaps the City needs to pick up a larger piece of the cost.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she is not willing to abandon the idea at
this point, but feels further research should be done. She then noted she would like the
City Engineer to provide input and a report with definitive information prior to further
consideration.
Council Member Capra stated she would like to look into whether building an additional
water tower and looping the downtown area would be important with the new water
tower system. She then asked Mr. Wilharber if he knew how the church intended to
proceed with its expansion. Mr. Wilharber indicated he is on the committee that is
reviewing the expansion and noted the church is looking at installing bathrooms on the
east side.
Council Member Capra noted that if the church does add bathrooms on the end, it would
be a great benefit for them to have City water. She then noted that the church's decision
might be a large factor in how the project proceeds.
Mayor Swedberg stated that he supports the Minnesota Design Team but noted that he
had heard that residents do not want water downtown. He then suggested the City
Engineer determine whether it is possible to provide water to the one (I) block of
downtown that is interested in water without affecting other people.
Mr. Peterson indicated City water could be brought to the Kelly's block but noted it may
be possible to bring water to the Kelly's block by extending water south on Centerville
Road.
Mr. Bisek indicated that there were three (3) residents on his block not interested in water
servIces.
Mayor Swedberg noted the proposal, as presented, did not meet what residents would like
to see. He then noted if the City were going to achieve downtown revitalization, the
proposal would need to be reviewed and changed.
Page 14 of25
, .
Council Member Capra asked if it was more costly to do a small-scale water project than
a larger one.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated there has been situations where those
affected by the improvements were not happy, but noted Council needed to keep in mind
the larger scope involved. She then noted that this is one (1) block not the entire City.
Mr. March indicated that if there were to be a water main break at the intersection by the
Rivard building, the sixteen (16) apartments; one other building; the elementary school
and forty (40) homes would be without water. He then noted it is not a good idea to have
such a long dead-end stretch of water main. He further noted that if the water main were
looped to isolate a break between two (2) main valves it would be beneficial to numerous
people.
Mr. Bisek indicated that due to the hostility at the meeting, there were at least two (2)
homeowners who were uncomfortable speaking up and did not have an opportunity to be
heard.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that there were some aspects of the plan that he did not like, but
noted some of the other items for the revitalization of downtown he approved of. He then
suggested bringing water down Centerville Road from Westview to hook up the one (1)
block of downtown. He also noted that the City had purchased property to be
redeveloped and noted it would need to be serviced by City water and indicated he would
be fine with funding the water expansion with the general fund.
Council Member Nelson indicated she was not at the meeting but had heard there were
residents in attendance who were not in favor of the project and stated she felt the project
should be researched. She also indicated that she agreed with Council Member
Broussard Vickers in that the City may need to pick up a larger portion of the cost to
bring water to the downtown area, but stated that residents should be assessed as they do
receive a benefit.
Mr. Peterson indicated that the figures presented at the meeting assumed the City would
pay twenty-five percent (25%) of the costs to bring water to the downtown area. He then
indicated that the City percentage could be increased.
Council Member Travis indicated he felt the downtown revitalization project is a good
idea, as it would benefit the entire City. He then stated that there was a large amount of
vocal opposition and the point made was that some of the residents just plain did not want
it. He further indicated if it were possible to defer assessments until the resident hooks
up or something on that order, more residents might be in favor of the project.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he got the sense that many of the residents do not want
development in the downtown area. Mr. March clarified that the City is not talking about
any development other than the Public Works site.
Page 15 of25
. ' I I
Council Member Capra indicated that a small portion of the people in attendance could
not be convinced that there was not a prearranged plan that the City is not telling
residents about.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the City has 3,000 residents and noted that
there were 25 people at the meeting. She then indicated that Council represents all 3,000
residents not just the 25 that were in attendance and noted that Council has faced this
issue time and again with every development. She further noted that with every issue
Council faced with, there would always be some opposition.
Mr. March indicated that when Council holds meetings concerning controversial issues,
the City could request to have law enforcement present to maintain order. He then noted
that people behind him were making comments that they were uncomfortable due to the
hostility.
Council Member Capra noted she felt the Mayor should have been behind the dais in
order to utilize the gavel and maintain order.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that more research was needed in order to find a way to come
together and be reasonable.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated it might not be possible to reach a
consensus.
2. 21 st Avenue (Joint Powers Agreement & Feasibility Study)
Mr. March indicated the City of Lino Lakes had forwarded a revised Joint Powers
Agreement and Feasibility Report, which had been approved by its Council on Monday
evening. He then noted that the agreement is contingent upon Centerville's approval.
Mr. Hoeft reviewed areas of the document that he felt should be modified in order to
better protect the City's interests.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he felt the road was designed incorrectly as Dupre Road is
wider than they have made 21 st Avenue and it is intended to be a major intersection. He
then indicated that this is one (1) ofthe reasons he had said he would like to see a traffic
management study prior to proceeding.
Council Member Capra questioned who would be conducting the inspections. Mr. Hoeft
indicated that according to the document the primary inspections would be conducted by
the City of Lino Lakes and that Centerville has the right to comment but has no real
remedy.
Council Member Capra suggested containing language that would give Centerville the
right to approve the design. Mr. Hoeft indicated he would need to discuss the matter with
City of Lino Lakes.
Page 16 of25
.. j I t
Mayor Swedberg questioned what would happen if costs are incurred and the City of
Lino Lakes decided to pull out of the project. Mr. Hoeft indicated that if either City pulls
out of the project, each City is still responsible for fifty percent (50%) of the costs
incurred to the point of the contract being awarded.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he would like to know the full costs up front. Mr. Hoeft
indicated it might not be possible to know the full costs, as there may be change orders
along the way that could either increase or decrease the amount. He then indicated that
the City of Lino Lakes is looking for progress payments on a monthly basis but have not
indicated how that would be implemented.
Council Member Travis questioned whether Mr. Palzer had an issue with the snow
plowing language. Mr. March indicated he did not believe so.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he felt a traffic management study was needed, as he is
concerned that the Dairy Queen is a natural magnet for kids.
Mr. Peterson indicated he felt there should be a sidewalk for pedestrian safety.
Mayor Swedberg stated he feels Centerville needs to be more involved in the upfront
planning and collaboration.
Mr. Peterson indicated that in reviewing the costs for the project, if there are three (3)
properties that could be assessed and then noted that the total assessment for each of the
properties would be $37,600 per parcel, based solely on the costs for the project.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked whether the three property owners have
indicated whether or not they want the road. Mr. March indicated that two (2) of the
three (3) property owners have indicated they wanted the road but were unaware of the
assessment amount at the time.
Mr. Peterson indicated, assuming the City would pay a larger portion of the costs, that a
$10,000 or $15,000 assessment would seem fair.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that he did not feel that Centerville had been involved in the
up front designing for the roadway and noted he feels the partnership is a little one sided.
Mr. March asked what Mayor Swedberg thought the design needed. Mayor Swedberg
indicated he did not think the road was wide enough and that it needed a sidewalk. Mr.
March added that the road could also use a right turn lane onto Main Street.
Council Member Capra asked how wide the proposed roadway would be. Mr. Peterson
indicated it is proposed to be close to the width it is right now.
Page 17 of25
A I \ ...
Mr. March noted that, if the project goes forward, it would take significant City funds, as
it would not be possible to assess the larger dollar amounts first indicated. He then
indicated that the City may need to assume two thirds (2/3) of the costs to go forward.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she did not think this street benefited the
whole City. She then questioned whether there were other roads that were built that did
not assess all of the costs to the property owners. Mr. March indicated it has been done
when the City reconstructs streets. He then indicated that the City is allowed to assess
only those properties that benefit. He further noted that there might be a disproportionate
benefit to the nine (9) lots on the east side of the road that could justify paying more than
fifty percent (50%).
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the project was being driven by the City of
Lino Lakes and not Centerville. She then indicated that there are very few people on the
Centerville side of the street to assess and noted the street is not going to be a commuter
street.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the City of Lino Lakes intends to extend the
road down to Cedar Street as she could see a benefit for the lots in the industrial park.
Council Member Travis indicated that extending the road to Cedar Street would be the
developer's responsibility.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she was uncomfortable approving the
agreement until Council looks at the budget for next year and noted that Lino Lake's
timeline was much faster than Centerville's.
Mr. March indicated he could broach the subject of the assessments with the property
owners.
Council Member Capra indicated a desire to be a good neighbor to the City ofLino Lakes
and work with them on the figures. She then stated she did not feel the project should be
abandoned but should be researched to determine the benefit to the City.
Mr. Hoeft noted Council may wish to hire an appraiser to give an opinion on the benefit
to the Centerville businesses so the City would have some idea as to what the assessment
could be which could be used in negotiations with the City of Lino Lakes.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the appraiser needed to be made aware that the City
might require turn lanes as it could affect the proposal. Mr. Peterson indicated the
appraiser could take into account what might be in the future. Mr. Hoeft indicated that
the appraiser could, based on the plans he was provided, indicate what he felt the benefit
to the Centerville businesses would be.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to direct Mr. March to contact an appraiser to determine what the benefit
Page 18 of25
II I I ...
of the improved roadway would be to the Centerville businesses on 21st Avenue. All
in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Staff should go ahead and continue its
talks with the City of Lino Lakes and let them know that Centerville is reviewing the
figures.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Nelson to table
approval of the 21st Avenue Joint Powers Al!reement until more research is
provided to Council. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
IX. NEW BUSINESS
1. Wilharber Lot Solit
Mr. Hoeft explained that he had received a request from Mr. Tom Wilharber for the
approval of a lot split. He then explained that the situation came about because a deed
prepared by an Attorney to transfer title of the land from Mr. Wilharber's mother to a
trust inadvertently and by mistake, excepted out some property in the legal description in
the wrong area of the property. He noted the exception was supposed to except out the
land where Mr. Wilharber's residence is located but instead excepted out a different piece
of the land.
Mr. Hoeft explained that after the deed was executed, Mr. Wilharber's mother passed
away so it is impossible to correct same with a new deed. He then noted that Mr.
Wilharber and his siblings are looking at selling the property and in order for a Quit
Claim Deed to be recorded with the County, the County has asked for Council approval
of the lot split that occurred due to a part of the property being excepted out of the deed.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that an attorney in his office would be correcting the mistake and
properly identifying the property; but in order to do so, the incorrect deed first needs to
be recorded.
Mr. Wilharber told Council that in 1996 the trust was established to circumvent any
issues when his mother passed away. He noted that the attorney did not record the deed
and at the time he attempted to do so, he learned of the issue. He then noted that, if
Council did not approve the lot split, the matter would need to go through probate, which
would consume a large amount of time. Mr. Wilharber told Council he is not looking at a
lot split as he and his siblings intend to sell the entire piece of ground.
Motion bv Mayor Swedberl!. seconded by Council Member Nelson to a{)prove the
lot split as presented. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Broussard Vickers was not present for the vote.
2. Pheasant Marsh
Page 19 of25
. I , 1
*Feasibility Study and Resolution 01-011
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Travis to approve Resolution 01-011. a Resolution receivine the feasibility report
and schedulin~ the Dublic heann!: for June 27. 2001. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
*Comprehensive Plan Amendments
Council Member Capra indicated that the form to be submitted indicates that this is not a
MUSA expansion. She then asked what that meant.
Mr. March indicated that when he spoke to the consultant, he recommended putting the
entire parcel into MUSA rather than completed additional amendments in the future. He
then indicated that development of the parcel could be controlled with the developer's
agreement, but expressed concern for a different developer stepping in and wanting to
develop the entire property all at once should Ground Development not proceed with its
plans.
Mr. Hoeft indicated Council needed to determine whether it is concerned with having the
entire parcel come into MUSA at one time to be developed or if Council desires to
control the development of the parcel by not allowing it all to come into MUSA. He then
indicated that the Metropolitan Council has indicated that, due to a shortage of land, cities
would be allowed to develop as rapidly as they desire.
Council Member Broussard Vickers expressed concern for control of the development if
the City allowed the entire parcel into MUSA at one time.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that economics would drive development, as the developer would
only be able to develop as fast as he is able to sell lots. He then noted that the City could
control development by requiring controlled timing of the phases with a development
agreement recorded against the property so that anyone who comes in would have to
follow the time line set up by Council. He further indicated the same could be done for
other parcels within the City.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned how moving the entire parcel into MUSA
would affect the development. Mr. Hoeft indicated that the City does not have to allow
the developer do anything. He noted all the approvals do not change, as the only thing
affected is whether the Metropolitan Council controls development or if the City does.
Council Member Capra indicated that in the past the issue of development has been
governed by the Metropolitan Council and was a restriction the City could use to control
development. Mr. Hoeft indicated the City still has the same control, except now the City
cannot point to the Metropolitan Council as the ones who are limiting development.
Page 20 of 25
. (I I
Mr. March indicated the document could be modified and sent back to the consultant if
Council desired.
Mayor Swedberg noted he could not believe that the Metropolitan Council was throwing
out the process they had used for many years. Mr. Hoeft indicated that the
Comprehensive Plan does not change; it is merely a timing issue as the Comprehensive
Plan indicates that the property would be developed at some point.
Council Member Nelson indicated she would like to do a MUSA swap rather than bring
the entire parcel into MUSA.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the school is supposed to open in 2002
to handle the proposed development.
Council Member Capra indicated that due to some complications, the school might not
open until the fall of 2003.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that Council might desire to amend the document to what was
previously agreed to in order to keep the Pheasant Marsh project on track. He then
indicated that Council needed to determine whether it desires to bring the entire parcel
into MUSA and regulate development or request the MUSA swap.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that development within the City is a
bigger discussion for a different meeting. She then indicated that the primary concern
was for the school and noted that if the school would be open in 2003 it did not make
sense to make the land sit until 2006.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to direct Staff to have the document revised to reflect the MUSA swap as
oril!inallv al!reed to. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Capra commented that the development would affect the school.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he did not think the development would affect the school
district due to the phasing required by Council.
Council Member Capra indicated that, with the delay for the opening of the new school,
the school would be affected by the development. Mr. Hoeft clarified that one side of the
development would be developed rather than the other and noted this should not affect
the school district.
3. Waterworks Beach Club Liquor Violation
This matter was tabled to the next meeting.
4. Emplovee Wages and Benefits
Page 21 of25
4 I. t ~
This matter was tabled to the next meeting.
5. St. Genevieve Catholic Church's Request for a Temporarv/Event 3.2 Liquor
License (Annual Chicken Dinner - AUlrust 19. 2001)
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve St. Genevieve Catholic Church's request for a temporary event 3.2 liquor
license as presented. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. March indicated that he had received the certificate of insurance from the Church.
6. Ordinance #4 Amendments
This matter was tabled to the next meeting.
7. Mr. and Mrs. Braniord. 1748 Peltier Lake Drive. Pool Permit Request
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the pool permit request of Mr. and Mrs. Branjord based on the previous
permit e:ranted to another resident and on anticinated amendments to Ordinance
#4. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
8. Ouad City Police Department Investigation
This matter was tabled to the next meeting.
9. Parks and Recreation Committee Recommendations
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the requested items would be coming out of
the Parks and Recreation budget.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Council should have been aware from
previous meetings, that Parks and Recreation would be coming to Council for money as
Council spent the entire Parks and Recreation budget on the electrical for Laurie LaMotte
Memorial Park. She then indicated that the City needed to make the fields useable and
conform to tournament requirements. She further explained that making the softball field
regulation size cuts down the size for the soccer field and, as it is too small for a
regulation adult size soccer field, they are recommending the changes be made to make it
a youth field.
Council Member Nelson pointed out that three (3) of the requested approvals from Parks
and Recreation totaled $15,300 and noted she is not in favor of approval of that kind of
money.
Page 22 of 25
oil! I . ,
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that she understood that Council was
aware that by using Parks and Recreation funds for the electrical at Laurie LaMotte
Memorial Park, the Parks and Recreation Committee would need to request additional
funds from Council. She then indicated that the improvements need to be made this year
for the Fete Des Lacs Festival or the softball tournament would need to be cancelled.
Council Member Nelson stated she thought Parks and Recreation would be asking for
money in another year not this year.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the items would have been included as part
of the original work order but were accidentally omitted.
Council Member Nelson stated that Parks and Recreation did not have the money in the
budget for the projects. Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Council used
the Parks and Recreation budget for the electrical at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park.
Council Member Capra stated she thought Council only used park dedication fees for the
electrical. Council Member Broussard Vickers commented that if Council only took the
park dedication fees, then there would be money in the Parks and Recreation budget.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the matter could not be tabled since the
City would need to cancel the Fete des Lacs softball tournament if the improvements are
not made.
Mayor Swedberg asked if moving the fences was permanent. Council Member
Broussard Vickers indicated that it was.
Mr. March questioned where Parks and Recreation got the estimates for moving the
backstop. Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated they used an estimate from
when they previously had a backstop moved.
Council Member Nelson asked Mr. March if there was any money in the Parks and
Recreation budget. Mr. March indicated that he was not prepared to provide information
on the Parks and Recreation budget at this meeting.
Motion by Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the Parks and Recreation Committee recommendation. Number
1. Ayes - 4. (Mayor Swedbeq:. Council Members Capra. Travis and Broussard
Vickers. Nays -1 (Nelson). Motion carried.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Item 3 was needed, as fencing was
required around the electrical area.
Council Member Nelson indicated she did not know how Council could approve of this
expenditure if Council did not understand where the funds would be expended.
Page 23 of2S
'-: ( . III
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers to approve the Parks and
Recreation Committee. Recommendation Number 3.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated there needed to be fencing around a pole
coming out of the ground in the main electrical area and that wire needed to be run to the
scoreboard.
Council Member Travis questioned the need for a scoreboard.
Mr. March stated he felt the matter could wait until the next Council meeting for further
discussion.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to table
Parks and Recreation Committee. recommendation Numbers 2. 3. and 4 to the next
Council Meetinl!. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Motion bv Mayor Swedberl:. seconded by Council Member Capra to table
Waterworks Beach Club Liquor Violation. Emplovee Wal!es and Benefits.
Ordinance #4 Amendments. and the Ouad City Police Department Investil!ation to
the next meetinl!. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
X. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City ofCenterville May 23, through June 13,2001 Expenditures.
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures & City Monthly Services.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve Consent Aeenda Items 1 and 2 as presented. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Xl. COMMITTEE REPORTS
None.
XlI. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. March noted he would wait until the next Council meeting to report on the Turcotte
purchase agreement.
Mr. March reported that the Week in Review is being sent to Quad Community Press as
requested by Council.
Mr. March noted he had spoken to Mr. Quigley who indicated he had met with one (1) of
the townhome associations and would be meeting with the other prior to coming before
the Planning and Zoning Commission in July.
Page 24 of 25
.. . , .
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she had spoken to the President of the
Association who told her that no agreement was reached.
Mr. March indicated that the County Bank reimbursement had been moved to a lower
priority at this point.
Council Member Capra requested that Council discuss the audit and the auditor's
recommendations as it relates to staffing in the office at a meeting to be scheduled.
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Mayor Swedberl!. seconded bv Council Member Travis to adiourn the
June 13. 2001 Citv Council Meeting at 11:00 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Proofed by:
Teresa Bender, Clerk/Treasurer
Page 25 of 25
June 27, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
,
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
June 27, 2001
6:30 p.m.
. <^,
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly
scheduled meeting on June 27, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
Council Member Mari Nelson
Council meeting to order at 6:31
ABSENT: None
STAFF: City Administrator, Jim March
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
City Engineer, Tom Pe s n
I.
II.
M tion by ouncil Member Broussard-Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Capra to approve the al!enda with the noted additions. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
III. PUBLIC HEARING (S)
Pheasant Marsh - Assessment Roll
Mayor Swedberg opened the public hearing for the Pheasant Marsh Assessment
Roll at 6:37 p.m.
Mr. Peterson reviewed a handout regarding assessment calculations and compared
same with the Hunter's Crossing assessment calculations. Mr. Peterson stated
that the total amount assessed for the Pheasant Marsh project would be $57,834.
Mr. Peterson explained that the Wilharber portion of the assessments would be
approximately $41,267 and the Eide portion would be $16,567, based on similar
assessment pricing from Hunter's Crossing assessment calculations.
Page 1 of 12
June 27, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
.
Mr. Tom Wilharber, 6949 Centerville Road, stated that he had received six (6)
different proposals on assessment amounts from the City, each being different.
Mr. Wilharber reviewed same and stated that services would not be at his property
until 2006 and it was a rather larger amount of assessments. Mr. Wilharber stated
that there would be no present benefit to the Wilharber Estates.
Council Member Capra stated that she had completed research on assessments
and stated she had heard of large assessments on farms and Green Acre properties
being deferred until the property was sold. Mr. Wilharber stated that this would
be Council decision.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the request of Council this evening. Mr. Hoeft
stated that this is a public hearing and no action was needed at this time. Mr.
Hoeft stated that this was an opportunity for those property owner that would be
affected by the assessments and benefit from the services to be heard.
Ms. Karen Marty, attorney for Ground Development, stated that she was before
Council to request that they treat Ground Development similar to other developers
that have been before the City. Ms. Barney requested that the Council consider
past developments and assessments when moving forward with this item.
Ms. Marty stated that Council may choose to defer assessments on farms and
green acre properties. Ms. Marty stated that she had spoken with a representative
from the Metropolitan Council who indicated their willingness to allow this
property into the MUSA prior to 2006. Ms. Marty again requested that Council
consider the Pheasant Marsh development uniformly.
Mr. Terry Hannah, Ground Development, reviewed the Pheasant Marsh
assessments along Centerville Road and the various options available to the
Council. Mr. Hannah reinforced the fact that Ground Development would like to
see uniformity in the assessment policy from the City.
Mr. Gerald Wilharber, 3539 Glen Oaks, White Bear Lake, questioned the present
benefit the services would provide to the Wilharber Estate. Mr. Peterson stated
that the property would gain access to water and sewer along the east side of
Centerville Road.
Mr. Gerald Wilharber questioned additional fees associated with acqumng
services from the east side of Centerville Road. Mr. Peterson indicated the
additional fees would include a boring fee of $25 per foot across Centerville Road
along with stub fees.
Mr. Tom Wilharber indicated that Ground Development is looking for uniformity
but stated the developer is gaining immediate sewer and water access while his
property would not, as stated in the City's Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Wilharber
requested that Council consider the vision of the City with this development. Mr.
Tom Wilharber stated that he understands that the Metropolitan Council is willing
to modify the MUSA for his property prior to 2006, but stated that there is also a
Page 2 of 12
June 27, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
possibility of delaying this until 2010. Mr. Wilharber cautioned Council as they
considered future developments in conjunction with the vision of the City.
Council Member Travis acknowledged Mr. Gerald Wilharber's comment as the
property would not have access to sewer and water on the west side of Centerville
Road through the assessment fee and that it could not be accessed until 2006.
Council Member Nelson stated she felt the value to the property would be
increased with sewer and water, even if it was in the distant future. She indicated
she desired Council to comply with the Comprehensive Plan and not push sewer
and water through before recommended.
Council Member Nelson explained she would like to see uniformity with the
assessments in the City as well. She stated she would consider a deferral as this
was an agricultural portion of land and owned by senior citizens.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if Tom Wilharber owned all lots within
Wilharber Estates. Mr. Wilharber stated he owned one lot, and the others were a
part of the Wilharber Estate. He indicated the lots within the Wilharber Estate
were both green acres.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned if green acre properties are
exempt from paying assessments. Mr. Hoeft stated this was the case.
Council Member Broussard Vickers reviewed the assessment policy that the
Council used for Hunter's Crossing. She noted the developer of Hunter's
Crossing was made to pay 50% of the total assessments. Council Member
Broussard Vickers explained she felt Ground Development should be charged as a
landowner and developer with this assessment.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she would be in favor of the
Wilharber Estate deferring their assessment in total or passing off this assessment
until 2006 when the services would be accessible.
Council Member Capra noted she spoke with neighboring community's
assessments on properties that are green acres and owned by senior citizens. She
noted she was in favor of deferring assessments on this property as this parcel
meets both qualifications.
Mayor Swedberg read through a prepared document concerning development
assessments. He explained the importance of being fair and equitable with all
residents. Mayor Swedberg also mentioned the importance of maintaining the
small-town feel of the City of Centerville. He questioned who benefited from
development.
Mayor Swedberg indicated deferring the assessment on the Wilharber property
would only pass the bill along to all other residents. He stated this may not be the
most fair and equitable solution for the City.
Page 3 of 12
June 27, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg explained he felt this run of water and sewer could have been
completed from Center Street at a lower expense than along Centerville Road. He
noted he felt all the benefit of this extension would be borne by the developer and
not the residents along Centerville Road, therefore all expense should be passed
along to the developer.
Mr. Hoeft stated the proposed extension is going to be completed by the City and
then bonded. He noted the City does not want to go forward with this item if
there were any disputes to the amounts of the assessments. Mr. Hoeft reviewed
the past issues with Hunter's Crossing and explained the developer finally had to
step forward to resolve issues to not prolong the project.
Mr. Hoeft noted all assessment amounts are stated within the Developer's
Agreement. He stated the City would then hold the developer to the stated
assessment amounts. Mr. Hoeft indicated if the developer was not willing to deal
with the amount stated by the City then the development would not go through.
Mayor Swedberg stated he would be in favor of 100% of the assessments being
borne by the developer and questioned if the developer had to go down
Centerville Road.
Mr. Tom Wilharber indicated the Wilharber Estate does not need sewer and water
access at Centerville Road as they could gain access from the Hunter's Crossing
development.
Mr. Hoeft noted the current assessment policy in place is with respect to already
developed properties or existing developments. He indicated raw land and
subdivisions do not have their own policy as they are all unique. Mr. Hoeft stated
this means there has been no uniform assessment policy in the past.
Mr. Hoeft stated he felt there would be a benefit to the Wilharber property but
stated this amount was unknown as it's benefit would not be known for five years.
He explained a developer is going to pay more going along Centerville Road but
indicated the Council would need to determine this amount.
Mr. Hoeft stated a deferral would be an option, but indicated the Council would
need to establish a drop-dead date to set up a time frame for payment. He
indicated this would allow for the 2006 MUSA date to arrive.
Council Member Capra asked ifthe City could be forced to develop the Wilharber
Estate before 2006. Mr. Hoeft indicated MetCouncil would allow for this, but
stated the Comprehensive Plan for the City does not allow for this development.
Mr. Hoeft advised the Council to not take any action on this item until a
Developer's Agreement was in place to rule out any contesting of the
assessments. He stated all parties involved would need to agree on this item
before the assessments should be approved.
Page 4 of 12
June 27, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson questioned if a benefit could be determined or appraised
for these properties. Mr. Hoeft indicated by setting 100% of the benefit to the
developer no contest would be brought up, but then indicated the development
may not go through if the developer won't agree to pay 100%.
Mr. Hoeft explained the Ground Development attorney forwarded a Developer's
Agreement to the City but noted revisions were being made at this time. He
stated the percentage of distribution of assessments would be made a part of the
agreement after discussions with the developer.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if the original time line was included
within the Developer's Agreement. Mr. Hoeft stated a time line has not been
agreed to as of yet, but stated all things could change, depending on if the
developer and City can come to terms with the assessments.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted she would just like to see a "no
sooner" date placed within this agreement. Mr. Hoeft stated this should not be an
issue as they work through the Developer's Agreement.
Council Member Nelson indicated she felt it would be helpful if all parties
involved come together and work with the City Attorney and staff to resolve the
assessment issues.
Mr. Hoeft asked that the Council table the public hearing to a future date when the
matter can be brought back to the Council, when further information is gathered.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to
table the public hearin!: to a future date to allow for assessment discussions
with Ground Development. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Swedberg called for a five-minute recess at 7:43 p.m. The meeting
resumed at 7:51 p.m.
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
Tom Kuehn - Permit Discussion
Mr. Kuehn indicated he was before the Council to request a road permit to allow
for a nine-ton vehicle on Heritage Street to allow for him to bring materials into
$t. Genevieve's Church building.
Mr. Peterson noted he had no objections as the road was already in poor condition
at this time.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Travis to
approve Mr. Kuehn's reauest to carrv five to six loads over Heritae:e Street
at a nine-ton load limit. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Page 5 of 12
June 27, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
June 13.2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Nelson to table the June 13. 2001 Council meetine minutes as the
Council Members did not have time to review the minutes. Motion carried.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS - None.
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS - None.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS
Downtown Revitalization
Mr. March asked that the City Engineer review the alternate water main solutions
for the downtown revitalization.
Mr. Peterson reviewed Option 1 as being the original plan with a water main from
Chauncey Baret to Westview Street with a 12" water main south of Main and 8"
pipe north of Main. He stated this option would provide the best overall looping
system with additional sources of water for the school and Lakeland Hills. Mr.
Peterson explained the total cost for this option would be $170,000.
Mr. Peterson explained Option 2 would be to extend a 12" PVC water main on
Main Street from Progress Road to Centerville Road. He explained this option
does not allow for any looping at this time, but could be connected to future
developments. Mr. Peterson indicated the total cost for Option 2 would be
$45,000.
Mr. Peterson indicated Option 3 would be the same as Option 2 with an additional
1" copper service pipe to the west of Centerville Road. He noted this would get
service to the church and two properties on the north side of Main Street. Mr.
Peterson indicated the cost for this option would be $55,000.
Mayor Swedberg thanked staff for their research and comments.
21st Avenue (Joint Powers Agreement & Feasibility Studv)
Mr. March stated an appraisal is being completed at this time and he is waiting for
further feedback.
Turcotte Purchase Agreement
Mr. March indicated this was presented at the last meeting and asked the City
Attorney to review this item with the Council.
Page 6 of 12
June 27, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Hoeft reviewed two issues in the Purchase Agreement with the Council. He
stated the original closing date was June 29th but noted he was contacted by Ms.
Turcotte's attorney stating they would like to close on July 13th. Mr. Hoeft noted
Ms. Turcotte has found housing as of August 1 sl and would be willing to rent back
the property between July 13 th and August 151.
Mr. Hoeft noted today he found out there were some issues with the title of the
property. He indicated the issues were significant enough that the title company
would not insure the property until these items were resolved. Mr. Hoeft stated
the expense to clear up these items would range from $3,000 to $5,000. He stated
the Council could resolve these items after purchase or ask the Seller to resolve
these items with a reduced purchase price amount.
Council Member Nelson asked if it is the general practice for the Seller to clean
up the title. Mr. Hoeft stated this is usually the case, but stated the City has
already agreed to pay $1,000 to $1,500 for recording and filing fees.
Mayor Swedberg asked what would need to be done to clear the title. Mr. Hoeft
stated a registration process would take place to notify those interested in the
property. He indicated he does not anticipate anyone coming forward with the
registration of this parcel. Mr. Hoeft noted the only problems are with the legal
description of the property and that there were not liens against the property.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked what would happen if the title could
not be cleared. Mr. Hoeft stated the Council would have to buyout the person
challenging the property. He indicated he does not anticipate this taking place,
but that it would be the procedure in a worse case scenario.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if a larger down payment could be
offered to Ms. Turcotte to allow the closing date to be delayed until the title was
cleared. Mr. Hoeft stated this could be an option but noted he would have to
approach her attorney with the Council's concerns. He asked that the Council
keep in mind the value of the property versus what the City is paying for it.
Council Member Nelson noted she would not be in favor of picking up the
additional expense for the title registration. Council Member Broussard Vickers
indicated she was in favor of the expense if it meant getting the property and not
having it owned by a private party.
Council Member Capra questioned how long the title registration and clearing
process would take. Mr. Hoeft stated he anticipates the process being eight to
twelve months.
Mr. Hoeft asked for direction from the Council on this issue. The Council
advised Mr. Hoeft to speak with Ms. Turcotte's attorney and report back at the
next Council meeting.
IX. NEW BUSINESS
Page 7 of12
Pheasant Marsh - Comprehensive Plan Amendments
June 27, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. March reviewed the comprehensive plan amendments regarding the MUSA
additions and utility staging with regard to Pheasant Marsh.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the developer was set on developing this as suggested
or if he would consider running the water and sewer down Center Street. Mr.
Hannah noted he may need some time to reconsider and asked that the item be
tabled.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
table the Comprehensive Plan Amendments as presented bv staff. AU in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Waterworks Beach Club Liquor Violation
Mr. March indicated Waterworks received a liquor violation when tested for
compliance by the police department. He noted a portion of the Minnesota
Statutes that covers license revocation, suspension or civil penalty was included in
the packet for the Council to review.
Mr. March also reviewed the City of Plymouth's liquor violation ordinance and
subsequent fines. He noted following this code, Waterworks should be fined
$500.
Mayor Swedberg asked if this was an allegation or fact. Mr. Hoeft stated this was
a fact and noted action was needed by Councilor the State would step in.
Council Member Capra questioned how a five-day suspension would be
determined. Mr. Hoeft stated he did not assist in drafting the policy for the City
of Plymouth, but noted this was up to the discretion of the Council, as he
understands it. He explained the Council would be able to determine these days,
if deemed necessary.
Council Member Travis asked that this policy be placed on an agenda for future
discussion. He stated he would be in favor of the $500 fine.
Council Member Nelson indicated she felt a $500 fine was not enough of a
penalty to show the displeasure of the City with this establishment.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he would like to see Waterworks have their license
suspended for a day of business. Council Member Nelson concurred stating the
fine would also be acceptable.
Mr. March cautioned the discretion of the Council as the City would not want to
show favor to certain establishments over others. Mr. Hoeft concurred.
Mayor Swedberg questioned what action the Council would like to take. He
stated he did not know what an appropriate fine would be.
Page 8 of 12
June 27, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated without this policy in place it would be
difficult for the Council to set an amount.
Council Member Capra stated she felt a nominal fine would be only a slap on the
wrist. She indicated more action should take place. Council Member Nelson
concurred and stated she would like to see a $1,000 fine.
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to fine Waterworks $500. Motion failed 2-3 (Capra. Nelson. and
Mayor Swedberl! opposed).
Mr. March stated he could send out letters to local establishments to allow for
input from stakeholders and residents on this issue. He indicated this would allow
for the City to create a violation policy.
Council Member Capra stated she agreed with a uniform policy. She indicated
she would like to know how many violations Waterworks has had in the past five
years.
Motion by Mayor Swedberl!. seconded bv Council Member Catlra to table
this item for lack of a policy on the City's part. Motion failed 2-3 (Nelson.
Broussard-Vickers. and Travis).
It was noted by the Council, this fine would only apply to this violation with a
policy to be determined at a future date.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
fine Waterworks $1.000 for servine to a minor. Motion carried 4-1
(Broussard-Vickers opposed).
Employee Wages and Benefits
Mr. March explained he is still waiting to hear back from the League of
Minnesota Cities on this item.
Ordinance #4 Amendments
Mr. March reviewed the amendments to Ordinance #4 with the Council. He noted
the amendments were with regard to accessory structures and uses of swimming
pools.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Nelson to approve the amendments to Ordinance #4 as presented by
staff. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Page 9 of 12
June 27,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Ouad City Police Department Investigation
Mayor Swedberg noted a meeting was held on June 2ih with the four mayors of
Lino Lakes, Centerville, Circle Pines and Lexington to discuss going from a three
city police department to a quad city department. He noted the organization
would follow the same model as the fire department.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he felt this shift would only increase service to all
cities involved. He noted this was not a contract for service but a partnership for
the cities.
Mr. March indicated there would be a joint meeting on June 28, 2001 at 7:00 p.m.
regarding the Tri-City 2002 budget at the City of Lexington. He encouraged all
Council members to attend.
Mr. March stated the City of Lino Lakes is suggesting a task force be created
among the Mayors and City Administrators of the four cities involved. He noted
the next meeting would be held on July 13,2001.
Parks and Recreation Committee Recommendations
Mr. March gave an overview of the Park and Recreation Committee
recommendations. He reviewed the carry over from the 1999 park dedication
funds as being $31,675 with an additional $74,000 from Hunter's Crossing.
Mr. March stated the 2001 budget for the capital outlay was $50,000, with interest
of$1,338 for the year 2000 giving the park fund a total of$157,013. He indicated
the Park and Recreation expended $17,060.96 through June of200l1eaving them
$139,952.04 for the proposed expenditures before the Council.
Council Member Nelson questioned how short the Park and Recreations was at
this time. Mr. March stated they were roughly $42,000 short at this time for their
proposed expenditures.
Mayor Swedberg stated he had concerns with the concession stand regarding
health and safety measures. He noted a needs assessment should be completed
before this items proceeds. Council Member Travis concurred.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted Mr. Bisek stepped forward asking the
City to allow him to sell concessions at LaMotte Park temporarily for the year
2001. She noted Mr. Bisek would be responsible for pulling all necessary permits
and absorbing all costs incurred, including sales tax.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the Park and Recreation Committee
would leave it up to Mr. Bisek to determine what and when to sell items at the
park.
Council Member Nelson stated she would not like to see the Council step into this
until a needs analysis was determined by the Park and Recreation Committee.
Page 10 of 12
June 27. 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg concurred stating he felt this position would have to be opened
up to the public to allow all those interested to come before the City. He
indicated once standards were established he would not object to the vending.
Motion by Mayor Swedberl!. seconded by Council Member Nelson to deny
allowinl! Mr. Bisek's concession stand at LaMotte Park until a needs analysis
could be completed. Motion carried 4-1 (Broussard Vickers opposed).
Mayor Swedberg questioned the $8,300 involved only the fencing at LaMotte
Park. Mr. March stated the $8,300 was not just for fencing at the park but to prep
and wire a scoreboard for LaMotte Park. He explained the fencing would cost
$2,800, the groundwork would be $3,000 and $2,500 would be needed for the
relocation and wiring of the scoreboard.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the City Engineer approved of these recommendations.
Mr. Peterson reviewed alternates with the Council and asked for approval of his
recommendations.
Motion by Mayor Swedbere. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the maintenance items at LaMotte Park as sueeested by
the City Eneineer. not to exceed $5.500. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Issuance of Peddler/Solicitor's License - Infinity Advertising
Mr. March stated Infinity Advertising is before the City to request a peddler's
license for a door-to-door permit. He noted the proper background checks have
been completed with the police department. Mr. March indicated Infinity
Advertising has paid the proper permit fees.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the peddler/solicitor's license from June 28. 2001 to July 28. 2001
subiect to payment of the appropriate City fees for Infinity Advertisinl! as
noted by staff. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
X. CONSENT AGENDA
The City ofCenterville June 14 through June 27. 2001
The Council took a minute to review the disbursements as they were handed out
at the meeting.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the expenditures for the City from June 14. 2001 throul!h June 27.
2001. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Centennial Fire District Expenses
Page 11 of 12
June 27, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the Centennial Fire District expenditures. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
· Council Member Capra stated the cable commission was meeting tonight.
· Mayor Swedberg noted he attended the League of Minnesota Cities
conference. He explained it was a great experience to find numerous
cities were struggling with similar issues as the City of Centerville.
Mayor Swedberg encouraged the Council Member's to get involved with
this in the future, if possible.
XII. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Mr. March indicated there would be a rate increase for electrical permit fees from
Suburban Inspections, as there has not been a rate increase for the last five years.
He stated this rate would be consistent with the City ofLino Lakes.
Council Member Travis asked if there were many complaints with the current
service provided by Suburban Inspections. Mr. March stated there has been
several complaints regarding the time calls can be taken.
Council Member Travis stated he felt it was very difficult to get an electrical
inspection within the City and to arrange for these inspections. He cautioned the
raise if the service is not meeting City requirements. Mr. March noted the
inspector could come before the Council for further discussion if desired.
Council Member Capra asked if the City has a yearly contract with Suburban
Inspections. Mr. March indicated the City could cancel this at any time with
written notice.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Nelson to approve the electrical permit fee increase. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. March noted he would be meeting with three interns this next week for
assistance at the stafflevel.
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Nelson to adiourn the June 27. 2001 Council Meeting at 9:35 p.m.
AIl in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Heidi Guenther, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 12 of 12
.\.
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
July 11, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville hel eir regularly
scheduled meeting on July 11,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Str et.
I.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Linda Broussard Vic ers
ABSENT:
STAFF:
City Administrator,
City Attorney,
City Enginee ,
II.
ere added to the agenda:
. Consi e
Park a ecreation Items under New Business
· Revised Roadway Permit Request from St. Genevieve's under New Business
. Roadway Permit Request for John Fitzgerald under New Business
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Travis to
approve the aeenda with the noted additions. Motion carried.
III. PUBLIC HEARING (S)
Eagle Pass Second Addition
Mayor Swedberg opened the public hearing for the Eagle Pass Second Addition at
6:51 p.m.
Mr. March noted the main issue at the Planning Commission meeting was the
development and current builder of homes within Eagle Pass Second Addition.
He indicated the legal leverage ofthe City is being questioned right now to hold
up the future development. Mr. March asked for comments from the City
Attorney.
1 of 11
Mr. Hoeft reviewed the information provided by the townhome association dated
July 5, 2001. He noted this memo sets out the concerns of the association with
the current builder and their poor construction quality. Mr. Hoeft reviewed the
issues of the association and noted the City did have leverage on the sport court
and the sidewalk, as these issues would need to be addressed by the developer.
Mr. Hoeft indicated the vast tree harvesting and plantings throughout the First
Addition would not go into account for the Second Addition. He stated this can
be addressed within the Developer's Agreement for Phase I and cannot withhold
development for Phase 2 of Eagle Development.
Mayor Swedberg asked how the City would address issues in Phase I in direct
violation of the Developer's Agreement. Mr. Hoeft indicated only items that are
directly in violation of the agreement could be addressed. He noted the trees
planted within this development are the right type, but the discretion comes with
the way they were planted.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked how these issues would be addressed
then, with regard to Phase 2. Mr. Hoeft indicated additional conditions could be
placed within the Developer's Agreement to address the violations of the existing
addition.
Mr. March noted he spoke with a resident today with regard to down spouts,
driveway drainage, etc. He asked if the City can delay the new development
because the Builder has not completed the current project. Mr. Hoeft stated ifthe
same Builder purchases this property, the City could learn from t~e poor lack of
performance and place these concerns into the Developer's Agreement for the
Second Addition setting a timeframe and course of action for the City.
Mr. Hoeft indicated higher escrows could be established to allow the City to have
access to assets if recourse needs to be taken. He explained if poor construction
and drainage were found this would be a violation with the Developer's
Agreement and the City would have leverage to take action against the Builder.
Mr. March noted a checklist was provided by the townhome association leaders of
the numerous violations within Eagle Pass' First Addition. He indicated these
leaders are trying to get grading accomplished and seeding done after closing.
Mr. Hoeft indicated if these items are directly in violation ofthe Developer's
Agreement then action could be taken against the Builder.
Mr. Hoeft indicated the lighting within this development may meet the City
requirements at this time, but not meet the resident's requirements. He stated this
could be reviewed and if found in compliance, the Association could take this
issue upon themselves.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked that the City Attorney review all the
items in question and any additional items from the residents; and then report
back to the Council which items were in direct violation with the Developer's
2 of 11
Agreement. Mr. Hoeft indicated this would provide the Council with greater
information on what true violations are taking place.
Mr. Hoeft asked that a time frame be placed on this request for the review of the
Developer's Agreement. Mr. March noted the applicant has signed a waiver of
the 60-day approval process. He explained this would allow the Council ample
time to review this item and take comments from the public.
Mr. March indicated with regard to the roadways within this development, the
roadways do meet the seven-ton load limit and are able to have emergency
vehicles down the private streets.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted the Council has good reason to delay
until there is additional information from the City Attorney. She indicated the
private roadway issues would also need to be resolved at the next meeting with
comments from the police department, fire department and City staff.
Mayor Swedberg asked if there were any additional comments that needed to be
brought to the Council's attention with regard to the First Addition.
Lori Peterson, 7065 Dupre Road, noted she brought in a sheet of paper to a
meeting two or three weeks ago. She indicated there are numerous cracked
sidewalk panels along Main Street that have been caused by the contractor. Ms.
Peterson indicated she is uncertain of who owns these and questioned who would
be assessed. Mr. Hoeft noted this would be reviewed and reported back to the
Council at the next meeting.
Jim Jewel, 1825 Voyager Court, stated there are also numerous cracked sidewalk
panels within the development. He indicated that seven lots have been closed
longer than 30 days, and nothing has been done for grading by the builder.
Mr. Jewel indicated the City has sent letters to these residents, but indicated the
Builder has not come back to complete the work. He suggested a change for the
lighting within this development, as it does not provide safety within the
twinhomes. Mr. Jewel stated the single-family home area has twice as many
lights leaving the other area unsafe. Mr. Jewel explained there are only five units
at this time on private streets, but noted all are required to pay for those taxes.
James Halstrom, 6960 Dupre Road, noted he understands the maintenance of the
units are the responsibility of the individuals within this development. He
indicated, however, there was a Developer's Agreement (established in 1997) that
contains items the Developer was responsible for. Mr. Halstrom encouraged the
Council to review this agreement to assist the associations with leverage on issues
that are not being handled by the Developer. He agreed the lighting within this
development was inadequate due to the curvy nature of these roadways. Mr.
Halstrom noted the lighting was a public safety issue the Council needed to
address.
Susan Sary, 6991 Eagle Trail, noted she has lived in her home for six months and
indicated she was very dissatisfied with the Builder. She noted her front stoup
3 of 11
was laid in two separate loads of concrete and indicated this is not acceptable.
Ms. Sary indicated she just received her air conditioner this week, after her first
one blew up and started a fire.
Ms. Sary noted the contractor does below standard work and should not be
approved for any future work within this City. She indicated she has had to have
two tires replaced because of the debris left in her yard and driveway. Ms. Sary
explained she was sending a letter of complaint to the Department of Commerce
and encouraged all other residents to do the same. She indicated she paid a great
deal of money for this unit and the contracting was extremely poor.
Council Member Capra asked who holds the escrow for the stoup, driveway, yard
and downspouts. Mr. March indicated the only escrow held by the City was a sod
escrow.
Mayor Swedberg questioned if the City could do inspections ofthese contractors
that work within the City. Mr. Hoeft noted many of the concerns by Ms. Sary are
not between the City and the homeowner, but between the homeowner and the
contractor. He cautioned the Council at getting involved in these issues.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the City could certify certain contractors or builders for
future developments within the City. He stated he is questioning the quality of
the workmanship within this development. Mr. Hoeft indicated the City does not
have control over that at this time. He stated he feels this is an issue between the
homeowner and the developer. Mr. Hoeft explained the City does not have
anything in place, at this time, to protect the homeowners.
Mayor Swedberg asked ifthere was a warranty for each home within the
association. Mr. Hoeft indicated there was a warranty on the homes, and
indicated the homeowners must understand who to address the complaints with.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if the City could deny building permits
based on poor contractors. Mr. Hoeft stated the City is not going to get into
quality control at this time or in the future.
Mayor Swedberg questioned why the City would go down this same path with a
poor builder if the City has had concerns with a developer in the past. Mr. Hoeft
indicated his obligation to the City is to inform the Council of what they can and
cannot enforce within the Developer's Agreement. He noted as long as things are
passing inspection at a City level, the City officials are not allowed to step in. Mr.
Hoeft explained this would then become an issue between the homeowner and the
builder.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the City could assume a quality control role. Mr. Hoeft
noted there are issues with assuming this role that would be difficult for the City
to assume. He indicated in lieu ofthis role, the City could raise escrows or add
additional stipulations within the Developer's Agreement to greater control the
quality of the workmanship.
4 of 11
Mr. March stated the Eagle Pass Second Addition consists of20 units and
suggested cutting the density in half to lessen the exposure to poor workmanship.
Mayor Swedberg indicated this would be one option but stated within this
development there is still a 24-foot roadway, which was a concern within the First
Addition. He explained concern for the high density abutting the existing single-
family homes with no transitioning space or buffer provided. Mayor Swedberg
noted he feels this development needs a higher quality design. He questioned if
the density and lot sizes were appropriate.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted this Addition was rezoned a PUD,
which allows for smaller lots with a higher density.
Doug Amt, 6985 Meadow Court, indicated he was from the Parkview
neighborhood. He indicated his neighborhood was not happy with the proposed
Eagle Pass Second Addition development and increased density. Mr. Amt noted
the buffers proposed are extremely weak at this time. He added that the
townhomes near Parkview are extremely close to the lot lines. Mr. Amt
suggested 13 units versus the 20 units proposed to relieve some of the congestion
and density issues. He reviewed a petition from the Parkview residents with
regard to the low amount of buffering provided and small side yard setbacks.
Bert Casper, 6979 Eagle Trail, commented that attorneys and governmental
officials are not extremely helpful to residents in most cases. He indicated the
focus has been lost from the residents. Mr. Casper encouraged the Council to take
advantage of the clout the City holds and enforce all violations with the builder.
He noted the safety and welfare of the citizens was at risk at this time due to the
lack of streetlights within his neighborhood. Mr. Casper suggested the Council
look into this item and act on these items for the well being of the residents.
Brian Carlson, 1771 Meadow Lane, agreed with the comments from Mr. Amt.
He stated unit #9 is currently placed 13 feet off his lot line, which would not
allow for much of a berm or area for buffering. Mr. Carlson suggested these lots
be reconfigured to allow for all involved to have a yard. He added that traffic
would be increased along Meadow Lane with increased density and noted this
could be a safety concern.
Tracey Halstrom, 6960 Dupre Road, noted she was the secretary of one of the
townhome associations. Ms. Halstrom indicated she was before the Council in
the past to address issues within the development. She noted Eagle Pass First
Addition was designed to be a unique development, but has now turned into
numerous safety and welfare concerns.
Ms. Halstrom indicated the City has some issues that can be enforced and
encouraged the Council to take an initiative to enforce these items. She noted
there were 59 townhomes and 18 twinhomes within this development. Ms.
Halstrom noted this was a large association for the City to deal with. She
indicated all common space will soon be the responsibility of the association, but
noted the association does not want it left in the condition it is in right now with
debris and weeds left as they are.
5 of 11
Ms. Halstrom noted it is difficult to complain to Swift Construction because they
are a family owned business. She noted complaints against one portion of the
company are not getting to the other.
Ms. Halstrom questioned the Developer's Agreement for Eagle Pass First
Addition from December of 1996. She reviewed seeding, clean up and street
sweeping issues with the Council and noted the developer should be held
accountable for this items as stated with in the Agreement.
Ms. Halstrom asked if Phase 1 would be added into Phase 2 if approved. Mr.
March indicated he would not be in favor of combining these developments, as
this was a concern for a past development.
Brian Raulings, 7069 Dupre Road, indicated he was the president of the twin
townhome association. He stated his concern was with Ojibway Drive being
reverted from a private street to a public street. Mr. Raulings noted this roadway
should not remain private because, otherwise, two associations would be trying to
administer the maintenance on this roadway.
Mr. March mentioned this item is going to be up for numerous discussions
between the Council, City Staff, Fire and Police Departments, and the residents.
He indicated the lighting issues would also be addressed by the Council and City
Engineer. Mr. March explained after this was reported on, a decision could be
made on who would be paying for the roadway and additional lighting.
Mayor Swedberg thanked all the residents for their comments and suggested all
the residents come together to find a solution that benefits all parties involved.
He noted the Council would be moving forward to find solutions with the
assistance of the residents and City staff.
Motion by Council Member Travis. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to table this public hearin~ indefinitelv. All in favor. Motion
carried.
Mayor Swedberg called for a recess at 8:38. The meeting reconvened at 8:52.
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS - None
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
June 13.2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Travis. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the June 13. 2001 Council meetin~ minutes as presented. All in
favor. Motion carried.
6 of 11
June 27. 2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Broussard-Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Caora to table the June 27. 2001 Council meetinl: minutes as oal!:es
11 and 12 were missinl!:. All in favor. Motion carried.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
Center Street Drainage - Mr. Keith Okan
Mr.Okan, 1841 Center Street, explained he has had major problems with
drainage in the spring in his back yard. He indicated his basement flooded this
spring along with his neighbor's basement. Mr. Okan noted his home is lower
than Eagle Park. He indicated he with several landscape designers to try to
remedy the drainage issues with no success. Mr. Okan asked for help from the
City on this issue.
Council Member Capra questioned if the Prairie Drive subdivision had the same
concerns. Mr. March noted the issues on Prairie Street was that the grade was too
flat in the back yards which was resolved with a four inch drain tile.
Council Member Capra asked if this item could be investigated with public works
and City staff. Mr. Peterson indicated he would look into these properties as well.
He noted the intersection of Dupre and Center Street would be having some work
done in the near future to assist in the drainage of storm sewer.
Council Member Capra questioned ifthere was storm sewer at these homes. Mr.
Peterson noted there was no storm sewer at this time.
Mayor Swedberg advised staff to investigate these properties and report back to
the Council at their next meeting.
VII. OLD BUSINESS - None
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
Eagle Pass Second Addition
Council Member Broussard-Vickers asked for a summary of what action was
going to take place between now and the next meeting. Mayor Swedberg noted
the attorney would be reviewing the Developer's Agreement to make comment on
what items could be enforced.
Council Member Broussard-Vickers noted she would like comments on reverting
the private street to a public street at the next meeting. She indicated comments
should be received from the police department, fire department, City Engineer
and City Attorney.
Council Member Broussard-Vickers indicated she would also like a report from
Paul on all ordinance violations within this development at this time. She noted
7 of 11
she would also like the City Engineer to address the lighting issues and report
back to the Council. Mr. Hoeft noted the lighting within the development was in
compliance so future plans would need to address who would pay and for how
many additional lights.
Council Member Broussard-Vickers explained she would like to be advised by
the City Attorney as to when the City is dragging their feet with this development
as the applicant has already signed the 60-day waiver. Mr. Hoeft indicated he
would keep the Council updated on this item. He noted he felt the numerous
violations within Phase 1 would be a legitimate cause to prolong the approval of
Phase 2.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the association bylaws should be discussed at a Council
level as this issue moves forward. Mr. Hoeft discouraged the Council from
reviewing the bylaws, as it was not a City issue. .
Motion bv Council Member Broussard-Vickers. seconded by Mavor
Swedbere to table this discussion to a future meetiDl!:. AIl in favor. Motion
carried.
Festival Award Presentation - Reception
Council Member Capra indicated the Lifetime Achievement Awards were going
to be presented on the main state during the Fete des Lacs. He explained the
Lifetime Achievement Committee is requesting no more than $100 for a small
reception to be held for the award winners and residents after the presentation.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard-Vickers. seconded by Mavor
Swedbere to approve the no more than $100 request from the Lifetime
Achievement Committee for a small reception at the Fete des Lacs Festival as
submitted by staff. All in favor. Motion carried.
TIF Reporting - Juran & Moody
Mr. March requested the Council authorize Juran & Moody to complete and
submit the annual tax increment reports on behalf of the City of Centerville.
Motion by Council Member Broussard-Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Travis to authorize Juran & Moodv to com{)lete and submit the TIF
Reports on behalf of the City of Centerville. All in favor. Motion carried.
2001 EDC Obiectives and Goals
Mr. March reviewed the 2001 EDC objectives and goals with the Council. He
asked for approval from the Council of these items.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member
Broussard-Vickers to approve the 2001 EDC Obiectives and Goals as
presented bv staff. All in favor. Motion carried.
8 of 11
Intern Recommendations
Mr. March stated he interviewed three interns last week. He recommended
Michael Duffek from Minneapolis for this position. Mr. March noted the intern
would receive $10.00 per hour with no benefits.
Council Member Broussard-Vickers asked how long Mr. Duffek would be
employed by the City. Mr. March stated this would be for a minimum of three
months, as this has been the practice in the past.
Motion bv Mavor Swedberl!. seconded bv Council Member Broussard-
Vickers to approve Michael Duffek as the City's Planning Intern. All in
favor. Motion carried.
Park and Recreation Committee Items
Lisa Heiselhorst noted she has spoken with a helicopter company to provide rides
at the Fete des Lacs Festival. She indicated there would be no expense to the
City. Ms. Heiselhorst explained the Committee would need to have 100 square
feet of space available to land the helicopter within the park. She suggested
holding the rides at LaMotte Park in the soccer field or in the field near St.
Genevieve's.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked that the police department be contacted
with regard to any objections. Mr. Hoeft agreed.
Council Member Capra asked what liability the City would have with this type of
entertainment. Mr. Hoeft indicated the insurance held by the helicopter company
would need to be inspected and reviewed.
Mayor Swedberg asked that the committee check the maintenance qualifications
and with the County Aviation Official at the Anoka County Airport with regard to
the entrance and exit to the flight path. He indicated he felt safety was of the
utmost importance to the residents.
Council Member Capra explained she felt landing at the elementary school may
be a better location than LaMotte Park, due to the crowds of people at the
celebration.
Ray DeVine asked if the park members would have to return to Council with this
item or if they could go forward if all things checked out. Mayor Swedberg stated
that if all things checked out the committee could go forward.
Mayor Swedberg reviewed the first recommendation as submitted by the Parks
and Recreation Committee. He noted the first recommendation was with regard
to the completion of the fencing at Laurie LaMotte Park.
Motion by Council Member Broussard-Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Capra to approve the additional expenditures of $1.500 for a fence
at Laurie LaMotte Park due to the unavailability of the public works
9 of II
department to perform the labor as ori2inallv recommended to Citv Council.
AIl in favor. Motion carried.
Council Member Broussard-Vickers reviewed the pieces of equipment that would
be purchased for the Wheels Park at Laurie LaMotte Park. She noted numerous
people were involved with the selection of these pieces. Council Member
Broussard-Vickers noted the Parks and Recreation Committee was looking for a
grand opening of the Wheels Park to be at or around August 11,2001.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded bv Mavor Swedber~ to
approve the expenditure of $42.000 for the Wheels Park as sueeested by the
Parks and Recreation Committee. All in favor. Motion carried.
Tom Lee, Park and Recreation Committee member indicated the committee did
not recommend allowing a bonfire at Acorn Park due to the fact there is no fire
rings. There was a consensus by the Council to not allow this bonfire as
recommended by the Committee.
Mr. Lee noted the Park and Recreation Committee would be responsible for
sending out a letter to the residents requesting this item for their block party.
Roadway Permit for St. Genevieve's
Motion by Mayor Swedbere. seconded by Council Member Travis to
approve the revised roadwav permit for St. Genevieve's as presented bv
staff. All in favor. Motion carried.
Roadway Permit for John Fitzgerald
Mr. March noted John Fitzgerald is requesting seven loads to come in at seven
tons each. Mr. Peterson indicated he would be in favor of the seven-ton limit as it
has been very dry on this roadway.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member
Broussard-Vickers to approve the roadway permit for John Fitzeerald for
seven tons and seven trips as sUl!:l!:ested bv staff. All in favor. Motion
carried.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
The City ofCenterville June 28 throul!:h Julv 10.2001
Motion bv Council Member Broussard-Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Travis to approve the expenditures for the City from June 28. 2001
throueh July 10. 2001. All in favor. Motion carried.
100f11
Centennial Fire District Expenses
Motion by Council Member Broussard-Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Caora to aoorove the Centennial Fire District exoenditures. All in
favor. Motion carried.
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS
· Ray DeVine reported on the Fete des Lacs Festival. He noted this year's
buttons and flyers are posted at City Hall. Mr. Devine indicated the
softball tournament would be much larger this year, along with a 5K
run/walk sponsored by an outside company. He explained the Lion's
would be holding a raffle this year, raffling off a four-wheeler. Mr.
Devine noted volunteers and donations were still being sought.
XI. ADMINISTRATORS REPORT
Mr. Hoeft noted he had comments on the Turcotte Purchase Agreement. He
stated after speaking with Ms. Turcotte's attorney, she agreed to escrow up to
$2,000 of the expense for registering the title with the City paying the other
portion. He recommended approval of this suggestion and noted if approved, the
closing would take place on Friday at City Hall.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member
Broussard-Vickers to approve the $2.000 escrow. orovided bv Ms. Turcotte.
to cover the exoense ofthe title ree:istration as sue:e:ested bv the City Attorney
with the closin~ to take olace on Friday at City Hall. All in favor. Motion
carried.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion bv Council Member Broussard-Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Travis to adiourn the July 11. 2001 Council Meetine at 9:39 p.m.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Transcribed by:
Heidi Guenther, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
11 of 11
. ~.
July 13, 20
Emergency Council Meeting .
CITY OF CENTERVlLLE
EMERGENCY COUNCIL MEETING
JULY 13,1001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville City Council held an E
Council meeting on July 13,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Mari Nelson
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
n.
C ty ouncil meeting to order at
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: Clerk/Treasurer, Ms. Teresa Bender
Public Works, Mr. Joel McPher
I. CALL TO ORDER
bey revie agenda with Council and reported that he had
s f Staff arlier that morning. Mayor Swedberg stated that during
t co inuation of their day-to-day responsibilities and priority
. ning a process for filling the City Administrator position
ions that they were unable to answer, he was willing to assist
edberg noted that he would be out of town the following week
or ra s uld be the fill-in for that period. Mayor Swedberg also stated
y e reass ed taff and acknowledged that Mr. March resigned.
None.
Page 1 of15
July 13, 2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
None.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
None.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Search Process and Plan for the Vacant City Administrator Position
Council Member Capra questioned whether any current Council Members were serving
at the time of Mr. March's hiring. No members reported.
Council Member Nelson stated that Council used the executive search firm of Brimeyer
to secure Mr. March for the position. Council Member Nelson stated that on July 12,
2001 she had received several calls from Staff stating that they had concerns regarding
the interim period i.e., who is their boss, etc. Council Member Nelson stated that Mayor
Swedberg suggested that she obtain information from the League of Minnesota Cities
(LMC) in regards to the hiring process in similar situations. Council Member Nelson
stated that the LMC forwarded names of executive search firms. Council Member
Nelson narrowed LMC selection to three (3) firms that are located in Minnesota and have
web sites. Council Member Nelson researched same on the internet. Council Member
Nelson presented same to Council. Council Member Nelson stated that in her work
experience, usually an individual is appointed in an acting capacity during the interim
period and felt that the hiring process would take approximately two (2) months unless
Council decided to handle the process on their own through local advertising, word of
mouth, etc. Council Member Nelson stated that it was her feeling that the City
Administrator's position was the highest position within the City. Council Member
Nelson stated that she would like to ensure that Council does the best that they could to
secure the most qualified applicant by utilizing the services of any of the provided
executive search firms. Council Member Nelson stated that two (2) of the firms
specialized in governmental individuals, (Brimeyer and DMG-Maximus). Council
Member Nelson stated that Council needed to determine whether they would utilize an
executive search firm and the possibility of appointing an individual in an acting capacity
during the interim. Council Member Nelson stated that it has' been her experience that if
a staff member is appointed in the acting capacity, it has the possibility of creating unique
problems with staff during the period and following the period of appointment. Council
Member Nelson stated that generally the individual that is appointed in the acting
Page 2 of 15
July 13, 2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
capacity is not eligible for the position, but rather hired in the sole capacity of managing
staff during the interim period.
Council Member Nelson reported that she had spoken with City Attorney, Mr. Jim Hoeft
who agreed with the utilization of any executive search firm on the list provided by the
LMC. Mr. Hoeft stated that Council had two (2) choices during the interim period, one
would be to appoint a current staff member in the acting capacity or the hiring of a
temporary, interim City Administrator who would be a part time consultant who would
manage staff; etc.
Council Member Nelson stated that Mr. Hoeft recommended several individuals that
would be interested in the temporary interim City Administrator position. Ms. Hoeft
stated that currently, both individuals are employed part time with the City of Columbia
Heights. Council Member Nelson stated that the individuals were Mr. Randy
Schumacher and Mr. Mark Nagel Council Member Nelson stated that she had spoken
with Mr. Schumacher and found him to be helpful. Mr. Schumacher was also aware of
two individuals that were between positions who may be interested in same. Council
Member Broussard Vickers stated that Mr. Schumacher was the previous Lino Lakes
City Administrator. Council Member Nelson stated she was unaware of Mr.
Schumacher or any of the other individuals.
Council Member Travis questioned whether there was any member of Staff interested in
the position, interim or permanent. Council Member Nelson stated she did not believe
anyone on Staff was qualified for the position. Council Member Travis stated that he did
not believe there needed to be much qualification for the interim period. Council
Member Nelson stated that the interim position would not and that is a possibility, or
having two (2) individuals.
Council Member Capra stated that her concern was that currently the City is under staffed
and unable to keep up with daily responsibilities, summer vacations, etc. Council
Member Capra questioned whether there was enough support in the office currently and
if someone gains more responsibilities, even in an interim situation. Council Member
Capra believes personally the City is short staffed, even with Mr. March employed. Ms.
Capra stated that the City needs additional Staff in clerking or answering the phone. Ms.
Capra questioned the feelings of Clerkffreasurer, Ms. Teresa Bender. Ms. Bender stated
that as they had spoken previously, the City is under staffed and an additional individual
to answer the telephone, assist customers at the window was needed. Ms. Bender also
stated that she had spoken with Building Official/Public Works Director Mr. Paul Palzer
in regards to an interim individual. Mr. palzer stated that in his opinion current Staff
could do without an interim. Ms. Bender stated that she believed that current Staff could
assist residents with questions, if Staff is unable to complete same, Staff can utilize the
assistance of the City Engineer and the City Attorney. Ms. Bender felt that depending on
the length of the interim period, Staff could operate the City efficiently. Ms. Bender did
request that if this avenue was taken that Council consider the hiring of an individual to
answer the telephone, assist customer at the window, issue permits, etc. Staff has been
battling with Ms. Lien assisting the Parks and Recreation Committee and how much time
same consumes and takes away from her day-to-day responsibilities, Ms. Sweeney
assisting the Economic Development Committee (EDC) and how much time same
Page 3 of 15
July 13, 2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
consumes and takes away from her day-to-day responsibilities. Ms. Bender stated that
she proofs Council and the Planning and Zoning meeting minutes, completes Fete des
Lacs and the Ad Hoc Communications Committee meeting minutes. How much time is
consumed by these functions and current Staff is already overloaded.
Council Member Capra stated that she had spoken with Ms. Bender previously and
mentioned the fact that Council had previously tabled a request for a Receptionist and
Mr. March stated that he would forward a recommendation to Council. Council Member
Capra stated that she believed this would be forwarded prior to the next budget was set;
as far as hiring Staff. Council Member Capra stated that she believed, based on the
accounting firms report, that current staff is capable of completing the accounting
functions; however, being in a small office, answering telephones and completing other
tasks is taking them away and it is extremely difficult to work with numbers and have
interruptions. Council Member Capra stated that she did not desire a Receptionist be
hired because she desired that the individual have more responsibilities than answering
the telephone. Council Member Capra stated that she desired that a Clerk be hired,
someone that would have more responsibilities than someone who just answers the
telephone. Council Member Capra felt that same would be a waste of tax dollars.
Council Member Nelson stated that she felt that the new City Administrator would have
staffing recommendations. Council Member Capra stated that she would not have a
problem with securing a temporary individual to assist in answering telephones, etc.
Discussion ensued in regards to Council's previous motion to hire an intern, Mr. March
training same and the need to ascertain if Mr. March had offered the position. Council
Member Broussard Vickers felt that Staff could direct the intern in terms of projects that
are on going. Council Member Broussard Vickers felt that the City had an individual that
was qualified and willing to work for the fee previously discussed, the City has projects
even if that means answering the telephone, etc. Ms. Bender would direct the intern as to
duties and responsibilities as Staff needs require.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that to the end that Staffs current time is
being consumed by Committees/Commissions, same cease immediately. No more
projects for Parks and Recreation, Economic Development and Fete des Lacs, until Staff
and Council are able to provide assistance in these areas. If this means that the
committees slow down so be it, the committees are here to provide input and advice;
other than Planning and Zoning which has more legal function because of plats, etc. The
remaining Committees wait, any Committee that consumes Staff time demand ceases
now and Staff concentrates on administrative, day-to-day operations. Council Member
Broussard Vickers felt that there was no reason why Council could not go to those
Committees and inform them that we are experiencing a shortage of Staff, you can not
have Staff time anymore, you can do your own research, copying, even if it would mean
no more Staff time spent at meetings for minute taking or liaison so the City does not
have any lost time out of the office due to the use of compensatory time because Staffhas
been at a meeting. Council Member Broussard Vickers felt that for two (2) or three (3)
months it is not an issue. Most of the issues on the table with Committees can wait.
Council Member Travis stated that he felt is was a very good suggestion; however, same
may irritate some people but during the interim you have to. Council Member Broussard
Page 4 of 15
July 13, 2001
Emergency COImcil Meeting Minutes
Vickers stated that during the interim if Committees desired to have their own meetings,
if they have projects that they need to look into, set their own agenda, type and forward
same, do what they need to do to take up the slack. If they cannot take up the slack, then
they temporarily do not have meetings if they feel they can operate without Staff input.
Unless a Committee comes forward to Council and states that a project cannot wait or be
delayed, whatever. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she did not believe
that anything is so vital, at this point, given the situation that Council and Staff are in that
Council cannot say sorry. Mayor Swedberg stated that Council needed budget figures
from each Committee. Council Member Nelson stated that Fete des Lacs does have
commitments that have to be met. Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned
whether Fete des Lacs was utilizing a large amount of Staff time to do their organizing or
etc. Council concurred that they are not. Mayor Swedberg stated that Staff primarily is
providing accounting functions. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that Staff
would continue in this respect and whatever projects any body is working on for any
Committee comes to a hah and Committees are notified.
Ms. Bender requested clarification in regards to the discussion and stated that the Parks
and Recreation Committee is currently working on the Wheels Park and ordering
equipment for same and Council does want that to proceed. Council Member Broussard
Vickers stated the ordering of equipment. Projects that are in the works and has some
public impact.
Mr. McPherson introduced himself to Council.
Council Member Broussard Vickers felt that the intern could commence employment and
assist Staff with answering the telephone as a start and in another week or two (2)
Council can determine whether to hire a temporary individual. Council Member Travis
stated that the training of the intern would take away from current Staff time. Discussion
ensued in regards to the intern's educational background.
Mayor Swedberg suggested that Mr. March draft an outline of what Mr. March desire the
intern to accomplish assisting the intern in direction.
Council Member Capra requested that Council draft a list of items that Mr. March needed
to be accomplished prior to his last day and items that Council needed additional
information on. The list is as follows: Ms. Kris Sweeney's performance review, whether
or not Mr. March had extended the offer to the intern and outline the projects he desired
the intern to complete.
Discussion ensued regarding the hiring of a temporary individual. Consensus was to wait
on this item; however, Council was open to this option.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned the payment of overtime hours to
individuals who attend evening Committee/Commission meetings. Ms. Bender reported
that they are paid overtime. Council Member Capra stated that they probably wanted to
continue same. Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested applying those same
hours and applies them however to daytime hours and not nighttime hours. In other
words Council would take that same time and apply that to office work and no more
Page 5 of 15
July 13, 2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
evening time for the interim, effective immediately. Council Member Broussard Vickers
felt that anyone who is currently within the office should be offered to increase their
hours to full time. Discussion ensued in regards to Ms. Jill Lien being the only individual
that is currently part time. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that if Ms. Lien
desires to work forty (40) she should be authorized to do so. Council Member Travis
questioned whether there would be benefit requirements that would need to be met with
same. Ms. Bender stated that Ms. Lien is currently % time and receives overtime
compensation for hours exceeding eight (8) in a day. Council Member Broussard
Vickers clarified by stating over eight (8) in a day, but if she were not over eight (8)
hours in a day, she would receive straight time. Ms. Bender concurred. Council Member
Broussard Vickers questioned whether Council could make a temporary employment
offer for an additional eight (8) hours per week or however many the remaining Staff
works, at her same pay, with not extra benefits for full time if she is interested. Council
concurred that this could not be done and that all benefits needed to be the same for all
employees of the same part time or full time status. Council Member Travis questioned
whether Ms. Lien has desired to go full time in the past. Ms. Bender stated that Ms. Lien
has not in the past; however, things may have changed. Council Member Broussard
Vickers felt that Ms. Lien should be offered full time employment. Council Member
Nelson stated that with temporary agencies, sometimes you can get an individual long
term as far as like two (2) or three (3) months; the same person, once you have trained
them they come in and do the work, it's a temporary thing and you do not have to provide
benefits to them. Council Member Capra stated that actually they prefer same. Council
Member Broussard Vickers stated that ifwe have each Staff person working even two (2)
to five (5) hours on Committee work, same is immediately gained. Council Member
Broussard Vickers stated that she believed Staff is very close to this. If Ms. Lien is
interested in working forty (40) hours a week; even temporarily, not even forever if just a
short period for whatever length of time she would be willing, that is another gain right
there and another twenty (20) hours of Staff time pretty quickly if Council does some of
these temporary measures so that over the next week or two (2) operations are fine.
Council concurred.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested that Mr. March participate in an exit
interview. Council Member Broussard Vickers wanted to ascertain exactly what made
Mr. March leave. Mayor Swedberg stated that a third party may assist in this process and
the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC) may be able to assist in same.
Council Member Nelson questioned Council Member Broussard Vickers' feelings on an
executive search firms or any interim City Administrator. Council Member Broussard
Vickers stated that she would like to place an advertisement in the Sunday paper.
Council Member Travis stated that he would like to place advertisements in the League
Bulletin and the Sunday paper prior to expending funds for an executive search firm.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the advertisements should be run just
once to see what is generated from same and felt that it would cost 20,000 to 40,000
dollars to secure an executive search firm. Council Member Nelson corrected same by
stating $20,000. Council Member Travis stated that he had spoken with Mr. Tom
Wilharber and his reluctance, he stated that if Council desired to complete the search
themselves, be prepared that they could go through one (1) or more Administrators.
However, that is not the end of the world, Council is determining to spend a large amount
Page 6 of 15
July 13, 2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
of money. Council Member Travis stated that Brimeyer, according to Mr. March was not
the answer. Not specifically Brimeyer, a search finD. Council Member Broussard
Vickers stated that if Staff could keep things afloat even for two (2) or three (3) weeks
until Council needs to make that decision and review the quality of the applicants that are
interested in the position, simply from the paper and League Bulletin. Council Member
Broussard Vickers stated that individuals that are qualified for this position and are
registered with these search firms are also probably reading the paper. Council Member
Nelson stated that these firms take two (2) months to process so wherever Council starts,
Council would be look two (2) months following same. Council Member Broussard
Vickers stated that she did not anticipate filling the position for three (3) to four (4)
months if Council was lucky. Council Member Nelson stated she has a real concern with
that. Council Member Capra stated that a budget needed to be compiled by the middle of
September, a preliminary budget. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that
Council needed to adopt a resolution approving a preliminary budget by September 14,
2001, if you set last year, which Council already know, we are at the right ball park.
Council can always decrease same but cannot increase same. Council Member Broussard
Vickers stated that she thought the City was well protected if Council sets the rate the
same as last years. Council Member Travis stated that same is worst-case scenario.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that Council works within their perimeters.
Mayor Swedberg stated that he thought being that it is already July, mostly individuals, if
they have families, have accepted positions and they try and move in the summer months.
Mayor Swedberg felt that it would be wise to move quickly rather than waiting on this
because Council may still be able to retain individuals prior to school commencing.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the City does not have requirements for
residency requirement. Mayor Swedberg stated that he felt it was better to commence the
process more quickly rather than it is to sit and wait on it. Council Member Broussard
Vickers concurred but felt that an advertisement should be placed in next Sunday's paper
and the League bulleting. Council Member Capra stated that she did not believe she was
qualified to sort through all of the applications and interviewing consumes a large amount
of time.
Council Member Capra stated that she desired to have some one assist in the process and
weed it down. That is the process Brimeyer assisted in with the hiring of Mr. March.
The City went through several Administrators in a short period of time prior to acquiring
Mr. March who was employed for five (5) years. Council Member Capra stated that at
the time, Council made a decision no matter what that cost. Council Member Capra
admitted that it does cost a lot of money to secure an executive search firm; however,
there has been no transition for five (5) years, up until this point. Council Member Capra
felt that same was worth a large amount of money. Council Member Nelson concurred.
Council Member Capra stated that if the City is operating for three (3) months without a
City Administrator what is being saved without expending salary, benefits and car
allowance. Council Member Capra stated that she desired to apply same to securing an
executive search :firm and desired to bring in some one who has experience looking
through references and verifYing information. Council Member Capra stated that she
would feel qualified if a professional reviewed all applicants and forwarded their top
candidates.
Page 7 of15
July 13. 2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Travis questioned whether Council Member Capra felt that advertising
on Council's own was worth a try. Council Member Capra stated that she did not know;
however, that salary and benefits that would be saved during the hiring process could be
applied to an executive search firm and she considered it an overwhelming task to review
resumes, applications and she did not feel qualified to complete same. Council Member
Capra stated that she felt comfortable assisting in the interview process. Council Member
Capra stated that she believed an advertisement should be placed in the paper and the
results should be forwarded to a firm. Council Member Nelson stated that if an executive
search firm is hired, they would advertise on their own. Council Member Nelson stated
that several search finns that work with government work with non-profit agencies and
the do apply a non-profit fee schedule for same. Council Member Nelson stated that she
had been employed as a Human Resource Director for ten (10) years, interviewed
hundreds of people and felt that she is not qualified on this level and did not believe any
one else was either on this level. Council Member Nelson felt that advertising in the
paper would be a waste of very valuable time and need to have a professional search firm
due to the fact that this is the most important staff position within the City. Council
Member Nelson felt that everything hinges on this position, including every staff
member, his or her salaries and livelihood...it is too important of a position. Council
Member Nelson stated that she would not be in favor of placing an advertisement in the
paper and going the least expensive route and she would be happy with any ofthe finns.
Council Member Capra questioned Mr. Hoeft's comments. Council Member Nelson
stated that Mr. Hoeft supported the hiring of an executive search firm and stated that
Brimeyer was popular in the Twin Cities and the other two (2) finns were also good.
Council Member Nelson stated that the three (3) firms were located in Roseville, St.
Louis Park and Hopkins. Council Member Nelson stated that she personally like DMG-
Maximus in Roseville based on what she read from their web site and that they are based
on government individuals. Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned obtaining
quotes from the three (3) finns. Council Member Nelson stated that she thought they
should obtain same from more than one (1) firm.
Mayor Swedberg stated that his schedule is booked for the month of August. Council
Member Nelson stated that these finns complete all of the preliminary work. Council
Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether the three (3) finns should be present and
the next Council meeting. Council concurred. Council Member Broussard Vickers
stated that typically Council would have some contingencies if the person does not stay; a
portion of the fee is refunded. Council Member Capra requested that Council Member
Nelson contact the three (3) finns and arrange for them to submit a proposal or appear at
Council's next meeting. Same was the consensus of Council. Council Member Travis
stated that he would still like to try finding an individual on Council's own. Council
Member Capra disagreed and did not feel qualified.
Hanna, The Hugionan, questioned whether the meeting was being cablecasted. The
Mayor stated that a cable operator was not secured for the meeting and same is being
audio recorded.
Ms. Bender stated that word of mouth travels quickly amongst municipalities and
position availability. Mayor Swedberg stated people may submit letters of interest
Page 8 of15
July 13, 200 I
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested that within the search firms quote she
would like to know if candidate comes to Council, Council refers them to the search firm
what the dollar figure would be for same. Mayor Swedberg stated what are the options
they can provide as well as fees. Council Member Nelson stated that she e-mailed a firm
due to the mct that she found the firm first and she had yet to receive a response. She
would contacting them by telephone; however was concerned in regards to proceeding
forward prior to Council's consensus. Council Member Broussard Vickers also requested
how each firm would handle the situation if Council found their own candidate/bailout
obligation.
Council Member Nelson stated that two members of Staff requested that she bring
forward their recommendations for the vacant Administrator position. Ms. Lien suggests
Ms. Ry-Chel Gaustad, Mr. Paul suggested Ruth from the City of Hilltop. Council
Member Nelson stated that Ruth was runner up when Mr. March was hired, Mr. PaIzer
also suggested Mr. Mike Erickson who is currently employed at the City of Hugo. Mr.
PaIzer is fumiliar with Mr. Erickson through an interview process and Mr. Erickson has
been a speaker at the League Conference.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that all Council Members need to review what
has been forwarded to the City in this regard. Staff should be directed to forward
telephone calls, mail, e-mail, etc. to all Council members. Council Member Broussard
Vickers stated lets see what we get from free advertisement (word of mouth). Council
Member Broussard Vickers stated that Council may be able to ascertain the quality of
applicants that are received during the next week and a half and then decide whether to
expand their search on their own. Mayor Swedberg suggested the possibility of an
outreach notice. Council Member Nelson stated that Council needed to determine the
desired candidate and stated that the executive search firms provide same.
Council Member Nelson questioned the possibility of discussing the appointment of an
interim City Administrator because several Staff members questioned same. Council
Member Travis questioned whether there were recommendations from Staff in this area.
Council Member Nelson stated no and questioned whether others had received any.
Council Member Capra reported that several members had concerns over who would be
in charge. Council Member Capra stated that their primary concerns were regarding a
vacation day, if they have a problem.
Council Member Nelson questioned Mr. McPherson whether he had a preference. Mr.
McPherson stated that between Mr. Palzer and Mr. Cook they have a large amount of
experience, Ms. Bender has been here how long. Ms. Bender stated two and a half (2
1/2) years. Mr. McPherson stated that current Staff could handle basically any issue and
if there were an issue they could not handle they would contact Council. Mayor
Swedberg stated that if they have a problem or if they have a problem they do not
normally scope how does Council desire them handle same. Council Member Nelson
stated that Mr. Hoeft suggested if Council desires to hire a temporary Administrator in
the interim, same would only need to be part time consultant and "manage the Staff" and
day to day details would be handled by City Staff, City Engineer and City Attorney.
Council Member Nelson stated that Mr. Hoeft did add not Council because in both Mr.
Hoeft's opinion and in hers, then Council would have a mess. Council could appoint a
Page 9 of 15
July 13, 200 I
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
Staff member if Council feh someone was qualified and Council feh comfortable with
same or Council could hire a temporary, interim, part time consultant individual who
would manage staff. Council Member Capra questioned the expenditure associated with
same. Council Member Nelson stated that at this time it was unknown. Council Member
Broussard Vickers stated that the next staff member in the structure of authority would be
Mr. Palzer and in the interim she would like to appoint Mr. Palzer until the next Council
meeting. Discussion ensued in regards to Mr. March's last day and the possibility of Mr.
March expending vacation time. Council Member Nelson stated that Council needed to
research this issue. Council Member Broussard Vickers requested that Council discuss
with Mr. March if he expects to expend vacation time until July 25 or whether Council
can expect that he would be in the office daily until July 25. Council Member Broussard
Vickers stated that normally he informs Council when taking vacation time; however,
Council needs a notification of either he is taking it or that he can be expected here until
July 25. Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Council could say in Mr. March's
absence, Mr. Palzer is acting interim City Administrator until the next Council meeting,
Council has the next most senior member of Staff and he if he has questioned that he is
unable to answer and questions are unable to wait, he has one (l) contact person for the
Council being the Mayor and at that point its questions, the Mayor can call around to
ascertain answers to same. Mayor Swedberg stated that if the questions are
straightforward he should be able to handle same. Council Member Broussard Vickers
stated that she did not believe there were going to be many questions that Mr. Palzer
would be not be able to handle. Council Member Nelson had concerns regarding same.
Mr. Palzer had contacted her six (6) times in regards to vacation time. Council Member
Broussard Vickers stated that research needed to be completed through the LMC to
determine if the City could suspend any unscheduled vacation leave, well then give Mr.
Palzer the authority to grant vacation time as he sees fit during the interim.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether during the interim, having Mr. Palzer
manage the Public WorksIBuilding Department and Ms. Bender manage the
Administrative Staff. Council Member Nelson stated that she felt it was a lot to ask Mr.
Palzer to manage both facilities. Council Member Broussard Vickers felt that Council
needed one (1) person as the main contact, as the final decision maker in the interim.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Council could make this decision at the Council
meeting where Staff could have input and decide direction. Council Member Broussard
Vickers stated that Council could receive input during the interim on how the decision is
working and whether anyone has came forward that is inquiring about the interim
position. Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Council should advertise in the League
Bulletin for an interim position to buy time. Council Member Broussard stated that
Council could certainly do same. Council Member Nelson stated that she was unsure
whether she had an understanding of Council's desire to have an interim individual.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she did not know whether she desired an
interim individual if the people that are here can complete the duties and she would not
know if they desire to and can they. Council Member Nelson questioned Ms. Bender's
opinion regarding whether she desired a temporary outside interim or a Staff interim.
Ms. Bender stated that Council needed time to consider their desires of a candidate to fill
the City Administrator's position and that Staff could handle the ongoing, day-to-day
operations without hiring a part time, temporary interim City Administrator. Between
Mr. Palzer and myself, we have the knowledge to handle same. Council Member Capra
Page 10 of15
July 13,2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
clarified Ms. Bender's comment by stating part time office help. Ms. Bender stated that
Staff does need additional office support. If we could increase the current % time
position to full time and apply overtime hours from Committees same would assist Staff
in day-to-day operations. Council Member Nelson stated that Council just authorized
same Consensus was that no voting had been completed on this issue. Ms. Bender
stated that Council had consensus on this issue and all members agreed to same. Ms.
Bender stated that she had some concerns with Mr. Palzer understanding the
Administrative responsibilities; however, she had nothing but good to say about Mr.
Palzer, I am aware of his supervisory skills. Council Member Broussard Vickers
questioned whether a co-interim work or does Council need to divide stating that Ms.
Bender manage the Administrative functions and Mr. Palzer manage Public
WorksIBuilding Inspections functions. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that
Mr. Palzer is currently supervising Public WorksIBuilding Inspections. Council Member
Nelson stated that Mr. PaIzer had difficulty authorizing a vacation for Mr. Tedd Peterson.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that Mr. PaIzer probably had difficulty
because Mr. March would not let him do same. Council Member Nelson stated that
Council would need to reiterate to him that he would have the authority contingent upon
Mr. March's termination date. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that then it
would go to Ms. Bender to authorize the office, even though in the past it has been
practice to grant same on short notice, a request can be denied. Council Member Travis
stated that it may be harsh to mandate same, it may be more to just request to hold off
scheduling vacation. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated it is one thing if it is
already scheduled and on the books. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she
very much agrees with the Attorney and does not want to be involved with the day- to-
day operation. She has not been, she does not want to be, she does not desire daily
contact, she does not desire Staff to have daily contact and same is not a Council function
to her.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Staff desired a check in from Council every day
and offered to comply with whatever Staff desired of their assistance. Ms. Bender stated
that Staff would probably prefer that if needed, Staff contact Council Members. Mayor
Swedberg stated that same was fine. Council Member Travis stated that it was a good
idea that during the interim of the interim to have Ms. Bender and Mr. Palzer. Ms. Bender
the administrative and Mr. Palzer business as usual, does Ms. Bender consult with Mr.
Palzer. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she thinks they consult with each
other when they feel like they need to, I think they need to coordinate with one another
with staffing issues if there are any, vacation issues so that they are in contact on a
regular basis and if this can be accomplished until the next Council meeting when
Council can ascertain Mr. March's last day. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated
that if Mr. March is in the office she did not desire to have him working on day-to-day
functions, she would rather have him working on larger projects, ie. outlining large
projects that are coming due, outlining every piece of knowledge he has. He does not
need to be answer any more day-to-day items. If he is actually going to be in the office,
he does not need to take a vacation request any more; he needs to draft information that
Council needs to know. Council Member Travis concurred.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the signing of checks and stated that he would feel much
more comfortable if another individual signing checks with him. Discussion ensued
Page 11 of 15
July 13. 2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
regarding Ms. Bender. Mayor Swedberg stated that Ms. Bender issues same. Ms.
Bender stated that Ms. Sweeney issues same and she proofs them. Ms. Bender stated that
she did not feel comfortable signing same. Consensus was that Council Member Travis
would be a signatory, due to the fact that he is the Acting Mayor in the absence of Mayor
Swedberg. Discussion ensued in regards to signature cards, bonding, etc. Ms. Bender
stated that the City currently has insurance on Council Members and that she would
contact the bank for the appropriate documentation. Council Member Nelson questioned
whom Council would appoint to discuss with Mr. March the items on the list. Council
Member Capra stated that she had a scheduling difficulty with Monday, would be unable
to complete same and would be fine with Council Member Nelson completing same.
Council Member Nelson requested Council Member Capra's list of items of discussion
with Mr. March. Council Member Capra reviewed the list of questions for Mr. March;
Ms. Sweeney's performance review, ascertain if he has offered the internship, agreed to
an exit interview, ask how long Council can expect him to be in the office on a regular
basis, infow Council of the big picture items. Discussion ensued regarding the
possibility of offering that Mr. March complete same at home, liability issues involved
with same, vacation time. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that if Mr. March is
on vacation then he needs to be on vacation, if he is actually working than he has
vacation time coming to him when he is gone in tenns of pay. Council Member
Broussard Vickers stated that if Mr. March is actually going to be in the office Council
desires the big picture and ifhe is going to give Council notice of vacation Council would
like to have same. Council Member Nelson stated that Council desires to know what to
expect from Mr. March in the interim and then she would talk to him based on his
response in regards to Mr. Palzer and Ms. Bender so same is clear. Council Member
Broussard Vickers stated that Council is directing them to take over day-to-day
operations. Mayor Swedberg added supervision and stated that he thought supervision
was a good word.
Council Member Nelson stated that Council's intent was that at their next Council
meeting, Council Member Nelson would try to obtain three (3) executive search firms to
present proposals and appear at the meeting, re-evaluate the interim City Administrator -
appointing an interim City Administrator, continuing with the status quo or obtaining the
advice of the search firms. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she would like
to see Council agendas kept to a minimum. Mayor Swedberg questioned whether
Council could focus only on this issue. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated no
due to the fact that Council has legal requirements that must be met along with petitions
and complaints come forward. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that anything
else that Council is adding needs to be cut down as much as possible. Council Member
Broussard Vickers stated that she knows Council puts a large demand on Staff time and
in addition to Council requesting that Committees lighten up, Council is going to have to
lighten up, wherever Council can. Council Member Capra stated that the only minutes
Council needed in their packet is the Planning and Zoning Commission minutes. Council
stated that the Council meeting minutes and Planning and Zoning minutes did not need to
be proofed because Council does that anyway or need to be approved immediately.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated there have been plenty of times where minutes
went months and months before being approved. Discussion ensued regarding remaining
current on minutes, proofing, etc. Council Member Capra stated that the previous set of
minutes was missing pages 11 and 12.
Page 12 of 15
July 13, 2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson stated that the reason this meeting was called was that Council
Member Capra had e-mailed her stating that she had received several Staff calls
concerned about the interim, and would an Emergency meeting be in order. Council
Member Nelson concurred and contacted Ms. Bender to arrange same. Council Member
Nelson stated that Council does want Staff to understand that Council does have a plan
and they can rest assured in their jobs. Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned
Ms. Bender whether she and Mr. patzer could forward the information to Staff or would
Staff prefer a meeting with Council. Mr. McPherson felt that a Staff meeting with
Council would be preferred. Discussion ensued regarding the Mayor being out of town
the following week, etc. Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether
Council could set Monday evening or Tuesday evening for a Staff meeting with Council
and whichever Staff would care to be there. Council Member Nelson stated that if
Council could be with Staff it should be as early as possible before they go home.
Discussion ensued regarding proper posting of the meeting; cable channel, vestibule and
sign out front, the definition between Emergency and Special meeting, members
schedules, etc. Consensus was that Council would meet on Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at
4:00 p.rn. and three (3) members would try to make the meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that if any Staff person contacts any Council
Member, the entire Council is notified with the name of the person that has been notified
of exactly what the problem was so that all five (5) of the members have all contact from
all individuals. Council Member Capra questioned whether same needed to be filtered
through Ms. Bender, Council cannot share information without same being public.
Consensus was that the items could be e-mailed to her and then forwarded to all Council
Members. Council Member Broussard Vickers felt that if Staff desired to speak with a
Council Member there are aware of same. Council Member Broussard Vickers stated
that Staff should be notified right away on Monday, in writing, that they are certainly
able to Council, but if they do, they need to be aware that everything they say and who
they are is simply going to be notified to all Council Members. Council Member Nelson
concurred. They may find one (1) person easier to talk to or not, but then at least every
one is in the loop and has the same information. Council Member Nelson stated that
usually when she speaks with someone, she writes down a conversation report, City or
her own business conversations.
Page 13 of 15
July 13, 2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to contact
three (3) executive search firms to address the Council at their next meetin!!. to
present Council with a Quote for services. to inform Council of their procedures
would be and to discuss whether or not if the City secures a candidate or whether
they secure the candidate how same would effect the financial arran!!ement with a
10 minute presentation and 5 minute Question and answer period. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimouslY.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Travis that from
this point on to have Mr. Patzer and Ms. Bender take over the operation and
supervision of the City Staff. day-to-day operations until the next Council meetin2.
in their respective areas and consult with each other when necessary. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimouslY.
Discussion ensued in regards to the need to motion for Council Member Nelson to
discuss the previously stated issues with Mr. March. Consensus was that she was
previously directed to do same; however, the entire Council desired to be informed of
same via e-mail.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra that
Council have a Special Council Meetin2 on Wednesday. JulY 18. 2001 at 4:00 p.m.
for the purpose of discussin!! with Staff: Staff concerns. update on interim
information and City Administrator issues. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson that Staff be notified in fe2ards to contactine Council and each Council
Member in turn will notify all other Council Members via Ms. Bender of their
conversation and the individual that they were speakine with fe2ardin!! questions.
concerns. issues. etc.
Council Member Capra questioned whether working with Staff to order items for the
upcoming Life Time Achievement Awards would constitute a need for same. Council
Member Broussard Vickers stated that if a Staff member approached a Council Member.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that her motion was intended for items such as
discussing issues or concerns that a Staff member may have that they want Council to be
aware of for whatever reason. Council Member Nelson stated that she particularly liked
the motion.
All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Swedberg stated that he desired to recognize the Hugonian for bringing to
Council's attention the need to make a motion in regards to check signatory.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to add
Actin!! Mayor Travis as a si!!natory on City checks until such time a City
Administrator has been hired. All in favor. Mayor Swedbere. Council Members
Page 14 ofl5
July 13, 2001
Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
Broussard Vickers. Capra and Nelson - Ave. Council Member Travis abstained.
Motion carried.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Travis to add
Council Member Nelson as an additional sh!natorv on City checks until such time a
City Administrator has been hired. All in favor. Mayor Swedbel"2. Council
Members Broussard Vickers. Nelson and Travis - Ave. Council Member Nelson
abstained. Motion carried.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
None.
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS
None.
XI. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
None.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to adiourn
the Emel"2encv Meetine of July 13. 2001 at 7:54. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
Transcnbed by:
Teresa Bender, Clerkffreasurer
Page 15 ofl5
July 18, 200 I
Special Council Meeting Minutes
STAFF: Public Works Director/Building Official, Paul P
ClerkJTreasurer, Teresa Bender
Account Clerk/Receptionist, Jill Lien
Account Clerk IT, Kris Sweeney
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JULY 18, 2001
4:00 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly sch
meeting on July 18,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Acting Mayor Dick Travis (arrived at 4:20 p.m.)
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Mari Nelson
ABSENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Broussard Vickers
I. CALL TO ORDER
Council Member Nels
4: .m.
d e to lack 0 quorum, no motions would be made
o y. it Member Nelson reviewed the agenda
C uncil Member Nelson requested that the word
.th "Special" on the agenda.
II.
III.
IV.
None.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
P"lJP' 1 of 1 t;
July 18, 2001
Special Council Meeting Minutes
VII. OLD BUSINESS
None.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Search Process and Plan for the Vacant City Administrator Position
Council Member Nelson stated that three (3) executive searchfinns would be
interviewed at the next Council meeting, Brimeyer, Sathe and DMG-Maximus.
Council Member Nelson stated that each firm would be given 10 minutes to
provide Council with a presentation and Council would be conducting a 5 minute
question and answer period following each presentation.
2. Interim
Council Member Nelson stated that Council motioned to have Mr. Pa1zer
supervise the Public Works Department as currently responsible for and
authorized to approve other items pertaining to staff such as vacation approval
and whatever is necessary. Ms. Bender would be in charge of the City Hall staff.
When the situation has to do with the City as a whole, the two (2) individuals
would reach a consensus as to the direction to resolve the issue(s). Council
Member Nelson also stated that at Council's meeting of July 25,2001, they would
be evaluating the outcome of same.
Council Member Nelson reported that Council also had discussed the option of
appointing an Interim City Administrator. This individual would not be applying
for the position and not a staff member, an individual that would be temporarily
employed in the capacity of managing staff. Council Member Nelson stated that
this option would be considered following the above mentioned direction of
Council.
Ms. Lien questioned the process involved in determining an individual for the
Interim City Administrator position. Council Member Nelson stated that through
her experience, she is familiar with an individual and Mr. Hoeft suggested several
individuals that have experience in this area. Mr. Hoeft was also aware of several
individuals that are in between jobs who have experience in City Administration.
Council Member Nelson stated that Council feh that with the authorization of
Staff to increase their hours or not focus on Committee/Commission minute
taking in the evening, Staff's time could be utilized on administrative, day-to-day,
operations of the City and have the possibility of managing with the current Staff.
Council Member Nelson stated that Ms. Bender had been authorized to retain a
temporary employee from a temporary agency to answer the telephone and
general assistance.
Council Member Nelson stated that Council discussed the previously approved
intern position and stated that at the time of the Council meeting, the selected
candidate had not been offered the position; however, Mr. March suggested that
the offer be extended subsequent to same. Mr. March discussed his termination
PROf> ? of 1 tl
July 18, 2001
Special Council Meeting Minutes
and the need for general office assistance with the selected candidate who stated
his willingness to assist in all areas. Mr. March also stated that Staff would be
pleased with the assistance provided with same.
Ms. Bender stated that Mr. Mike Duffek had started the intern position that
morning. Ms. Bender explained that Mr. Duffeck attends the U of M and is
currently participating in afternoon classes on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays.
Mr. Duffek felt that he would be able available Monday, Wednesday and Fridays
until 12:00 p.rn. and all day Tuesday and Thursdays. Mr. Duffek extended the
offer to return to the City following the completion of class. Ms. Bender
discussed this item with Mr. Duffek and it was determined that with commuting
time and City Hall hours it was unnecessary. Ms. Bender stated that Mr. Duffeck
completed a Planning and Zoning project and is eager to begin new tasks.
Discussion ensued regarding Mr. Duffek's first day, new surroundings, new faces,
etc.
Council Member Nelson stated that Council felt it important to meet with Staff to
inform them of the outcome of Council's July 13, 2001 Emergency Council
meeting and provide Staff an opportunity for expressing concerns or questions
that they may have.
Council Member Capra stated that Council also motioned to approve Acting
Mayor Travis as the replacement signatory for Mr. March on disbursement and
payroll checks during the interim. Council Member Capra also stated that
Council Member Nelson would be signing checks in the absence of either Mayor
Swedberg or Acting Mayor Travis. Council Member Capra questioned Ms.
Bender as to whether this information had been passed along to Ms. Sweeney.
Ms. Bender stated that she felt that the information would be best provided by
Council at this meeting. Ms. Bender stated that Ms. Sweeney had several checks
for signing, in the Mayors absence, by Council Member Nelson. Council
Member Nelson questioned whether a signature card had been obtained. Ms.
Bender concurred.
Council Member Nelson stated that upon the arrival of Acting Mayor Travis, a
quorum was present and recapped the meeting thus far.
Acting Mayor Travis questioned Mr. Palzer in regards to the splitting of authority
of the day-to-day operations and consensus duties and responsibilities. Mr. Palzer
explained that previously, he and Ms. Sanna Buckbee, 7381 Pehier Circle, had
been authorized in the same capacity in the absence of an Administrator prior to
Ms. Buckbee's resignation and the outcome of same was favorable. Ms. Buckbee
stated that during her service as a Council Member, the Council had conducted
their own hiring process and the outcome was unfavorable on two (2) occasions.
For these reasons, Ms. Buckbee suggested the acquisition of an executive search
firm to assist Council in the hiring process. Council Member Nelson stated that in
her opinion she is not qualified to interview on this level.
Acting Mayor Travis questioned whether there had been interest shown by
individuals in the area. Discussion ensued regarding the cost of securing an
executive search firm. Council Member Nelson reported that the fees would be
Plla", ':l nf 1 (;
July 18, 2001
Special Council Meeting Minutes
approximately $17,000 to $22,000 plus expenses to obtain same. Both Council
Members Capra and Travis thought the fees would be higher or a flat percentage
of the salary offered for the position would be used to determine same. Council
Member Capra stated that Council felt during the search process, the funds not
expended on salary for this position could be applied toward the cost of obtaining
a search firm. Discussion ensued regarding the monthly salary and car allowance
of Mr. March.
Council Member Nelson stated that at this point, Council would like to provide an
opportunity for Staff to express concerns or questions during the interim period.
Ms. Lien stated that she was under the impression that if Staff had concerns with
the current authorized staff, Mr. Palzer or Ms. Bender; staff could contact a
Council Member, and in turn, the Council Member would e-mail that information
to Ms. Bender who would forward same to all members of Council. Council
Member Capra stated that Council had stated that they are open if Staff has any
concerns. Ms. Lien felt uncomfortable with this arrangement and would prefer to
direct same to all Council Members rather than one (1) and have that forwarded
back to the individual that she may have concerns with. Council Member Nelson
clarified Council's previous action in regards to this matter. Council Member
Nelson stated that Council's intent was that if there was communication with one
(1) Council Member, that same communication should be with the whole Council.
Concern was that the Council act as a whole and not on an individual basis.
Council Member Capra stated that she had spoken with Mr. Hoeft in regards to e-
mail and the Open Meeting Law. Mr. Hoeft stated that no decision could be made
through these e-mails, only opinions. Council Member Capra suggested that the
e-mails be retained in a folder, available upon request of the public. Council
Member Nelson stated that Council's goal was to ensure that Staff is not
communicating with one (1) Council Member but every Council Member. Both
Council Members Nelson and Capra explained a scenario or situation that has
occurred where this process had taken place. Ms. Lien requested clarification on
determining what would constitute a necessity of contacting all Council Members.
Ms. Lien used the example of contacting a Council Member to obtain a telephone
number. Members explained that in the referred instance, it would not warrant
canvassing the message to all members; however, larger scope items would.
Council Member Capra explained an additional item that warranted canvassing.
Ms. Lien questioned whether the Council had heard feedback from
committees/commissions in regards to Council's action in requesting that on a
temporary basis, they provide as much assistance as possible in the areas of
minute taking and transcnbing, agenda and packet preparation and lack of Staff
attendance. Ms. Lien stated that her members had no knowledge of this item.
Council Member Capra stated that the memorandum had recently been forwarded
to same. Ms. Bender stated that the Economic Development Committee (EDC)
and the Planning and Zoning Commission had received copies at their respective
meetings the night previously and copies had been made for distribution to the
other Committees. Ms. Bender was unsure whether all Committees/Commissions
had received same via e-mail but would ensure same following the meeting. Ms.
Bender stated that the Parks and Recreation Committee Liaison Broussard
Vickers was present at the Council meeting on July 13, 2001; however it was not
her responsibility to inform the Committee. Both Ms. Sweeney and Ms. Lien had
P:I<1t" 4 of 1 /l
July 18, 2001
Special Council Meeting Minutes
received copies of same earlier in the day. Council Member Capra stated that
EDC Chair, Ms. Aimee Fairbrother, found it difficult to facilitate and utilize a lap
top computer during a meeting.
Ms. Lien stated that she felt it would take a considerable amount of time for
individuals unfamiliar with the note/minute taking process and requesting a rather
large commitment from individuals that already volunteer their time to serve on
the Committee. Ms. Lien stated that she desired to continue to attend the Parks
and Recreation Committee meetings due to the fact that she is involved in it. Ms.
Lien stated that she has spent a large amount of time and her own heart in these
issues and for her to pass that on. and just walk away from it and pretend that
what she has put into it is no longer important, she does not like that. Ms. Lien
stated that she desired to continue to attend and get paid for it because its her job
and she was requested to attend these meetings previously because it was difficult
for the Committee to complete their own minutes, etc. Council Member Capra
requested that an item be added to Council's agenda allowing for
Committee/Commission concerns regarding Council decision. Council Member
Nelson stated that members present at this meeting could forward Ms. Lien's
concerns regarding the importance of her being their to provide the note
taking/minute function. Ms. Lien stated that it was not just the note taking/minute
function that was important, but rather the time, researching, ordering equipment,
follow-up, etc.
Ms. Lien questioned the hiring of an additional staff member, stating that the City
has been under staffed for six (6) months. Council Member Capra stated that
issue was tabled some time ago. Council Member Capra stated that personally
she would rather have an additional clerk type position. that would be responsible
for other duties rather than just a Receptionist, someone that can take minutes, etc.
Ms. Lien stated that she is not a Clerk, she's titled Receptionist and if Council is
going to bring someone in to do what she is already doing, she wanted that
position and you bring someone in at her level. Ms. Lien stated that same would
be a slap in the face to her. Council Member Capra stated that she was unaware
of Ms. Lien's title, etc. Council Member Nelson stated that she felt Council
Member Capra meant a clerical position. Council Member Capra concurred and
stated that Council had not heard any thing from Mr. March other than it would be
an issue to discuss for the fall budget. Council Member Capra stated that she did
agree that the City was currently short staffed. Ms. Lien stated that the position
was currently in the budget and funds have not been expended for same.
Council Member Nelson stated that she desired that permanent staff concerns be
addressed by the new City Administrator. Council Member Nelson also stated
that this individual would have a large amount of input as to how they want to
structure operations and if permanent decisions are made by Council during this
interim period it potentially could have some ramifications. Council Member
Nelson expressed desire to obtain temporary help in this situation. Council
Member Nelson stated that most contracts could be secured for the same
individual for an extended period of time (3-4 months), allowing training
advantages, etc.
PRO", " nf 1 f\
July 18, 200 1
Special Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. Lien expressed concern regarding the length of time for a new City
Administrator to detennine the staffing needs of the City. Council Member Capra
stated that she felt if an experienced City Administrator was obtained; a shortage
of staff would be recognized immediately. Council Member Nelson stated that
she hopes the potential exists that several interested candidates would have a large
amount of experience, maybe from a larger community and would have a lot of
experience to bring to the community and interested in administering a smaller
community. Council Member Nelson stated that the experience of a potential
candidate, at this point, is unknown; however, she is optimistic.
Council Member Nelson stated that Council Member Broussard Vickers had
anticipated the interim duration would be approximately three (3) months.
Council Member Nelson stated that she did not get the impression that Council
desired to interview a large amount of candidates. Ms. Buckbee stated that
occasionally, the process changes midstream.
Acting Mayor Travis questioned when obtaining temporary help was approved
and commence. Acting Mayor Travis believed Council did not approve same.
Ms. Bender was requested to research this item, if it was determined not to have
been approved, the item would be placed on the agenda for discussion at
Council's next meeting. Ms. Lien stated that a temporary individuals would be a
great solution; however, if Council declined this option, Ms. Lien would request
that Staff be allowed to utilize the telephone system and voice mail capabilities of
same on a routine basis. Ms. Lien stated that she did not particularly like this
option; however, it would assist Staff. Ms. Lien stated that filing was a low
priority with her. Council Member Nelson stated that a temporary individual
could assist in numerous areas; filing, typing projects, etc. Acting Mayor Travis
stated that this item was discussed previously and Council determined that the
item would be discussed at the next Council Ineeting. Council Member Capra
concurred.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether there were additional comments or
concerns. Mr. Palzer stated that previously, Council appointed Mr. Tom
Wilharber as a Council representative that was authorized to make decisions in
emergency situations. Mr. Palzer felt that this would assist Staff. Ms. Buckbee
stated that Council would then have the necessity to call for Emergency Ineetings.
Council Member Nelson stated that Council would call an Emergency meeting or
the individual staff member would contact all members of Council regarding the
issue. Council Member Nelson stated that Council desired not to act individually.
Council Member Nelson explained that Council Member Broussard Vickers
motioned that Council act as a whole and all Inembers agreed not to act on an
individual basis. Council Member Capra stated that Mr. Hoeft stated that an
EInergency meeting did not require that Council be specifically at City Hall and
same could be conducted by phone, etc. Council Member Nelson again stated
that Council desired to address issues as a whole and not as an individual Council
Member.
Both Mr. Palzer and Ms. Buckbee felt that the appointment of Mr. Wilharber
previously worked well. Council Member Nelson stated that it is a very efficient
way of handling issues; however, Council would need to appoint an individual as
Pl'lOP /'i of 1/'i
July 18, 200!
Special Council Meeting Minutes
a full Council to handle this responsibility, but she agrees with Council Member
Broussard Vickers' previous motion. Mr. Dave Kilian, 1695 Sorel Street,
questioned whether the Council could appoint a member to call an Emergency
meeting. Council Member Nelson stated that Council Members can not call other
members without jeopardizing the Open Meeting Law regulations and Council
determined to function under the e-mailing of information to all Council Members
by Ms. Bender. Council Member Capra stated that Council is aware of the
requirements for constituting an Emergency Meeting. Council Member Capra
stated that same would be discussed at the next Council meeting. Council
Member Nelson stated that most issues could be handled with information being
obtained through the City Engineer, Attorney and consensus of Mr. Pa1zer and
Ms. Bender.
Mr. Pa1zer questioned the limitations of authority of both himself and Ms. Bender.
Council Member Nelson stated that both individuals are the Acting City
Administrator for the interim. Mr. Pa1zer questioned the limits prior to contacting
Council excluding natural emergencies. Council Member Nelson stated that if
Mr. Pa1zer was comfortable with handling that then so be it. Council Member
Capra stated that if Mr. Pa1zer is comfortable with it and it is justifiable, handle it.
Ms. Lien stated that if staff is uncomfortable with an issue, contact Council. Ms.
Lien stated that if she does not know the answer on day-to-day business, she was
not going to just say whatever. Council Member Nelson stated that Ms. Lien
should go to Ms. Bender and ask her, if she desires to speak with Mr. Pa1zer they
would come to a consensus and it should not be a problem Ms. Buckbee stated
that when a sewer line breaks at 2:00 a.m, Mr. Pa1zer would be handling that
situation. Mr. Pa1zer stated that this is his regular responsibility. Council
Member Nelson stated that if Mr. March were here and called Council on
something, and deem it to be an emergency and needed to get together, her
consensus from what was discussed at the previous meeting was that Council was
real open and available to assist during this interim as much as possible. Council
Member Capra also stated that Mr. Hoeft was available. Mr. Pa1zer stated that his
view would be that the only time he or Ms. Bender should contact Council would
be on a staff issue, natural emergency or any emergency expenditures that may
arise. Council Member Nelson stated that something over budget or an
unforeseen expenditure, dependent upon situation, an emergency meeting would
be arranged to discuss same. Council Member Nelson stated that the City does
have an approved budget and goals that have been approved. Council Member
Nelson stated that Council would be reviewing same at their next meeting and
prioritizing them in an attempt to assist staff in direction.
Ms. Lien stated that she was presented a letter and requested to read and sign
same or one or the other. Ms. Lien stated that may be she was making too much
of it. Ms. Lien stated that she did not understand the reasoning of having to sign a
contract or whatever it was. Ms. Lien stated she was willing to work extra hours,
but she did not desire to put it in writing that she would work for the City five (5)
days a week and if she did not, for whatever reason, have recourse because of it.
Ms. Lien stated that she did not desire to decline the offer proposed by Council
because she does want to help and she did not desire to do so until after school
commences. Ms. Lien stated that subsequent to the commencement of the school
year, she would work five (5) days a week for however long she needed to or if
Pl'loP. 7 of 1 "
July 18, 2001
Special Council Meeting Minutes
something comes up that she can not, she desires the flexibility. Ms. Lien stated
that she wanted Council to know that she was willing to help but she did not want
it to be in granite that she was either working or not.
Council Member Capra stated that she thought is was only meant because of
employment issues. Council Member Nelson questioned whether Ms. Lien's
benefits would change if she were a full time employee. Ms. Bender concurred.
Council Member Capra stated that the benefits were the issue. Ms. Lien
questioned whether this letter was requesting that she go full time on a permanent
basis.
Mr. Kilian excused himself from the meeting being that personnel issues were
being discussed. Council Member Capra questioned the need to discuss the issue
in closed session. Council Member Nelson stated that she did not believe it did
not warrant same. Ms. Lien stated that she did not care. Council Member Capra
stated that Council is only clarifYing a document. Ms. Bender stated that this is
not disciplinary action by any means. Council Member Nelson stated that she felt
it was not a closed meeting issue and felt that discussion of same was fine.
Council Member Nelson stated that when Council discussed Staff not completing
Committee/Commission minutes, those amount of hours available. Council
wanted to ascertain if Ms. Lien would be interested, Council is not directing Ms.
Lien in regards to desiring her to work full time or not. Ms. Lien stated that she
did not get that from the letter. Council Member Nelson stated that Council was
asking whether or not, she would like to become full time temporarily. If Ms.
Lien desires to become full time, the City must offer her the same full time
benefits that are offered to other full time employees because that is the law.
Council Member Nelson stated that if Ms. Lien is stating that she does not want to
become full time, she desired to be part time, and she was willing to work some
additional hours here and there; but she would like to retain her current
employment status, Council Member Nelson did not have a problem with same.
Acting Mayor Travis stated that it was up to Ms. Lien in regards to her decision.
Ms. Lien stated that it would be better for the City because the City would not
need to pay for the benefits.
Ms. Lien stated that if she signed the letter that she would become full time for
approximately four (4) months, at the end of that period, whoever considers the
offer to determine if they desire to retain her full time status; determines that she
becomes part time again, the full time benefits would be removed. Council
concurred. Ms. Lien stated that full time benefits were for the duration of the
temporary, full time status. Council concurred. Acting Mayor Travis stated that
Council desired to extend the offer to Ms. Lien to become temporarily full time
with corresponding full time benefits prior to determining the option of securing
an individual from a temporary agency. Ms. Lien stated that by adding one (1)
day to her schedule, she felt it would not make a large amount of difference. Both
Council Members Nelson and Capra stated that they felt that hiring a temporary
individual would be advantageous. Council Member Capra stated that Council
desired to extend the offer to Ms. Lien. Ms. Lien stated that she appreciated
same. Council Member Nelson stated that if Ms. Lien desires not to accept the
offer, same was fine. Ms. Lien stated that she did not desire to commit to five (5)
days a week permanently, temporarily or whatever it was. Ms. Lien stated that
P>t<Jf" R of 1 f\
July 18, 200 I
Special Council Meeting Minutes
she would work a fifth (5th) day when her schedule allows. Council Member
Nelson stated then Ms. Lien would retain her part time status but if she worked a
fifth (5th) day, she would be working additional time. Council Member Nelson
questioned whether the City's personnel policy states that overtime goes into
effect subsequent to working eight (8) hours in one day. Ms. Bender concurred.
Council Member Nelson stated that Council desired to record that Ms. Lien was
offered a temporary, full time position and Ms. Lien desired to retain her current
status of part time and when she is available, she would work an additional day
but she does not desire full time status. Ms. Lien stated that same sounded
correct. Council Member Nelson stated that the City needed to be careful on full
time benefits, if Ms. Lien is working full time and the City does not offer
corresponding benefits, problems could arise.
Ms. Lien questioned whether in a month and a half when school commences she
decides for any personal reasons she may have that she desires to go full time,
would the option be available at that time. Council Member Nelson stated that if
the work is justified and Ms. Bender determines additional time is needed and Ms.
Lien is willing to accept full time status on a temporary basis, same would be fine.
Council would consider same at a future meeting. Council Member Nelson
questioned whether Ms. Lien would have a problem with signing what she
requested to be recorded and what was just discussed if it is what she said.
Council Member Capra stated that Staffwould draft same for Ms. Lien to review.
Ms. Lien stated that she did not have a problem with that. Council Member Capm
stated that if Ms. Lien desired to accept Council's offer to become temporarily
full time with corresponding benefits, the City would have to provide same; if Ms.
Lien desired to work an occasionally Friday here and there then same does not
classify as full time. Ms. Lien stated that she could probably tell Council she
could fulfill Council's request when school commences, she would do it until
Council determined they did not need it anymore but there might be an occasional
schedule conflict. Discussion ensued regarding schools commencement. Council
Member Capm stated that school commences immediately following Labor Day.
Ms. Lien stated that school commenced on September 3, 2001, five (5) weeks
from now. Ms. Lien stated that in the interim, she is unwilling to work. Council
Member Nelson stated that she felt additional help was needed due to the fact that
the City will be without a full time City Administmtor. Council Member Capra
questioned Ms. Lien whether she desired the current letter to be re-worded to state
that the temporary full time status would commence September 3, 2001. Acting
Mayor Travis stated that the issue could be addressed at that time if Ms. Lien
desired. Council and Ms. Lien concurred. Council Member Capm questioned the
need for a motion. Council Member Nelson stated no, due to the fact that Council
may consider same at a subsequent meeting. Council concurred.
Ms. Bender requested clarification on Ms. Lien's retention of part time status
regarding overtime pay and working additional overtime hours on regularly
scheduled days and any additional hours on unscheduled days; being eight (8)
hours or less, whatever deemed appropriate; Ms. Lien would be paid overtime on
any hours worked exceeding eight (8) hours per day on regularly scheduled days,
if deemed appropriate to work additional time, exceeding regularly scheduled
days, same would be considered at regular pay. Council concurred.
P:tup Q nflfi
July 18, 200 1
Special Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. Bender requested clarification on whether individuals would be paid overtime
for continuing to attend Committee/Commission meetings subsequent to
Council's previous concensus to request that Committees/Commissions do not
have staff attend, compile their own minutes, agendas, research, etc. and have
staff apply those overtime hours to day-to-day operations and administrative
duties during the daily operation of City Hall. Council Member Capra questioned
whether Staff received compensation for attendance at Committee/Commission
meeting and the receipt of overtime pay versus compensatory time. Council
Member Capra stated that she was under the impression that Staff was paid
overtime. Staff concurred. Discussion ensued regarding State Statute and
employee policy. Ms. Lien questioned whether Council was open to overtime.
Council concurred. Ms. Lien stated that she regularly exceeds eight (8) hours per
day and never has had it come back to her, but she is wondering if it is a problem.
Council concurred that during the interim there would need to be overtime.
Council Member Capra stated that Council is aware that the City has been short
staffed for some time and there would probably be more overtime due to the
current situation. Mr. Palzer questioned whether Council approved all overtime
hours. Council Member Nelson questioned whether Mr. March approved
overtime, from time to time, for Staff. Ms. Bender stated that not on a regular
basis. Ms. Lien stated that she has always had overtime, since she has started
with the City, she has always had overtime and never had it questioned. Council
Member Nelson questioned how it is determined. Ms. Lien stated she decided
when she worked. Council Member Nelson stated how do you decide, just like
take it. Ms. Lien stated that she records what she works and that she is always
working on something. She usually leaves work between 4 - 5 :00 p.m. and
occasionally 6:00 p.m. because she is working on something, desires to complete
what she is working on or she would not be in on the following day(s). Council
Member Capra questioned the recording of same. Ms. Lien stated that she does
not justify it when reporting same. Ms. Lien stated that she could be answering
the telephone and be on same for a half hour or mail or whatever it is. Council
Member Nelson stated that she would review the personnel policy, but not in the
near future. Council Member Nelson explained that it was Council's desire to
review, update and draft a new personnel policy. Council Member Nelson stated
that during this interim, Council realizes that there is going to need to be
overtime, obviously if there does not need to be overtime Council would be
looking for direction from Ms. Bender and Mr. Palzer.
Ms. Bender stated that Mr. March did request staff, from time to time, to keep
overtime hours to a minimum and he would be mindful of same. Mr. March also
suggested, nearer to his resignation; that overtime should be included as an item
to justify an additional employee. Ms. Lien stated that she had never been spoken
to about overtime. Ms. Bender stated that Mr. March was aware of staff's
workload, packet Friday's, etc. Ms. Bender stated that Council discussed at the
previous meeting that the time that was spent completing minutes and those types
of things typically a staff member was paid overtime for attending
Committee/Commission meetings would be carried over to administrative duties
Monday through Friday, day-to-day type of operations. Ms. Lien requested
clarification and stated that she completes her minutes during the day. Ms.
Bender stated attending meetings. Council Member Nelson stated that so that
overtime time would be transferred to the day-to-day items. Council Member
PJlOP 10 nf1(;
July 18, 200 1
Special Council Meeting Minutes
Nelson stated that Council Member Broussard Vickers had made the suggestion
and Council concurred. Acting Mayor Travis stated that the motion was fonnally
approved. Ms. Lien requested clarification of same. Acting Mayor Travis stated
that was the entire discussion of going to the meetings; instead of taking minutes
for EDC, Parks and Recreation or Fete des Lacs, it was construed as the hours
spent doing those and transcribing the minutes and etc. would no longer be used
for those meetings and same would be used for day-to-day opemtions. Ms. Lien
stated so otherwise, staying later in the day versus going to a night meeting. Ms.
Lien also stated that if an individual is currently staying later in the day; its
already pushing 5:00 p.rn. when she leaves and she did not desire to stay an
additional hour later to cover overtime hours that she would have been working at
a Parks and Recreation meeting. Council concurred it is not required. Ms. Lien
stated that she was not thinking it was. Council Member Nelson stated that if Ms.
Lien were going to work the Parks and Recreation meeting on a Tuesday evening
commencing at 6:30 p.rn. to whatever, 8:30, 9:30 p.m., instead of taking that time
taking minutes at the Parks and Recreation meeting she would take that time and
be in the office completing day-to-day office work. Acting Mayor Travis stated
that tmnscribing of the minutes, etc. that is going on during the day, staff no
longer has that distmction. Council Member Nelson clarified that same was the
discussion. Council Member Nelson requested comment from Ms. Lien in this
regard. Ms. Lien stated that she did not like it. Ms. Lien stated she did not like
putting the minutes on a Committee/Commission member and making them do
twenty (20) hours of minutes. Acting Mayor Tmvis stated that this is only
temporary. Ms. Lien stated that she understood same and that she had been on the
Parks and Recreation Committee for three (3) years and now she feels like she
cannot go any more. Ms. Lien stated that she has been very involved in it and
now Council is requesting that she not attend any more and that they would rather
have her spend the time that she would attend meetings, filing or doing day to day
items that she already is doing all day, every day anyway. Ms. Lien stated that
she would follow Council's direction. Ms. Lien did not believe it was in the best
interest of the Committees/Commissions. Council Member Nelson stated that
Council does want to hear Ms. Lien's concerns. Ms. Lien stated that
Committees/Commissions look to staff for a billion different little things and that
she enlightens them on everything on the agenda; they do not know what is on the
agenda, they do not compile the agenda. they do not know what has came into
City Hall; so what that means is that Chairperson or whoever, whatever, five (5)
committee members could potentially be calling her requesting clarification on an
item because now they are compiling the agenda and they need to follow up on
same. Now all these individuals would be calling her which would use more of
her time. Ms. Lien felt that potentially explaining items to five (5) individuals
would be more time consuming than drafting an annotation on same.
Acting Mayor Travis stated that Council's motion was to temporarily abandon
them, it is not a discussion of whether it was needed or not, Council has
determined same and Council has already agreed that it is needed to have a staff
member or Council member; some Committees/Commissions desired
participation of same and others declined. Acting Mayor Tmvis explained that
currently, at this point in time, just right now, Staff temporarily focus on day-to-
day opemtions in to best interest of more people in the City instead of the
Committees/Commissions and same needed to pick up the slack too, if they can
P~oP 11 of 1 f\
July 18, 200 1
Special Council Meeting Minutes
not, Council would consider alternative options. Acting Mayor Travis explained
that it is not intended on being cruel to anybody or to slap anybody in the face, its
just Council needs to pick up the slack administratively prior to providing these
services. Ms. Lien stated that she understood that and did not interpret that
Council was meaning to be cruel to her; it was just that she did not want it. Ms.
Lien stated that she desired to remain a part of the Parks and Recreation
Committee. Ms. Lien stated that she did not feel Council was being cruel at all
and did not interpret that it was directed at her personally. Ms. Sweeney stated
that in her case, doing the bookkeeping and utility billing, it is difficult to
accomplish the transcribing of the minutes, compiling the agenda and packets.
Ms. Sweeney stated that she has tried to spread the duties over a period of time,
she has tried to complete the minutes immediately following the meeting, but
things do not always working out that way. Ms. Sweeney explained that the last
agenda, packet compilation Ms. Bender assisted in typing the agenda and packet
preparation due to the time constraint with entering payments for utility billing
prior to late fee assessment. Ms. Sweeney stated that this particular time was
really stressful.
Council Member Capra questioned whether Council could investigate Time
Savers transcribing, from tape, the minutes not the provision of having an
individual at the meeting, just transcribe from the audio tape. Discussion ensued
in regards to Time Savers' current participation in the Planning and Zoning
Commission meetings and its determined need. Council Member Nelson feh that
it would be very difficult for Time Savers to know who is speaking when they are
unfamiliar with the individuals and their voices. Ms. Sweeney stated that if the
meetings were taped, the tape could be transcribed at a later date. Ms. Lien stated
that personally she does not use the transcnber, at all costs she writes down her
notes because it is more time consuming to utilize the transcriber. Ms. Lien
utilizes the transcriber only as a clarification tool if she cannot read her
handwriting or desires additional clarification on a motion, etc. Ms. Lien stated
that for her personally, utilizing the transcnber consumes more time. Council
Member Nelson questioned whether staff had a Dictaphone with a pedal feature.
Ms. Lien stated that the City does; however, she does not utilize same. Ms Lien
stated that she preferred to follow her own notes and type the minutes from same.
Ms. Sweeney stated that she does utilize the Dictaphone and handwritten notes
during typing of the minutes. Ms. Sweeney stated that she does not utilize the
foot pedal. Ms. Sweeney stated that same usually ends up with too much
information. Ms. Lien stated that when using the Dictaphone it is easy to get into
the he said, she said. Ms. Sweeney stated she enters all the information into the
computer then the minutes need to be proofed and condensed to provide accurate
information without having lengthy minutes.
Council Member Nelson requested that Council ascertain Ms. Sweeney's opinion
on the Committee minutes. Ms. Sweeney requested clarification. Committee
Member Nelson stated that on attending the meetings, completing the minutes,
etc. Ms. Sweeney stated that on occasion it conflicts with her personal schedule
and explained that it becomes difficult during her day-to-day responsibilities to
transcribe minutes, etc. Ms. Sweeney also stated that when additional requests
are made, she cannot always fulfill same due to her day-to-day responsibilities.
Ms. Sweeney stated that when a slower task day is experienced, it is not a
P~oP 11. of 1 t>
July 18, 2001
Special Council Meeting Minutes
problem; however, same had not been experienced lately. Ms. Lien stated that
she felt that even the Committees/Commissions themselves, felt it easy for them
to request that Staff research an item. Acting Mayor Travis stated that Council
concurred regarding this item. Council Member Nelson concurred. Ms. Lien
stated that when you are researching many items, it consumes a large amount of
time. Ideally the Committees/Commissions are there to complete same and they
should be doing a large amount of these items. Ms. Lien stated that if
Committees/Commissions could take on the same items that they desire Staff to
complete it would be a large assistance. Ms. Lien gave a recent example ofEDC
requesting that Ms. Sweeney deliver a bouquet of flowers to a new business. Ms.
Sweeney stated that her time during the day does not allow for a request similar to
this; however, she could place the order. Council Member Nelson stated that
same was Council concensUS and Council was requesting that the
Committees/Commission assist during the interim by not requesting Staff to
complete same, by other trimming back by what the Committee/Commission is
currently working on, temporarily, in some places they can and in some places
they can not or complete same on their own.
Council Member Capra stated that similar to the Wheels Park project and Council
understands that same is a large project. Ms. Lien stated that same was her large
issue currently, she did not intend on walking away from it. Council Member
Capra stated that Council is aware that this project is going forward, they
understand that same is in the process and the need for following through.
Council Member Capra stated that she wanted to clarify that the Council did
discuss those ongoing issues with the Parks and Recreation Committee that
needed to be followed through because the process had commenced, i.e. currently
in the process of ordering equipment. Council Member Capra stated that Council
does understand this, but for EDC or other Committees, the Council would
request that Parks and Recreation refrain from larger projects on their agenda,
temporarily, so they do not consume her time in the interim. Ms. Lien stated that
she did not feel there was anything Parks and Recreation could do at this point
with regards to the Wheels Park. Council Member Capra stated that Council did
discuss the Wheels Park; Council Member Broussard Vickers brought this issue
to Council's attention. Council Member Nelson stated that the equipment would
be ordered. Ms. Lien stated that it is more than just ordering of the equipment,
there is a Grand Opening, establishing an Advisory Board and more is entailed
than just ordering equipment Council Member Capra stated that Council does
understand same and also understands that the project is in process. It was not
Council's intent to abandon the project.
Council Member Nelson stated that Council discussed same as being a priority
and also the summer programs that are currently being offered, and Council's
desire to follow through with commitments previously made. Council Member
Nelson stated that Council is requesting the Committees/Commissions, during this
interim, put forth more effi>rt. Council would be trying not to request as much
from Staff and completed as much on their own as possible. Council is going to
try not to take on new projects that would be time consuming for Staff. Council is
aware of the priorities of the budget and remains on same and those types of
projects. Council is trying not to tax the Staff during this difficult time and that is
what Council is hoping that Committees/Commissions would pull together and
PR17f> n of 1 fi
July 18, 200 1
Special Council Meeting Minutes
realize it is temporary, like Acting Mayor Travis stated and it is not a permanent
thing and it is because we are in this crisis. Council Member Nelson stated that
she is really happy for Mr. March and sad for the City, staff and
Committees/Commissions.
Ms. Bender stated that she feh that Ms. Lien was primarily trying to bring forward
that she has participated in the Parks and Recreation Committee for many years,
and she thinks that Ms. Lien has participated, its not for me to say. Ms. Lien
stated more than she should, she knew. Ms. Bender stated that she does not just
take the minutes and she does not just transcn'be the minutes, she becomes a part
of the Committee; however, does not have a vote and is just as active as anyone
else. Ms. Lien stated that same was correct and the Committee looks at her for
advice, not like she runs the meetings, but she feels that she is very active and
desires to remain active. She does not desire to have that taken away from her
now. Council Member Nelson stated that was not Council's desire. Ms. Lien
understood that and stated that somewhere down the road, this could mean
opportunity for her either with the City or other places or whatever and for her
just not to be involved in it any more does not seem right to her. Council Member
Nelson stated that just for this time, Council is planning on going back to having
Staff doing minutes and being involved when the City becomes stable with a City
Administrator and the workload is stabilized.
Council Member Nelson stated that Council would be looking at Ms. Bender for
information regarding the hiring of a temporary individual, staff workload, day-
to-day operations and how same would relate to minutes, if staff desired to
return/retain this practice. Council Member Nelson stated that she felt Council
would be open to this information, suggestion and Council could re-evaluate;
however, at the present time Council decided to do this because City Hall must
remain open first and Committees/Commissions would be assisted as much as
possible. Council Member Capra requested that Ms. Lien draft her concerns and
forward same to the Chair of the Parks and Recreation Committee to ascertain
their opinion and same be forwarded to Council for their next meeting,
Committees/Commissions have concerns. Council Member Capra stated that Ms.
Aimee Fairbrother, Chairperson for EDC, was currently out of town so Council
would not have a report from same. Council Member Capra stated that if the
Festival. the Parks and Recreation and Economic Development Committees have
concerns in regards to Council's decision, they need to direct same to Council in a
correspondence. Council Member Nelson concurred and stated that Council does
not desire to lose volunteers or offend anyone. Council Member Capra stated
that it would be her suggestion and request based on Council's decision at its
previous meeting; if they have concerns regarding same, they need to address
them and their basic needs. Council Member Capra clarified by stating that
Council did not desire to have everything, but the basic needs they believe that
their Committees/Commission need to get by during this interim period.
Ms. Lien requested clarification and stated does this mean that as Staff we just do
not go to these meetings then and let them sink or swim. Ms. Lien questioned
how Committee/Commission members would be notified. Council Member
Capra stated that Ms. Bender had taken care of this and questioned whether same
had been completed. Ms. Bender stated that she would research her e-mail, if she
Plla~ 14 of 1 "
July 18, 200 I
Special Council Meeting Minutes
had not completed same she would. Ms. Bender stated that two (2) committees
received their notice last evening. Ms. Lien questioned the timeframe for
notification due to Parks and Recreation Committee's next meeting. Council
Member Nelson stated that Ms. Bender would notifY same in advance and if they
have concerns they would be contacting Council Members.
Ms. Lien questioned how she assists in planning a Wheels Park and the Grand
Opening if she is not present at the Parks and Recreation meetings. Ms. Lien
stated that she needed to be there, she was coordinating the entire Grand Opening
and if she is not there to fill them in, or if she is going to waste her time filling
somebody in on the telephone on five (5) different items, she would just go to the
meeting on her own time. Council Member Capra questioned when the next
Parks and Recreation Committee meeting would be held. Ms. Lien stated August
1,2001. Council Member Capra questioned placement of Ms. Lien's concerns on
the July 25, 2001 Council agenda Ms. Lien stated that most of her concerns
pertain to the Wheels Park; the Committee has a Grand Opening on August 18,
2001 and there needs to be planning of same. Council Member Capra stated that
Council did state that the Wheels Park is a work in progress maybe by
understanding same, that would allow her to attend the meetings until the Wheels
Park is in and the over time, would be authorized. Council Member Capra
requested that this item be discussed at the Council meeting so the entire Council
understands same. Council Member Capra questioned whether it should be
addressed under a Committee Reports. Consensus was that the item would be
discussed under Committee/Commission Reports. Council was concerned that in
the absence of Council Member Broussard Vickers and Mayor Swedberg they be
informed of same. Acting Mayor Travis and Council Member Capra agreed that
the consensus made an exception for the ordering of equipment and may need
clarification. Council Member Capra stated that the Council was well aware of
the Wheels Park project and the desire to see same through. Acting Mayor Travis
stated that there were not any other monumental issues taking place. Council
Member Capra stated that the Parks and Recreation Committee needed to submit
their 2002 budget.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether there were any other comments at
this time.
X. CONSENT AGENDA
No action needed.
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
None given.
XII. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
None given.
PRUf'! l'i of 1 h
July 18, 2001
Special Council Meeting Minutes
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to close
the meetine: at 5:19 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Transcribed by:
Teresa Bender, Clerkffreasurer
Pl'lUP 1" of 1"
...
t'
"'.
July 25, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
July 25, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their re ly
scheduled meeting on July 25, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Mari Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard-Vickers
II.
ABSENT: None
STAFF: City Attorney, Mr. Jim Hoeft
City Engineer, Mr. Tom Peterson
Public Works Director/Bui III ffi i
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg call
p.m.
r Nelson seconded b Council Member Broussard
a enda with the noted addition. Motion carried.
III.
IV.
Mayor wedberg expressed the value and importance of the Life Time
Achievement Award for this City. He noted this years awards would be given to
Mr. Tom Wilharber and in the memory of Mrs. Sharon Smith.
Council Member Capra reviewed a Life Time summary of Mr. Wilharber and his
commitment to the City of Centerville. State Senator Maddy Rider presented the
Life Time Achievement Award to Mr. Wilharber. Mr. Wilharber thanked the
Page 1 of 14
, .
July 25, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
many people behind this award along with his family for supporting him through
all his numerous activities,
Council Member Capra then read through a Life Time summary in the memory of
Mrs. Sharon Smith. Mayor Swedberg presented her family with the Achievement
Award. Mr. Jim Smith, Sharon's husband, shared a few words with the
community and thanked them for the honor and tribute they have given her.
Mayor Swedberg invited everyone to the Fete des Lacs Festival on August 4,
2001 where a reception will be held in honor of the Life Time Achievement
Award recipients.
Mayor Swedberg called for a recess at 7:00 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 7:06
p.m.
Mr. Terry Hannah - Ground Development
Mayor Swedberg asked that Mr. Hannah come before the Council to present the
Council with an update. Mr. Terry Hannah, Ground Development, indicated he
was before the Council to update them on the sewer and water plan, along with
the MUSA issues regarding his development. He noted a meeting was held
between City Staff, Mr. Hannah and the City Engineer. Mr. Hannah asked that
Mr. Peterson review the issues discussed at that meeting.
Mr. Peterson reviewed the sanitary sewer location along Centerville Road for the
Pheasant Marsh addition. He noted sanitary sewer and water has now been
proposed to run down Center Street to the development and brought back to
Centerville Road through the development.
Mr. Peterson indicated he felt this was a valid solution and would work well for
looping into future developments. He stated a lift station may be needed in the
future with this plan as the Vickers and Wilharber properties develop.
Mr. Peterson explained 100% of the assessments would be borne by the
developer. He recommended Council approve the layout for this development as
presented.
Mr. Joel Cooper, James R. Hill & Associates, stated he agreed with the proposed
layout of the water and sewer noting this would work just as well as the other
proposed layout without bringing about assessment issues.
Mr. Steve Fitterman, Ground Development, indicated he is interested in doing
what is best for the community. He stated the proposed layout was a welcomed
suggestion from staff, and he thanked Mr. Palzer and Mr. Peterson for their work
on this item. Mr. Fitterman noted this route would also not force properties into
entering MUSA before indicated in the Comprehensive Plan.
Council Member Nelson asked for the cost of the new water and sewer layout.
Mr. Fitterman stated the overall costs were down, but indicated the cost to the
Page 2 of 14
, ,
July 25, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
developer would be higher, as the developer would be responsible for the cost of
all improvements.
Mayor Swedberg asked if a new feasibility study was needed. Mr. Hoeft stated
the present feasibility study would need to be revised, but stated the development
could continue with a conditional approval along with ordering the plans and
specs. He stated this would then allow for the developer's agreement to
commence with the developer paying 100% of the assessments as well as waiving
his right to irregularities in the approval process.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the MUSA issues would also need to be addressed. Mr.
Hoeft indicated the proposed MUSA phasing issues would still need to be
amended for the developer to go forward.
Council Member Travis questioned if a forcemain or if a lift station would be
necessary for adjacent properties to this development, due to the shallow depth at
Centerville Road. Mr. Peterson indicated this is difficult to determine because he
does not have elevations of the neighboring properties. He added that Mr.
Wilharber could gain sewer access from Hunter's Crossing at the northeast side of
his property.
Council Member Travis asked if this item could be acted on without renotification
to the public. Mr. Hoeft indicated because this item was tabled it can be taken off
the table and acted on. He stated this would allow the developer to begin grading
if the improvements were approved and then the Council could wait on the
feasibility report.
Council Member Nelson reviewed a letter from Mr. Wilharber with the developer.
Mr. Fitterman indicated he has not received that letter, but stated after
conversations this morning, the newly proposed improvements would not impose
assessments on the Wilharber Estates for water or sewer. He explained Mr.
Peterson reviewed this information with Mr. Wilharber.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked why this item had to be acted on
tonight or if it could be completed at the next meeting. Mr. Peterson noted this
item has already been delayed for four weeks and stated action tonight would
allow them to begin grading with approval of the plans and specs at the first
meeting in August with bidding to begin in September. He indicated construction
would then not be allowed to start until some time in October.
Council Member Capra stated she was in favor of acting on this item without
further delay. Mayor Swedberg concurred.
Mr. Hoeft stated the feasibility of this item has not changed, but the assessment
values have. He indicated the improvements in the development take a new route
but that the layout of the development remains the same.
Mr. Hoeft indicated it would be appropriate to move to open the Pheasant Marsh
hearing so action could be taken for Ground Development.
Page 3 of14
July 25, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Nelson to
open the Pheasant Marsh improvements hearinl!:. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
amend the feasibility report for Pheasant Marsh. All in favor. Aves - 4
(Mavor Swedber~. Council Members Capra. Nelson and Travis) Nay - 1
(Council Member Broussard Vickers). Motion carried.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Mayor Swedberl!: to
approve the improvements as sUl!:l!:ested bv staff for Pheasant Marsh
conditioned upon the accepted amended feasibility report. All in favor. Aves
- 4 (Mayor Swedberl!:. Council Members Capra. Nelson and Travis) Nay - 1
(Council Member Broussard Vickers). Motion carried.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Mayor Swedberl!:. to order
the plans and specifications of Pheasant Marsh. All in favor. Ayes - 4
(Mavor Swedberl!:. Council Members Capra. Nelson and Travis) Nav - 1
(Council Member Broussard Vickers). Motion carried.
Sathe Executive Search Firm
Mayor Swedberg indicated the Council is interviewing executive search firms to
locate and hire a City Administrator for the City of Centerville. Mr. Mark Sathe
introduced himself to the Council and presented a brief proposal from his
company. He indicated he started this business in 1974 and is based in St. Louis
Park. He stated most of his work is within the private sector, but indicated he
does do work in the public sector. Mr. Sathe stated he does not wish to be the
largest search firm on the metro area, but rather, to provide quality candidates
through a thorough search process.
Mr. Tom Wesley reviewed the search process with the Council and noted his firm
would not be working on a similar search while the City of Centerville is seeking
a City Administrator. He then asked for questioned from the Council.
Council Member Nelson questioned if the fee of $16,500 plus expenses was the
total cost. She asked what the expenses would be and what the average total was
on that. Mr. Sathe noted this would be the posting fee, which is required by the
state, along with mass mailing to reach potential candidates. He stated the
expenses would be in the $1,000-2,000 range. Mr. Sathe indicated larger
expenses would be incurred if candidates were flown in for interviews or with
relocation fees. He stated no large fees would be incurred unless okayed by the
Council.
Council Member Nelson asked if the time period of two to three months was
valid. Mr. Sathe reviewed a sample time frame based on past experiences. He
stated there would be a time of advertising, interviewing and time frame for
acceptance and giving notice.
Page 4 of 14
July 25, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra questioned the average time to fill a position. Mr. Sathe
stated three months was a good average.
Council Member Capra asked how many candidates would be brought before the
Council. She noted 10 were interviewed in the past for the City Administrator
position. Mr. Sathe stated 10 would be a large number in his opinion due to the
time required to interview and grade each candidate. He suggested approximately
four to five candidates to allow for proper evaluations and matrixes to be
discussed.
Mayor Swedberg thanked Mr. Sathe for his presentation and for the time that he
spent with the Council.
Brimever & Associates
Council Member Nelson indicated she received a note from Mr. Jim Brimeyer.
She explained that because the City had two other companies interested in
pursuing the City Administrator search, they would step down from this venture.
DMG - Maximus
Mr. Tom Carawan (Vice President, Maximus), stated he was before the Council
to explain the services his company could provide to the City of Centerville. He
stated Maximus was a large public company. Mr. Carawan noted his company is
going through a name change at this time, going from DMG - Maximus to simply
Maximus.
Mr. Carawan noted he has a great deal of background in the public sector. He
indicated a profile analysis would be the first thing completed for the City to
greater define the candidates' qualities. Mr. Carawan explained after the profile
was completed, the item would be advertised throughout the Midwest. He stated
after advertising candidates are narrowed down through qualifications and back
ground checks.
Mr. Carawan explained his firm would reduce the candidates to five potentials
and assist in the interviewing process, final decision, and salary negotiations. He
encouraged the Council to provide feedback to his firm throughout the entire
process and indicated the process normally takes roughly 13 weeks.
Mr. Carawan reviewed the fees and expenses with the Council and stated his firm
has a great deal of experience in the public sector and could benefit the City of
Centerville. He stated his company has a proven network and a large number of
resources within the public sector. Mr. Carawan asked for questions from the
Council with regard to his comments.
Council Member Capra asked if there was a guarantee as to the satisfaction of the
candidate after approval. Mr. Carawan stated noted his company would continue
to work with the City until they were satisfied.
Page 5 of 14
July 25, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson questioned if Maximus would be taking similar types of
positions while working with the City of Centerville. Mr. Carawan noted he was
not aware of any similar positions in place at this time, but noted this could be a
possibility.
Mayor Swedberg thanked Mr. Carawan for his comments and presentation on his
company.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
June 27. 2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the June 27. 2001 Council meetin2 minutes as amended on pa~e 2.
chanl:in2 Ms. Barney to Ms. Marty: pal:e 4. para2raph 9 chan2inl: the word
allowed to "forced": pa2e 9. para2raph 7 chanl:inl: the word request to
"violation"; and pa~e 11. within the first motion chan2in2 the word table to
"denied". All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Julv 11. 2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Travis to approve the July 11. 2001 Council meetinl: minutes as
amended on pal:e 8. para2raph 4 changing Mr. March to Mary Capra. All in
favor. Council Member Nelson abstained. Motion carried.
Julv 13.2001 Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Nelson to table the July 13. 2001 Emer2ency Council meetin~
minutes as they were not before the Council. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Julv 18.2001 Special Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Nelson to table the July 18.2001 Special Council meetinl: minutes as
tbey were not before the Council. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
Mr. Larry Woiak - 6925 Centerville Road
Mayor Swedberg reviewed the complaint as presented provided by Mr. Woiak.
He noted Mr. Woiak's yard was damaged by construction in his area. Mayor
Swedberg explained Mr. Woiak has been working with Mr. Dan Schulander,
Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik and Assoc. to get the contractor to satisfactorily
repair the yard, flowers and correct flooding problems that were created.
Page 6 of 14
July 25, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Travis asked if Mr. Woiak's property damage was on his
property or City property. Mr. Palzer stated this item has been discussed and
noted a punch list would be created for the damage that has taken place to be
brought before the Met Council for the contractor to come back and address these
items.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
Liauor Policy
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Travis to table this item to a future worksession meetinl!: this fall.
All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Pheasant Marsh MUSA and Assessment Roll
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the Pheasant Marsh MUSA comprehensive plan amendment. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Search Process and Plan for the Vacant City Administrator Position
Mayor Swedberg asked if the Council was prepared to move on this item.
Council Member Travis noted he was in favor of the Sathe Executive Search
Firm.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
retain the services of Sathe Executive Search Firm to assist the City in hirin~
a City Administrator. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Appointing an Interim City Administrator
Council Member Nelson asked if this was necessary at this time. Mr. Palzer
stated he did not see any need at this time. The Council indicated they would be
discussing this item in greater detail at the next meeting.
Hiring ofa Temporary Individual (Temp. Agency)
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if a contract would need to be
established to hire someone directly on a part time basis. Mr. Hoeft stated a
contract would not be needed if an employee were hired on a part-time basis.
The Council came to a consensus to allow staff to hire a temporary staff person on
their own as they see fit.
Centennial Fire District 2002 Budget
Page 7 of 14
July 25, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg thanked Mr. Milo Bennet for being present to review the 2002
budget to the Council. Mr. Bennett thanked the Council for their time and
reviewed the budget. He noted he has normally had a 3-4% increase in the budget
in past years. Mr. Bennett indicated the proposed budget has an 8% increase as
the Fire Department would be adding an additional employee.
Mr. Bennett noted the areas with large increases were with respect to fire
prevention and inspections. He stated he felt this was of great importance to
educate and lower the fire losses within the community. Mr. Bennett indicated
the 2002 budget was $613,437 with the City of Centerville being responsible for
12.4%.
Mayor Swedberg thanked Mr. Bennett for his work on the budget and
commended the volunteers at the department.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if the $100,000 for capital equipment
was adequate. Mr. Bennet stated he felt this was adequate as this amount has
been budgeted for a number of years for future purchases. He indicated he feels
this number was adequate.
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Nelson to
approve the Centennial Fire District 2002 budl!et as nresented. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimouslv.
Center Street Drainage Issues
Mayor Swedberg noted this item is being reviewed due to discussion at the last
meeting and asked Mr. Peterson to address this item. Mr. Peterson reviewed a
sketch of the elevation of the Center Street properties. He noted 1825 Center
Street was the lowest property with a swamp in the backyard. Mr. Peterson
suggested a small shale through the back property lines to lead runoff to the
existing ditch.
Mr. Palzer stated storm sewer and a drain tile system would assist in the drainage
of this area, but noted this could not be completed until Pheasant Marsh 3'd Phase.
Mr. Peterson indicated he didn't see this happening until 2005 or 2006. He stated
he knows the current drainage and ditch system does have fall.
Council Member Capra asked who would be assessed for the drain tile and storm
sewer expense. Mr. Palzer indicated each property owner would be assessed for
his or her own properties expense.
Mr. Peterson asked if the residents use sump pumps. Each resident said they had
a sump pump working all spring and halfway through the summer.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested a drain tile from 1825 to 1845
Center Street or asked if the ditch could be expanded. Mr. Peterson stated by
expanding the ditch it would just continue to fill with ground water.
Page 8 of14
July 25, 200 I
Couucil Meetiug Minutes
Mayor Swedberg asked how this could be fixed. Mr. Palzer stated the water
needs to get out of the neighborhood through sanitary sewer to Pheasant Marsh
along Pheasant Lane or Dupre Road.
Council Member Travis stated there was a Storm Sewer fund that could assist in
the expenses for the residents in fixing this problem. He indicated unfortunately,
the Pheasant Marsh development was five years off, as far as providing storm
sewer to these residents.
Council Member Nelson suggested using some of the Storm Sewer fund and then
assessing the rest of the expense to the residents.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested a study be completed as to the
feasibility of placing storm sewer within this area and tying it into Pheasant
Marsh.
Mayor Swedberg asked when Center Street would be reconstructed. Mr. Palzer
stated upon reconstruction water and storm sewer would be completed in
conjunction with Pheasant Marsh in approximately four years.
Mayor Swedberg encouraged the Council to authorize Mr. Peterson to create a
feasibility report on this item. Council Member Broussard Vickers asked that a
proposal first be provided with costs of the feasibility report at the next meeting.
Prioritization of Adopted Goals
Mayor Swedberg indicated he was looking for a layout of future projects that
would be before the Council. Mr. Palzer indicated without the presence of the
City Administrator he noted all items requiring a great deal of staff time would be
put on hold until this position was filled.
The Council indicated they were okay with Mr. Palzer's concerns and asked that
staff present just goals that would be effected by the 2002 budget.
Eagle Pass 2nd Addition
Mayor Swedberg indicated the applicant for the Eagle Pass 2nd Addition has asked
that his request be withdrawn from Council consideration.
QUAD Cities Police Department Proposal- Status
Mayor Swedberg indicated he attended a meeting for the QUAD Cities Police
Department on July 12,2001. He noted a proposal was presented but indicated no
future meetings are being held as discussions are off. Mayor Swedberg explained
he feels this is a viable entity and that the City should continue conversations, but
noted it was on hold for the time being.
Page 9 of14
'.
July 25, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg noted there were problems with the coverage with the number
of officers on the force at this time. He stated additional concerns would also
need to be addressed by all cities involved, which was not handled at the first
meeting correctly.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the original time line was
extremely unrealistic. Mayor Swedberg agreed stating much of the original
benefits were being borne by the City of Lino Lakes, but after reviewing the
population numbers, he said benefits could be borne by all cities involved if
revised and re-proposed to the participating cities.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested the Council recommend the
QUAD Cities Police Department continue to find ways to meet the needs of all
cities involved. The Council concurred to advise the Mayor to draft a letter that
the City is interested in this entity with formal thoughts being passed along to the
police commission.
21 sl Avenue Appraisals - Provided bv the City Attomev
Mr. Hoeft explained he received appraisals regarding 21 sl Avenue. He stated he
would leave a copy with the City to be distributed to the Council members and
asked that this item be tabled to the next meeting.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Ca1?ra to
table discussion on the 21st Avenue Appraisals. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Anoka County Traffic Study Update
Nothing new to report.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
Consideration of Granting a Temporary/Event 3.2 Liquor License. Bingo. and
Noise Permit for the Originals (August 4. 200n to the Centerville Lion's for the
Fete des Lacs Celebration
Mr. DeVine indicated he was before the Council to request several permits for the
festival. He noted the helicopter rides would not be taking place at the festival
this year as the helicopter company has booked with another event.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the permit fees were waived in the
past. Mr. DeVine stated this was the case.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the temporary/event 3.2 liquor license continl!ent upon
receipt of the liability certificate. bin eo license. license to hold a dance
(Au~ust 3. 4 and 5) and noise permit for the Orieinals (Aufl:ust 4. 2001) to the
Page 10 of 14
. .
July 25, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Centerville Lion's for the Fete des Lacs Celebration with the fees bein!:
waived by the City. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Discussion of Preparation of 2002 Budget
Council Member Broussard Vickers recommended the Council establish a special
session to discuss the budget in greater detail. The Council agreed to hold a
special meeting on August 6, 2001 at 6:30 p.m. The Council advised staff to post
this meeting.
Consideration of the Wellhead Protection Plan
Mayor Swedberg asked for direction from Mr. Palser on this item. Mr. Palser
stated he needed approval of a letter that would be presented to the State of
Minnesota on the well work that has been completed in the City for the past two
years.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the wellhead protection plan as proposed bv Mr. Paul Palzer. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Resolution #01-013 - DNR Grant for Acorn Creek
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve Resolution #01-013 to receive a reimbursement from the DNR for
Acorn Creek. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Pay Estimate #1 - Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park - Vinco. Inc.
Mr. Peterson noted this item is 87% complete with the sod and concrete
completed. He recommended payment as submitted to Vinco, Inc.
Motion by Council Member Broussard-Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Capra to approve the payment of $107.651.44 to Vinco. Inc. for
their work at Laurie LaMotte Park. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Consideration of Mr. & Mrs. Stan Hasiak Request - 6994 Centerville Road
Mr. Palzer noted this was now a non-issue as they have complied with this item to
date.
Fete des Lacs Budget versus Expenditures
Mr. DeVine reviewed the Fete des Lacs Budget and Expenditures with the
Council. He stated it was still too early to know as donations were still coming in.
Page 11 of 14
"
July 25,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
IX.
CONSENT AGENDA
Ken Cook. Building Inspector - Successful Completion of Performance Review
and Recommendation to Grade 5, Step 6
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the Performance Review and Recommendation to Grade 5. Step 6 as
sUl!~ested by Staff. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Kris Sweeney. Account Clerk II - Successful Completion of Performance Review
and Recommendation to Grade 3. Step 2
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the Performance Review and Recommendation to Grade 3. Step 2 as
sUl!l!ested bv Staff. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
The City ofCenterville July 12 through July 25, 2001
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the expenditures for the City from July 11. 2001 throul!h July 25.
2001. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Centennial Fire District Expenses
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the Centennial Fire District expenditures as presented by Staff. All
in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Staff Concerns
Mayor Swedberg asked what this item was in regard to. Council Member Nelson
stated Ms. Lien did not want the Parks and Recreation Meeting minutes taken
away from her or the Wheels Park. She stated she wanted to continue this work
as IS.
Council Member Broussard-Vickers stated she was not under the understanding
the City needed a staff person to address Parks and Recreation issues on a full
time basis. She indicated she was responsible for ordering the wheels park
equipment and some work with the festival.
Mr. Palzer stated he and Ms. Bender discussed this item and stated they felt the
Commission would need to put monies aside to cover this expense taken on by
staff.
Council Member Broussard-Vickers asked if the Parks and Recreation meetings
needed minutes. Mr. Hoeft stated minutes were required, but noted the level of
detail was up for discussion.
Page 12 of 14
July 25, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard-Vickers suggested staff create the agenda's but not
draft the minutes. She indicated the original decision was to have Ms. Lien work
minimally with the Parks and Recreation Committee and asked that this be held.
Council concurred with this suggestion.
Committee/Commissions Basic Needs and Concerns
Council Member Capra indicated Ms. Amiee Fairbrother found it difficult to take
minutes at the Economic Development as she chaired the meeting. She asked if
an outline could be submitted with the basic motions, until staff could support this
item. The Council agreed with this suggestion during the interim staffing
concerns.
XI. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR'S REPORT/CLERK/TREASURER'S
REPORT
Mr. Palzer noted he was approached by the Public Works staff to go to four ten-
hour days during the summer with continued coverage five days per week. The
Council said to test this through the end of August and report back to the Council
at the next meeting on its success.
Mayor Swedberg reviewed an article from the League of Minnesota Cities on
benefits for City staff. He asked that the members review the information for
future discussion. Mayor Swedberg noted a personnel policy was also sent to the
City for review. He asked that one Council Member volunteer to review the item
and report back to the Council. Council Member Nelson volunteered to complete
this task.
Council Member Broussard-Vickers asked if staff would continue to contact
Council on a regular basis. Council Member Nelson stated if a Council Member
is contacted, all should be contacted through the staffing interim.
Council Member Broussard-Vickers questioned if the Council would be checking
in with the staff every day during the staffing interim. She noted she felt this was
not necessary and could be a waste of staffs time. Council Member Travis
indicated this could get to be cumbersome.
Mr. Palzer stated in the past, one Council Member was appointed as a liaison or
contact for staff. Council Broussard-Vickers indicated she did not want the
Council Members to be effecting the day-to-day operations of staff with
numerous calls unless help was being requested from staff.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
adiourn the Julv 25. 2001 Council Meetinl! at 10:25 p.m. Ayes - 4 (Mavor
Swedberg. Council Members Capra. Nelson and Travis. Nav - 1 (Council
Member Broussard Vickers. Motion carried.
Page 13 of 14
"
July 25, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Transcribed by:
Heidi Guenther, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 14 of 14
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
EXECUTIVE SESSION
August 8, 2001
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Mari Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Attorney, James Hoeft
Director of Public Works
Mayo, SwOObcrg mibi~.@ at 7053 p.m
Mr. Hoeft was p~tr~s legal issues regarding the following matters:
1. Employee performance related to complaint from Ken Cook.
2. Litigation regarding complaint from Ken Cook.
3. Review of21't Avenue appraisal reports.
4. Discussion of appeal of pending criminal litigation.
Mayor Swedberg adjourned the meeting at 10: 10 p.m.
Page 1 of 1
Approved
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
August 8, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly
scheduled meeting on August 8, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Man Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Attorney, James Hoeft
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the August 8, 2001 City Council meeting to order at 6:30
p.m.
SET AGENDA
The following items were added to the agenda:
. Terry Hannah, Ground Development under Appearances/Awards
. Jill Lien under Appearances/Awards
. Discuss Hugonian Newspaper under New Business
· Informational Letter from City of Lexington under New Business
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to
approve the aeenda with the noted additions. Motion carried.
III. PUBLIC HEARING (S) - None.
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
Mr. Ken Cook
Mayor Swedberg indicated this item would be discussed in a closed session at the
end of the meeting. He asked for comments from Mr. Cook. Mr. Cook explained
his letter should be self-explanatory for the Council's discussion.
Page 1 of8
Council Member Capra asked how Mr. Cook would be told of the Council's
decision. Mr. Hoeft noted Mr. Cook would be notified tomorrow morning of
what the Council decided on this issue.
Ground Development - Terry Hannah
Mr. Hannah, Ground Development, noted he was present to discuss the time line
and notification of the Pheasant Marsh development. He presented the Council
with a potential schedule to establish meeting dates and notification dates critical
to his development.
Mr. Hannah indicated August 9,2001 would be a critical date to advertise the
public hearing for the next Planning and Zoning Meeting for Phase 1 Final Plat
for approval on September 4, 2001. He added that the MUSA swap on the
Comprehensive Plan Amendment would also be submitted as soon as possible to
gain approval on this item.
Mr. Hannah noted grading could begin as soon as the watershed permits were in
hand. He stated application for a grading permit should be in to the City by next
week along with the necessary fees.
Mr. Hannah explained he wanted to review this schedule to make the Council
aware of the upcoming time frame and approval dates as staff is lacking a City
Administrator at this time.
Mr. Hoeft stated at the last meeting the Council ordered the plans and specs
which will bring their approval to the August 22,2001 Council Meeting.
Council Member Capra asked ifthe timeframe provided by Mr. Hannah was
realistic. Mr. Hoeft noted the timeframe was realistic but has not been formally
approved and accepted at this time.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the advertisement dates for critical notices could be
met. Mr. Hoeft stated he was comfortable with the notice dates, as this has been
discussed with Teresa Bender on staff.
Mayor Swedberg asked how the MUSA swap would be addressed. Mr. Hoeft
stated Met Council would need to approve this item, as it is not a City issue. He
explained this was the only item that could prolong approval at the City level.
Mayor Swedberg advised staff to stay on top of this item with Met Council. Mr.
Hoeft noted this was up to Dean Johnson and Ms. Bender. The Council advised
Mr. Palzer to have staff send out the proper documentation to Met Council on this
item.
Jill Lien
Jill Lien, 1810 Hayfield Road, said she thought Council was misinformed on
administration and the way the office is running. The office is running the same
now as it always has run.
Page 2 of8
Ms. Lien noted that at one point she was instructed to work on projects, with
parks, grants, concession stands and things like that. She indicated that she went
back to receptionist duties because there was no longer a receptionist.
Ms. Lien questioned why all of a sudden the office is hurting for help because the
City Administrator was not out doing the day-to-day work that staff does. She
asked the Council to allow her to do more work or she would need to look for a
new position elsewhere.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
July 13.2001 Emergency Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the July 13. 2001 Emer~ency Council meetin!: minutes as amended
by memo provided by Council Member Nelson. Vote 4-0-1. (Council
Member Broussard Vickers abstained) Motion carried.
July 18.2001 Special Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Nelson to
approve the July 18. 2001 Special Council meetin~ minutes as amended by
memo provided by Council Member Nelson and on Pa~e 13 paral:raph 2.
chanein!: her to staff. Vote 3-0-2 (Mayor Swedber~ and Council Member
Broussard Vickers abstained) Motion carried.
July 25. 2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the July 25. 2001 Council meetin~ minutes as amended by memo
provided by Council Member Nelson: and on Paee 2. paraeraph 6. chan~ine
Center Street to Short Street: Pal:e 2. para~raph 8. removin~ the word "not"
from the first line: Pa~e 8. para~raph 6. 4th sentence to read a small "swale":
Paee 8. para~raph 12. 2nd sentence chaneine sanitary sewer to "storm"
sewer: Paee 9. paral:raph 3. 2nd sentence chan~in~ would to could: Paee 12.
paraeraph 5 under Staff Concerns. rd sentence to read "was to have staff
work" and chaneinl: the last word from held to upheld: lastly chaneine Mr.
Palser to Mr. Palzer. All in favor. Motion carried.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS - None.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
Search Process and Plans for the Vacant City Administrator Position (Update)
Council Member Nelson noted a final draft for a profile was before the Council
for review and comment.
Council/Commission/Committee Discussions and Procedures
Page 3 of8
Council Member Capra asked that this item be on the agenda to provide staff with
greater direction for staff members with regard to the Park and Recreation
Commission. She indicated it was her understanding, if there were problems,
staff should still be addressed during the interim.
Mayor Swedberg noted Mr. Palzer and Ms. Bender have been given the authority
to supervise people during the interim. The Council concurred not to micro-
manage the day-to-day operations of staff and to continue to have Mr. Palzer and
Ms. Bender supervise staff.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated this has been the position of the
Council and stated if staff has issues they should be addressed with Mr. Palzer or
Ms. Bender and not be brought to the Council.
Eagle Pass 2nd Addition Association Concerns
Mr. Hoeft noted he reviewed the Developer's Agreement for Eagle Pass along
with the townhome associations concerns. He indicated he analyzed the concerns
of the property owners in conjunction with the agreement.
Mr. Hoeft noted he received a memorandum from Mike Quigley of Gor-em, LLC
addressing eight items that he is willing to address by the end of August. He
explained those eight items to be, completion of the tennis court, replacement of
cracked sidewalk panels, removal and replacement of dead trees, common area
clean up, the cutting of weeds where necessary, completion of all necessary
sodding, clean up of construction sites, and street sweeping as needed. He
indicated this memorandum would be forwarded on to the two townhome
associations.
Mayor Swedberg indicated concern for the structural quality and workmanship
within this development. Mr. Palzer stated the building code would hold these
structures to certain standards.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if any action had taken place on these
eight items to date. The president of the Twin Townhomes Association stated he
has seen the developer begin in these areas. He asked that the Council continue to
have open communication with the association presidents to keep them informed
of upcoming Phase II plans.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked that the Council sit on this item until
the end of August until a progress report could be completed. The Council
concurred.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Nelson to table discussion on Ea~le Pass 2nd Addition Association
Concerns to the first meetin!!: in September. All in favor. Motion carried.
Sheehy Property
Page 4 of 8
Mr. Palzer noted he is following up with the Council on this item and noted Mr.
Sheehy was interested in donating 15 acres ofland to the City for $56,000 with
assistance in the assessments on this site. He noted Mr. Sheehy's attorney is
contacting him to see if Mr. Sheehy is still interested in the arrangement. Mr.
Palzer noted this would be revisited once information was gained from their
attorney.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
Consideration of Granting a Noise Permit for the Rock-N-Hollvwoods at Kelly's
Komer
Bill Bisek noted that on October 13,2001 there would be a Customer
Appreciation Event at Kelly's Komer. He explained there would be a pig roast
and com feed for all patrons. Mr. Bisek stated the event would be held from 8:00
p.m.-12:00 a.m. He indicated this was a family event and noted neighboring
properties would be sent an invitation to inform them of the event and of the
potential noise.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the Noise Permit for the Rock-N-Hollywoods at Kellv's
Korner on October 13. 2001 from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. All in favor.
Motion carried.
Discussion of Preparation of2002 Budget
Mayor Swedberg indicated this item would be further discussed at the August 21,
2001 special budget work session meeting and on September 11,2001.
Consideration of Approving North Metro Telecommunications Commission!
NMTC Media Center 2002 Budgets
Council Member Capra noted she attended a commission meeting of the North
Metro Telecommunications Commission where they asked the Council to
approve their 2002 budget. She noted the peg fees would be going up by $.08 for
the year 2002.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the 2002 North Metro Telecommunications Commission and Media
Center Budl!ets as recommended by the Executive Committee. All in favor.
Motion carried.
Consideration of the Submission of a Rice Creek Watershed District Application
for Fund Assistance Associated with Stream Bed & Bank Stabilization Program
by Mr. Tim Glascow. 7319 Old Mill Road
Mr. Palzer indicated Mr. Glascow is requesting reimbursement for $3,147 for
work he will be completing at his property to stabilize the stream bed in his rear
yard.
Page 5 of8
Mayor Swedberg encouraged that the Rice Creek Watershed eliminate the
cuttings or deforestation along the creek. He indicated the natural run off
solutions were much more beneficial than landscaping.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Nelson to advise Mr. Palzer to forward this information to the Rice
Creek Watershed as necessary. All in favor. Motion carried.
Rainwater Gardens
Mr. Palzer noted rainwater gardens could be used in the City of Centerville to
assist with backyard drainage issues. He noted these gardens have been
developed in several cities to address similar concerns.
Mr. Peterson recommended this type of resolution to assist residents in the area
with groundwater concerns, especially along Center Street.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested the Council hold a seminar on this
topic to inform the residents of this option. The Council concurred.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked that a report on Rainwater Gardens be
provided at the next meeting to explain which time of the year would be best for
plantings, watering conditions needed, maintenance, etc. for these type of
gardens.
Successful Completion of Mr. Joel McPherson's Six (6) Month Probationary
Period
Mr. Palzer asked for affirmation of the probationary period to regular employee
status for Mr. Joel McPherson.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to affirm the probationary period of Mr. Joel McPherson beini:
completed and movine: him on as a reeular employee. All in favor. Motion
carried.
Hugonian Article
Mayor Swedberg reviewed incorrect items within the articles and noted he would
send a letter to there paper.
Letter from the City of Lexington
Mayor Swedberg noted this was an informational item only.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
The City of Centerville July 26 through August 8. 2001
Page 6 of8
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the expenditures for the Citv from Julv 26. 2001 throu2h AUl:ust 8.
2001. All in favor. Motion carried.
Centennial Fire District Expenses
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the Centennial Fire District expenditures as presented by Staff. All
in favor. Motion carried.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
. Council Member Broussard Vickers noted the Planning Commission met on
August 7, 2001 where discussion was held on Ordinance 4 with regard to
accessory structures. She noted that this item would be before the Council at
the next meeting.
. Council Member Broussard Vickers noted findings of fact would need to be
provided on all new variances coming before Planning or Council for
approval. Mr. Hoeft stated the findings of fact are the basis for going through
with something or not following through with something. He noted findings
of fact would usually be provided for variance approvals to give record of
why an item was approved or denied. Mr. Hoeft stated they shows what the
Council based their decision on and that the Council did not act in a
capricious manner. He suggested staff prepare findings of fact before
Planning and Zoning meetings to advise the members of what issues would be
addressed with each variance.
. Council Member Broussard Vickers noted the Park and Recreation
Commission were going forward with the Wheels Park and the order has been
placed for the park fixtures.
. Council Member Capra noted the Cable Commission was discussing things
with AT&T Broadband as they are under a takeover, at this time. She noted
this mayor may not have an affect on the agreement with this commission.
. Council Member Nelson noted Ray DeVine would be present at the next
meeting to review the Fete des Lacs budget.
XI. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR'S REPORT/CLERK/TREASURER'S
REPORT
Mr. Palzer noted Mike Quigley has commenced work on the tennis court. He
indicated the weeds have been cut in most areas, and streets have been swept
within Eagle Pass.
Mr. Palzer explained Kim Stephan has accepted a part time temporary position
with the City with hours to be negotiated with staff.
Page 7 of8
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
recess to an Executive Session at 7:53 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Travis to adjourn the AUl!:Ust 8. 2001 Council Meetine at 10:10 p.m.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Transcribed by:
Heidi Guenther, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 8 of8
Approved
OFFICIAL PROCEEDING
CENTERVILLE CITY COUNCIL
EXECUTIVE SESSION
August 22, 2001
Present:
Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mari Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
Council Member Mary Capra
Staff:
Teresa Bender - ClerfTreasurer & Interim City Administrator
James Hoeft - Garna, Guzy, Steffen, Ltd
Mayor Swedberg called the meeting to order at 8:14 p.m.
Discussion was conducted regarding the work performance of Ms. Jill Lien,
Receptionist for the City of Centerville.
A motion was made by Council Member Nelson to begin termination procedure
of Ms. Lien's employment with the City, termination effective August 23, 2001.
Motion seconded by Mayor Swedberg. Vote 3-2. (Mayor Swedberg and Council
Members Nelson and Capra voted yes. Council Members Broussard Vickers
and Travis voted nay). Motion carried.
Mayor Swedberg adjourned the meeting at 9: 15 pm.
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
August 22, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their Iy
scheduled meeting on August 22, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 M~. t.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg ~ (::)
Council Member .
unc.
STAFF:
City Attorney, James Hoeft
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the August 22, 2001 City Council meeting to order at
6:30 p.rn.
II. SET AGENDA
The following items were added to the agenda:
. Barry Brainerd under Appearances
. Sarah Reichert regarding the Skate Park under Appearances
. Jerry Helmbrecht regarding the Skate Park under Appearances
. Ray DeVine under New Business
. Executive Session Minutes of August 8, 2001 under Consideration of Minutes
. 7680 Lake Drive under New Business
. Park and Recreation Pay Phone Request at Laurie LaMotte Park under New
Business
. Employee Performance Discussion for an Executive Session
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Travis to
approve the aeenda with the noted additions. Motion carried unanimously.
~
III. PUBLIC HEARING (S) - None.
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
Mr. Terry HlInnllh - Ground Development
1 oflO
Mr. Hannah noted he was the developer of the Pheasant Marsh Development and
noted he was present to talk about the 429 process and the approvals necessary for
his development. He indicated Ms. Bender has been in contact with him
regarding the bond approval process.
Mr. Hannah noted the first item is submission for a local improvement with
Ground Development paying 100% of the assessments followed by waiver of
appeals. He explained there were changes in the assessment process, which
created additional documentation for the approval process. He indicated the
petition for a local improvement is very straightforward and stated Ground
Development would not have any problems with this paperwork.
Mr. Hannah explained that his attorney and president were both unavailable for
discussion on these items and asked if the Council could approve these items
contingent upon signature ofthe petition by the president tomorrow.
Mr. Hoeft stated he did not object to approve of these items contingent on the
signature being completed tomorrow. He indicated the petition for approval and
the agreement of assessments and waiver of irregularity and appeal should go
through with as is.
Motion by Councilmember Nelson, seconded bv Councilmember Capra
approvine: Resolution 01-014 and Resolution 01-015 contine:ent upon the
sie:nature of the President of Ground Development. for the Petition for Local
Improvement and Ae:reement of Assessment: and Waiver of Irree:ularitv and
Appeal by the Owner as presented by staff. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
.:
Barry Brainerd - Plannin~ Commission
Barry Brainerd, 1853 Revoir Street, noted he was before the Council with regard
to his third annual block party and stated he is requesting to put up barricades in
the cul-de-sac near his home. Mr. Brainard drew a diagram of the proposed
location for the barricades to allow safety for those participating in the block
party.
Mr. Brainard noted he spoke with the police department and public works
regarding this item. He indicated both approved his site location and noted he
was just looking for approval from the Council.
Councilmember Nelson asked if citizens would still be able to reach Acorn Creek
Park. Mr. Brainerd noted the roadway would still be open for a vehicle to pass,
but indicated he just wanted to minimize the flow.
Motion by Mayor Swedbere:. seconded by Councilmember Travis to approve
the barricade for Barry Brainard for the block party near 1853 Revoir Street
20flO
from 3:00 qm to 12:00 am on AU2ust 25. 2001. AU in favor. Motion carried
unanimousIv.
Sarah Reichert
Sarah Reichert, 1578 LaMotte Circle, noted she spoke with staff earlier today
regarding the noise of the skate park. She indicated she is in favor of the skate
park as an event for the children. but noted the noise was louder than expected.
Ms. Reichert questioned if a time limit could be placed on the park usage or if
insulation could be placed within the metal ramp.
Councilmember Capra questioned what the noise was from. Ms. Reichert stated it
was from a metal ramp and stated she has heard that this could be insulated to
reduce the noise fur the neighboring properties.
Mayor Swedberg stated this would be investigated and thanked Ms. Reichert for
her comments.
Jerry Helmbrecht - Centennial Lakes Police Department - Skate Park
Jerry Helmbrecht, 1745 Main Street, noted he was present to discuss how many
hours the police department could spare at the skate park. He indicated he was
currently present three hours a night at this site.
Mr. Helmbrecht stated time is limited during the daytime hours. He explained he
was not witnessing any problems while at the skate park, but stated during the
day, more issues take place, when a police officer is not present.
Mr. Helmbrecht stated the hours of operation, dawn till dusk issue, could be
enforced more rigidly if the Council wished. He suggested setting a closing time
for safety of the children within the City. Mr. Helmbrecht stated the park has
been a great addition to the park system for the youth in the area to participate in.
Mayor Swedberg encouraged all parents to protect their children with helmets,
wrist and elbow guards while they are at the skate park.
Ray DeVine stated once Acorn Creek was opened, he and his neighbors called the
police right away with excess noise complaints to have them address the youth.
He encouraged the residents near LaMotte Park to do the same thing to reduce the
after dusk activities.
Mayor Swedberg thanked Mr. Helmbrecht for all his assembly efforts along with
numerous residents and staff members at the skate park. He noted the kinks will
be worked out on this issue as the Council becomes more aware of concerns.
Ray DeVine - Fete des Lacs 2001 Festival
Mr. DeVine noted the festival was roughly $5,000 in the red after all the
festivities of2001, but noted there were still some donations coming in. He stated
3 of 10
the City of Centerville would be donating approximately $10,200 to the
committee from the revolving fund as a donation and to cover this deficit.
Mr. DeVine indicated the heat was a factor this year, which limited participation.
He asked if the Council has any questions at this time.
Mayor Swedberg asked the committee to evaluate what items were essential for
the festival and those, which could be dropped. He stated this would be helpful
for future funding concerns.
Ray DeVine noted the softball tournament went really smoothly this year and
brought a lot of people to the festival. He indicated the parade was a huge
success, but was expensive this year.
Councilmember Capra indicated the parade was wonderful this year and
encouraged the committee to continue with it. She questioned if there was an
expense for the carnival. Mr. DeVine indicated the carnival was of no expense to
the committee, and explained the festival committee received a portion of
revenues after a certain portion of revenues was gained.
Councilmember Nelson asked that staff provide the Council with donation
information and final expenditures for review at the next meeting.
Mr. DeVine asked when the Council would have a grasp on the 2002 budget for
the committee to know what funding would be available. Mayor Swedberg noted
the Council will be holding several more study session meetings to discuss the
budget and should have an answer within the next month.
Mr. DeVine thanked all the committee members, public works, City staff and
volunteers for their work on this year's festival.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
August 8. 2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member CaDra to
approve the Auenst 8. 2001 Council meetine minutes as amended bv
Conncilmember Nelson within her memo: Daee 3. Julv 13. 2001 Meetin,:
approval. the vote should read 4-0-1 {Vickers abstained}: Paee 6 under
Hneonian Article remove paraeraph and reDlace with "Mavor Swedbere
reviewed incorrect items within the articles and noted he would send a letter
to the paper: and addinf! a time of adiournment on Paee 8 beine 10:10 D.m.
AD in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
August 8. 2001 Executive Session Council Meetiruz Minutes
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Nelson to approve the Aueust 8. 2001 Executive Session Council
meetine minutes as amended chaneine Paulzer to "Palzer"; makine the caD
40flO
to order time 7:53 p.m. and the time ofadiournment 10:10 p.m. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Hoeft reviewed the items that were discussed at the Executive Session with
regard to Mr. Ken Cook's employee performance. He noted an investigation was
taking place at this time. Mr. Hoeft indicated he was directed to continue with the
appeal of pending criminal litigation by the Council.
Mayor Swedberg thanked Mr. Hoeft for his recommendations and efforts on these
City issues.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS - None.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
Search Process and PIan for the Vacant Citv Administrator Position (Update)
Councilmember Nelson indicated she spoke with Tom Sathe and indicated he was
looking for a dollar amount available for travel expenses for applicants out of the
metro. She noted Mr. Sathe had roughly seven or eight applicants at this time and
would be completing interviews this next week.
Councilmember Nelson explained Mr. Sathe was looking for a dollar range for
assistance in moving a new candidate, as well, and also covering expenses for
final interviews.
Councilmember Nelson stated she spoke with a moving company and found
$4,000 should cover the expense of moving a candidate with roughly $1,000 for
hotel and eating expenses during final interviews. She noted she would be in
agreement with setting an expense account to keep an applicant interested in the
City.
Councilmember Travis stated he felt this was a great deal of money to keep
someone interested in the City of Centerville.
Councilmember Capra indicated she felt this could be a negotiating tool for the
City to use for potential candidates. She explained if this was not to exceed
$6,000 she may be in favor of the expense account.
Councilmember Broussard Vickers stated she may be interested in the City
covering this expense but would like to leave the amount open ended at this time.
She indicated applicants applying from out of the area, would expect to move
when applying for this job.
Councilmember Capra stated she would be in favor of covering the expenses of
the second interview. Councilmember Broussard Vickers agreed this amount
should stay open ended, as the Council does not want to commit themselves to
applicants just yet.
5 oflO
Councilmember Nelson noted she would report this information back to Mr.
Sathe.
Rain Water Gardens
Mayor Swedberg reviewed an article about the rainwater gardens from the Star
Tribune for the Council to review.
Mr. Peterson stated the garden seeds are able to be planted through October with
grading and preparation work, as well. He noted plants are better planted in the
spring for these gardens.
Mayor Swedberg asked that an informational meeting be held for the public to
inform them of this option. Mr. Peterson stated he has been working with the
City of Scandia on this same issue and noted the seminar speaker charges roughly
$70-75 an hour for her meetings.
Councilmember Broussard Vickers asked that something be placed on the web
site regarding this item to gain interest for a seminar to be held in late September
or early October. Mr. Peterson indicated the people on Center Street should be
contacted because this could assist them with their concerns. He stated Mr. Palzer
should also be notified to gain additional names of residents with groundwater
problems.
Mayor Swedberg suggested a cost share for those residents on Center Street from
the sanitary sewer fund to assist in the planting of a rainwater garden.
Eagle Pass 2nd Addition Association Concerns
Ms. Bender noted the tennis court was completed along with the sidewalks in
Eagle Pass. She indicated the striping would be done after the court was allowed
to cure.
Mayor Swedberg spoke on the speed limit issue on Main Street between 20th
Street and the eastern border of the City. He noted the Council is not responsible
for setting speed limits. He indicated there was a state commission responsible
for this issue.
Pheasant Marsh I SI Addition Resolutions
This item was addressed earlier in the meeting.
Shea Architects
Councilmember Capra noted she was working on a design plan for the
commercial property west of the County Bank. She indicated the south side of
Main Street was subdivided into three parcels.
Councilmember Capra reviewed access, sidewalk and parking issues at this site.
She explained this item would be brought before the Council in the future after
6 of 10
additional discussion has taken place. Counci1member Capra noted there would
only be a one one-way entrance off of Main Street to control the flow of traffic.
Counci1member Capra stated this site would be a good working tool for the
Council to use with future commercial developments.
21st Avenue Utxiate
Mr. Hoeft explained he had nothing new to add except to review the response
from Ms. Linda Waite-Smith. He indicated a joint meeting would need to be
scheduled at some point in the future.
Mr. Peterson noted he met with the three property owners along with Mr. Palzer
to discuss the improvements. He indicated no one wants to cover the expense, but
stated good discussions took place.
2002 Budl!et
Mayor Swedberg noted the Council held a study session on August 21, 2001 and
noted the Council was fuced with numerous difficulties this year due to new
legislative actions. He noted there would be additional budget meetings on
September 6, 2001 and September 11, 2001 with a preliminary approval of the
budget at the September 12,2001 Council meeting.
Turcotte Propertv ({Jtilities and Winterizinl!)
Ms. Bender asked what the Council would like to have public works do with the
Turcotte Property as far as winterizing the site or not. Mr. Hoeft stated it was Mr.
PaIzer's wishes to terminate the utilities and to remove the structure in the future.
Councilmember Broussard Vickers asked if the site could be used for rental
property. Mr. Hoeft stated this would be possible but indicated taxes would then
have to be paid on the site.
Councilmember Broussard Vickers asked that the home be winterized until the
home can be sold and moved off the land. Mr. Hoeft stated he feh this would be a
good option for the Council even iflimited funds were gained for the structure.
Councilmember Broussard Vickers questioned if an ad could be placed in the
paper to sell and move the home off the site. She noted selling the home would
be cheaper for the City, than demolishing it.
The Council agreed to keep the utilities on through September until potential
buyers could view the site.
VIll. NEW BUSINESS
Ordinance #4 Amendment (Accessory Structures M-1 District)
70flO
Councilmember Broussard Vickers noted there was a lot of discussion at the
Planning and Zoning meeting regarding accessory structures in the M-l District.
She noted residential and commercial properties would be treated differently, with
regard to accessory structures, even if they are both within the M-l District.
CounciJmember Broussard Vickers noted commercial properties would be defined
as those that earn money on the property.
Councilmember Broussard Vickers reviewed the size of structures on the site and
noted 704 square feet was the maximum on lots where 2% of the lot size was
smaller than that. She noted this gave those without an attached garage a place
for storage. Councilmember Broussard Vickers indicated those with attached
garages would have to follow the current standards.
Counci1member Broussard Vickers noted it was the Planning Commission's
general feeling that it was better to have storage space available to residents than
to have the residents storing items in side and rear yards.
Mayor Swedberg asked if there were height limits. Councilmember Broussard
Vickers indicated this standard was already set within the Ordinance.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the Ordinance #4 amendments as presented. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
Park and Recreation's Reauest for a Pav Phone at LaMotte Park
Councilmember Capra noted information was provided to the Council within the
Park and Recreation minutes regarding a pay phone at LaMotte Park. She noted
the Park and Recreation Committee were recommending a pay phone at this park
for safety of those in the park. She reviewed the expenses with the Council and
noted the Commission's motion was to locate the phone under the awning on the
warming house with $80 per month allocated to cover the expense of the phone
along with $400 to cover the installation.
Mayor Swedberg suggested cost alternatives be investigated before this item were
to be approved. He indicated an emergency button could be placed at the park if
this is for safety issues.
Councilmember Broussard Vickers disagreed with the emergency phone, and
noted a pay phone would also be used for contacting parents or rides, along with
emergency use. She indicated this was a park maintenance issue and should not
be taken out of the park funds.
Counci1member Capra questioned who would be responsible for vandalism to the
phone. Mr. Hoeft noted Qwest would be responsible for the phone.
Motion by Councilmember Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Councilmember
Travis to contact Qwest to install a shared services phone as sURRested by the
Park and Recreation Commission continent upon the Police Departments
approvaL All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
80flO
7680 Lake Drive
Mr. Hoeft stated he was contacted by the property owner at 7680 Lake Drive in
Lino Lakes. He indicated a title issue has arisen at this site with regard to a
roadway easement with dated back to the village of Centerville. Mr. Hoeft
indicated the mutual incorporations of Lino Lakes and Centerville did not abolish
this issue.
Mr. Hoeft noted a quit claim deed has been drafted to extinguish this roadway
easement and noted this needs approval from the Council. He asked that the
Council authorize the mayor to execute a quit claim deed for this property to clear
up the title.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
authorize the Mayor to execute a Quit claim deed for the roadway easement
on the property at 7680 Lake Drive. AU in favor. Motion carried unimouslv.
~. CONSENT AGENDA
The Citv ofCenterville Au~ 9 through August 22. 2001
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Nelson to approve the expenditures for the City from AUllust 9.
2001 throullh AUllust 22. 2001. AU in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Centennia1 Fire District EJq>enses
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council
Member Nelson to approve the Centennial Fire District expenditures as
presented by Staff. AU in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Councilmember Broussard Vickers noted there would be five or six public
hearings at the next Planning Commission meeting. She forewarned the Council
these items would then be passing along to the Council.
Councilmember Capra reviewed a memo regarding the Economic Development
Committee stating they are in support with implementing City water in the
downtown area for redevelopment. She noted at the July 12, 2001 the Council
approved the goals and objectives of the EDC. This Committee thanked the
Council for their support.
XI. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR'S REPORT/CLERKffREASURER'S
REPORT
Ms. Bender noted she had nothing to add at this time.
9 of 10
Motion by Councilmember Nelson. seconded bv Councilmember Capra to
recess to an Executive Session at 8:10 p.m. AU in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
Motion by Councilmember Broussard Vickers. seconded by Councilmember
Travis to close the Executive Session and reconvene the Council Meetinl! at
9:15 p.m. AU in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
xn. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council
Member Travis to adiourn the AUl!ust 22. 2001 Council Meetinl! at 9:16 p.m.
AU in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Transcribed by:
Heidi Guenther, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
10of10
'.: :JII"
, ..
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville hel
meeting on September 12, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main S
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 12, 2001
6:30 p.m.
PRESENT:
Actin C y Administrator/Public Works Director, Paul Palzer
City ngineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the September 12, 2001, City Council meeting to order at 6:36
p.m.
II. SET AGENDA
Mayor Swedberg began the meeting by asking that residents fly the flag as a show of
solidarity for those that were affected by Tuesday's tragedy. He then asked that residents
pray for the loved ones ofthe victims.
Council, and those in attendance, observed a moment of silence followed by reciting the
pledge of allegiance.
Council Member Nelson requested approval of the Minutes from August 22, 2001 of the
executive session be added under consideration of minutes.
Council Member Nelson requested that discussion of which employees should have keys
to City Hall be added under new business.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted that the variance requests listed under
appearances should have been listed under new business.
Page 1 of29
.
Mayor Swedberg noted Mr. Hasiak, who had requested a variance, would not be in
attendance at the meeting.
Mayor Swedberg asked that discussion of approval to allow Officer Gleason to use City
Hall for a training session on September 22,2001 be added under new business.
Mayor Swedberg noted he had discussed supervision of the skate park with Matt, the
Community Service Officer and asked that supervision at the skate park be added under
new business.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the al!enda as amended. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
III. PUBLIC HEARING (8)
1. Pheasant Marsh Final Plat.
Mayor Swedberg opened the public hearing at 6:43 p.m.
Mr. Terry Hannah, Ground Development, addressed Council to discuss the final plat for
Pheasant Marsh.
Mr. Hoeft noted he had spoken to Mr. Palzer and the developer outside before the
meeting concerning the final plat and asked that the area on the map labeled as a drainage
and utility easement be corrected to reflect the trail location. He pointed out that this
would make the plat easier to read and would clarify for the homeowners that there is a
trail in that location.
Troy Livgard, the engineer for the developer, indicated the entire area had been labeled as
an outlot and said the trail would be located inside of the outlot.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the City would prefer to have the trail defined as the City
does not want the homeowners, who would be responsible for the outlot, to be able to
claim control of the trail.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Parks and Recreation Committee
had discussed the trail and indicated the City would need to have control of it.
City Attorney Hoeft questioned why the developer had designated the trail as an outlot.
Mr. Hannah indicated that it was not clear at the beginning as to who was going to
maintain the trail and said there was a discussion indicating that the homeowners should
control the open spaces.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that the City wants to control the trail.
Page 2 of 29
Mr. Hannah indicated he had not understood that the City wanted to control the trail and
had assumed all along that the City was not interested in being responsible for the
expense of maintaining the trail.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that the City does not want to have to
maintain the outlot but will maintain the trail.
City Attorney Hoeft noted that the trail is marked to be 12.5 feet wide. He then indicated
that in the Hunter's Crossing development the City required a 20 foot wide trail easement
to allow for a 10 foot trail and room to put snow. He further noted that due to the
drainage and utility easements in the same location as the trail there should be room for
storage of snow removed from the trail.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he felt that the City could approve the final plat contingent
on the developer re-designating the outlot to a trail easement and upon approval of the
developer's agreement.
Deb Nelson of 7164 Mill Road expressed concern for maintenance of the trail because
the trail runs through homeowners' backyards.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the City would maintain the trail.
Mayor Swedberg noted the county is considering adding the trail to its county-wide trail
system.
Council Member Broussard Vickers expressed concern for drainage within the
development, as that piece of land is currently where the water flows.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted she was concerned that the City is leaving out
a piece of property that is not going to have easy access to water and sewer. She
expressed concern for the costs associated with the Wilharber property being able to get
water and sewer. She then noted that the City has not bypassed properties before and
noted that, as currently designed, the Wilharber property would not logically end up on
the sewer and water system. She further noted that the City is departing from what it has
done in the past by allowing this design.
Council Member Travis expressed concern for residents on Lots 1, 8, 9, and 10 being
able to place a fence on the lot line which would restrict snow removal from the trail.
City Attorney Hoeft suggested expanding the width of the easement to make it a 20 foot
wide drainage, utility and trail easement noting the City could handle all the items with
one easement. He then indicated that, if the area was designated as an easement, the
homeowner would not be able to place a fence in the easement area.
Page 3 of 29
Mr. Hannah indicated he understood that the common goal is that the City should
maintain the trail and rights over the trail but said he needed to discuss how to properly
word the trail area with his staff.
City Attorney Hoeft made it clear that the City is requiring a 20 foot wide easement for
drainage, utility and trailway.
Mr. Livgard, the engineer for the developer, indicated it would still be called an outlot.
City Attorney Hoeft clarified the City wanted the 20 foot wide area for drainage, utility
and trailway designated as an easement.
Mr. Tom Wilharber of 6849 Centerville Road, the owner of the property to the west of
the Pheasant Marsh development, noted that the first proposed assessment for sewer and
water to his property was $41,000 based on 638 feet of frontage. Mr. Wilharber then
pointed out that, due to the changes Council made at the last meeting concerning the
design for sewer and water, he would now be able to obtain services at a cost of $50,000
based on 208 feet of frontage. He further indicated that service would not be available to
him until 2006 under the new design and then pointed out that Council has deviated from
the standards it has used with past developments within the City.
Mayor Swedberg commented that Mr. Wilharber had come before Council to object to
the original assessment amount.
Mr. Wilharber clarified that he had written to Council indicating that he was working
with the engineer and developer on the assessment amount and said he believed they
could have continued to do so.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to close the public hearinl!. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Swedberg closed the public hearing at 7:15 p.m.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the final plat subiect to the re-desil!nation on the plat of a 20-foot wide
easement for drainal!e. utility. and trailwav and subiect to an approved developer's
al!reement. Aves - 4. Navs -l(Broussard Vickers). Motion carried.
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
1. Mr. & Mrs. Jeremv Bates. 1977 South Robin Lane - Variance Request
Mrs. Bates told Council that she and her husband had purchased the house at 1977 South
Robin Lane six months ago but said before doing so their real estate agent and she had
contacted City Hall to make sure that a garage could be built on the property. She then
indicated that she and her agent were told they could build a garage and, it was not until
she applied for a permit, that she was told the ordinance would only allow them to build a
Page 4 of29
one car garage detached garage. She further noted that a two car attached garage will not
work on the lot due to the way the house sits on the property and the location of the well.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether Mr. and Mrs. Bates meet the requirements
to be granted a variance.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted that the Planning and Zoning Committee voted
to approve the variance request as the members feel that they may need to revisit the
ordinance requirements for houses in the R4 zoning district. She then noted that Mr.
Wilharber, a member of the Planning and Zoning Committee, had commented at the
meeting that it may be possible to apply the variance requirements to the Bates'
circumstances.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that Royal Meadows was developed as a PUD with very small
lots. He indicated that it was the first development in the City to allow doublewides onto
small lots. He then indicated that looking back at the development the City should have
required that the houses be set off to one side rather than centered on the lot which seems
to be causing issues with building garages.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that the City has granted variances for other residents in the
Royal Meadows development to allow for a garage and he feels that denying this
variance request would deprive the resident of something others in the same zoning area
have. He then stated that he feels that any time a resident wants to add value to the
property with improvements the City should encourage them to do so. He further stated
that not everything is black and white there needs to be a little gray every now and then.
Council Member Broussard Vickers inquired as to whether City Attorney Hoeft had
reviewed the wording in question in the ordinance.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the ambiguity of the language in the ordinance was
irrelevant as the residents do not meet the requirements for the granting of a variance. He
then said that if the City intends to review the ordinance for a possible change he would
recommend the variance be denied. He then indicated that granting a variance, in effect,
would make the ordinance ineffective and would set a precedent for all residents to argue
they should be granted a variance.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that two percent of the Bates' rear yard is
150 square feet and said the Planning Committee felt 150 square feet was too small and
added the 200 square feet language to the ordinance for the R4 zoning district. She then
said that Mr. and Mrs. Bates have asked for a variance to construct a 400 square foot
garage which is twice the size allowed by the ordinance.
Ms. Buckbee of 7381 Peltier Circle indicated that granting the variance would not be
setting a precedent for others in the City because Royal Meadows is the only R4 zoning
in the City.
Page 5 of 29
p
City Attorney Hoeft agreed that Council could point to the small lot size as a reason for
granting the variance and as a distinction from other lots in the City.
Council Member Travis asked if Mr. Palzer had reviewed the proposed location of the
garage. Mr. Palzer indicated he had not been out to Mr. and Mrs. Bates residence.
Council Member Capra indicated she had driven through the neighborhood and noticed
that some houses have the garages set back and off to the side. Mrs. Bates indicated that
they propose to build their garage the same way as their neighbors.
Council Member Nelson stated that there are requirements that must be met in order to
grant a variance and said Mr. and Mrs. Bates do not meet those requirements.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Committee
intends to review Ordinance 4 at its next meeting. She then indicated she agrees with
City Attorney Hoeft that it would be better to change the ordinance rather than granting
the variance.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Mr. and Mrs. Bates would have any yard left ifthey
were allowed to construct the garage.
Council Member Travis indicated that there are other yards like it and said if the garage
were setback as proposed he feels it would be fine. He then indicated he would prefer to
change the ordinance rather than to grant the variance.
Mrs. Bates asked how long it would take for the City to change the ordinance.
Council Member Travis indicated that the City has granted pernnSSlOn to begin
construction based on an expected change to the ordinance.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the City should not indicate what type of change it
would allow at this point because there is no guarantee.
Council Member Travis asked how long it would take to change the ordinance.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated Council would not see a proposed change
to the ordinance until the Council meeting in mid-November.
Ms. Buckbee said she did not think it was fair to ask residents to pay $175 for a variance
if the City denies the variance and decides to change the ordinance.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that the City does not change the ordinances
after every variance request.
Page 6 of29
Ms. Buckbee indicated there are other garages in that area of the same size and said she
feels the City would be depriving Mr. and Mrs. Bates of something others in the same
zoning district have by denying the variance.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that under current ordinance the garage is
not allowed.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that he would prefer not to set City policy by variance and
recommended the ordinance be changed making the variance request unnecessary.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to deny
the reauest for a variance to construct a 400 SQuare foot accessory structure at 1977
South Robin Lane.
Ms. Deb Nelson suggested the City refund the $175 fee to Mr. and Mrs. Bates.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the $175 pays for the mailing and
publication of the variance request and could not be refunded
Council Member Nelson indicated that the residents should have been given a list of the
variance requirements prior to applying for the variance. She then indicated that, if the
residents feel they meet the requirements, they are required to pay the $175.
Ms. Nelson asked how the other residents in that area got their garages.
Ms. Buckbee indicated that there were variances granted in that area for garages.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that the City wants Mr. and Mrs. Bates to have a garage but
said the City needs to follow proper procedure and amend the ordinance.
Mrs. Bates indicated they would like to construct the garage before winter arrives. She
stated that they are already seven weeks into the process and are being asked to wait until
the City amends the ordinance. She stated that they were given information by the City
Clerk that they could build a garage prior to purchasing the house. She then told Council
that the day they were to appear before Planning and Zoning the clerk faxed information
indicating they may not need the variance at all and suggested they ask for a refund of the
$175.00. She then handed the fax received from the City to Council for its review.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the variance had already been applied
for and the notices sent out so the City could not refund the $175.00. She then indicated
that the Clerk had apparently misinterpreted the meaning of the ordinance.
Council Member Capra indicated she had spoken to Mr. Brainard, a Planning Committee
Member, and he had indicated that he feels variances should be few and far between and
said that the situation does not meet the requirements for the granting of a variance.
Page 7 of29
Mr. Terry Sweeney, 7154 Brian Drive, suggested Council follow the recommendation of
the Planning and Zoning Committee as the Committee had voted by majority to
recommend granting the variance. He then indicated that he agreed that the development
is unique and allowing the improvement would enhance the property and the City overall.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that Council should consider the decision of the majority of the
Planning Committee members not just one member. He then noted the vote taken was
four to two to grant the variance. He further indicated he feels the variance is warranted
in this situation.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Council does not have a problem with the garage but said
Council is required to apply the state mandated requirements for the granting of a
vanance.
Mayor Swedberg questioned how large the garage could be if it. were attached to the
house. Mr. Palzer indicated that a 3,000 square foot garage would be allowed.
Council Member Travis indicated that a variance is a tool that is available to the City for
use when needed. He then indicated that he feels hardship has been demonstrated in this
case.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the City granted a variance for a
resident due to the shape of the lot and the creek running through it which caused a
hardship.
Council Member Travis stated he felt that a variance is a tool that could be used and used
wisely.
Ms. Nelson indicated she felt Mr. and Mrs. Bates were entitled to a refund of the $175 as
the City is now changing the ordinance instead of granting them a variance.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the $175 fee is used to pay for the
costs associated with mailing the notices and publishing in the newspaper.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that previous councils have granted a lot of variances and they
have not been all that bad.
Mr. Bates told Council they need a garage before winter and, if denied, would build one
anyway. Mayor Swedberg advised Mr. Bates not to build the garage without obtaining a
permit.
City Attorney Hoeft suggested attaching the garage to the house with a breezeway in
order to eliminate the need for a variance.
Mr. Bates indicated that footings would be required which would add to the cost of the
structure significantly.
Page 8 of 29
Ayes - 4. Nays -1 (Travis). Motion carried.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he would like to instruct Planning and Zoning to address the
change to the ordinance as quickly as possible.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that there are not many homes in the area that do not have
garages.
Mrs. Bates asked what the timeframe was for the ordinance change. Council Member
Broussard Vickers indicated that the earliest Council would see the ordinance amendment
would be at the November 14,2001 Council meeting.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether Council could direct Planning and Zoning to call a
special session to address the issue. Mr. Hoeft indicated that Council could direct the
Planning and Zoning Committee to call a special meeting but noted that the Committee is
not obligated to do so.
2. Mr. & Mrs. Stan Hasiak. 6994 Centerville Road - Variance Request
Council Member Broussard Vickers explained to Council that Mr. Hasiak was before the
Planning and Zoning Committee to ask for a variance to construct an 8 x 24 fully
enclosed dog kennel attached to the existing pole shed. She also noted that Mr. Hasiak's
pole shed is nonconforming due to its size. She further noted that the Planning and
Zoning Committee had voted to recommend Council deny the variance request because
the ordinance does not allow for the intensification, enlargement or enhancement of a
nonconforming structure.
Mayor Swedberg asked why Mr. Hasiak did not use a portion of the existing pole shed
for the kennel.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Mr. Hasiak had requested a variance
to build an 8 x 24 kennel because he feels it will be better for the safety of the children
and the rest of the community.
Motion by Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Capra to denv
the variance request to construct an 8 x 24 kennel at 6994 Centerville Road. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Council recessed at 8:20 p.m.
Council reconvened at 8:25 p.m.
V. EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING MS. JILL LIEN (Opened by Ms. Lien)
Mayor Swedberg indicated that on July 12, 2001 Mr. March had resigned his position as
City Administrator and Council had appointed Mr. Palzer and Ms. Bender as Acting City
Administrators during the search for a replacement for Mr. March. He then indicated that
Page 9 of 29
Council Members had witnessed serious issues and had raised concerns regarding Ms.
Lien. He further indicated that those concerns were outlined in a letter drafted by Mr.
Hoeft and sent to Ms. Lien's attorney.
Mr. Hoeft asked if Ms. Lien and her counsel wished to have the matter heard at the open
meeting. Mr. Corwin indicated that he and his client would like the matter heard at the
open meeting.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that this hearing was for Ms. Lien to address the charges against her.
He then asked that anyone who wished to speak do so only with regard to relevant
information and refrain from disparaging remarks or on the flip side extol the virtue of
Ms. Lien.
Mr. Corwin, counsel for Ms. Lien, addressed Council and indicated that Council was in
violation of the Data Practices Act for failure to provide minutes from the closed
executive session where an illegal vote was taken to fire Ms. Lien. He then indicated that
the charges against Ms. Lien were not provided to them until September 11,2001.
Mr. Corwin indicated that Council had closed the meeting to make a determination as to
the status of Ms. Lien's employment. He noted that no minutes were provided for the
closed session and further noted that when Council resumed the open session no vote was
taken.
Mr. Corwin told Council that it seems to him that some people got upset when Ms. Lien
did not agree with them and so Council decided to exercise its authority without granting
Ms. Lien the right of every public employee and that is the right to respond to and
address the charges against them. He then noted that he had just received a copy of the
reasons for termination yesterday and further indicated that Ms. Lien had not received her
Laudermill hearing and was denied her constitutional rights.
Mr. Corwin indicated that Council had denied Ms. Lien her constitutional rights because
some of the Council Members were upset with some of the things she had said. He noted
that Ms. Lien has the right to freedom of speech and suggested that if Council Members
cannot take criticism they should step back. He then noted that the City Administrator
had left the City due to the way things are run and had left two subordinates to run the
office. He further indicated that there is a lot of work that needed to be done and Council
instructed City employees to ignore the Committee work and work on day to day
operations even though Ms. Lien had indicated she did not have enough to do. He also
pointed out that Council did not communicate that directive to the Committees as it
should have, instead relying on staff to inform the Committees that they were no longer
able to help them.
Mr. Corwin explained that when an individual from the Parks and Recreation Committee
had come into the office and asked Ms. Lien to help him with something she agreed to do
so because she was not doing anything at the time. He then suggested that Council was
more concerned with its ego than whether or not staff had time to do the work.
Page 10 of 29
Mr. Corwin indicated that Council had violated every employment law there is. He noted
that Council went from no disciplinary action to discharge using discipline as a
punishment rather than a corrective measure. He further noted that Council did not
follow the proper procedure and acted in an arbitrary and capricious manner.
Mr. Corwin indicated that Ms. Lien has several notes as to her character in her file and is
being discharged for doing more work than she was required to do. He then noted that, in
doing so, Council violated her constitutional rights.
Mr. Corwin told Council that if it continued to do this and refused to right the wrongs he
would sue the City to preserve his client's rights and ask a court to determine that
Council's actions are a result of its will and are arbitrary and capricious and the decision
was not based on the merits. He further said that Council was not acting in the best
interest of the City but for its own personal best interests.
Mr. Corwin indicated that Council has not answered Ms. Lien's requests for her records
and has not given her the minutes as she requested. He then noted that Ms. Lien went to
Council and asked for more work because, when the Parks and Recreation Committee
work was taken away from her, she needed more to do. He further noted that, in response
to Ms. Lien's request for more work, Council fired her.
Mr. Corwin indicated that he had reviewed Ms. Lien's job reviews and has found that she
has received nothing but good reviews. He then noted that, in her 2001 review, it was
noted that she got along well with all employees but one which is the employee he
believes has talked Council into firing her.
Mr. Corwin commented that former City Administrator, Mr. March, has said he sides
with Ms. Lien in this matter. He then suggested that the City reconsider its actions and
said the Council is not above the law and not above the constitution.
Ms. Lien indicated that, after the special meeting, Council had asked her if she had any
concerns and said to come to Council with them. She then indicated she is a very active
and involved person. She then indicated that Council Member Nelson had specifically
said that Council wanted to hear concerns.
Ms. Lien stated that she told Council there was a problem and said she does not
understand why Council thinks things are so amiss in the office when the last thing she
said was "please give me more duties."
Ms. Lien told Council she is a secretary not a receptionist. She then suggested that
Council review her performance reviews to see she has a glowing record with no history
of insubordination.
Ms. Lien asked Council to define for her the "numerous instances of insubordination" as
stated in the letter. She then noted that Mr. March had resigned only six weeks ago and
Page 11 of 29
said she worked only 14 Y2 days out of those six weeks and questioned how things could
have gone so wrong in such a short amount of time.
Ms. Lien stated she did nothing more for Parks and Recreation other than giving the
information to the Chair and writing a letter telling the members she could not do
anything for them. She then noted it was not for them, it was to them from her.
Ms. Lien read the letter that outlined the alleged misconduct.
Ms. Lien indicated she was not told she could go to Mr. Palzer she said she was told to go
to Ms. Bender. She then indicated that she feels she should have been able to see the
wheels park to completion and said she had expressed that to Council.
Ms. Lien then read a sentence from a memo sent to the Parks and Recreation Committee
from Council that stated that the wheels park is a large project and staff is to continue to
order equipment, etc.
Ms. Lien indicated that she is not the only one responsible for helping people at the
window and said all staff members do so, including Ms. Bender.
Ms. Lien questioned who had determined that her actions were antagonistic. She then
said she was not doing anything anyway and said she felt it necessary to help the
Committee Member for a few minutes rather than refuse to help him so he had to
completely start over with the project.
Ms. Lien then noted that she was written up for calling in sick on the day before the Fete
des Lacs festival. She then reminded Council that staff was directed not to do anything
for the Committees; which would include the Fete des Lacs.
Ms. Lien told Council Member Nelson that, if she saw her riding her motorcycle that
afternoon, she was feeling better. She then indicated that she has the right to call in sick.
Ms. Lien clarified that she had never said Council was a joke she had said the way the
office is running was a joke. She then invited Council to review the videotape for
verification of her comments.
Ms. Lien asked Council why everything Ms. Bender says is true and she is not given an
opportunity to give her version of the truth. She then asked if any Council Members had
witnessed any insubordination.
Council Member Nelson indicated that she had witnessed Ms. Lien being insubordinate.
Ms. Lien explained that the "ranting and raving" that she did when she was fired was her
way of expressing shock and concern because she was not warned of the action. She then
questioned why there was no reprimand. She indicated she did not know what it meant
as she was told she was terminated not placed on administrative leave.
Page 12 of29
Ms. Lien indicated that, when she was fired, she was very upset and was not sure what
she was fired for. She stated she felt she was treated like a criminal when she did nothing
wrong. She asked why she was asked to leave her keys when she was technically on
administrative leave. She then explained that she was so upset that she grabbed some of
her stuff and ran out the door and completely forgot to leave her keys. She further
explained that after she calmed down she remembered she needed to get the rest of her
things and went back for them. She then noted that later that day the locks were changed.
Ms. Lien said she did not agree with anything written in the letter and stated she felt she
was wrongfully terminated.
Ms. Lien then read a thank you note she had received for helping with the garage sale and
another thank you note given for appreciation of her good work. She noted she had
received a letter on July 17, 2001 offering her full time work. She then indicated she felt
she should have been able to follow the wheels park to completion.
Ms. Lien indicated that Ms. Bender had come into her area and witnessed the Committee
Member and her talking and waited until after he left to say she could no longer do
anything for Parks and Recreation and take the things away from her. She then noted that
since staff was directed not to work for Parks and Recreation Ms. Bender has been doing
so.
Ms. Lien indicated that when she was fired she asked to see her personnel file. She
indicated she was told to put her request in writing and when she did so she was told it
would take a couple days to prepare it. She then indicated that the City's own policy and
the Data Practices Act require that the information be made available upon request.
Ms. Lien asked why she was not invited to the executive session where her termination
was discussed. She also asked why the meeting was not posted in the vestibule or
noticed in the paper. She then asked whether her termination was a unanimous decision.
She further noted that Council is legally required to put its motions in the minutes of the
meeting and to indicate the votes.
Ms. Lien again asked if the decision was a unanimous decision. She then noted that
Council needs to put the information into its minutes. She then said she would like a
copy of the minutes when they are amended and stated that she would like her job back.
Ms. Lien stated that, at the meeting, she had indicated it takes her 10 to 15 hours to
prepare minutes while being interrupted by all the day to day tasks and, that in her
opinion, it would take a committee member who has never done them 20 hours. She then
stated that somehow the information was misconstrued that she spends 20 to 30 hours a
week working for Parks and Recreation. She then clarified that Council has incorrect
information and said she spends 50 to 60 hours per month on Parks and Recreation.
Page 13 of 29
Ms. Lien indicated that she feels her termination was totally unjustified as staff was told
they could come to Council with any concerns and she was punished for doing so.
Ms. Lien told Council that people have asked her why she would want to come back to
work for the City. She then indicated she wants her job back because she loves her job,
she is good at her job, and because she does not feel she deserved to be fired. She further
stated she did work above and beyond what she was being asked to do and was punished
for it. She also stated that Mr. March had encouraged her to do work for Parks and
Recreation. She went on to state that it is a matter of principal, right and wrong, ethics
and justice. .
Mayor Swedberg thanked Ms. Lien for her comments.
There was a brief recess to allow the videotape to be changed at 9:05 p.m.
Ms. Buckbee, 7381 Peltier Circle, indicated she took exception to Council violating the
open meeting law. She then indicated that an executive session requires posting three
days prior to the meeting. She also noted that when Council adjourned to go to the
executive session it is required to state the reason why the meeting is being closed and
that was not done.
Ms. Buckbee also indicated that the minutes need to show motions made and a vote on
those motions. She then indicated that holding a meeting is the most civic duty there is
and it is inappropriate to go behind closed doors or e-mail each other back and forth.
Ms. Buckbee then asked for a copy of the documentation used to determine that Ms. Lien
should be terminated.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that whether the City Council violated the open meeting
law will be determined at another time. He then stated that, if Ms. Buckbee's request is
made in writing, the information would be made available to her.
Ms. Buckbee indicated she wanted to see the information Council based its decision on.
City Attorney Hoeft told her to read the letter he had submitted to Ms. Lien's attorney.
Ms. Buckbee indicated that Mr. Hoeft's letter was drafted after the special Council
meeting where it was determined that Ms. Lien should be terminated. She then indicated
that she wanted the information that Council used to make its decision at that meeting.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he understood her request.
Ms. Buckbee asked ifthere was any information at that meeting.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he used information to create his letter.
Page 14 of29
Ms. Buckbee asked why a resident was denied a request for that information when they
came to City Hall.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he understood her request.
Ms. Buckbee asked if she needed to file a complaint with the Court of Appeals.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that was not relevant to the matter at hand.
Ms. Buckbee stated she felt it was very relevant as Council cannot violate the open
meeting law. She then said that Council is supposed to be running the City for the
residents not for themselves.
Mayor Swedberg noted Council is relying on the advice of its counsel.
Ms. Buckbee stated that the most important thing for Council to know is the rules of the
open meeting laws.
Chris Lien, Jill Lien's husband, indicated that it seems there is some awful dirty or shady
business going on at City Hall. He stated he was with Jill when she asked for more work
from Council and then listened as Council approved the hiring of a temporary worker.
He noted she was out for one week on medical leave and one week on vacation and when
she returned she was fired. He then asked if Mayor Swedberg knew the termination was
commg.
Mr. Lien indicated that Ms. Bender was at the meeting where Jill was fired but has not
been at any other meeting. He then stated he feels Council Members got their egos
"busted" and it "pissed them off'. He further stated he feels Council has no reason to fire
her as there was no insubordination.
Mr. Lien questioned why no information was provided to their attorney until the day
before this meeting. He then stated that the Council has a responsibility to serve the City.
He further stated that Council has broken several laws and then asked Council Members
if they were comfortable running the City that way and living that way.
Ms. Deb Nelson, 7164 Mill Road, indicated that it appears to her that there was a conflict
with people at City Hall. She then suggested that somebody went too far and it appears
to her that, in order to save taxpayer dollars, Council should correct the situation. She
then urged Council to fix it and fix it quick before it gets worse.
Mr. Tom Cannon, 1818 Hayfield Road, indicated that he is proud to tell residents that his
neighbor was instrumental in bringing the skate park to the City. He then stated that he
feels there are small town politics involved and he feels that Ms. Lien should be given her
job back.
Ms. Deb Nelson commented she would like to ban outside smoking on taxpayer dollars.
Page 15 of29
Mr. Tom Wilharber, 6849 Centerville Road, indicated that Ms. Lien came to work for the
City in March of 1997 and he was mayor at that time. He then said that, as mayor he
used to stop in quite a bit and could observe the employees as they assisted residents. He
further stated that if an employee was not doing well residents would call him and he
never had a complaint about Jill.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that Mr. March would have talked to him if he was concerned
and he never brought any complaints to his attention. He then indicated that Ms. Bender
does help residents at the window as well. He further indicated that from March of 1997
until he left office in December of 2000 he did not receive any complaints concerning
Ms. Lien and said it seems funny to him that all of the sudden now that Mr. March is
gone there would be a problem.
Council Member Capra indicated she would like to submit a letter from a resident that
could not be at the meeting.
Mr. Hoeft reviewed the letter and indicated that Mayor Swedberg could read it into the
record.
Mayor Swedberg read a letter from Theresa Brenner. It read as follows:
Dear Honorable Mayor and Council Members,
I am writing to support your decision to terminate employment
with Jill Lien. Since Ms. Lien has chosen to appeal this decision
in an open meeting, I would like to state why I think it is an
appropriate decision.
Ms. Lien was previously involved in a serious incident of
misconduct as a City employee. I was a Council member
when the incident occurred in September 1998. The incident
involved a verbal and physical altercation with another staff
member at City Hall during office hours. For her part in the
incident, Ms. Lien was suspended without pay for one week
and placed on disciplinary probation. The City attorney, Mr.
Hoeft, can verify this and provide more information.
I believe the Council that I was on was very generous in giving
Ms. Lien a second chance. That's why I'm so disappointed
to see she has been disruptive and disrespectful again. It would
set a bad example for her to remain and risk continued disruption
of City operations, especially with a new administrator. I think
you made a good decision and should not change it.
Sincerely,
Page 16 of29
Theresa Brenner
Ms. Lien asked for permission to respond to the letter.
Ms. Lien noted that she was surprised that Ms. Brenner would bring up the matter when
the altercation was directly related to her. She then explained that another City employee
had yelled and berated her because she did not tell Ms. Brenner that she could not use the
postage meter for the type of mail she was running through it.
Ms. Lien indicated that when she told this other employee that it was not her place to
correct a Council Member the employee pushed her and forced her to defend herself. She
then indicated that the other employee involved was terminated and she was given
suspension which she did not contest because she was happy that the other employee
would not longer be a problem at the office.
Ms. Lien stated she feels she is a good employee and said she does not know why she has
to continue to defend herself. She then noted that the letter of reprimand should have
been removed from her file.
Mr. Corwin stated that it is typical of Council to request that only relevant matters be
discussed at this hearing and then, without advance notice, provide a letter from a
resident concerning a past issue. He further stated that the past matter is completely
irrelevant and was not considered when she was terminated.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether, if a citizen wants to bring information before
Council in an open session, Council can refuse to accept the information.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that Council may accept the information.
Mayor Swedberg asked if anyone had anything new to share with Council.
Ms. Buckbee of 7381 Peltier Circle indicated that she feels Ms. Brenner's letter is sour
grapes and noted that, if Council reviewed the minutes from the meeting where Council
voted on discipline for the actions in 1998, Ms. Brenner was in support of the actions.
She then noted that Ms. Brenner had not voted at that time to terminate Ms. Lien's
employment and said she feels it is inappropriate to bring it up now.
Ms. Buckbee stated she felt Ms. Lien was very disciplined and modified her behavior and
noted there were no other instances of insubordination as is outlined in the personnel
policy.
Ms. Deb Nelson stated she felt the letter was written by Ms. Brenner because she has a
personal issue with Ms. Lien which is irrelevant to the present matter.
Page 17 of29
. . ,
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that later in the agenda the Council would recess to the
executive session.
Council Member Broussard Vickers inquired as to whether the executive session would
be open or closed.
Mr. Corwin indicated that, if Council recesses to a closed session to vote, they would be
knowingly violating the opening meeting law. He further stated that he would sue the
City and each individual Council Member because they would be libel.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she would like to research the information
received from Mr. Corwin concerning violation of the open meeting laws. She then
indicated that she was not comfortable making a decision at this meeting.
Mr. Corwin indicated that a written request for data was submitted and that request was
refused.
Mayor Swedberg told Mr. Corwin that Council had heard his opinion on the matter and
was aware of his concern.
Mr. Corwin told Council that proceeding to an executive session for a vote would make it
an intentional act because Council has been made aware that it is illegal to do so.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Council relies upon its counsel and accepts his advice
because they are not attorneys. He then indicated that Mr. Hoeft and Mr. Corwin appear
to have a difference of opinion as to how the law reads.
VI. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
1. August 22, 2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson requested the following changes: On Page 5 of 10 please
change the reference from "he" to "she".
Council Member Capra requested the following changes: On Page 2 of 10 indicate that
Mr. Brainard put up barricade in the cul-de-sac near his home. On Page 5 of 10 change
the word "account" to "amount". On Page 9 of 10 indicate that the EDC had requested a
letter of support from Council.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Council recessed to an executive
session at 8:10 p.m. and requested that the minutes be amended to show that.
City Attorney Hoeft confirmed that Council did not adjourn at 8:10 but went into an
executive session.
Page 18 of29
. ' ,
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that she had made the motion to adjourn
and Council Member Travis had seconded the motion. She then noted that Council
reconvened at 9:15 and adjourned the meeting at 9:16 p.m.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the AUl!ust 22. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
2. August 22. 2001 Executive Session Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson indicated she had agreed to do minutes for the executive session
and then distributed the minutes to Council. She then noted that Council had not
reviewed the minutes and further noted that an unapproved copy had been given to Ms.
Lien.
City Attorney Hoeft asked that Council not approve the minutes because they would be
involved in the discussion later.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to table
the approval of the AUl!ust 22. 2001 Executive Session Council Minutes. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
VII. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS
1. Ground Develooment (Pheasant Marsh Final Plat)
Council Member Travis indicated Council had received a marked up copy of the
development agreement that did not have numbers.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that Council would not be approving the development
agreement at this meeting and explained that the preliminary numbers would be
explained later in the meeting.
Mr. Hannah indicated that he and the City have been working on the developer's
agreement and they were informed late in the day of the numbers the City wants to use
for private improvements. He then indicated that his owner wants to have a chance to
look at the numbers before agreeing to them.
City Attorney Hoeft reviewed the developer's agreement with Council and indicated that
one of the issues Council needed to consider is whether it wants to require the 150%
Page 19 of29
. ' ,
retainage in the contract as the developer's attorney has indicated they would prefer a
110% retainage.
Mr. Hannah indicated he was concerned with the completion date of December 31,2002
as he is not sure it is realistic to have all the lots sold and all the improvements made by
that date. He then indicated they would like the City to consider moving it out as much
as a year especially considering they would not be starting to market or sell houses until
Spring.
Mr. Hannah indicated that he had received a minor change from Ms. Bender on Page 3
which he read for Council. He noted the language had to do with the builder being
allowed to construct model homes without having to have the bituminous in on the
roadway.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the language for that had come from the City Engineer and
said he did not have an issue with it.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated there is a new state statute that has come into effect that
says that a developer can be required by the City to waive the right to appeal the special
assessment. He then indicated that the City needs to set a number for the assessment in
the developer's agreement and suggested using the number from the feasibility study.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the City Engineer has indicated that an adequate
contingency has been built into the feasibility number making it very unlikely that the
amount would exceed the feasibility study number.
Mr. Hannah indicated there had been a suggested change to Page 6.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the suggested language had come from the City Engineer
and indicated he had no problem with it.
City Attorney Hoeft questioned whether the developer was being asked to pay a straight
park dedication fee and said he did not have numbers for that.
Mr. Hannah indicated that the numbers were 22 lots at $1,800 per lot.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted the park dedication fee may be raised at the
January meeting and asked if the numbers for the park dedication fee should be
determined after the increase.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the park dedication fee at the time of approval of the
developer's agreement would need to be used.
City Attorney Hoeft inquired as to whether the storm water fee had been calculated. Mr.
Palzer indicated that they had.
Page 20 of 29
. I ,
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether there was a provision in the
agreement to assure that all required actions of the developer will be completed. She then
noted that in previous developments there have been problems getting the developer to
complete the projects.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the retainage amount is held to ensure that, if the
developer does not complete the project, the City has money to have the work completed.
He then indicated that, in the past, the retainage has been reduced too quickly and the
closer to the end of the project the fewer funds that are available.
Council Member Broussard Vickers inquired as to whether there was a provision in the
agreement calling for an inspection of the final grade in order to assure there would not
be any drainage issues. She then noted that, in the past, final inspection of grade has not
been done and has resulted in drainage issues.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that there is a provision in the agreement to cover the final
inspection of grade.
Mr. Peterson indicated that bids were opened for the utility and street improvement
project on September 11, 2001. He then indicated that the low bid of $726,615.90 was
submitted by Park Construction Company. Mr. Peterson then indicated that, since the bid
of Park Construction Company was within 4% of his estimate he recommended awarding
the bid to them.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Travis to award
the bid for utility and street improvement to Park Construction Companv with a
bid of $726.615.90. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
2. Search Process and Plan for the Vacant City Administrator Position (Update)
Council Member Nelson indicated she had received from Sathe Executive Search a
schedule for the interviews for the City Administrator position. She then explained that
Sathe Executive Search had requested that Council ask each candidate the same questions
and then provided Council with a copy of the sample questions.
Council Member Nelson indicated that the interviews would be held at City Hall and at
the church school room at St. Genevieve.
Mr. Wilharber suggested using the fire hall training rooms because they are much closer
to City Hall.
Council Member Nelson indicated she would check to see if they could use the fire hall
training room.
Ms. Buckbee reminded Council that the interviews needed to be posted.
Page 21 of29
. ' ,
Ms. Buckbee noted the meeting was not posted in the vestibule.
3. Rain Water Gardens
City Engineer Peterson indicated that there were grant programs available to fund the rain
gardens and suggested that Council investigate the matter.
Council Member Capra indicated she had spoken to Mike the intern and he indicated he
would be willing to research obtaining the grants.
4. Turcotte Propertv (Update)
Council Member Capra asked if the City would attempt to sell the property. Mr. Palzer
indicated that he had requested quotes for moving the house.
5. Quad Cities Police Update
Mayor Swedberg noted that the City has been invited to participate in meetings to discuss
the Quad Cities Police Force. He then noted he would be able to attend the meeting on
September 13, 2001 and asked that another Council Member volunteer to attend the
meeting on September 17, 2001 as he is unavailable.
Council Member Capra noted that Lino Lakes and Circle Pines have decided not to attend
the meetings.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he feels Centerville should have a representative at the
meetings in order to keep the City informed and to provide information for the City to
base a decision on.
Council Member Capra noted that Circle Pines and Lino Lakes have elected not to
participate in the meeting because those cities feel it is the responsibility of elected
officials to decide how to best distribute services to their citizens not the police
commISSIOn.
Council Member Nelson agreed that she would rather have Council make the decisions
not the police commission.
6. Wheels Park Pay Phone
Mayor Swedberg indicated Council had received a letter from the Police Chief
recommending that Council not put a pay phone at the wheels park.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Parks and Recreation Committee
had discussed the matter and respectfully request that Council reconsider the pay phone
request as the Committee feels it is necessary.
Page 22 of 29
) (I ,
Council Member Capra indicated that Mr. Lee, from the Parks and Recreation
Committee, had asked her if it was possible to check to see if other cities have payphones
in their parks. She then noted she had discovered that Vadnais Heights has phones in a
lot of their parks and have had only limited reports of vandalism or problems.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested putting the phone in the park and
monitoring to see if there are issues. She then suggested that if there are too many
problems with the phone it can be removed. She further noted that due to other problems
with the wheels park the City is considering shutting it down.
Council Member Broussard Vickers explained that there are a few individuals causing
problems at the park by not allowing younger children to play, there was a graffiti
incident, and concern for behavior in the penalty box. She further noted that the Parks
and Recreation Committee is very disappointed in the behavior of these individuals and
has said that if the behaviors continue the park will be closed.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to approve installation of a pavphone at the wheels park. Aves - 4. Navs -
HTravis). Motion carried.
Mayor Swedberg noted he had spoken to the Community Service Officer who suggested
it may be appropriate to hire an attendant to monitor behavior at the wheels park.
Officer Bernardi indicated that over time the police would figure out how to handle the
wheels park. He then indicated that the police have had issues with a couple of
individuals that have been identified and steps are being taken to remove those
individuals from the park through the court system.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether an identification bracelet or an armband would assist
officers.
Officer Bernardi indicated that over time it will sort itself out. He then indicated that the
Community Service Officer from Lino Lakes is down at the wheels park quite often and
has said when he is there he has no problems but when an adult is not present there are
Issues.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that the City has hired attendants to monitor behavior at its
skating rinks and suggested the City do so for the wheels park. He then indicated that he
walks his dog down there and noted that when there is an adult in the area the behaviors
stop but as soon as the adult leaves it starts up again. He also expressed concern for the
hours at the wheels park suggesting that kids are there late and then walking or skating
home in the dark.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the City will need to do something and
then said the Parks and Recreation Committee would like to wait and see how things go
Page 23 of 29
.,- !. I
in the next few weeks because it is almost time to bring the equipment in to prepare for
Winter.
Council Member Capra asked at what point the equipment would be removed from the
park. Mr. Palzer indicated he intended to have the equipment removed from the park in
the middle of October.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted the City could pull the equipment at anytime if
the situation warrants.
Jim Kline of7162 Miller Road suggested waiting it out and hoping the behavior mitigates
because he feels that closing the skate park gives those with the behavior issues the
power they are looking for.
Aves - 4. Navs -l(Travis). Motion carried.
IX. NEW BUSINESS
1. Resolution 01-016 Proclaiming the Month of October 2001 Domestic Violence
Awareness Month
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to waive the readinl! and approve Resolution 01-016 as presented. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
2. Resolution 01-017 Adopting 2001 Tax Levy. Collectible in 2002 and Proposed
2002 Budget.
Mayor Swedberg read Resolution 01-017 because it had been slightly amended. He then
noted that state law requires that cities set a proposed levy limit.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked why the language in the Resolution was
changed and noted she preferred the way it was written at first.
Council Member Nelson indicated she liked the change to the Resolution as it clarifies
the new state requirements.
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to
approve Resolution 01-017 as presented. Aves - 4. Navs - l(Broussard Vickers).
Motion carried.
Mr. Wilharber acknowledged that the budget received was a preliminary budget but
expressed concern for the significant increase in expenditures. He then indicated he
would like to see clarification of some of the items.
Page 24 of 29
i I J .
Mayor Swedberg indicated that the numbers are preliminary and would be finalized later
in the process.
Mr. Wilharber questioned whether the City intended to hire another individual in public
works. He also noted that the Police Chiefs vision budget was not included and further
noted that by working through various programs the City would be able to obtain two
more officers and a Community Service Officer for only $14,000.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that he would check to make sure that the City had the correct
information submitted by the Police Chief. He then indicated that there was nothing
concrete about the budget numbers.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that, in his experience, once the numbers are established the City
normally does not back off too much and right now the City is looking at a tremendous
increase to taxpayers.
3. Ad Hoc Communications Commission Request
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that she did not wish to hear any more
requests for the budget until after the budget work session.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to table the Ad Hoc Communications Commission Request. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimouslv.
4. Keys to City Hall
Council Member Nelson indicated that Ms. Bender has asked Council to determine which
employees should have keys to City Hall. She then noted that, in the past, staff has had
keys to the front door and the office door, public works has had a master key to all doors,
and Committee Members have had the key to the front door only.
Council Members Broussard Vickers and Travis indicated they did not need a key to City
Hall.
Ms. Buckbee reminded Council that staff is no longer allowed to attend committee
meetings.
It was the consent of Council to offer keys to staff members, and the chairs of the EDC,
Parks and Recreation, and Fete des Lacs Committees. Council also agreed by consent to
provide public works with a master key.
Page 25 of 29
.. ' . .
5. Officer Gleason Request to Use City Hall for Training Session
It was the consent of Council to allow Officer Gleason to use City Hall for a training
program on September 22,2001.
X. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City ofCenterville August 9, through August 22,2001 Expenditures.
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
3. Pay Request #2 - LaMotte Park ($61,189.27)
4. Final Pay Request - Lift Station #2 ($8,500.29)
5. SunRamp Solutions, Inc - Wheels Park ($12,952.20
6. Earl F. Anderson, Inc. - Wheels Park ($26,222.88)
7. Sathe & Associates Executive Search - Administrator ($5,698.37)
Council Member Travis requested that Item 3 be removed from the Consent Agenda for
discussion.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve Consent Al!enda Items 1. 2. 4. 5. 6. and 7 as presented. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimouslv.
Council Member Travis indicated he was concerned that the costs for the project were
much higher than the estimate. He then asked if it was possible to renegotiate the unit
price because the costs were more than 5% over the estimate.
Mr. Peterson indicated he was not sure but said he could research the matter.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if the City would have recourse against the
prior engineer because the soil was not as it was expected to be.
Mr. Peterson explained that there was an excessive layer of clay that had to be removed
that was thicker than expected. He then indicated he did not think the City would have
recourse against the former engineer because the City was having trouble in that area and
dug it and filled it with sand and put the clay back.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked the City Attorney if the City could renegotiate
the unit price. City Attorney Hoeft indicated he would need to review the contract.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to table
pay request #2. LaMotte Park for further research. An in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
Mayor Swedberg was not present for the vote.
Page 26 of29
.. I j' .
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council Member Broussard Vickers reported that the Planning and Zoning Committee
intended to review several proposed changes to Ordinance 4 at its next meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers reported that the Parks and Recreation Committee is
concerned about its budget and the wheels park.
Council Member Capra reported that the Shea Architect Group will be meeting
collaboratively with the EDC, Planning and Zoning, and Parks and Recreation
Committees on September 18, 2001 with regard to the commercial property out by the
interstate.
XII. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR'S REPORT/CLERK/TREASURER'S REPORT
Mr. Palzer reported that the pump at Well Number 1 was hit by lightning but has been
replaced. He also noted that public works has adjusted the phases today because it was
pulling too many amps and said he hopes to have it up and running by the end of the
week.
Mayor Swedberg indicated there was a letter from a resident in the packet requesting a
vacation of a road.
Council Member Capra indicated the letter was in Council packets for information
purposes and noted that the matter would be before Planning and Zoning before coming
to Council.
Mr. Palzer indicated that the resident wanted the City to vacate the road in front of his
garage and give it to him. He then noted that if the City were to vacate the road half of
the roadway would be given to him and half to the adjoining property owner.
Mr. Hoeft indicated there is a specific statutory procedure to follow.
Mr. Palzer indicated that the resident has indicated that he wishes to receive the majority
of the property if the City vacates the roadway and has said he may not want it vacated if
he would only receive half as he would not be able to access his garage.
Mr. Hoeft suggested that Mr. Palzer discuss the matter with the resident and explain to
him what would happen if the City vacated the roadway. Mr. Palzer indicated that the
other property owner has expressed an interest in vacating the property and receiving
half.
Mayor Swedberg indicated Council would be recessing to the closed session.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to recess
to the executive session.
Page 27 of 29
...~,. . v
Council Member Travis asked if Council needed to state why it was going into closed
seSSIOn.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that Council would be gomg into closed seSSIOn to discuss
information provided by Ms. Lien.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted that Ms. Lien's attorney had indicated that she
was denied her Laudermill hearing and asked City Attorney Hoeft if this meeting was
that hearing. City Attorney Hoeft indicated that it was.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that Council would be discussing Ms. Lien's employment with the
City.
Council Member Capra asked if Council needed to indicate it would be discussing the
minutes from the executive session on August 22, 2001.
Mr. Hoeft indicated that Council would be discussing Ms. Lien's employment with the
City.
Mr. Kline asked Council to move carefully on this matter because, even if Council were
to win, it would be at great expense to the taxpayer. He then stated that, from a citizen's
point of view, he feels she was wronged.
Aves - 4. Navs -1 (Broussard Vickers). Motion carried.
Council recessed to the executive session at 10:55 p.m.
Mayor Swedberg called the meeting to order at 11 :00 p.m.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Mari Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
STAFF: City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
Discussion was conducted regarding the work performance of Ms. Lien and the information
from the appeal process during the regular Council Meeting previously.
Mayor Swedberg closed the meeting at 12:25 a.m., Thursday, September 13, 2001.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member Travis to
reconvene the rel!ularlv scheduled Council meetinl! of September 12. 2001 from an
executive session of the same date. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Page 28 of 29
.A i.."1I /<It
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Travis to approve the
Executive Minutes of AUl!ust 22. 20Ot. Executive Session as corrected. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested a copy of the approved minutes of the August 22,
2001 executive session be provided to Ms. Lien the following day.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Mayor Swedberl! to terminate Ms. Lien's
employment with the City effective immediately. All in favor. Aye - 3. (Mayor Swedberl!.
Council Members Capra and Nelson). Nay - 2. (Council Members Broussard Vickers and
Travis) Motion carried.
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Travis to adiourn the September 13. 2001 City Council Meetinl! at 12:45 a.m. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 29 of 29
I Not Approved
OFFICIAL PROCEEDING
CENTERVILLE CITY COUNCIL
EXECUTIVE SESSION
SEPTEMBER 12, 2001
Present:
Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mari Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
Council Member Mary Capra
Staff:
James Hoeft - Garna, Guzy, Steffen, Ltd
Mayor Swedberg called the meeting to order at p.m.
Discussion was conducted regarding the work performance of Ms. Jill Lien and
the information from the appeal process during the regular Council Meeting
earlier.
Mayor Swedberg closed the meeting at 12:45 a. m.
I Not Approved
CITY OF CENTERVlllE
(RECONVENED) CITY COUNCIL MEETING
September 12, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Present:
Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mari Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
Council Member Mary Capra
Staff:
James Hoeft - Garna, Guzy, Steffen, Ltd
At 12:27 a.m. (September 13, 2001) Council Member Brossard Vickers made a
motion to reconvene the regularly scheduled meeting of September 12, 2001
from an executive session of same date. Motion seconded by Council Member
Travis. All in favor. Motion passed.
A motion was made by Council Member Capra to approve the Executive Minutes
of August 22, 2001, Executive Session as corrected. Motion seconded by
Council Member Travis. All in favor. Motion passed.
Council Member Brossard Vickers requested a copy of the approved minutes for
the August 22,2001 executive session minutes be prepared for Ms. Lien
tomorrow.
A motion was made by Council Member Nelson to termination Ms. Lien's
employment with the City effective immediately. Motion seconded by Mayor
Swedberg. Vote 3-2. (Mayor Swedberg and Council Members Nelson and
Capra vote yes. Council Members Broussard Vickers and Travis voted nay)
Motion carried.
A motion to was made to adjourned by Council Member Brossard Vickers.
Motion seconded by Council Member Travis. All in favor. Motion passed.
Mayor Swedberg adjourned the meeting at 12:45 a.m.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Wednesday, September 26,2001
9:42 PM RECESSED TO EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS THREATENED
LITIGATION BY MR. KEN COOK
Discussion ensued regarding Ken Cook's medical insurance premium
reimbursement.
10:16 PM CLOSED EXECUTIVE SESSION
10:16 PM RECONVENED REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
No further discussion.
No action taken.
10:16 PM MOTION BY LINDA BROUSSARD TO ADJOURN, SECONDED BY
MARY CAPRA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 26, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly scheduled
meeting on September 26, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
Council Member Linda Broussard ... . r@
ABSENT: None.
STAFF:
Acting City Administrator/Theresa Bender
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Jim Hoeft
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the September 26,2001, City Council meeting to order at 6:30
p.m.
II. SET AGENDA
Council Member Capra requested that discussion concerning the Budget/Deferred
CompensationlUnion Contract be added under new business.
Council Member Nelson requested that discussion concerning the vacant receptionist be
added under new business.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether the acceptance of the resignation of Ray
DeVine as Fete des Lacs Chair needed to be added to the agenda.
Council Member Capra suggested it be discussed under committee reports.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the af!enda as amended. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
III. PUBLIC HEARING (S)
None.
Page 1 of18
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
1. Terry Hannah. Ground Development
Terry Hannah of Ground Development at 7575 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley
addressed Council to discuss some issues concerning the Developer's Agreement.
City Attorney Hoeft noted that the Developer's Agreement was not on the agenda for
approval at this meeting and said that Mr. Hannah and the principal of Ground
Development would like to make the Council aware of some issues Ground Development
would like Council to take under advisement.
Mr. Hannah noted that the Developer's Agreement covers only the first phase of
construction as there will be a Developer's Agreement for each phase. He then indicated
that Ground Development would prefer to be able to provide a bond for the private
improvements rather than the letter of credit as required by the City. He further
explained that a letter of credit limits Ground Development's ability to borrow and said
the Company would prefer to use the bond.
Mr. Hannah asked that, if the Council was set on requiring the letter of credit, the Council
consider reducing the retainage amount from 150% to 125%.
Mr. Hannah indicated that Ground Development is concerned, due to the late start on the
project, that it would not be able to complete the private improvements by December 31,
2002. He then asked that Council consider extending the date to July 30,2003.
Mr. Hannah indicated that Ground Development would like Council to use the
$1,871,420 figure that was used in the waiver of rights and appeal previously signed by
the Company.
City Attorney Hoeft clarified that, at the last meeting, he had advised Council that it
could use the dollar figure from the waiver previously signed or another dollar figure if it
desired. He then indicated that he had been advised by the City Engineer that enough of
a contingency had been built into the nwnber that both he and the City Engineer feel that
using the dollar figure from the waiver should be sufficient. He further clarified that the
Council could insert a higher dollar figure if it desired to do so.
Council Member Capra asked whether Mr. Hannah was asking Council to reduce the
dollar amount agreed to in the waiver. Mr. Hannah indicated that he would like Council
to use the dollar figure used in the waiver.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned what would happen if, during the other
phases of construction, the $1.8 million is exceeded. City Attorney Hoeft explained that
the dollar figure is for this Developer's Agreement only as there will be a separate
Developer's Agreement for each phase of construction.
Page 2 of 18
City Attorney Hoeft told Council he would have the Developer's Agreement ready for
discussion and final approval at the next meeting.
2. Juran & Moodv (Pheasant Marsh)
George Illertson of Juran & Moody addressed Council to explain that his company, due
to the events of September 11, 2001, was left holding a $58 million dollar debt it had
financed for a company out east that was put out of business on that day. He noted that it
was not necessary for him to resign as financial advisor in order to purchase the bonds for
Pheasant Marsh because his company was not in a position to purchase the bonds. He
further explained that his company would facilitate the bond purchase for the City.
Mr. Illertson told Council there would be a resolution for approval at the next meeting
setting the sale of the bonds.
Council Member Travis asked whether the City would need to switch financial advisors.
Mr. Illertson indicated that would not be necessary as his company, if purchased, would
still be Juran & Moody, a division of something (to be determined).
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that it was the intent of Juran & Moody to
buy the bonds and resell them but now there will be a sale facilitated by Juran & Moody.
Mr. Illertson confirmed the explanation of Council Member Broussard Vickers. He then
noted that the City is not expecting to see the first invoice on the project until mid-
November which means there will be time to hold the sale and send it out to the
underwriting community for purchase.
Mr. Illertson noted the interest rates the City is looking at for thelO-year financing bond
in the approximate amount of $990,000 would be 4.75 to 5%.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the percentage was the same whether Juran & Moody bought
the bonds or if they are sold publicly.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the interest rate is determined by the City's
ability to pay back the bonds as opposed to Juran & Moody's financial rating.
Mr. Illertson explained that the City is non-rated in the bonding community and
suggested that the City should look into becoming rated for any future projects.
Mr. Illertson indicated there was no Resolution setting the sale date and suggested
Council could pass, in motion form, a sale date of October 10, 2001 and then describe the
terms in a Resolution for approval at the next meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Council could pass a Resolution at the
next meeting without jeopardizing the timeline.
Page 3 of 18
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he would prefer the City set the sale date by Resolution at
the next meeting. Mr. Illertson indicated that the first meeting in October would set the
sale date and authorize going out for bids and at the second meeting receive financing
bids.
Mr. Hannah asked if Council would be dealing with the Resolution awarding the bid.
Council Member Nelson indicated that was done by motion. City Attorney Hoeft
clarified that a Resolution would need to be approved at this meeting.
3. Sathe Executive Search
Mr. Sathe of Sathe Executive Search and his Associate came to the Council meeting to
walk through the interview process and to review appropriate and inappropriate
questions.
Council Member Nelson explained that she and Sathe Executive Search had discussed the
different categories of questions and then explained how it was determined which
Council Member would ask what questions.
Sathe Executive Search noted that each Council Member should ask the same questions
to each candidate and then rate the candidates on a scale of 1 to 10.
Council Member Nelson explained that Council will interview each candidate
individually, rate the candidates on a scale of 1 to 10, and turn those rating sheets in to
the Sathe Executive Search representative who will compile the results and provide them
to Council prior to the open meeting part of the interview process.
Sathe Executive Search explained that Council Members would have the ratings in front
of them while conducting the open meeting questioning. He then indicated that each
candidate should be rated on a scale of 1 to 10 on the open meeting questioning.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he had general questions, such as, why do you feel you are
qualified to be the city administrator, and asked if he could ask such questions. Sathe
Executive Search indicated that the Mayor could ask that type of question provided he
asked all the candidates the same question.
Council Member Capra asked if she was allowed to take notes on the candidates. Sathe
Executive Search indicated that Council Members could take notes and suggested that the
ratings sheet be filled out in pencil because the ratings may change as the process goes
along.
Council Member Capra noted there was only one question in her category of long-term
planning and asked if she could ask more. Sathe Executive Search indicated it was fine
to ask more questions but asked that she be sure to ask the same question of all of the
candidates.
Page 4 of 18
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked other Council Members to write down the
questions they had asked the candidates if they intended to vary from the suggested
questions.
Sathe Executive Search explained that, if Council cannot determine its number one
candidate the day of the interviews, the top two or three can be invited back.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned where the candidates would sit while
waiting for their turn. Council Member Nelson noted the candidates would wait in the
office area where refreshments would be served.
Sathe Executive Search noted that four out of the five candidates would not be getting an
offer from the City and told the Council Members that they needed to be careful with the
questions that were asked of the candidates not only during the formal interview but in
passing and casual conversation because something said could make a candidate feel as
though they were denied the position due to an answer to a question asked. He then
clarified that it was fine to ask the candidates to tell the Council Member about
themselves but suggested staying away from all of the personal information contained in
Title 7 which is the law protecting people from discrimination based on sex, race,
religion, marital status, etc.
Council Member Nelson asked if she could ask the candidates where they intended to
live. Mr. Sathe indicated that the question is not illegal but suggested that Council should
stay away from asking it because a candidate could construe that they were not offered
the position based on how they answered the question.
Sathe Executive Search indicated that all of the candidates had indicated to them that they
intended to live outside of Centerville.
Council Member Nelson asked if she was allowed to question any gaps in employment
based on the candidates resume. Mr. Sathe indicated that all employment related
questions were allowed.
Mayor Swedberg asked if he could ask unique questions to the person based on the
resumes. Mr. Sathe indicated that it was permissible to do so.
Mr. Sathe noted that, in the end, there were five things Council would measure to help
determine the candidate to choose. He then indicated that those five things were, why the
candidate is interested or interest level, long term goals, subject matter - skills and
experiences, compensation, and chemistry. He further noted that, in the end, Council
would go with whom it liked.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that there had been a lot of job changing
for most of the candidates and asked if that was common in the industry. Mr. Sathe
indicated it is getting more and more common.
Page 5 of 18
Council Member Broussard Vickers commented that getting someone who stays two
years would be a long time based on the statistics for job changes in the industry.
Council Member Nelson commented that she thinks the City should be able to expect the
candidate to stay at least five years. Council Member Capra commented that she would
think a maximum of three years is all a candidate would give to the City.
Mr. Sathe reviewed with Council ways to phrase questions to eliminate yes and no
answers.
Council Member Nelson asked whether Ms. Bender had any questions or comments
concerning the interview process.
Ms. Bender asked how the process would work. Council Member Nelson explained that
Ms. Bender would open the offices and help facilitate the interviews.
Sathe Executive Search asked that Council review the interview questions and be
prepared for the interviews. He then commented that Council Member Nelson had been
extraordinary to work with and had been a wonderful resource for Sathe Executive
Search during this process.
Council Member Nelson commented that she was excited for the interviews.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
1. September 12. 2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra requested the following changes: On page 25 add to the last
paragraph the chairs of EDC, Park and Recreation, Planning and Zoning and Fete des
Lacs. On Page 28 indicated that the time was 12:25 a.m. on Thursday, September 13,
2001. On Page 29 indicate that adjournment was on September 13, 2001.
Council Member Nelson requested the following change: On Page 9, change the title of
V as there was no executive session due to the request to have the meeting open. On
Page 10, Paragraph 3, add "or on the flip side extol the virtue of Ms. Lien". On Page 16,
Paragraph 2, last sentence, replace ''the'' with "a".
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested the following change: On Page 2,
Paragraph 4 indicate that Park and Recreation had discussed the trail not Planning and
Zoning. On Page 25, under Ad Hoc request change her comment to indicate that she did
not wish to hear any more requests for the budget until after the budget work session.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to
approve the September 12. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
Page 6 of 18
VII. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
I. Mr. & Mrs. Moe. 7040 Brian Court
Mayor Swedberg explained that Mrs. Moe had hit a water valve cover that then came up
and did some damage to her new car.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that Mr. Palzer had contacted him to ask how the matter
should be handled. He then explained that he had told Mr. Palzer that the City should
submit an estimate to the City's insurance carrier and the insurance carrier will determine
whether it is a covered item or not.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that she did not think the City should
submit this claim as it is fairly small and insurance companies use all claims whether
opened or closed without paying to determine how policies are renewed which could
affect rates.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the League of Minnesota Cities would research the
matter without opening a claim or causing the City any problems with policy renewal.
Mayor Swedberg directed Ms. Bender to contact the Moes to request a damage estimate
and to contact the League of Minnesota Cities for advice on how to proceed.
2. Mr. Woiak. 6925 Centerville Road
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Bonestroo is working with Mr. Woiak to resolve the
Issue.
Ms. Bender indicated that the contractors were at the property today and will reset the
curb stop, replace grass and give a monetary value to the flowers that were not replaced.
She then noted the repairs should be completed within a week.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked where the responsibility to restore the property
lies to make sure things are put back as the property was tom up for an unacceptable
amount of time. City Engineer Peterson indicated the responsibility lies with both his
firm and City Staff. He then noted that Mr. Woiak has been difficult to please.
VIII. OLD BUSINESS
1. Rain Water Gardens
Council Member Capra reported that the intern is looking into a $50,000 grant for the
water gardens.
Page 7 of18
2. Mr. Keith Okan. Center Street Drainage
City Engineer Peterson noted that the drainage issue covers a lot of area most of which is
on private property, thereby limiting what the City can do with storm sewer. He then
indicated that the best option is to run storm sewer at the same time the water main
service is extended to Center Street.
Council Member Nelson noted that Council had asked Mr. Peterson for a report as to
what could be done for these people and their drainage issues.
City Engineer Peterson suggested that the Pheasant Marsh development may help with
drainage in the area. He then indicated that his suggestion would be to run sewer when
the streets are reconstructed which may not happen for several years.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that there is no plan for water in the area at
this point and said the City is not sure residents want City water. She then asked if a
pond could be dug in the back yard.
City Engineer Peterson noted the resident had started to dig a trench to collect water in
the back yard and said that water could be routed to the west with his neighbor's
permission.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked what the City's responsibility was with regard
to fixing the water problem. City Attorney Hoeft indicated the City does not have a
responsibility to fix the water problem. He then explained that the City would make a
determination for storm water capacity and how to handle it as part of an overall plan for
storm drains and ponding. He then noted that, if there is damage caused by the way the
City has decided to allow the water to flow, the City would be responsible for damages
caused. He further clarified the City is not required to do something but may wish to do
so to help out the residents.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether the residents were to give up
trees to dig a pond if the pond would be useable. City Engineer Peterson explained that
due to the ground water levels the pond would have no storage capacity and, therefore,
would not do the residents any good.
Council Member Capra asked if there was money in the sewer fund to help offset the
costs to run sewer and water to the neighborhood. City Engineer Peterson indicated he
felt the ponds in Pheasant Marsh would help with the water issues.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked whether it was possible to combine the sewer
and water on Center Street with Phase II and Phase III of Pheasant Marsh to save money.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that it was possible to combine the two projects to save
money.
Page 8 of18
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted that residents are still looking at 2006, if
Council holds to the Comprehensive Plan, before they would receive sewer and water.
Mayor Swedberg noted residents could petition the City for sewer and water on Center
Street and the City would do a feasibility study for assessment numbers.
Council Member Nelson indicated that she would respond to Mr. Okano
City Attorney Hoeft clarified that it is not a good idea to have the City Engineer advising
individuals as to how to solve the water problem on their own to the possible detriment of
their neighbors.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that it would take a lot of money to solve
the water issues on Center Street. She then indicated that all the residents would need to
install draintiling in order to make sure all residents benefit from the sewer in the street.
She further indicated that, if one resident spends the money on draintiling and his
neighbor does not, that resident may still have a water issue after spending a lot of
money.
Council recessed at 8:42 p.m.
Council reconvened at 8:48 p.m.
3. Ouad Cities Police Update
Mayor Swedberg indicated the City had received a letter inviting Council to a meeting on
October 22, 2001 concerning the Quad Cities Police Department Budget for 2002. He
further indicated the letter had said that Centerville approved the budget for the Police
Department which he does not remember doing.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Council had approved a regular
budget.
Mayor Swedberg indicated there is a question as to whether the cities will support the
suggested $50,000 increase to bring more officers to the police department. He further
indicated that the first year costs are low but the amounts slowly increase.
Mayor Swedberg noted that Council had approved a fire department budget not the police
budget. He then indicated that Council had not acted on the budget because of the issue
of increasing liability for vacations not accounted for as there have been no in depth
discussions on the matter.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated she felt the City needed to attend the meeting
but said Council should meet to discuss the budget so representatives of Council
attending the October 22,2001 would know what the City can afford to contribute.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned if it were possible that Centerville would
have to pay for all three cities to get extra officers.
Page 9 of 18
Ms. Bender indicated the letter says that Centerville and Circle Pines would share in the
amount. Council Member Broussard Vickers noted that the letter said that Lexington
would reconsider contributing if they were to get more officers.
4. Sheehy Property (update)
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to table
the Sheehy Property matter and the Cedar Street matter. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
5. Cedar Street Park Propertv (update)
This matter was tabled.
6. Baron and Moreland Properties (Update)
City Attorney Hoeft noted that the last conversation he had with Ms. Baron was strained
at best and said that Ms. Baron had said her attorney would contact him. He then
indicated that no attorney has contacted him and said that there was a court date coming
up.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the Morelands did not attend the court hearing as was
required. He then indicated that the City has the option to file a formal complaint or
dismiss the matter. He further indicated that the formal complaint was signed
approximately two weeks ago and he is awaiting a court date.
7. Turcotte Property (Update)
Mayor Swedberg reported that someone had offered to buy the house for a dollar.
Ms. Bender suggested holding out for more offers.
Council Member Travis indicated he thinks there is a value for the house of more than a
dollar and suggested waiting a couple of weeks to see if any more offers come in.
8. Laurie LaMotte Park Improvements Pay Estimate (tabled from previous meeting)
City Engineer Peterson noted the pay estimate submitted was for the 150 yards as the
City will negotiate the price for the other 100 yards.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if the City is paying $100 per yard. City
Engineer Peterson indicated the City is paying $100 per yard for 150 yards as there is no
option to negotiate anything under 150 yards.
Page 10 of18
9. Ad Hoc Communications ReQuest (Tabled from previous meeting)
Theresa Brenner told Council that the Ad Hoc Communications Committee has been at
work for nearly six months on its recommendation and should have a final
recommendation to present to Council by November 14, 2001. She then asked Council
for permission to have staff review the report for input prior to distributing the copies to
Council and for permission to use staff to help make copies of the report.
Council Member Nelson clarified that staff would be reviewing the document and that
staff input would be inserted into the document. Ms. Brenner concurred. Council
Member Nelson then indicated that she would like Mr. Palzer and Ms. Bender to review
the document.
It was the consent of Council to permit staff to review the document for input and to
assist Ms. Brenner with making approximately 20 copies of the document.
Council Member Travis asked if there would be backlash from other committees if staff
time were used on this project. Ms. Bender indicated that there could be some backlash
but suggested that, if Ms. Brenner were willing to do most of the work, staff would not
spend much time on the matter. Ms. Brenner indicated she was willing to assist with
making the copies.
10. Llovd Drilling - Developer's Agreement
Ms. Bender indicated she has made several attempts to get Mr. Drilling to sign the
Developer's Agreement. She noted he stopped by Monday but she was out and he had
not come back Tuesday or Wednesday. She then asked Council to consider issuing a stop
order on the construction to force him to sign the agreement.
Council directed Ms. Bender to contact Mr. Drilling and tell him that he had two weeks
to get to City Hall and sign the Developer's Agreement or Council would consider
placing a stop order on the construction at its next meeting.
IX. NEW BUSINESS
1. R& R Leasing - Special Assessment Split Request (PIN #R23-31-32-24-0001)
Ms. Bender suggested putting this request on hold due to confusion concerning the PIN
number and documentation received from the County and the property owner.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the property owner did not meet the
commercial requirements for lot size. Ms. Bender indicated that the information
submitted by the property owner does not comply but said the information received from
the County does comply.
Page 11 of18
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked for clarification as to what the property owner
was asking for. Ms. Bender explained that the property owner wished to divide the
assessment pending on the large piece of property by four and attach the amount to each
lot. She then indicated that the special assessment should be paid in full when the first lot
is sold.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the property owner is asking permission
not to have to pay money owed to the City. Ms. Bender indicated that a previous Council
had granted a similar request for this property owner in the past.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the property owner had made a previous request which
was granted by Council.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that the lots were to be considered light
industrial. Ms. Bender clarified that approval of the lot split was contingent upon
registering with the County which the property owner never did.
City Attorney Hoeft clarified that there was an assessment pending on the large parcel
and said the assessment for the entire parcel should be paid at the time one of the newly
created lots is sold.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the property owner has indicated that two of the lots
are sold which would mean that the portion of the assessment for those two properties
would be paid now and the other two would not be paid until those lots are sold. He then
advised against Council granting the request.
Council Member Nelson asked if Council needed to make a motion to table the matter for
further research. City Attorney Hoeft pointed out that before deciding what action to take
Council should consider if granting the request is of benefit to the City. He then
indicated he does not see a benefit to allowing the assessments to be paid at a later date.
Council directed Ms. Bender to send a letter to the property owner indicating he should
provide correct information to the City.
2. Resolution 01-018 Awarding Bid for the Pheasant Marsh Sub-Division (Phase I)
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Council was comfortable using the $1.8 million dollar
figure from the waiver. He then questioned whether Council was opposed to extending
the date for finalization of the private improvements to July 30,2003.
City Engineer Peterson indicated he did not see an issue with extending the date to July
30,2003.
Mr. Hannah indicated he did not think they would have occupancy until June of 2002 but
noted it would depend on how quickly they sell the lots.
Page 12 of18
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted that City Ordinance gives homeowners six (6)
months from the date of the occupancy permit or at public works discretion due to
weather to install the sod. She then suggested using the language "six (6) months after
occupancy of the home not to exceed a certain date."
Ms. Bender noted that an exhibit could be added to the Developer's Agreement to ask
that the funds for sod be placed in escrow with the city for homes built in the winter.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted she did not mind the date of July 30, 2003 for
the end of the project improvements but said she wanted to set a time frame for
homeowners getting sod.
Mr. Hannah noted that his Company does an inspection twice a year to make sure the
lawns are in. He then explained that a letter would be sent to the homeowner if the lawns
were not in explaining they are in violation of the covenants ofthe development.
Ms. Bender noted the City has had problems with the Eagle Pass development with issues
passed on to the builder that the City has no control over.
City Attorney Hoeft explained that the City lost its leverage when the retainage was
refunded too quickly. He then noted that there is no legal magic as to the final date for
private improvements as the market will drive the date based on how quickly the lots sell.
City Attorney Hoeft explained that the bond and retainage issues are interrelated. He
then indicated that if the letter of credit amount of $135,000 limits the developer's ability
to borrow perhaps the City should be concerned with the developer's ability to afford this
development. He then noted that he was legal counsel for Ground Development
previously and noted that, during the time he represented Ground Development, there
was never an issue as to a letter of credit or bond because no city ever had to draw on
them.
City Attorney Hoeft told Council he had indicated to the developer that if the City was
insistent on the letter of credit there may be room to move on the retainage amount from
150% to 125%.
Mayor Swedberg asked how often the City has needed to use the retainage. City
Attorney Hoeft noted the City had not used the retainage in the past but probably should
have in Eagle Pass. City Attorney Hoeft then noted that the developer from Eagle Pass is
now completing the items left undone as they are going to be coming to Council for
approval of Phase II of the development. He further noted the same could be said for
Ground Development when it comes for approval of Phase II.
Council Member Capra asked if the City would be setting a precedent by using 125%
retainage for this development.
Page 13 of 18
Council Member Nelson indicated she would be fine with lowering the retainage to 125%
if that was the desire of Council but said she felt the letter of credit was essential.
Mayor Swedberg noted that a smaller project would require more retainage because there
is not much there.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she would like to see the City require the
letter of credit and the 150% retainage because she does not feel the amount of money
required is much of an outlay for a large corporation.
Council Member Capra stated she would be fine with either the 125% or 150% retainage
but said she felt the letter of credit was in the best interest of the City.
Council Member Travis indicated he felt the letter of credit is easier for the City to draw
on should it become necessary and, therefore, it would be in the best interest of the city to
require it rather than a bond.
Council Member Travis questioned whether the Certificates of Occupancy could be
issued prior to the bituminous being done. City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the City
has considered allowing an aggregate base based on weather conditions noting that,
weather permitting, the bituminous would need to be done yet this year.
Council Member Travis noted City Ordinance required that driveways be bituminous
prior to occupancy. City Attorney Hoeft noted he would review the matter and advise
Council.
Mr. Hannah noted that occupancy would not occur before June of 2002 and noted the
concern was to pull permits and build models this fall.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Travis to
approve Resolution 01-018. awardinl! bid for the Pheasant Marsh Sub-Division
(Phase I). All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to remove
the resil!nation of Juran & Moodv as Financial Advisors for the purpose of bond
purchasinl! related to Pheasant Marsh and Resolution 01-019 awardinl! issuance of
bond for the Pheasant Marsh Sub-Division from the al!enda. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
3. Resignation of Juran & Moodv as Financial Advisors for the purpose of Bond
Purchasing: relating to the Pheasant Marsh Sub-Division (Phase I)
This item was removed from the agenda.
Page 14 of 18
4. Resolution 01-019 - Awarding the Issuance of Bond for the Pheasant Marsh Sub-
Division (Phase I)
This item was removed from the agenda.
5. BudgetJDeferred Compensation/Union Contract
Council Member Capra indicated that when she was reviewing budget information from
the League of Minnesota Cities she came across a statement that states that, although
employees may contribute to other deferred compensation plans, public employers may
only contribute to the states plan for their employees. She then indicated that the City
does have a deferred compensation plan by PepsiCo that the City is contributing to.
City Attorney Hoeft noted that, in speaking with Council Member Capra, it pretty
strongly appears the City has a problem because it is offering a deferred compensation
plan that does not comply. He then said the City needs to research the matter and fix it
immediately to limit the amount of penalties that will be charged to the City.
Council Member Capra indicated she had determined that the plan began in 1996 and
said she had asked staff to locate a copy of the agreement but staff has not been able to
locate it.
Mayor Swedberg asked if there were plan documents to review. City Attorney Hoeft
indicated he had not seen any.
Council Member Capra indicated that she had reviewed the minutes from the December
1996 Council meeting where Jim March requested a Resolution authorizing City
participation in the PEBSCO deferred compensation plan.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the City needs to gather documentation and work with staff
and his office to find out what needs to be done to rectify the situation. He then
suggested contacting the League of Minnesota Cities for assistance once the relevant
documents had been gathered.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked what the time line was for resolving the issue.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that as soon as the City knows for sure there is a problem it
needs to be fixed immediately. He then indicated there is a former IRS agent working in
his office who may be able to advise the City on this matter.
Council Member Capra indicated she would continue to work with staff to locate
documents and would then contact the League of Minnesota Cities for assistance with the
matter. She then noted that she had been told by representatives of the League of
Minnesota Cities that if the City contacted them for any further help on the matter there
would be a fee associated with the service.
Page 15 of 18
6. Vacant Receptionist Position
Council Member Nelson suggested that the City should advertise to fill the vacant
position as the office is short staffed by two employees.
Ms. Bender indicated staff is utilizing the intern and the temporary part-time person and
suggested waiting until after the new City Administrator starts to fill the position.
It was the consent of Council to wait until the City Administrator starts before filling the
vacant receptionist position.
x. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City of Centerville September 13, 2001 through September 26, 2001
Expenditures.
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
3. League of Minnesota Cities Annual Renewal- $2,312
4. Pay Estimate #2 - Vinco (Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park)
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the consent al!enda as presented. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Committee
would have a full agenda at its next meeting dealing with Ordinance #4 amendments.
Ms. Bender reported that the City would be receiving a preliminary plat approval request
for the subdivision "The Shores" in the near future.
Council Member Capra reported there had been a joint meeting with Shea architect and
noted that there should be a presentation before Council in the end of October.
Council Member Capra requested permission of Council to attend the next Fete des Lacs
meetings.
It was the consent of the Council to authorize Council Member Capra to attend the Fete
des Lacs Committee meeting not to be its liaison going forward.
XII. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR'S REPORT/CLERKlTREASURER'S REPORT
1. Scheduling Budget Workshops
By consent Council agreed to set a budget work session for October 17, 2001.
Page 16 of 18
2. Truth and Taxation Hearings
Ms. Bender asked if Council wanted to hold a truth and taxation hearing even though it is
not required to do so this year.
Council agreed, by consensus, that it would not hold a truth in taxation hearing as the
matter is very complicated due to recent legislative changes.
Council agreed, by consensus, to schedule a budget work session for October 30,2001.
Ms. Bender reported that the pond inventory is approximately halfway done.
Council Member Capra asked how many ponds the City has. Ms. Bender indicated there
were approximately 50 ponds in the City.
Mayor Swedberg reported he had received the five-year highway plan for Anoka County
and said he would review it and report any issues relevant to the City.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether the letter from the League of Minnesota Cities
concerning loss control would be responded to within the 60-day time limit. Ms. Bender
indicated that she had not yet responded as the letter will be discussed by the Park and
Recreation Committee. She also noted that Mr. Palzer and the public works staff is
working on some of the least expensive items on the list. She further noted that a
response must be sent to the League of Minnesota Cities by November 11, 2001.
Mayor Swedberg directed Ms. Bender to provide a written response to the League of
Minnesota Cities prior to the deadline.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested Ms. Bender update Council as to progress
on the matter at the last meeting in October.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked for an update on the roadway vacation letter
previously received. City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the only thing the City would do
is to follow the statutory process for vacating a roadway. He then indicated that Mr.
Palzer is working with the individuals involved to determine if an official request is being
made. He further explained that if the City vacates the roadway the property would
revert back to the way it was divided before the plat that created the street.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked whether it was in the City's best interest to
vacate the street. City Attorney Hoeft indicated the City needed to determine if it has any
use for that piece of street.
XIII. EXECUTIVE SESSION - KEN COOK
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that Council was recessmg into executive seSSiOn to
discuss threatened litigation.
Page 17 of18
.
Council recessed to executive session at 9:43 p.m. to discuss threatened litigation by Mr. Ken
Cook.
Discussion ensued regarding Ken Cook's medical insurance premium reimbursement.
Council closed the executive session at 10:16 p.m. and reconvened Council's regular meeting at
10:16 p.m.
XIV. ADJOURNMENT
Motion bv Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member Capra to adiourn the
September 26. 2001 City Council Meetinl! at 10:16 p.m. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 18 of 18
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
September 28,2001
10:00 a.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held an open
meeting to interview candidates for the position of City Administrat@r
September 28,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg U!f?)O Qr7~ 0
Council Member Dic Trav' \.0 \J '
Council Member M
Council Member
Council Member
I. CALL TO ORDER
Meeting called to order at 10:10 a.m., Council Member Dick Travis left the
meeting at approximately 10:15 a.m.
II. APPEARANCES
Following earlier interviews, individually with Gregory Johnson, Garrison Hale,
Chantell Kadin, Kevin Caroll and Kim Moore-Sykes, the candidates were
interviewed by the whole council in this open meeting. Council Member Travis
was consulted via cell phone.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
authorized Sathe Executive Search to offer the position of City Administrator to
Ms. Kim Moore-Sykes not to exceed an annual wage of $63.000. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously. (Council Member Travis not Present. voted via cell
phone)
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Nelson to
authorized Sathe Executive Search to offer the position of City Administrator to
Mr. Greg Johnson if it was previously declined by Ms. Moore-Sykes not to
exceed an annual wage of$58.000 plus the one-time moving expense of $5.000.
Motion carried unanimously. (Council Member Travis not present. voted via cell
phone)
III. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
adiourn the September 28. 2001 City Council Meeting at 1:48 p.m. Motion
carried unanimously. (Council Member Travis not present)
"
..
City ofCenterville
October 10.2001
Council Meeting Minutes
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 10, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly scheduled
meeting on October 10, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT:
Mayor Tim Swedberg d;:l
Counc~l Member Dick Travis........ ~....'.(~" '. ,.,,0.. '\2,
CounCIl Member Mary Capra @ ....P",..',
Council Member Mari Nelson .'. 0.... ..,,'
Council Member Linda BroflA. ..~ '1iY}a...,.O li@#lf..
Non~ ~~~
ABSENT:
STAFF:
Acting City AdministratorlMs. Teresa Bender
City Engineer, Mr. Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Mr. Jim Hoeft
Acting City AdministratorlPublic Works Director Mr. Paul Palzer
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the October 10,2001, City Council meeting to order at 6:35 p.m.
II. SET AGENDA
Council Member Capra requested that Mr. Bart Rehbein be added under appearances.
Terry Hannah of Ground Development asked to be heard under old business.
Mayor Swedberg requested that Mr. and Mrs. West be added under new business
Mayor Swedberg requested that Frattalone Excavating be added under new business.
Mayor Swedberg requested that Terminal Truck be added under appearances.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to approve the agenda as amended. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
III. PUBLIC HEARING (S)
None.
Page 1 of 26
.
IV.
City of Centerville
October 10,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
APPEARANCES/AWARDS
1. Juran & Moodv (Pheasant Marsh Bond)
George Illertson of Juran & Moody indicated that his company's financia1s had been
worked out and noted the company is still intact. He then indicated that Council needed
to set the bond sale at this meeting and receive bids on October 24, 2001.
Mr. Illertson asked that Council approve the Financial Advisory Agreement between the
City and Juran & Moody prior to authorizing the sale. He then explained that the
agreement outlines the function of Juran & Moody in the bond process and said his
company would take the project from assembling information from the City, County, and
School District through the closing process with an estimated date for the City receiving
the funds of November 14, 2001.
Mr. Illertson noted the agreement contained an official cash flow statement and then
agreed to waive the printing costs and strike that amount from the document.
Council Member Capra noted Mr. Illertson had indicated at the last meeting the bonds
would have an interest rate of between 4.75 to 5.0% and asked if the interest rate had
changed. Mr. Illertson indicated that 4.75 to 5.0% was still his estimate but stated he
hoped the interest rate would be a little bit lower.
Council Member Capra indicated that at the last meeting Mr. Illertson had made
reference to the City being non-rated. She then asked whether he recommended the City
become rated.
Mr. Illertson said the City is growing to a point where it might merit looking at. He then
indicated that Juran & Moody could request that an estimator service be used to look at
the City's financials and give the City a feel for what type of rating the City would be
looking at for no charge.
Council Member Capra asked what the benefit of being rated was.
Mr. Illertson indicated that if the City had a high rating it would be the beneficiary of
more aggressive interest rates but noted there is a fee for rated bonds relative to the size
of the issuance.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted that 2008 was the earliest the City could
prepay the bonds and then asked if that was a standard timeframe.
Mr. Illertson indicated that the call date would typically be set for halfway through the
bond payback. He then indicated that this is a ten-year term and said that bonds issued
for only 10 years usually do not have a call date but said he felt the City would like the
Page 2 of 26
.
City of Centerville
October 10. 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
option of the call date because it is likely the development will become fully developed
and the bonds could be repaid.
Mr. Hannah questioned whether the amount of the bond was just for Phase 1. Mr.
Illertson indicated that it was.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted that, if the City were to collect all the monies,
it would have to sit on the funds and wait until it could payoff the bonds. Mr. Illertson
agreed but said that the City can earn interest on those funds while waiting to payoff the
bonds.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. and seconded by Council Member
Travis to approve the Financial Advisorv Service Ae:reement between the City of
Centerville and Juran & Moody. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to approve Resolution 01-019. a resolution awardine: the issuance of bonds
for the Pheasant Marsh Sub-Division (Phase I). All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
2. Mr. Bart Rehbein
Mr. Bart Rehbein indicated he had come to Council to raise some issues prior to the
public hearing on the preliminary plat for The Shores.
Mr. Rehbein indicated the plat contained 10 lots with an outlot in the comer that would at
some point be combined with the Liebel property to be split into two saleable lots. He
then indicated that he would maintain ownership of the outlot but said the homeowners'
association would be responsible for maintaining it along with the easement area for
access to the lake for those property owners without lake shore.
Mr. Rehbein indicated that all of the lots meet the minimum lot size requirements for R-2
zoning and said some of the lots are deep and the setback was based on the lake not the
road.
Mr. Rehbein inquired as to what the park dedication fees would be.
Council indicated that park dedication fees are $1,800 per lot.
Mr. Rehbein indicated that Hal's dad's house would be removed from the property and
indicated that the original intent was to access that lot from County Road 14 with the
existing access. He then indicated that Anoka County had indicated that the property
could be accessed from Mound Trail and will not allow the Main Street access to remain.
Page 3 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg asked Mr. Rehbein if the County had given him any indication of what
it intends to do with the road.
Mr. Rehbein indicated that the County is applying for funding in 2005 to widen Main
Street to four lanes and will be seeking another 27 feet of right-of- way on the west side
of the road. He then indicated that the County said he could pursue the access but had
told him they were sure it would not be approved. He further indicated that Mr. Palzer
had indicated that the driveway easement to access that lot should be 20 feet wide.
Council Member Nelson asked whether the easement access to the lake would be
maintained by the homeowners' association. Mr. Rehbein indicated that it would.
Mr. Rehbein asked Council if it would consider allowing him to use his engineering Staff
to prepare the final construction drawings rather than the City Engineer. He then
indicated that he felt his in house people could do the job a lot more inexpensively than
the City Engineer and offered to allow the City Engineer to review the plans and inspect
all the work to retain control.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated there would be a cost incurred by the City
to have the City Engineer review Mr. Rehbein's plans.
Mr. Rehbein offered to pay for the City Engineer's fee to review the plans.
Mr. Rehbein indicated he was aware that the Park and Recreation Committee intended to
recommend some type of trail along Main Street and indicated he was agreeable to that.
Mr. Rehbein indicated that he felt it would be costly to extend the water main from
Lakeland Hills all the way to this development and said it would be his preference not to
do so and for the City to allow private wells in the development.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that Water Works has been waiting for water for quite
some time.
Mr. Jeffrey Nottum of 7238 Main Street asked where the watermain would be run. City
Engineer Peterson indicated that it would come from Lakeland Hills down Main Street to
the new development.
City Engineer Peterson indicated he would prefer not to have ten private wells so close
together.
Mayor Swedberg noted the City had a problem recently with line of sight and setbacks
for houses on lakes and suggested Mr. Rehbein do what he can to keep the houses all
setback at an equal distance from the lake.
Page 4 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Rehbein indicated that he had the state archaeologist out to the property and it was
detennined that no Indian mounds were located on the site. He then indicated he would
get the City a copy of the state archaeologist's report.
Council Member Travis noted that Mound Trail is a 5-ton road and questioned how Mr.
Rehbein intended to bring construction equipment to the site. Mr. Palzer suggested
accessing the development off of Main Street where the existing driveway is.
Mr. Rehbein indicated that the entire development could not be constructed by accessing
off of Main Street.
Council Member Travis noted that, in the spring, the road is a three-ton roadway and
indicated the matter would need to be addressed.
3. Terminal Transport
Mr. Shawn Coatney indicated he was representing his brother, Brent Coatney, from
Terminal Transport. He then noted that his brother had built the facility in 1998 and said
his brother now needs to downsize his operation, as it is too costly for the company to
operate the facility on 20th Avenue. He then explained that Mueller Pipeliners wants to
buy the facility.
Mr. Jeff Nordness of 2285 East Comfort Drive, Wyoming indicated that his company
intends to grade the property and use it in basically the same manner it is currently being
used. He then indicated he is a little confused because he had been told by City Staff to
obtain a Rice Creek Watershed District permit and now had been told he needed to
appear before Council.
Council Member Capra asked if Mr. Nordness needed to go through Council for this
matter. Ms. Bender indicated there is a question as to outside storage more so than the
grading.
Mr. Nordness pointed out on a map where he needed to do additional grading. He then
indicated he intended to have outside storage and conduct safety training in the building.
Council Member Capra asked if the issue is with outside storage or what the issue was.
Mr. Palzer indicated that Ordinance 4 states that he needs to go through the site plan
review process. He then indicated that the matter should go to the Planning and Zoning
Committee for discussion and public hearing.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if the use would be allowed without a
conditional use permit. Mr. Palzer indicated that it would.
Council Member Nelson indicated she felt it was premature to have the matter at Council
and indicated it needed to go to the Planning and Zoning Committee.
Page 5 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Nordness indicated he is trying to get a feel from Council to see if it is a big issue or
not.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the usage has to be an allowed usage in
Ordinance 4 currently, if not, the Ordinance would need to be amended which is a
process that takes several months. She then asked ifhe had a final grading plan.
Mr. Nordness indicated he did have a grading plan and approval from Rice Creek
Watershed District.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the grading plan is the original grading plan for the whole
property.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the City Engineer would need to review
the grading plan and City Staff would need to review it to make sure it meets all the
requirements.
Council Member Capra asked how old the grading plan was. Mr. Nordness indicated the
grading plan was from 1998.
Mr. DeVine asked how the usage differed from the Terminal Trucking usage.
Council Member Capra indicated there is an outside storage issue.
Mr. Nordness indicated that there is outside storage now.
Mr. Wilharber asked if the area would be asphalted. Mr. Nordness indicated he would be
using Class Five.
Mr. Wilharber expressed concern for runoff, as the City does not know what Mueller
Pipeline does. He then stated he is surprised that Rice Creek Watershed approved the
usage and said he feels the area should be asp halted and have a catch basin.
Mr. Nordness indicated that the asphalt would not last due to the type of equipment they
would be driving on it.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked what would be stored at the facility. Mr.
Nordness indicated that empty trailers and flatbed trailers would be stored at the facility.
Council Member Capra asked how long a grading plan is good for. City Attorney Hoeft
indicated the existing grading plan might not include any elevations or slope with regard
to the back portion of the property and said the City Engineer needed to look at it.
Council Member Travis asked if Terminal Trucking has a conditional use permit right
now.
Page 6 of 26
City ofCenterville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated it is an allowed usage in the industrial area
and no conditional use permit is required.
Council Member Broussard Vickers told Mr. Nordness that Staff would review the matter
and determine whether it needed to be referred to the Planning and Zoning Committee.
Mr. Coatney indicated that there is a timing issue involved as his brother has made plans
to downsize to another facility.
Mr. Wilharber asked if the facility is located in a TIF district. It was the consent of
Council that the facility is not in a TIF district.
4. Mr. and Mrs. West, 1824 Main Street
Mr. West of 1824 Main Street indicated that Anoka County is requiring City approval of
a lot split in order to finalize the purchase of the lot behind his existing property. He then
indicated that the Planning and Zoning Committee had approved his request at its last
meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the matter was acted on at the Planning
and Zoning Committee and approved as presented.
Council Member Capra asked for clarification on the lot split.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated there were no questions as the lot split met
all the requirements.
Mr. West indicated the County will not allow the documents to be recorded until he has
City approval.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the lot split as requested by Mr. and Mrs. West in the letter
dated September 25. 2001. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the neighbors were okay with the purchase. Mr. West
indicated that they were.
Council Member Travis asked what Mr. West wanted the lot for. Mr. West indicated he
wanted a bigger back yard for his grandchildren to play in.
Council Member Nelson asked that if those in attendance had something to discuss that
they step out in the hallway, as the various conversations going on in the audience were
very distracting.
Page 7 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
1. September 26. 2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra requested the following changes: On Page 10 change "complain"
to "complaint." On page 15 correct the spelling of PEBSCO. On page 15 change
"August" to "December" and indicate that Jim March had requested Council approve a
Resolution authorizing the City to participate in PEBSCO. On Page 16 indicate the name
of the preliminary plat as "The Shores". On Page 16 correct the spelling of Shea. On
Page 16 clarify that Council authorized Council Member Capra to attend the next Fete
des Lacs Committee not to be its liaison going forward.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the September 26. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimouslv.
2. September 28.2001 Special Council Meeting Minutes
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the September 28. 2001 Special Council Minutes as presented. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
1. Ground Development
Terry Hannah of Ground Development indicated he was present to discuss the
Developer's Agreement and noted he had received a revised copy earlier in the day. He
then indicated that there were a couple of things that concerned him and he had discussed
those with Mr. Hoeft prior to the meeting. He further indicated that those issues were
that there needed to be a clause in the agreement indicating the City would pick up the
cost for over sizing the pipe, and the dollar amount for storm water fees. Mr. Hannah
indicated that the former City Administrator had told him the storm water fees would be
approximately $1,000 and the amount in the agreement is $10,000. He then said he
needed to confer with the principal of Ground Development on that issue.
City Attorney Hoeft reviewed with Council changes that were made to the document
since the last Council meeting noting that the retainage was left at 150%, the date for
completion of private improvements was changed to July 30, 2003, and language was
added from the City Engineer to allow for aggregate base course rather than bituminous
but state that bituminous is required if weather permits.
Page 8 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Travis indicated the document says that without curb and gutter and
blacktop a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued. He then indicated that City Ordinance
requires that blacktop be installed prior to the issuance ofthe Certificate of Occupancy.
City Attorney Hoeft questioned whether Council wanted to allow occupancy prior to the
bituminous being installed which is contrary to City Ordinance on a temporary basis until
weather would permit the blacktop to be installed.
Council Member Travis noted the developer had indicated that there would not be
occupancy until May.
Mr. Hannah indicated there should not be an issue with blacktop as there should not be
occupancy until May and suggested removing the language from the document.
Council Member Travis questioned who would plow the roadway without any curb or
blacktop and who would be liable for the damage that will incur from plowing it. Mr.
Palzer indicated the City would plow the roads.
Ms. Buckby questioned why the City would have to plow a road that is not an accepted
roadway. Mr. Palzer indicated that in the past the City allowed a developer to plow and
they were not doing so until several days after the snows and the City felt it was a matter
of public safety to allow for emergency vehicles to access the development if they needed
to.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the plowing issue is covered under the cost of private
improvements and includes 20 plows at $ I 00.00 an hour.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he would change the language of the document to require
bituminous prior to Certificates of Occupancy being issued. He then indicated that the
City would be picking up three or three and a half percent (3 or 3.5%) for the over sizing
and said he would modify the document.
Council Member Travis questioned whether the pipe was still being oversized based on
the new alignment. The City Engineer indicated that it was.
City Attorney Hoeft clarified that the storm water fees were calculated at .01546 per
square foot for a total of$10,707.66.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether Council could approve the Developer's
Agreement because Mr. Hannah needed to speak to the owner about the storm water fees.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated Council could approve the document as written and said
that if the developer has an issue with the storm water fees he could come back with a
request to discuss it. He then asked that Council approve the Developer's Agreement
giving him the ability to change the language to accurately reflect that 100% of the cost
Page 9 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
of the assessment does not include the oversized pipe and the change back to require
bituminous on Page 3 of the document.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the calculation multiplier on storm water fees was a
number the City has always used. City Attorney Hoeft indicated he is not sure what
happened in the calculation but said it is the calculation always used for storm water fees.
Mr. Hannah indicated he would be requesting documentation to support what they were
told concerning storm water fees. City Attorney Hoeft indicated if there was a
miscommunication, that is unfortunate but said the storm water fees calculation is what it
is and cannot be changed.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to approve the Developer's Al!:reement for Pheasant Marsh (Phase I) subiect
to the Citv Attornev's changes to Para\:raph Ub) on Pal!:e 3 and Para~raph (c) on
Pal!:e 5. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
2. Mr. and Mrs. Moe. 7040 Brian Court (Update)
Ms. Bender indicated that she and Mr. Palzer had spoken with a claims adjuster from the
League of Minnesota Cities who will determine whether the claim would be covered or
not and report back to them.
3. Rain Water Gardens (Update)
Council Member Capra indicated she spoke with Mike today who had told her he expects
to hear back within two weeks concerning the rain water gardens grant.
4. Sheehy Properties (Update)
Tabled until after 2002 budget is set.
5. Cedar Street Park Property (Update)
Tabled until after 2002 budget is set.
6. Turcotte Property (Update)
Council Member Travis asked if anybody else was interested in the property. Mr. Palzer
indicated he had not received any other offers to purchase the property. He then
indicated that the building would be hard to move because of multiple foundations.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the City did not yet have clear title but said the process
to clear the title had begun and said if the City wanted to sell the property it could.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the City could use the building for anything.
Page 10 of26
City ofCenterville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson indicated the City of Centerville would be responsible for the
whole clean up as the mover would fence the hole with the first offer received. She then
asked if public works would be filling the hole.
Mayor Swedberg asked what would be done with the other buildings on the property.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the City would have the costs of
demolition of the duplex plus the clean up and filling of the hole if the City does not sell
the building and allow it to be moved.
Mr. Palzer suggested asking house movers to take the building for the cost of filling the
hole.
Council Member Nelson asked whether it would be financially better to remove the
building or continue running the utilities. She then indicated if the utilities are shut off
then the City would not have the expense or pressure of time.
Mayor Swedberg asked how much the utilities are costing the City.
Mr. Palzer indicated that the water and gas are shut off and said the City would only be
paying a minimum charge, ifthere is one.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if an empty house could be considered an
attractive nuisance.
Council Member Nelson indicated she felt Council should wait before deciding on the
offer.
Council Member Capra asked if Staff could find out what it would cost the City to fill in
the hole.
7. BudgetJDeferred Comp/Union Contract
Council Member Capra indicated she did some investigating into the matter and had
spoken to Ms. Ryan at the League of Minnesota Cities who indicated she could and
would only give informal guidance on the matter. She then suggested hiring Abdo, Eick
and Meyers for $80.00 per hour to advise the City on how to proceed. She further
explained that Mr. McDonald from Abdo, Eick and Meyers had indicated he felt that it
would take the firm three or four days to gather information and provide advice on how
to proceed.
Council Member Capra suggested that she work with Staff to gather information to
provide to Mr. McDonald in an effort to save the City money. She then indicated that
Mr. McDonald would like to meet with City Staff as soon as possible to go over what
types of information should be gathered and provided to them for review.
Page 11 of26
City of Centerville
October 10, 200 1
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson indicated she felt it would save the City a lot of money to get a
list of documents and pull them ahead of time.
Council Member Capra indicated that Mr. McDonald had indicated that he had found, in
working with other clients, that the IRS has usually waived penalties if the client has
shown a good faith effort to resolve the matter.
Council Member Capra indicated the City would be responsible for going back on the
paid benefits. She then indicated that there was no FICA taken out of any of that benefit
and it was not run through the payroll system as a separate check was posted. She further
indicated there were a lot of issues to address such as how to handle the matter with the
union, and the fact that the benefit was not offered to all employees.
Council Member Capra indicated that Mr. McDonald could come to the next meeting to
let Council know what needs to be done to rectify the situation.
Council Member Capra indicated that Mr. McDonald had agreed to assist the City with
the entire process at the rate of $80.00 per hour.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked how long the process would take.
Council Member Capra indicated that Mr. McDonald had said it should not take very
long if Staff pulls the documents.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that working with the State and the IRS on
a settlement could be time consuming.
Council Member Capra clarified that Mr. McDonald would not be working with the City
to set up an appropriate deferred compensation program but would be working with the
State for settlement of monies owed.
Council Member Capra indicated that employees can put money into PEBSCO but said
the City cannot. She then indicated that she and Ms. Bender had discovered that there is
approximately $67,000 deposited into PEBSCO that includes wages and the City's
portion.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if Council needed to make a motion to hire
Abdo, Eick and Meyers.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that because City funds would be spent a motion would be
appropriate. He then indicated there is not an amount not to exceed figure at this time
and said the City would need to monitor the costs as the process goes along.
Council Member Capra asked if City Attorney Hoeft had spoken to the former IRS
enforcement agent in his office.
Page 12 of26
City ofCenterville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he had discussed the matter with the former IRS
enforcement agent at his office who indicated that, because deferred compensation is
involved, he felt that the accountants would be better fit to address the matter and work
with the IRS. City Attorney Hoeft indicated that this individual had also indicated that
the IRS has waived penalties, in some cases, where it felt a good faith effort had been
made.
Council Member Capra indicated that the City needed to take PERA off the top of wages
before determining the amounts deposited.
Council Member Capra suggested requesting information from PEBSCO back to 1996 to
compare to what is in the City's files.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson. to authorize the hirine of Abdo. Eick and Meyers to investieate the City's
deferred compensation issue at $80.00 per hour. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Council Member Nelson suggested a friendly amendment to the motion to appoint
Council Member Capra to work on the matter.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that authorizing Council Member Capra need not be in the
motion.
It was the consent of Council to authorize Council Member Capra to work on the
deferred compensation issue.
Council Member Capra indicated that Mr. McDonald had said he believed he would have
a solution by the first part of November and definitely by the end of the year.
Council Member Capra indicated that Council needed to address how to work with the
union and employees on this matter.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she needed further information before
discussing the matter.
8. Ken Cook (Update)
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that he had determined that the classification of payment to
Mr. Cook would be a reimbursement of overpaid medical insurance premiums.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the matter would be reported on a 1099 miscellaneous form.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated it would be classified as a reimbursement as it is money
that Mr. Cook has already paid taxes on.
Page 13 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if Council needed to make a motion to
reimburse the amount. City Attorney Hoeft indicated he was not sure what the amount
would be.
Council Member Nelson indicated she felt that $7,500 is a good,amount.
Council Member Capra asked if it is more than that.
Council recessed to change the tape at 8:28 p.m.
Council reconvened at 8:30 p.m.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to reimburse Mr. Cook the amount of $7.386.44 as a reimbursement for
medical insurance premiums. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Nelson questioned whether Mr. DeVine was resigning from the Fete
des Lacs Committee or as Chair, and if a motion to accept the resignation needed to be
made.
Mr. DeVine indicated it was a resignation as Chair of the Committee. He then
commented that there really is no discussion as there is no Committee because there are
no bylaws for the Committee. He then asked ifthere were bylaws for the Committee.
Council Member Capra indicated that Fete des Lacs was authorized as a Committee and
the members are paid as a Committee.
9. Lloyd Drilling Developer's Agreement
Ms. Bender indicated that Mr. Drilling had signed the Developer's Agreement.
10. R & R Leasing - Special Assessment Split Request
Ms. Bender indicated that she had not received any further information on the matter.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Resolution 01-019 - Awarding the Issuance of Bonds for the Pheasant Marsh
Sub-Division (Phase I)
This matter was acted upon earlier in the meeting.
Page 14 of26
City of Centerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
2. League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Benefits
Council Member Capra indicated that she needed clarification as to whether the Mayor
wanted the League of Minnesota Cities to come in and explain the benefits.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that the City needed an open season for employee benefits
and said the employees need to have a choice of options. He then suggested scheduling a
variety of people that provide that sort of service to provide information to Council.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated there usually needs to be more than one
plan for open enrollment.
Ms. Bender indicated that there is more than one plan but they have the option of being in
or out and there is no open enrollment except when you are newly hired.
Council Member Nelson indicated Council needed numbers to consider for the budget
planning sessions.
Council Member Capra clarified that Council wanted information not from the League of
Minnesota Cities but from PEIP.
Ms. Bender suggested getting information from the League of Minnesota Cities, PEIP,
and any other providers.
Council Member Capra clarified the current benefits are through PEIP. Ms. Bender
indicated that Council Member Capra was correct and said that if the City wants to
provide something other than PEIP it would need to go out and seek other proposals.
Mayor Swedberg agreed that he wants to solicit proposals from other services and wants
an open enrollment season yearly.
Council Member Capra asked if there was any way to get an open season with PEIP.
Ms. Bender indicated that PEIP only allows open enrollment when first hired
Mayor Swedberg directed the City Administrator to gather information and provide it to
Council.
3. Reception for Ms. Kim Moore-Sykes. City Administrator
Mayor Swedberg indicated he felt it would be appropriate to have a welcoming reception
for the new City Administrator, Kim Moore-Sykes who is coming to CenterviIIe from
Ramsey. He then indicated he would buy cake and refreshments and suggested holding it
at a Council meeting.
Page 15 of26
City ofCentervilJe
October 10, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated Council's agendas are too lengthy and said
she would like it held another night. She also indicated she would prefer to wait until
after Ms. Moore-Sykes gets started.
Council Member Nelson indicated that the meeting would need to be posted.
Ms. Bender indicated she needed four days' notice of the meeting.
It was the consent of Council to allow Ms. Moore-Sykes to select the date for the
reception.
4. Watermain Extension for The Shores
City Engineer Peterson handed out a drawing showing the watermain extension for The
Shores. He then indicated that the City may face opposition from Mr. DeFoe who has
approximately 800 feet of frontage and noted that Water Works has asked for water in the
past.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that with water the City can only assess the
amount that the property increases by. She then asked ifthere was an estimate of the per
square foot assessment.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that from Lakeland Circle to The Shores is
approximately 2600 feet, $150,000 to $200,000, which figures to approximately $75.00
per foot.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the City can only assess back to the owner
what the market feels is the improvement to the property. City Attorney Hoeft indicated
that the assessment amounts would be approximately $8,000 to $10,000 per lot. He then
indicated that Mr. DeFoe has the ability to subdivide and the City could divide his
property and assess him per lot for the lots that fit in his frontage.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the City needed a feasibility study and
public hearings on the matter. She then commented that the developer had said he
preferred private wells.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that if the City decided to do a feasibility study it would
delay The Shores but said he is not sure of Mr. Rehbein's timetable since it is already
October.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated there is not water on Peltier right now.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that this project would get water out there.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked what the difference was if the City does the
feasibility study or if a resident petitions for water. City Engineer Peterson indicated the
report would be based on bringing water right to The Shores.
Page 16 of26
City of Centerville
October 10,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked what the feasibility study would cost the City.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that the feasibility study would cost approximately
$5,000 as it would take time with maps and estimated assessments.
Council Member Capra asked what the timing is for acting on the plat. City Attorney
Hoeft indicated that typically what the City has done in past situations where the time
does not work is to have the developer submit a waiver of the 60-day requirement in
order to allow more time for gathering information.
Council Member Nelson asked why the City would want to put water through if none of
the residents want it.
Council Member Capra indicated that Water Works has asked for water previously and
Mr, Nottum had indicated he would take water,
City Engineer Peterson indicated that homeowner's insurance is less costly when a home
is serviced by City water.
Mayor Swedberg asked if this project could be done when the County widens the road to
consolidate costs. City Engineer Peterson indicated that the County widening the road is
too far off and said the pipe would be drilled.
Council Member Capra asked if there would be a problem with having sewer and water
right next to each other.
Council Member Travis questioned whether residents of The Shores would be required to
connect to City water if it is brought out there.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that is an item of negotiation between the City and The
Shores but noted if there is a stub to the property there is a benefit to the property that the
developer will have paid for and it does not make sense to pay for the benefit and then
put in a private well.
Ms. Buckbee indicated that, to her recollection of City Ordinance, the City does not allow
lots under 10 acres without City water.
Mr. Wilharber suggested checking the Ordinance before doing the feasibility study and
spending City funds. He then indicated that the City let Mr. Buechler put in five lots
without City water that may have been in error.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the City could inform the property owner it needs another
60 days to review the feasibility of bringing water to the development.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked Ms. Bender to check City Ordinance to
determine whether lots under 10 acres are required to have City water.
Page 17 of26
City of Centerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. Buckbee indicated that there may be a feasibility study on file for bringing water to
Peltier Lake Drive and the DeFoe property and suggested providing that study to the City
Engineer to save time and money if a new study is needed.
Council asked Ms. Bender to check into whether there is a feasibility study for Peltier
Lake Drive and the DeFoe property.
5. Mr. Jeffrev Nottum. 7238 Main Street
Mr. Nottum indicated he had come to Council to find out why his home has been charged
two sewer charges. He then indicated he has been doing some research and questioned
what the criteria for sewer charges is.
Mayor Swedberg asked if there was one house on the property. Mr. Nottum indicated it
is a house with one address but there are two separate residences. He then indicated that
his house has only one sewer pipe coming into the property and had only two toilets until
1991.
Mayor Swedberg asked how long Mr. Nottum had been paying two sewer charges. Mr.
Nottum indicated that he had purchased the property in 1973 but said the lot was split in
1979 and questioned whether that is when the mix up took place. He then indicated that
it was not until the lot was split and he found out his brother was paying half the amount
he is paying for sewer charges that he realized he was being charged for two services.
Mr. Nottum asked if the criterion is the number of stubs coming into the property or is the
City metering waste. He then indicated he had made various requests for answers over
the years but had always been told he has a duplex and that is why the two charges. Mr.
Notturn then indicated that six weeks ago he made a similar request and was told he had
more than one stub on the property and that is why he is being charged double.
Council Member Capra asked if anyone could confirm whether Mr. Nottum had two
stubs to his property.
Council Member Nelson asked if Ms. Bender could find out what the criterion for
duplexes is.
Ms. Bender indicated there is a period of time that the City cannot locate records for
utility billing for Mr. Nottum's address.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if all duplexes in the City were being charged
for two services. Ms. Bender indicated that, since she has worked for the City that is
what the City has been doing.
Council Member Nelson indicated that she owns rental property III St. Paul that IS
considered a duplex, as it is a single home with two addresses.
Page 18 of26
City of Centerville
October 10,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Nottum indicated he is zoned single family residential. City Attorney Hoeft
indicated that it does not matter what Mr. Nottum's zoning is as it is the usage that
matters.
Ms. Buckbee, 7381 Peltier Circle, indicated there is a Sanitary Sewer Ordinance that
defines how residential sewer is billed and indicated it is not based on stubs but on single
family or multifamily. She further indicated that his residence would be classified by
Ordinance to have two families living there and, therefore, be charged two sewer fees
Mr. Nottum indicated there are homes with twice the square footage and more toilets than
he has.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that, if Mr. Nottum maintains that second
unit upstairs as a separate facility that can be rented out, it is a two unit home under City
Ordinance. She further clarified that there is no way for the City to keep track of when it
is rented and when it is not.
Mr. DeVine asked the date of the Ordinance. Ms. Bender indicated it was dated 1977.
Mr. DeVine told Mr. Nottum his best bet would be to come to Planning and Zoning and
ask that the Ordinance be reviewed.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Mr. Nottum could change the structure
of his house and would then be charged only one sewer fee.
Mayor Swedberg noted he understood Mr. Nottum's flowage argument but said City
Ordinance determines how the fees are applied.
Mr. Nottum indicated he feels the City is charging him double because it knew he had the
potential to earn money by renting out the upstairs.
Mr. Pa1zer indicated that the Ordinance states that homes will be charged according to
SAC unit. He then indicated that he would need the SAC book to determine exactly what
the requirements are for duplexes.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Mr. Nottum has been charged as a
duplex and said he could corne to the Planning and Zoning Committee to ask that it be
discussed.
Council Member Nelson indicated Council is not saying it would change the Ordinance
but saying it would be looked at.
Mayor Swedberg asked Mr. Palzer to explain the SAC acronym.
Page 19 of26
City ofCenterville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Palzer indicated the Metropolitan Council determines the number of SAC units
charged for each unit and it is based on expected flows into the sewer system.
Mayor Swedberg asked where the break off was on the SAC charge. Mr. Palzer
indicated he was not certain until he finds the book but said he thought one and two
family homes were charged the same per unit.
Mr. Nottum indicated his contention is that he is not providing that much flowage into the
system to warrant the double billing.
Mr. Palzer indicated he had found the documentation to indicate that one SAC charge
would be charged per dwelling unit, which means that a duplex has two dwelling units
and would be charged two sewer fees.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified Mr. Nottum has a duplex whether or not it
is rented out.
6. Request to Purchase Bobcat
Council Member Capra indicated she had spoken to Mr. Palzer who indicated that the
Bobcat was budgeted for this year.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he was not sure where the budget figures are and would rather
table the request for now.
Motion by Council Member Travis. seconded bv Mavor Swedbere: to table
discussion of the bobcat purchase. Ayes - 4. Nays -1 (Broussard Vickers). Motion
carried.
Council Member Nelson asked why Council Member Broussard Vickers voted no.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Council Member Nelson could not ask why Council
Member Broussard Vickers had voted no.
7. Anoka County Assessment Contract
Mayor Swedberg asked if the County had given a final number.
Council Member Nelson indicated she did not understand the choice.
Mayor Swedberg indicated there was not a choice and said the City needs the final
number to plug into the budget.
Mayor Swedberg asked Ms. Bender to inquire as to how many houses the County intends
to do next year and to obtain a final number to insert into the budget.
Page 20 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10, 200]
Council Meeting Minutes
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers, seconded bv Council Member
Capra to approve the Anoka County Assessment Contract for 2003. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimouslv.
8. City of Circle Pines Proposal for Joint Building Inspections
Council Member Nelson indicated she had spoken with Mr. Palzer who had indicated he
recommended that Council not accept the proposal.
Council Member Capra indicated that the contract expires November 1, 2001 with the
person who does the inspections for Circle Pines. She then indicated she was told that if
the City decides not to accept the offer Circle Pines does have a contingency plan. She
further indicated that the offer would bring revenue into the City but indicated that the
City needs to consider expenses and the liability of having City employees traveling to
Circle Pines.
Council Member Travis indicated the City would get paid for doing the inspections.
Council Member Capra indicated that the City of Lexington would be looking to
Centerville for the same services.
Council Member Travis asked why Mr. Palzer would be opposed to this.
Council Member Nelson indicated that Mr. Palzer had told her that it would cost
overtime for both he and Mr. Cook and/or adding another public works person and the
City would get 145% over the current salary and that would not cover what it would cost
the City.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested tabling the matter for discussion at the
budget work session.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers, seconded bv Mavor Swedben! to
table the matter for discuss at the bude:et work session. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
9. Frattalone Excavating
Council Member Capra indicated that Frattalone had requested an overweight permit and
asked the City to assume responsibility for any damages done to the part of the road that
is not being reconstructed.
Council Member Travis asked if the City has a letter of credit on Mr. Buechler. City
Engineer Peterson indicated that Mr. Buechler is willing to do his half of the street but
said the construction vehicles have to travel over about one mile of Mound Trail to get to
the section that needs to be reconstructed.
Page 21 of26
City of Cenlerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Travis indicated the road was posted at 5 tons last year. City Engineer
Peterson indicated that they were going to bring trucks in through the County property
but that is no longer possible. He then suggested testing the roadway to determine the
tonnage.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the matter needed to be figured out as the
City gets numerous requests for overweight permits.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the letter from Frattalone had asked
the City to assume responsibility for damages and suggested that Mr. Buechler assume
responsibility because she does not feel the City should do so. She then asked if it was
possible to use smaller trucks.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that some of the trucks are overweight not loaded and
said that if smaller trucks were used it would take twice as many trips.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if winter would be a better time.
Council Member Travis indicated that asphalt plants close at Thanksgiving.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that if the blacktop could not be done this year it could
be graveled and done next year.
Council Member Travis indicated that he thought part of the developer's agreement
required the road to be paved. City Engineer Peterson indicated that replacing the street
is part of the developer's agreement but said he is not sure if a bond is there.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the agreement did not give Mr. Buechler permission to
exceed the tonnage on the road.
Council asked for Mr. Palzer's opinion on the matter. Mr. Palzer indicated he agreed
with the City Engineer. City Engineer Peterson suggested allowing the overweight
permit to pave the road, as he does not think it would damage the street. He then said he
does not think Mr. Buechler would want to post a $30,000 bond and asked if the City
could force him to do so.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the City could force Mr. Buechler to post the bond if it
desired to do so.
City Engineer Peterson indicated he was not sure if Frattalone would honor its prices
much longer as it has been a couple of years.
Ms. Bender indicated that Mr. Buechler had been given overweight permits in the past.
Council Member Travis clarified that he had assumed the liability and not asked the City
to do so.
Page 22 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked who rated the road as 5 tons. City Engineer
Peterson indicated the County did.
Ms. Buckby indicated the road was rebuilt in 1987. Mr. Wilharber said it was later than
that and said the City could not see paving the last 700 feet as there were no homes in
there and it was servicing Lino Lakes.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the City is concerned with the part of
the road closest to Main Street, as it has been reconstructed and it is rated at 5 tons.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Mr. Buechler would need to accept
responsibility if the street is damaged. She then questioned if the road is built better than
5 tons.
Ms. Buckby suggested the road may be built to lO-ton standards and posted lower.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if the City could lower a road rating.
City Engineer Peterson suggested using a core testing company to determine the tonnage
of the road.
Council Member Travis indicated the road was 5 ton last year when this was approved
and asked why Council would pay to have the road tested for these people.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the City gets a lot of requests for
overweight permits.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that the City is paying half the costs to reconstruct the
street.
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded by Council Member Nelson to direct
Mr. Buechler to have a core sample done to determine the tonnae:e of the roadway.
All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
J. The City of Centerville September 27, 2001 through October 5, 2001
Expenditures.
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
3. Centennial Fire District Quarterly Services Expenditures
4. Sathe Executive Search Payment #3 - $5,660.00
5. Land Holding Group, Inc. (Centervilla Over sizing Costs) - $6,728.00
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked that Consent Agenda Item 5 be pulled for
discussion.
Page 23 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Capra to approve Consent Al!enda Items 1 through 4 as presented. All in favor.
Motion carried unanimously.
City Engineer Peterson indicated he had received a letter from Land Holding Group, Inc"
regarding the over sizing of the watermain in Centervilla claiming that the size difference
between the 10 inch and the eight inch watermain is $6,728.00.
City Attorney Hoeft recommended verifying the amount before paying it.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that he has been hounding Mr. Bach to put the
sidewalks in and said he would not do anything on this bill until the sidewalk goes in.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to table this matter for further information. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. Open Meeting Laws
Council Member Capra indicated that she felt that, with all that had transpired, it would
make sense to include information on the open meeting laws for all Committees.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if a summary was available.
Council Member Capra indicated there was a summary available to place in packets.
2. Legal Notices
Council Member Capra suggested drafting a notice to Committees to let them know that
it takes three weeks' notice to get a legal notice published in the newspaper to help with
the confusion concerning publication.
Ms. Buckby indicated that the City does not have to post legal notices in the newspaper
as long as it is posted in the vestibule.
Ms. Bender indicated there had been a recent situation on the Planning and Zoning
Committee where a resident who wants to get something constructed thought public
notice was going in the newspaper but as there was not a clear indication as to what
would happen at the work session, notice was not placed in the newspaper and the
hearing was not noticed for the next meeting. She then indicated that Committees need
more education about the timeframes for making publication deadlines.
Page 24 of 26
City of Centerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra suggested including a list of the time frames for publication in
Committee packets along with the open meeting law information.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Committee
had a normal meeting and then a work session meeting to discuss the changes to
Ordinance 4 in an attempt to have language ready to go for a public hearing at the next
Planning and Zoning Committee meeting.
Mr. DeVine indicated that he was under the assumption that the Planning and Zoning
Committee was working at the work session to put language together for Ordinance 4 to
be heard at a public hearing at the Council level. He then indicated that he is usually very
careful about relaying accurate information to residents and said he is not sure how the
misunderstanding came about. .
Mr. DeVine and Mr. Wilharber indicated they had interpreted comments at the Planning
and Zoning Committee to mean that the City was going to skip the second public hearing
at Planning and Zoning and go to Council instead in an effort to speed the process along.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the residents were told there would be a
public hearing at the Planning and Zoning Committee and then at Council. She further
indicated that they were clearly told that the matter would not come up until mid-
November.
Mr. DeVine indicated that Committees needed to communicate better with Ms. Bender in
order to avoid miscommunications such as this.
Council Member Nelson suggested keeping a list of items to gIve to Staff at each
meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that she assumed the Minutes of the
meeting was a list to Staff.
Ms. Bender indicated that using the Minutes for direction to Staff, especially for items of
a time-sensitive nature, is not very efficient because TimeSaver has several days before
they have to submit the Minutes to the City. She then suggested that the Committee
should provide a list to Staff of items of a time-sensitive nature.
XI. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR'S REPORT/CLERK/TREASURER'S REPORT
Mr. DeVine indicated the Centerville Lions Club had requested a key for the public
works gate because it has a storage unit inside the locked gate. He also indicated the
Lions were considering using the old public works site for the haunted house.
Council Member Capra asked if there was anything in the old public works building.
Page 25 of 26
.
Cily of Cenlerville
October 10, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Wilharber indicated the old fire truck, a DUI forfeited vehicle, haunted house
materials, and the old wagon are located in the old public works building. He then
commented that there was some discussion concerning using the old public works
building because the Lions could put on a larger show and hopefully raise attendance
from last year at the haunted house.
Mr. DeVine indicated the President of the Lions Club is asking for a key to the gate in
order to be able to access the storage shed.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to authorize public works to give a key to the l:ate to the Lions Club. Ayes-
3. Nays - 2 (Swedben!/Travis). Motion carried.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he had voted against the motion because he does not feel
Council needed a motion to give a key to the Lions.
Council Member Capra indicated she had spoken to Mr. Palzer and he had indicated he is
going to a meeting in Blaine concerning a terrorism update for Anoka County. She then
asked Mr. Palzer to update Council as to what is being done to protect the wellheads.
Mr. Palzer indicated there would be locking bolts on wellheads and said he believes there
will be additional requirements coming out of the meeting. He then said it may be a good
idea to place an alarm system on the chemical rooms.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that a couple of years ago the Police Department, in conjunction
with the State of Minnesota, had held a presentation to discuss disaster management. He
then gave Mayor Swedberg the manual provided at that meeting and said he feels it is
very important in light of recent world events.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard Vickers to adiourn the
October 10. 2001 City Council Meetinl: at 9:32 p.m. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 26 of 26
L CALL TO ORDER
1. .. CII
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBIR 17, _1
6:38 P eM.
D. sa AGENDA
m. ftJBLIC 1UAlUNG(S)
1. W. ..... Platted.. ....
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
v. CONSIDERADON 01' MINt1TES
VL PEnnONS AND COMPLAINTS
VB. OLD BUSINUS
1. 2002 B....
vm. NEW BUSINESS
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
X. COMMI'ITR REPORTS
xu. PUBUC WORKS DIRJ:CfOR'S RU'ORTICLDtKII'REASUUR'S REPORT
xm. ADJOURNMENT
city of CetW:rville
October 17,2001
Council Wark Session Meeting Minutes
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION MEETING
OCTOBER 17, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held a work session on October
17,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra
Council Member Mari Nelson
Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers
ABSENT: None.
STAFF: City Clerk, Ms. Teresa Bender
Public Works Director, Mr. Paul Palzer
L CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the October 17, 2001, City Council works session meeting to
order at 6:33 p.m.
Well Head Protection Public Hearing
The Mayor opened the Well Head Protection Public Hearing at 6:35 p.m.
No discussion to place and no members of the audience desired to participate.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to close the Public HearinS! at 6:38 n.m. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
IL 2002 BUDGET
Ms. Cindy Hobschield, 7277 Old Mill Road appeared before Council and stated that she
felt that the budget needed more clarity. Ms. Hobschield stated that she was employed by
Columbus Township and felt that the City of Centerville's budget and financial
documentation should be in a format more similar to Columbus Township's.
The Mayor introduced Police Commissioners Mr. Bob Wright, Mr. Jon Grahek and
Police Chief Heckman at 6:55 p.m.
Page 1 of2
city ofCenterville
October 17, 2001
Council Work Session Meeting Minutes
Police Chief Heckman reviewed the police department's budget with Council. Council
Member Capra questioned the use of grant funds for hiring additional staff and the
ramifications if no additional employees were hired. Chief Heckman stated that if no
additional staff members were hired, the funds would need to be refunded. Chief
Heckman discussed the purchase of new laptops and equipment. Chief Heckman stated
that a recent grant was denied for same.
Discussion took place regarding the cities of Circle Pines and Lexington and budget
constrains and staffing needs. Council Member Broussard Vickers had questions
regarding subsidizing the City of Lexington.
Discussion ensued that the Chief, Deputy/Assistant Chief assisted in calls.
Mayor Swedberg felt that income exceeding expenditures should be set aside for future
salaries.
Council Members Capra, Broussard Vickers and Travis supported the vision budget
submitted by Chief Heckman and directed staff to place same before Council for
consideration at a regular meeting.
The Mayor thanked Mr. Wright for his history that he brings to the police commission
and Mr. Grahek for his technical expertise as a police officer and their work on the
proposed police budget.
Mayor Swedberg welcomed Chief Heckman and Ms. Moore-Sykes to partricipate in a
monthly luncheon.
Ms. Sanna Buckbee, 7381 Peltier Lake Drive stated that Council must be mindful of
continued spending habits.
Lengthy discussion ensued and line item review was completed by Council. Discussion
involved budget costs of personnel, revenue versus taxes, per diems, police budget and
impact on households.
m. ADJOURNMENT
No motion was made.
Transcribed by:
Teresa Bender, City Clerk
Page 20f2
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 24, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly scheduled
meeting on October 24,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Mayor Swedberg ., Jl
~:~1m:E~;~~~: ....... ...r9@l!lfl~
::Oil Momb" Unda Bro~~~U
ABSENT:
STAFF:
City Administrator, Ms. Moore-Sykes
City Engineer, Mr. Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Mr. Jim Hoeft
Public Works Director, Mr. Paul Palzer
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the October 24,2001, City Council meeting to order at 6:34 p.m.
II. SET AGENDA
Under Old Business add the Lion's Haunted House and Turcotte Property - (Ro-So
Contracting) as items number 13 and 14 respectively.
Under New Business add the Holiday Party and Centerville Elementary Peace Site
Recognition as items number 2 and 3 respectively.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the a!!:enda as amended. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
III. PUBLIC HEARING (8)
I. Preliminary Plat - The Shores
Mayor Swedberg opened the public hearing at 6:42 p.m.
Mr. Bart Rehbein, 1659 Lakeland Circle, appeared before Council and reported that Glen
Rehbein Companies had contact Anoka County in regards to a trailway through the sub-
Page I of 25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
division. Mr. Rehbein stated that Anoka County felt that the trail should be placed on the
east side of County Road 14 and a letter would be forwarded regarding same. Glen
Rehbein Companies requested that their engineering firm be allowed to complete the
design work and construction plans within the plat rather than the City's engineering firm
and then reviewed by them.
City Engineer Peterson stated that construction would commence this year. Mr. Peterson
discussed that a feasibility study had been completed in the past for a neighboring
subdivision rather than bringing services down County Road 14. Mr. Peterson stated that
he would prefer that all new subdivisions are serviceable by city sewer and water. Mr.
Peterson also stated that soil issues may occur new the Lakeland Hills subdivision. Mr.
Peterson stated that a feasibility study would forwarded to Council at their second
meeting in November.
Mayor Swedberg questioned the reasoning for not placing services in this area when the
Buechler Estates subdivision was built. Mr. Peterson stated that the City had not received
a petition from residents to do so, that a minimal number of residents would have
benefited and same would have been a rather expensive project.
Mr. Jerry Latender, 1397 Mound Trail, stated that he had concerns regarding Anoka
County widening County Road 14. Discussion ensued regarding Anoka County's request
for funding in 2005 for same. Mr. Peterson stated that the water main would be buried
seven (7) to eight (8) feet below the surface so same would not be a problem.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers, seconded bv
Capra to close the public hear at 7:00 p.m. All in favor.
unanimously.
Council Member
Motion carried
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
1. Juran & Moodv (Pheasant Marsh Bond)
Mr. George Eilertson appeared before Council to discuss the bond issuance for the
Pheasant Marsh subdivision. Mr. Eilertson stated that bids were received that morning
and subsequent to review, United Bankers Bank was the lowest bidder. Mr. Eilertson
stated that United Bankers Bank also submitted a bid for the Hunter's Crossing
subdivision and was awarded same. Mr. Eilertson suggested that Council award United
Bankers Bank as the successful underwriter of same. Mr. Eilertson stated that there was
a $20,000 difference between the lowest bid and the second lowest bid. Mr. Eilertson
stated that the bond will be issued as of November 1, 2001 with monies available on
November 19,2001.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether Mr. Hoeft had reviewed same.
Mr. Hoeft concurred.
Page 2 of 25
City of Centerville
October 24. 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member to
adopt Resolution #01-020 awardinl!: the sale of $990.000 General Oblieation
Improvement Bond based on the attorney's recommendation and the appropriate
numbers beine placed in the document as presented bv United Bankers Bank. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Eilertson requested that the Mayor and City Administrator accept the bid presented
by United Bankers Bank. Same signed the appropriate documentation.
2. Mr. and Mrs. Ken Carpenter. 6985 - 20th Avenue North - Zoning of Residence
Mr. Carpenter stated that he owns two (2) parcels, one in which his home is built on and
another that abuts same where his business is operated. Mr. Carpenter stated that both of
his parcels are zoned Commercial. Mr. Carpenter stated that when he built his home it
was allowable to construct a residence in a Commercial District; however, it was not
allowable to build a commercial business in a Residential District. Mr. Carpenter desired
to refinance his home and was informed by staff that his residence was none conforming
and if destroyed more than 50% he could not rebuild. Mr. Carpenter felt that the City
changed the rules midstream without notifying him of same.
City Administrator Moore-Sykes stated that the lender had been notified that the property
was zoned commercial and had contacted the City for additional information.
Council Member Capra questioned whether Mr. Carpenter was informed by the
underwriter of his mortgage or by City Staff that his property was nonconforming. Ms.
Moore-Sykes indicated that the underwriter had informed him that his property was non-
conforming and then he came to City Hall to look into the matter and City Staff told him
as well.
Mr. Hoeft stated that it appears that the property has always been zoned Commercial and
should not have been constructed. Mr. Hoeft stated that the residence is considered a pre-
existing condition and non-conforming. Mr. Hoeft stated that the City has not done
anything improper in this matter.
Mayor Swedberg questioned Mr. Hoeft as to the ability of Mr. Carpenter to sell this
residence. Mr. Hoeft stated that Mr. Carpenter could sell the home as Commercial
property.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Mr. Carpenter had a very deep lot and asked if the
commercial zoning covered the entire lot or just the front portion of that lot.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the entire parcel would be zoned
commercial as it is listed under one (1) PIN number.
Mr. Carpenter stated that he had followed City Code and questioned how he could now
be penalized.
Page 3 of 25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that nothing had changed with the City Code and suggested
that perhaps the lender changed the way it looks at things as compared to years ago when
the structure was built.
Mr. Carpenter indicated that if nothing had changed with the City Code, he should be
able to get the loan.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that whether or not to grant the loan was up to the discretion
of the lender.
Council Member Broussard Vickers commented that Mr. Carpenter was asking Council
to make his property conforming in order to be able to qualify for the loan
Mr. Carpenter indicated the house was conforming when he bought the first permit and
should be conforming today.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether Mr. Carpenter was attempting to obtain a guaranteed
loan.
Mr. Carpenter indicated it was a guaranteed loan and said that every other village that he
knows of makes grandfather clause concessions so as not to hurt its residents.
Council Member aroussard Vickers indicated the concession is that since the house was
built he could continue using it as long as he wants to but cannot expand it or rebuild it if
it is destroyed.
Council Member Travis indicated that Mr. Carpenter could ask for a rezone of his
property.
Mr. Carpenter questioned why he should have to worry about this when he was legal in
the beginning.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the ordinances were changed after the
house was built.
Mr. Carpenter noted that Council had said it held public hearings and then changed the
ordinances. He then asked how he would have known that this would affect his home
until he went to refinance.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that all public hearings are noticed in the newspaper.
Mr. Carpenter indicated he would not have known that the proposed ordinance changes
would affect him until he went to refinance his home. He then asked Council to think
about what they were doing to him and his family.
Page 4 of 25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg indicated the property had always been zoned commercial and the
structure had always been non-conforming.
Mr. Carpenter indicated that, at the time he bought the house, it was conforming. He then
stated that if it was conforming in the beginning it should be conforming now.
Mr. Carpenter indicated that the lender has said it is a high-risk loan because the structure
is non-conforming. He then indicated he had all the inspections and paid the permit fee
and now has to tell potential buyers that the structure is non-conforming.
Council Member Capra indicated that, back in 1973, there were other issues with regard
to people living on the property because it was zoned commercial.
Mr. Wilharber suggested that maybe a solution would be to split the lot into commercial
and residential zoning noting the lots depth and shape would lend itself to doing so. He
then agreed with Mr. Carpenter that selling the property is an issue because he would
need to inform buyers of the nonconformity of the structure.
Council Member Capra commented she did not feel Mr. Carpenter could claim total
ignorance ofthe issue as the property was always zoned commercial.
Mr. Carpenter indicated the lender is stuck on the word "compliant" and noted that the
lender is concerned because the structure cannot be rebuilt if it bums down.
Mayor Swedberg asked if it were legal for the City to say that Mr. Carpenter is compliant
in order to help him obtain financing.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the City could not say that Mr. Carpenter's residence was
compliant with City Code because it is not.
Mr. Carpenter indicated that he feels the City should make a modification so that those
residents paying taxes and following all the rules can realize their investment. He then
said the City cannot take his investment away from him.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the property owner could apply for rezoning and noted that
request would be considered through the Planning and Zoning Committee and then by
Council. He then cautioned Council that rezoning Mr. Carpenter's property could be
considered spot zoning and said the matter would need to be investigated.
Council Member Broussard Vickers pointed out that the City changes ordinances when it
realizes that things could be done better. She then noted that doing so creates non-
conforming structures and said the way the City deals with that is by allowing the use to
continue but not be changed or modified.
Mr. Carpenter suggested the City buy his house.
Page 5 of 25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the lender's interest would be
protected by an insurance policy and said she feels the lender is being more of a stickler
on this matter than lenders have been in the past.
Council Member Broussard Vickers told Mr. Carpenter that being allowed to build the
house there did not make it conforming.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he felt there is some merit to consider rezoning considering
the depth of the lot and the zoning of other property in the area.
Mr. Carpenter asked if rezoning the property was in the best interest of the City.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he was not sure how to solve Mr. Carpenter's problem.
Mr. Carpenter asked why he could not have an amendment if he was zoned properly and
grandfathered in with all the rights.
Mr. Carpenter said if the structure bums down in 5 or 6 years when he retires he would
not rebuild it but he would need to do so if it burned down prior to that time.
Council Member Travis asked if Mr. Carpenter was opposed to the rezone.
Mr. Carpenter asked the City to check with other villages and see how they handle these
types of matters.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that in years' past, the rules were different from
community to community as far as the standards for non-conforming, pre-existing
structures. He then indicated that the legislature had decided this year to pass legislation
indicating that for pre-existing non-conforming structures in all statutory cities, the law
is, if the structure is destroyed by more than 50% in value it cannot be rebuilt, and it
cannot be expanded and the City has no ability to change that.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the only way to solve the problem would
be for the City to consider rezoning the property.
Mr. Carpenter said he would like a copy of the state statute Mr. Hoeft had quoted. He
then indicated he wanted to sit down with the City Attorney and have him explain it to
him because he hired the attorney just like everybody else did.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated it would be helpful if the City Attorney
would give Mr. Carpenter a copy of the statute but said she did not feel it is the City's job
to advise Mr. Carpenter and said he should get his own attorney to interpret the statute for
him.
Mr. Carpenter indicated that he bought the permit and jumped through all the hoops and
he thinks he should be conforming. He then questioned why Council does not think his
Page 6 of 25
City of Cenlerville
October 24,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
ability to understand the statute is a legal issue for the City. He further questioned why,
if he pays taxes, he cannot use the services of the City Attorney.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the City has no legal issue in this
matter as the structure is non-conforming.
Council Member Nelson agreed with Council Member Broussard Vickers.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Mr. Carpenter did not agree with the
City but said his not agreeing with the City is not a legal issue for the City.
Mayor Swedberg indicated Council needed to move forward with the meeting and
suggested Mr. Carpenter contact the City Administrator to obtain a copy of the state
statute and any other relevant paperwork he needed to proceed with the rezone request.
3. Mr. Dan Skoog, 1613 Peltier Lake Drive - Visa. Internet and Debit Card Use
Mayor Swedberg indicated the City had received a letter from Mr. Skoog requesting that
the City accept payment for services by Visa, internet, and debit cards.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the legislature had approved a law that allows cities to
accept credit cards but not debit or cash cards.
Council directed City Administrator Moore-Sykes to check into the matter and determine
what was necessary to begin accepting credit cards for City services.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
1. October 10.2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra requested the following changes: On Page 8 in the third sentence
change "the" to "a". Change the spelling of "Buckby" to "Buckbee" through out the
document. On Page 14, in the motion, indicate the amount of the reimbursement to Ken
Cook as $7,386.44. On Page 18, fourth paragraph change "criterion" to "criteria".
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the October 10. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
Page 7 of 25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
1. Preliminarv Plat (The Shores). Glen Rehbein
Mr. Rehbein indicated that there was still an issue concerning the weight restriction
posting on Mound Trail. He then indicated he could enter the development off of the
County Road 14 access until the County realized he was doing so and shut him down.
Council Member Capra asked whether the soil boring to determine how the road should
be rated had been done.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that he and City Staff had measured the depths of the
materials in the road and said that Mr. Buechler had provided borings that were done
back when the plat was done from Mound Trail straight out in front of his development.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she did not think Council should have to
keep revisiting this whenever a truck has to travel on Mound Trail.
Mr. Rehbein indicated that when this plat is done there would not be any more
construction on Mound Trail.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she had no problems with the plat but said
the City needs to determine whether or not City water will be run to the development.
Council Member Capra asked if the City needed to clarify the trail location.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she did not see where the Park and
Recreation Committee had drawn the trail on the map provided.
Council Member Capra pointed out the trail location on the map.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Mr. Rehbein could bond for the road
to ensure that there would be funds available to fix the road if it were damaged.
Mr. Rehbein's surveyor asked if Council could approve the preliminary plat subject to the
trail and water determination.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that Council could approve the preliminary plat subject to
those conditions.
Council Member Travis noted Mr. Rehbein still had to provide a grading plan and noted
that the developer's agreement and the final plat still needed to be approved.
Council Member Capra asked what the City's time frame was.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the City was under no time frame at the moment.
Page 8 of 25
City of Cenlerville
October 24, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Rehbein indicated that the only thing critical for him is his purchase agreement and
indicated that he did not want to close on the property until he received final plat
approval from the City.
Council Member Nelson indicated there were several steps necessary before final plat
approval would be given.
Mr. Rehbein indicated he was hoping to have final plat approval by the middle of
December so that he could close on the property.
Council Member Nelson indicated she was fine with approving the preliminary plat as
long as it is made clear that there needs to be some kind of bonding for the road. She
then indicated that the City is considering bringing water to that development and noted
that a large portion of the cost to do so would be Mr. Rehbein's responsibility.
Council Member Broussard Vickers noted she felt that the middle of December was an
aggressive time line for final plat approval because, even if Council ordered the
feasibility study tonight, it would be the first week in December when the public hearing
would be held. She then suggested Mr. Rehbein should renegotiate his closing date.
Mr. Rehbein indicated that when the closing date was determined he did not think that
water was going to be an issue with this development.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether the City had a policy of requiring that the City
Engineer do the engineering work involved with the development.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the City typically has the City Engineer do the work as
the developer or landowner does not usually have the expertise needed to do the work.
He then indicated he did not feel it was an issue to allow the developer to use his staff to
provide the documents, provided the developer is willing to pay for and be bound by the
inspection of the City Engineer.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the City had never been asked to allow a
developer to do the engineering work.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether Mr. Hannah would have asked to be allowed to use
his own engineer.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that Mr. Hannah could have used his own engineer but said
that he feels that looking at the cost benefit analysis it was cheaper to use the City
Engineer in Mr. Hannah's case.
Mayor Swedberg thanked City Attorney Hoeft for his comments and indicated he did not
want to go against any City policy.
Page 9 of 25
City of Centerville
October 24, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that if Mr. Rehbein wanted his own attorney to draft the
developer's agreement he would have no problem with that.
Mr. Rehbein's surveyor clarified that the hold up is the feasibility study for bringing
water to the development.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that Council could make a motion to approve the
preliminary plat conditioned upon further review of Mound Trail bonding, the water main
extension, and the trail.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to approve the preliminary plat for The Shores conditioned upon further
review of Mound Trail bonding. the water main extension. and the trail location and
specifications. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Rehbein indicated he could design the plat with the water main assuming it is coming
in and proceed with the process.
Mayor Swedberg asked if there was a reason that one well could not service several
houses.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated it was not a good idea.
Mr. Rehbein indicated that it was not uncommon for septic systems to be shared but said
it is not advisable to share water supplies.
Council Member Travis asked if there was an easement for the lift station. Mr. Palzer
indicated that there was.
Mr. Rehbein's surveyor indicated he had been told that Mound Trail was vacated. He
then questioned whether the utilities maintained their rights when the road was vacated.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that the easements for utilities were still there.
Mr. Rehbein questioned if there would be a problem with where the County and the City
would like the trail located.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the County and City trail may be one
in the same and noted that there would need to be an easement for trail way included in
the final plat.
Mr. Rehbein asked how he would receive direction concerning the trailway.
Council Member Broussard Vickers directed Staff to contact the Park and Recreation
Committee to determine the recommendation for the trail location and to contact Mr.
Rehbein with the information.
Page 10 of25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Capra to order a feasibilitv study to extend the water main to The Shores from
Bonestroo in an amount not to exceed $5.000 to be presented at the second meetinl!
in November. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Travis asked who would pay for the study, Council Member Broussard
Vickers indicated the City would pay for the study.
City Engineer Peterson clarified that the City pays the up front costs and can recoup the
costs in the construction costs.
Mr. Rehbein's surveyor asked when he could expect final plat approval.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she would not want to approve the final
plat until the water issue was settled.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the City would need to consider
information obtained at the public hearing at the first meeting in December and then
decide.
2. Resolution #01-020 - Awarding the Sale of $990.000 G.O. Improvement Bond-
Pheasant Marsh
Discussed previously.
3. Resolution #01-021 - Abatement of Special Assessments (Parkview Addition)
1723 Meadow Lane
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve Resolution #01-021. a resolution for abatement of special
assessments (Parkview Addition) 1723 Meadow Lane. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
4. R & R Leasing - Special Assessment Split Request
Mayor Swedberg noted this matter had been tabled for more information.
Council Member Travis indicated that R & R Leasing had requested an assessment split
not a lot split. City Attorney Hoeft concurred that R & R Leasing had requested an
allocation assessment. He then indicated that Council is not being asked to do something
that is wrong or bad but something that is out of the ordinary course of action.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she was not interested in approving the
request as she feels the City should collect the assessment in full as is the normal course
of action.
Page 11 of25
City ofCenterville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that there was 31.95% of the assessment escrowed and said
Mr. Rehbein is not interested in paying the rest of the assessment at this time.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to deny the request bv R & R Leasine: for an assessment allocation. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
5. Ms. Sanna Buckbee Request for Information
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked Staff to tell her what information had been
provided to Ms. Buckbee. She then asked if Council needed to explain its reasoning and
rationale behind the choices it made as is requested in the letter, or if the minutes of the
meeting would suffice.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that Ms. Buckbee had made an information request and a
document request and noted he felt the minutes would suffice. He then indicated that any
further information that Ms. Buckbee wished to receive could be handled through either
his office or the City Administrator's office.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that the City would not be out of
compliance by providing Ms. Buckbee with minutes as it would be giving her what
information the City does have. City Attorney Hoeft agreed.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that he thought Ms. Bender had been compiling the
information requested and said he did not think any of the information had been released
to Ms. Buckbee.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that the letter was received on September 18,
2001 and said she feels that this information needs to get to Ms. Buckbee as soon as
possible.
Council Member Capra indicated she had discussed this request with Ms. Bender and Ms.
Bender had indicated that she was not sure how to respond to the request due to the
request for Council's rationalization of choices and that is why it was held and placed on
Council's agenda for discussion.
6. Liquor Policy
Council Member Capra indicated that this item was tabled until a new City Administrator
was hired and noted that liquor license renewals come up in December.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the fees to renew are due in December
and indicated that how the City governs the liquor license can be redone at any time.
Page 12 of25
City of Centerville
Octnber 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that she felt the ordinance needs to be
reviewed but said she felt that this matter should be pushed back until January or
February when things slow down a bit and Ms. Moore-Sykes will be settled in.
Council Member Travis indicated that the League of Minnesota Cities may have
something the City could use for a model ordinance.
Council recessed at 8:23 p.m. to switch the tape.
Council reconvened at 8:30 p.m.
7. Budget/Deferred Como./Union Contract (Update)
Council Member Capra indicated she and Ms. Bender had met with Abdo, Eick and
Meyer last Tuesday and comprised a list of documents that needed to be gathered to bring
the City into compliance. She then indicated that Mr. McDonald had some questions that
were forwarded to city Attorney Hoeft and noted that the City would be receiving a letter
from the consultant concerning the process.
Council Member Capra indicated that the majority of the City's records were in computer
files and said that she had asked the public works staff to pull the files from 1996 and
1997 out of storage. She further indicated that she will work with Staff to copy the old
records and noted that Abdo, Eick and Meyers would contact PEBSCO to obtain
information from them to cross-reference with the City's information.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he had exchanged messages with Mr. McDonald and said
Mr. McDonald had indicated a letter would be sent to Council concerning the process.
He further indicated that a letter would be sent to his office concerning the fees and
services to be provided by Abdo, Eick and Meyers.
Council Member Capra indicated that they had set the date of November 7, 2001 to have
all the information ready to give to the auditor for review. She then indicated that the
City would need to send a letter to PEBSCO authorizing them to release information to
the auditor.
8. Quad Cities Police Department (Update)
Mayor Swedberg indicated that there was a budget meeting where the vision budget
which included authorizing the hiring of two sworn officers and a community service
officer was approved. He then indicated that Circle Pines and Lexington are attempting
to determine what level of support they can offer to the budget.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Centerville would be hosting the next meeting and
indicated he would provide Ms. Moore-Sykes with that date. He then indicated he would
provide donuts and orange juice.
Page 13 of 25
City of Centerville
October 24,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Travis indicated the next Quad Cities Police Meeting was scheduled for
November 15,2001 at 7:30 a.m. at Centerville City Hall.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if there was discussion on the consultant.
Mayor Swedberg indicated there was no discussion concerning the consultant but said in
previous discussions it was mentioned that a pro bono individual from certain police
agencies and the state police was being considered.
9. Reception for Ms. Kim Moore-Svkes (Update)
Mayor Swedberg indicated Council would like to introduce the new City Administrator
and asked Ms. Moore-Sykes to select a date for the reception and he will bring the cake
and punch.
10. Laurie LaMotte Park - Vinco Overages (Update)
City Engineer Peterson indicated that per Council Member Travis' request he discussed
the overage with Vinco who had agreed to discount the invoice by 36 cubic yards. He
then indicated they were not required to do so and said he feels it is a gesture of good will
on their part.
Council Member Travis indicated that puts that one item at $25,000 over budget.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that some items were lower than the price that was bid
and some items were higher. He then indicated that when the City bids by unit prices
some may be lower than others and this one was high.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that out of the 286 cubic yard overage
Vinco was only willing to discount 36 cubic yards. City Engineer Peterson indicated the
actual measurement was 436 cubic yards and noted the City had paid for 150 cubic yards
and still owes Vinco for 250 cubic yards.
Mayor Swedberg noted the amount of yards was discounted by less than 10%. City
Engineer Peterson agreed but said Vinco was not required to do any discounting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested keeping this incident in mind for the
future.
Mayor Swedberg asked how there ended up being such a difference in granular. Council
Member Travis commented that there was supposed to be 4 inches of clay on top of the
sand.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that the contractor had to remove more clay and,
therefore, had to put back more fill and build it up to allow for proper drainage. He then
Page 14 of25
City of Centerville
October 24,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
commented it is fairly common to go over on aggregate base material but said not when
the price is $100 per yard.
Council Member Travis indicated the City has the right to audit them if it wants to fight
the invoice because the company would have to justify the costs. He further commented
that the City is a public entity and has the right to audit if it wants to.
City Engineer Peterson questioned whether the City wanted to put every item under the
microscope as some items were under and some were over.
Council Member Travis commented it could cost the City a lot of money to fight the
mVOlce.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the audit procedure was a legal procedure overseen by the City
Attorney. Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated the City would need to hire an accounting
consultant to investigate the matter.
Council Member Travis indicated that the $100 per cubic yards was valid when the quote
was for 120 yards but noted that the quantity had tripled and said he costs of getting the
materials could not have tripled.
Ms. Moore-Sykes asked if the City had been notified of the overage. City Engineer
Peterson indicated that there had been no indication until the invoice arrived. He then
explained that the contractor would not have known ofthe overage until it was measured.
He further explained that he and the contractor had made marks on the boards and
calculated the area times the depth to verify that the amounts were correct.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if the City could send a letter requesting that
the company justify the expenditure of $100.00 per yard.
City Engineer Peterson said the contractor had justified the amounts to him and had
indicated that the cost included hauling the material from the trucks to the pit and the
labor it took to push the sand and compact it.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she felt the City should ask the contractor
for documentation supporting the $100.00 per yard price. City Engineer Peterson
indicated that he had been told by the contractor that the amount figured to be $100.69
per yard.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified she is looking for justification beyond the
120 yards.
Council directed Ms. Moore-Sykes to send a letter to the contractor asking for
justification of the per yard pricing for yards beyond 120.
11. F.M. Frattalone Excavating (Update)
Page 15 of25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
City Engineer Peterson indicated that Mr. Buechler had provided two borings that were
done in front of his five lots.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that, until Mr. Buechler comes back asking
for a permit, there is no issue.
12. City of Circle Pines Proposal for Joint Building Inspections (Update)
Mayor Swedberg indicated he would like to hear the comments of Mr. Palzer concerning
the proposal of Circle Pines for joint building inspections.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had talked to the City Administrator from Circle Pines
and was told that Circle Pines is still interested in working with Centerville for joint
building inspections. She then indicated that she had been asked to notify the City
Administrator from Circle Pines of Council's decision the morning following the meeting
as he needed to sign a contract with the contingency inspector.
Mayor Swedberg asked for a recommendation from Ms. Moore-Sykes.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she was concerned with how Staff time could be split to
ensure that the same amount of Staff time would be devoted to building inspections in
Centerville as in Circle Pines.
Council Member Nelson commented that with the proposal of Circle Pines to pay 145%
of the cost of wages to do Circle Pines inspections, taking into account overtime paid at
time and a half, the City of Centerville would be paying Circle Pines 5% to do their
inspections.
Mr. Palzer indicated that he felt there would need to be an additional public works person
and an intern hired by the City to accommodate the work load increase. He then stated he
felt there needed to be more research into the specifics of what the proposal would cost
the City before agreeing to the contract. Mr. Palzer recommended turning down the offer
at this time as the City needs to do more research and Circle Pines has indicated it does
have a contingency plan in place should Centerville not agree to the contract.
It was the consent of Council to turn down the offer of Circle Pines for joint building
inspections.
13. Lions Haunted House
Council Member Capra indicated that she felt it may be prudent to have the fire inspector
make sure the haunted house passes fire codes due to liability reasons.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Lions would be providing an
insurance certificate for the event.
Page 16 of25
City of Centerville
October 24,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra indicated that, even with an insurance certificate, the City could
be held responsible as the event is held in a city-owned building.
It was the consent of Council to ask the fire inspector to check the haunted house for
compliance with fire codes.
14. Turcotte Propertv Review
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had received a quote to tear down the structures,
disconnect the sewer, cap the well, and fill the hole in the amount of $5,125.00. She
further indicated that the estimate assumed that the house would be removed by a house
mover.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether the property was worth more with or without the
buildings.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that a clean, flat piece of property is more attractive to a
developer than one with an old duplex on it.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that if a house mover takes the house the City would need
to contract with someone to do the work listed in the estimate.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she did not think the City would find
someone to move it because moving a house even a short distance can cost $10,000 to
$20,000.
Council Member Travis indicated he thought the estimate was reasonable.
Council Member Nelson suggested moving forward with the quote.
Council Member Travis indicated that the City did not have to remove the structures but
said it makes for a cleaner site.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the City would have to clean up the site at
some point and indicated there would be Staff time involved to continue checking on the
buildings if they were not removed. Council Member Broussard Vickers did not believe
someone would buy the home.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated there could be a liability issue for the City with trespassers or
loitering at the vacant property.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Capra to direct Staff to contact home movers to see if any are willine to take the
house for the cost to move it and to direct Staff to enter into a contract with Ro-So
to have the site cleaned up and the hole filled in.
Page 17 of25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Travis indicated he thought the house would have brought more but
after looking at it closely it looks nice but it is older than it looks and it would cost a lot
of money to renovate and bring it current.
Council Member Capra indicated that the multiple foundations underneath the house
could cause problems for the home mover.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated there is too much to replace to consider
updating the house.
Council Member Travis commented that the City needed to consider all the costs
associated with this property when offering it for sale and make sure that the City recoups
its funds.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she thought the value of the property
would increase when the City bought it and removed the buildings.
City Attorney Hoeft told Council it needed to keep in mind that the City was attempting
to get an important piece of property for the City to redevelop and indicated that a profit
would be nice but may not be possible. He indicated that one of the costs involved with
obtaining and redeveloping the property may be a municipal subsidy to the developer to
make it happen. He further indicated that the City should keep track of costs but may not
see a specific profit outside of an improved look and more taxes.
Vote: Ayes - 4, Nays - I(Swedberg). Motion carried.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Resignation of Chaymus Klang, Cable Operator/Letter of Interest
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Chaymus Klang had notified the City of his intent to
resign. He then indicated that Mr. Klang attends the University of Minnesota and was
resigning because the meetings were lengthy and his school work was suffering.
Mayor Swedberg indicated Council accepted his resignation with great regret and
thanked him for everything he has done for the City.
Chaymus Klang thanked Council for their kind words.
Council recommended accepting the offer of Kim Stephan to act as the City's cable
operator.
2. Holiday Party
Page 18 of25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra requested that Ms. Moore-Sykes confirm that a reservation for
the holiday party was made at Majestic Oaks.
Council Member Capra indicated she had researched the costs involved with the holiday
party at Kelly's and suggested that the City's money may be better spent by hosting a
cook out at City Hall to coincide with National Volunteer Day in April.
Council Member Nelson indicated that the City may have better participation in an event
in April because around the holidays people are so busy with other parties.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she did not have a problem with Council
Member Capra's suggestion.
Council Member Capra indicated that the City spent approximately $700.00 on the event
at Kelly's and said she feels that the event could be more cost effective if held at City
Hall.
3. Centerville Elementary Peace Site Recognition
Council Member Capra indicated that she and Council Member Travis had attended the
ceremony at Centerville Elementary dedicating them as a W orId Peace Site and noted the
ceremony was very touching.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to present
Centerville Elementarv School with a Certificate of Reco~nition for its efforts to
become a World Peace Site. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
I. The City ofCenterville October 11,2001 through October 24, 2001 Expenditures.
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
3. Resource Strategies Corp. - Compo Plan Amendment (Pheasant Marsh) $2,931.53
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested that Item 3 be removed for discussion.
Council Member Nelson requested that Item 1 be removed for discussion.
Motion by Mayor Swedber~. seconded by Council Member Nelson to aoorove
Consent Agenda Item 2 as oresented. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Nelson questioned why Paul Palzer had two payroll checks.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that he and Council Member Travis had discussed the matter
and had determined that one of the checks was for comp time which the City allows
employees to be paid for if they choose.
Page 19 of25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson asked if Mr. Palzer had used all of his comp time.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that he had not.
Council Member Capra indicated that, at one time, the City had over $10,000 in
outstanding comp time pay. She then indicated that she had asked Ms. Moore-Sykes
about it and it was determined that the matter should be discussed at the budget work
seSSlon.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that it is typical for cities to allow an employee to make the
determination to take time off for comp time or be paid for it.
Council Member Capra asked if there was a limit to the amount of comp time an
employee could accrue.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated the City could set a cap and when that cap was reached the
employee would either have to take time off or be paid for the comp time. She further
explained, however, that the City could not limit the amount of comp time over all.
Council Member Travis indicated that comp time is covered in the City's personnel
policy.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the Citv of CentervilIe expenditures from October 11. 2001 throueh
October 24. 2001. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned why the invoice from Resource
Strategies Corporation was on the agenda for the City to pay when it is a Ground
Development invoice. City Attorney Hoeft asked if Ground Development had paid the
City the administrative fee.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she was not sure but said it seems that the
invoice is straight forward enough to be sent directly to Ground Development without the
City getting involved.
Council directed Staff to send the invoice to Ground Development for payment.
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. Standardized By-Laws
Council Member Capra indicated she felt this matter should be discussed by Council
based on the comments made by Mr. DeVine at the last Council meeting. She then
indicated that she feels that standardized by-laws are important and act as a tool for
residents serving on committees as to what the rules are and what is expected of them.
Page 20 of 25
City of Centerville
October 24,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she was not sure why committees needed
by-laws.
Council Member Nelson indicated that by-laws act as guidelines for things such as the
open meeting laws that committee members need to understand. She also indicated that
by-laws would instruct committee members that they make recommendations to Council
and do not make decisions on their own.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that she never looked at the by-laws when
she was on a committee and still knew what was expected of her.
Council Member Capra indicated that when she joined the EDC she never got by-laws
and said that she felt it would be good procedure to provide by-laws to the committees to
make sure they know the rules.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Council has a lot of budget work right now and is also
dealing with the deferred compensation issue. He then suggested postponing this item
until a quieter time of year.
Council Member Capra indicated she was willing to come up with a basic draft of a set of
standardized by-laws for the committees to present to Council for discussion.
Council Member Nelson indicated she would like to see the City present a standardized
set of by-laws to its committees.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the City had no requirement for by-laws but said if
Council wishes to use them as a way of achieving consistency it is fine to do so.
Council Member Capra commented she feels that committees need to know they are
bound by open meeting laws in order to avoid any sticky situations.
Mayor Swedberg asked how much of the City Administrator's time Council Member
Capra was asking for.
Council Member Capra indicated she did not need any time from Ms. Moore-Sykes and
said she is willing to do the work herself.
Council Member Capra and Council Member Nelson agreed to work on the draft of the
by-laws and said they would report back to Council in the near future.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Committee is
very busy and will hold several public hearings at its next meeting. She then indicated
that notice was sent to the entire City for the Ordinance #4 amendments but some of the
envelopes were delivered without the notice inside.
Page 21 of25
City of CenterviIle
October 24, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
City Attorney Hoeft questioned whether City Ordinance reqUIres that residents be
notified by mail.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested it may be necessary to continue the public
hearing from Planning and Zoning to Council.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had received a number of phone calls concerning the
empty envelopes and had sent notices out that day to those that called. She also noted
that the notice is in the paper.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that, unless the City's Ordinance specifically requires it,
the City does not have to mail notice to the entire community. He further commented
that he believes the meeting has been properly noticed and can be held.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the meeting may be continued anyway
depending on the input received.
Mayor Swedberg asked Ms. Moore-Sykes to make sure the meeting is posted in the
vestibule.
XI. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR'S REPORT/CLERK/TREASURER'S REPORT
1. Vallev Creek Annual Contract Renewal
Mr. Palzer indicated that Valley Creek does the City's mowing and weed-whipping
which costs the City between $23,000 and $28,000 per year.
Mayor Swedberg questioned when it became cheaper for the City to cut its own grass.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that she and Mr. Palzer had been discussing the issue of costs
associated with the City cutting its own grass and had determined that it would cost
approximately $50,000 up front to obtain the equipment necessary to do so. She then
indicated that she intended to continue her research and work with City Staff to determine
whether it is fiscally more responsible for the City to purchase equipment and do its own
grass cutting or continue to contract out the work.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated there was time to gather more information
before the next meeting.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to table this matter until the next Council meetinl!. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
Council Member Capra questioned whether Mr. Palzer was recommending that the City
enter into an agreement with Hugo and Lino Lakes for emergency management.
Page 22 of 25
City of Centerville
October 24,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr, Palzer indicated that the City of Hugo and the City of Lino Lakes had approached
Centerville and asked the City to join a consortium whereby the public works staff from
each City would lend its services in the case of an emergency, He then indicated that, at
the time it was proposed, the City decided not to join and suggested it may be time to
reconsider that proposal.
Council Member Capra asked if Mr. Palzer had any further information on protecting the
City's well heads.
Mr. Palzer indicated the area of protection extends into Lino Lakes and indicated he is
working with City Administrator Moore-Sykes to determine Staff recommendation on the
matter.
Council Member Nelson asked that the City of Hugo and City of Lino Lakes agreement
be placed on the next meeting agenda,
Council Member Travis indicated that Council had decided not to participate based on
the wording of the contract as it was worded to say that the Hugo staff could be off in an
emergency in their own City but Centerville would have to respond.
Mr. Wilharber indicated that at the time of the proposal, Hugo had only one Staff person
and Council had looked at that and decided that Centerville would end up contributing
more than it got out of the agreement.
Mr. Palzer indicated that Hugo has increased its Staff to two and may have hired a third
person.
Mayor Swedberg asked if there would be a cost reimbursement for going to the other
cities.
Mr. Palzer indicated that he receives daily emergency management information and
indicated he will continue to share that information with Ms. Moore-Sykes and will leave
dissemination of that information up to her.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he had been asked to check the developer's agreement for
Centervilla to determine whether the City had agreed to pay for the oversizing of the
water main. He then indicated that the contract does not break out any oversizing costs
and states that the developer agrees to pay the entire cost of improvements.
Mayor Swedberg asked Ms. Moore-Sykes to send a letter to the developer of Centervilla
based on the Attorney's comments.
Council Member Travis questioned whether the pipe was oversized. City Engineer
Peterson indicated that there was a lO-inch water main put in.
Page 23 of 25
City ofCenterville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. Moore-Sykes reported she would be doing the week in review report on Fridays
starting on October 26, 2001.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that there was a budget work session on October 30, 2001 at
6:30 p.m. and indicated there had been a request for approval of an executive session.
City Attorney Hoeft asked City Administrator Moore-Sykes to create an agenda for the
executive session and post it three days in advance of the meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that when Council holds closed session
discussions there are to be no motions and Council should take notes.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had received a request to put the bobcat purchase on the
agenda for discussion at the next meeting.
Mayor Swedberg indicated the bobcat purchase could be discussed III the budget
deliberations.
Ms. Moore-Sykes thanked Council for the plant and said it was very nice to have it when
she walked in.
Mr. Ray DeVine addressed Council and expressed concern with Council's decision to
request a fire inspection for the Lions' haunted house. He then asked why inspections
had not been done on past haunted houses.
Council Member Capra indicated she had spoken to Chief Heckman at the budget work
session and he had expressed concern about some things that happened with the Kelly's
event and said that started her thinking about other liabilities and she thought it would be
appropriate to ask for an inspection to ensure that the haunted house is safe for residents.
Council Member Nelson indicated the City had granted a noise variance for the event at
Kelly's but did not grant an outside liquor permit.
Council Member Capra indicated she had discussed her concern with Milo Bennet and
Ms. Moore-Sykes who agreed that it may be a good idea to have a fire inspector take a
look at the building.
Mr. DeVine told Council that several people had been working tirelessly for weeks to
ensure that the haunted house would be ready to go for the upcoming weekend. He then
indicated that there had never been a fire inspection before for the haunted house. He
further commented that when he remodeled his office building he had a fire inspection
and said that based on that experience, he did not feel there was any way the haunted
house would pass a fire inspection. Mr. DeVine then stated that ordering a fire inspection
would effectively shut down the haunted house scheduled for Friday and Saturday.
Page 24 of 25
City of Centerville
October 24, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated the City just wants to send a fire inspector in to review and
determine if there is anything that is obviously dangerous so corrections can be made.
Mr. DeVine indicated there was not time to make corrections to the haunted house as the
event is scheduled to begin in two days.
Council Member Travis suggested having Milo Bennet walk through the haunted house
to make comments.
Council Member Capra stated that the City has a responsibility to its residents to make
sure the building is safe. She then commented there was no intent to shut down the
Lions' haunted house.
Council Member Capra noted that Mr. Bennett had gone into the warming house during
the Fete de Lacs Festival and had found a few small things that needed to be fixed. She
then said again, that it was never the intent of Council to cancel the haunted house.
Mr. DeVine asked if someone from the fire department would be contacting him to make
arrangements to review the haunted house.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she would make arrangements for Mr. DeVine to be
contacted for a fire inspection.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to adiourn the October 24. 2001 City Council Meetine at 9:25 p.m. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 25 of 25
t
/'
City ofCenterville
November 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 14, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly scheduled
meeting on November 14,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street
PRESENT:
Mayor Tim Swedberg . ~
Council Member Dick Travis " .' ec,( !t)~
Council Member Mary Capra ..... .... @)....)\)~.;; )'P' :,.';
Counc~l Member ~ari Nelson PP" ~D'\J ",.'
Cmmc>! Mcmbc, Lmda BroU'fif.t,;,d '..,...".,09: :(,J' ~
None, 1.Jfl0; ,
ABSENT:
STAFF:
City Administrator Ms. Moore-Sykes
City Engineer, Mr. Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Mr. Jim Hoeft
Public Works Director, Mr. Paul Palzer
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the November 14,2001, City Council meeting to order at 6:30
p.m.
II. SET AGENDA
Council Member Capra requested that the Communications Task Force presentation be
moved to Item 3 under Appearances.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the aeenda as amended. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimouslv.
III. PUBLIC HEARING (S)
1. Ordinance #4 Amendments (Continued from Planning and Zoning)
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she would like to wait to hold the public
hearings until Mr. Palzer arrived at the meeting because there was confusion at the
Planning and Zoning Commission level and Mr. Palzer's interpretation is necessary.
Page 1 of 25
.
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
had received the large draft but not the accompanying list to be able to go through and
verify wording. She also noted that the document received did not differentiate the
changes made and was not clear.
Mayor Swedberg re-opened the public hearing at 7: 15 p.m.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that there is a list of revisions and changes to Ordinance #4
and the list was retyped by the clerk from notes made by Mr. Palzer.
Council Member Nelson asked if there was a motion from the Planning and Zoning
Commission and, if so, what the motion was.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
had not made a final recommendation on the matter due to the confusion with the
documents provided to the Commission.
Mr. Palzer indicated that the changes to Ordinance #4 were housekeeping items and Staff
went through and made the changes and then provided a revised Ordinance #4 to the
Planning and Zoning Commission.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the draft copy of the Ordinance had
not marked the changes and it was difficult to determine whether the changes as
recommended by the Planning and Zoning Committee had been made.
Mr. Palzer indicated that some of the residents in attendance had an issue concerning C-l
zoning. He then indicated that C-l zoning is not referenced in the Comprehensive Plan
or in Ordinance #4 and that is why Staff was going to eliminate it. He then indicated that
the areas covered by the C-l zoning are located in the wetland and are controlled by the
watershed district. He further indicated that the City will be discussing and passing a
shoreland ordinance to provide guidelines and controls over the area.
Council Member Capra indicated that several residents were concerned for development
in the wetland. Mr. Palzer indicated that Rice Creek Watershed District has strict
regulations governing development in the wetlands.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that the C-l zoning would be discussed
during the zoning map public hearing.
Council Member Capra suggested handling the garage issue and tabling the rest of the
changes because she had not had a chance to review the Ordinance as it was received
prior to the start of the meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that changing the Ordinance for one item
and then having to change it again for the rest of the items would be expensive for the
City.
Page 2 of 25
City ofCenlerville
November 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Council could discuss the changes at
the budget work session and approve the changes at the first meeting in December. She
then indicated she would not vote to change one item because it is too big of an expense
to the City.
Mayor Swedberg asked if all 70 pages of the Ordinance would need to be published for
the one change. City Attorney Hoeft indicated that a synopsis of the proposed change
could be published.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that a sentence that indicates the full copy of the Ordinance is
available for review at City Hall could be added to the publication notice.
Mayor Swedberg asked how much it would cost to publish the change. Ms. Moore-Sykes
indicated she was not sure how much it would cost as it has to be published twice.
Mayor Swedberg indicated it might not be possible to figure out the changes at this
meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the majority of the changes are fairly
straight forward and are mostly housekeeping issues. She indicated that the garage item
had consensus by the Planning and Zoning Commission but the comer lot issue was not
decided upon.
Council Member Nelson indicated that she did not want to push the matter back again
because Staff failed to provide adequate documentation. She then indicated she would be
comfortable with Council Member Broussard Vickers walking Council through the
changes. She further commented that Council needs to receive the documents prior to the
day of the meeting to allow time for review.
Ms. Moore-Sykes apologized for the document confusion and explained that there was
supposed to be a Table A that contained a list of revisions but there were no revisions or
suggestions in Table A.
Council Member Capra asked if Council could continue the hearing for later on in the
evening to go over the Ordinance line by line.
Mayor Swedberg asked if anyone knew how much a full page ad in the Quad Community
Press would cost. Theresa Brenner indicated that a If.. page advertisement costs $286.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he did not think it would cost any more than $100 to publish
for the garage two times and said that, if it does, he would pay for it out of his pocket.
Council Member Capra asked that Council take public comment on Ordinance #4 and
move on with the meeting as there is a lot on the agenda.
Page 3 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Jeremy Bates, 1977 Robin Lane South, indicated that he had been told by Council
that he needed to follow the process to have the Ordinance changed. He then indicated
that he has done so and he would really like approval of the change to the Ordinance
tonight.
Mr. Tracy Tratar, 1710 Peltier Lake Drive, indicated he had requested Council change the
comer lot setback from 35 feet to 20 feet. He then explained that by following all of the
setbacks for his comer lot he is not allowed to build on 68% of his lot and he feels that is
exceSSIve.
Council Member Broussard Vickers referred Council to pages 6 and 7 of the Planning
and Zoning minutes for the discussion concerning comer lots. She then asked how many
Planning and Zoning Commission Members were at the work session.
Mr. Bates indicated there were four Commissioners at the work session.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
was concerned that allowing a 20 foot setback for comer lots would be a problem with
new construction.
Council Member Nelson suggested adding the words "if the side street is clearly evident
then the setback would be 20 feet instead of 35 feet." City Attorney Hoeft indicated it
was not sure what clearly evident meant.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the language could be changed to allow for either the
setback or the average of the adjacent homes whichever is greater to prevent homes from
sticking out farther than the others.
Mr. Tratar indicated that his argument is that every comer lot is just the way he wants to
do his addition. He then questioned how other residents in the City were allowed to build
their additions that way if there is this 35 foot setback rule.
Council Member Broussard Vickers stated that she felt the Planning and Zoning
Commission should review the wording. She then asked Mr. Tratar if he had gotten
measurements from other lots in town. Mr. Tratar indicated he did not know he was
supposed to bring the information to the Council meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated it would be helpful to know what currently
exists when discussing the wording. She then clarified that no one had told Mr. Tratar
not to file for a variance but said he had been warned to review the requirements carefully
as he may not be entitled to a variance and would lose the variance fee.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested allowing the Planning and Zoning
Commission some time to discuss the matter because Mr. Tratar is not building the
garage until spring.
Page 4 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg indicated Council understood what Mr. Tratar was saying and indicated
that the City needs to find the right words to make it consistent throughout the City.
Ms. Tratar of 1710 Peltier Lake Drive asked if the Ordinance could be worded to apply
only to existing properties and not for new construction. She then commented that by
driving around the City she has concluded that they are the only comer lot without a
garage. City Attorney Hoeft indicated that would be possible to word the Ordinance as
Ms. Tratar had suggested but said the City should stay away from making ordinances that
apply to a single piece of property.
Ms. Tratar indicated that if they could get approval and get the footings in before the
ground freezes they could work on the garage in the cold.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission was not meeting
again until the beginning of December.
Shelly Olson of Chetak, Wisconsin indicated she was in attendance for the dog kennel
ordinance change and asked if the change had been made to allow for dog kennels in the
industrial park.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
did not have a problem with allowing dog kennels in the industrial park with a special use
permit.
Ms. Olson indicated that she drives two hours to come to the meetings and asked if her
change would be approved at this meeting. She then indicated that she would need to get
her special use permit before going any farther with her contractors,
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the use was approved and then
explained that Ms. Olson would need to work with Mr. Palzer and Ms. Moore-Sykes to
determine what needed to be done to obtain the special use permit.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the ordinance change would be effective around the first
of the year and explained that Ms. Olson would then be back before the Planning and
Zoning Commission to discuss the special use permit and obtain approval of the special
use permit and the preliminary plat.
Mr. Palzer indicated that the previous version of Ordinance #4 had allowed for a 30-foot
setback on comer lots.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether there would be any utilities in the 35-foot setback area.
Mr. Palzer indicated that there should not be. Mr. Tratar indicated he had checked and
the utilities are within the I5-foot City right-of-way.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to close the public hearin2. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Page 5 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg closed the public hearing at 7:45 p.m.
2. Zoning Map Modifications (Continued from Planning and Zoning)
Mayor Swedberg opened the public hearing at 7:46 p.m.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
had thought the changes to the zoning map were housekeeping in nature until it heard
testimony by residents at the meeting that they were concerned about changing the C-l
zoning district to R-l.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
had thought this matter should be revisited since the changes do npt have to be done right
away. She indicated that the wetlands are controlled by the Rice Creek Watershed
District but residents are concerned about the ability to trade wetlands and fill property
in. She further indicated that the City may need to allow for C-I zoning in its
Comprehensive Plan and Ordinance #4.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that Rice Creek Watershed District has the final say in the
wetland as well as the shoreline ordinance that is before the Metropolitan Council and
will soon be before Council for approval.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that residents were told that the C-l zoning
would be kept unless there was a legal reason the City could not use that designation any
longer.
Council Member Capra indicated she had received a telephone call from a resident that
ws adamant that they wanted to retain the C-l zoning district because wetlands can be
traded.
Mr. Palzer indicated that there is a resident trying to build in the flood plain right now
that had preliminary approval from Rice Creek Watershed.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to close the public hearing. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Swedberg closed the public hearing at 7:52 p.m.
Council recessed at 7:53 p.m.
Council reconvened at 8:02 p.m.
Page 6 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
1. Mr. Mike Quiglev. Gor-Em (Eagle Pass 2nd Addition)
Mike Quigley of Gor-Em reviewed the changes to the plan with Council and indicated
that Gor-Em had addressed most of the issues by converting to the twin home format as
was originally planned. He indicated that the issues with the existing development have
been addressed and the screening requested at the Planning and Zoning Commission
meeting had been added. He also indicated that Ojibway Drive could be addressed in
letter form or through a clause in the developer's agreement. He further indicated that he
would be more than happy to provide a trail if the Association and the City are able to
come to an agreement as to the terms.
Ms. Moore-Sykes commented that it may not be in the City's best interest to put language
concerning a private road into its developer's agreement.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether the proposed road on the east side of the development
would be a private road. Mr. Quigley indicated that it was planned to be private.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that there were a lot of residents present at
the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting and those in attendance had brought up
screening, keeping as many trees as possible or transplanting those that are to be
removed, the distance between the houses at the end of Ojibway Drive, and the private
road. She then indicated that the major issue concerned potential damage to Ojibway
Drive by construction vehicles. She further indicated that residents in attendance were
concerned about the street lighting in the existing development.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Association had petitioned the City
to take over the private street and was upset because the City has not yet responded.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the developer had agreed to provide
screening as indicated on the site plan. She then indicated that she felt Council needed to
discuss the private road issue to determine whether Council wants to take over the street.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that she is of the opinion that the City
should not add to a situation it knows is a problem for residents by allowing the
development to be constructed with another private road.
Mayor Swedberg commented that Ojibway Drive was designed and constructed to be a
private road and, in his opinion, should stay as a private road. He then commented that,
if residents want additional lighting, they should petition the City for lighting but know
that the residents would bear the cost of that additional lighting. He further commented
that he has driven through the development at night and does not feel that it is any darker
than some of the other neighborhoods in the City.
Mr. Quigley clarified that the only difference in a private road is the width.
Page 7 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra commented that she thought the underiayment was different for a
private road. Mr. Quigley indicated that the road was built to MSA standards.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Association has a problem with the
cost and ability to maintain a road. She then indicated that residents had asked, if the
City should decide not to take over the road, if the Association could be informed of
when the City reconstructs the streets in the area so the Association can join in the bid in
order to keep costs down.
Mr. Quigley indicated he did not think the roads could be changed because they were
approved under a PUD. Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that a PUD allows
for unique setbacks and can be reconsidered.
Council Member Nelson indicated she would prefer to keep the road private as that is
how it was designed and the Association was set up to handle the costs for maintaining
the road. She then indicated that she, too, feels that the development is not any darker
than other neighborhoods in the City. She further commented that the City is not as
bright as what residents may be used to coming from a more metropolitan area.
Council Member Capra questioned whether there would be street lights at the
intersections of the new roads when houses are built there. Mr. Quigley indicated that he
was not sure as he does not design the lighting.
Council Member Capra commented that there would be another light added in the
existing development where it connects to the new development.
Mr. Quigley asked who designs the street lights. Council Member Travis indicated that
Xcel Energy designs the streetlights.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that Xcel designed the layout of the streetlights. Mr.
Quigley indicated that there are 12 lights. He then commented that he paid the City for
15 lights.
Council Member Travis indicated that he felt the street should remain private. He then
commented that he did not think the specifications were the same for public and private
streets because private streets do not have the subcut and draintile. Mr. Quigley indicated
that the street was designed to MSA standards.
Council Member Travis indicated that, if residents want more lighting, they should
petition the City and realize that they will be paying for it. He then indicated that he
would like the Association to consider allowing a trail through its property.
Ms. Lori Peterson of 7065 Dupre Road indicated the Association would consider
allowing the trail if the City would take over the street but otherwise the Association
Page 8 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
would have liability all the way across their land and the road. She then indicated that the
elderly housing should not have been put in without access.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated there was a 20 foot wide drainage
easement through the property.
Ms. Peterson commented that the Association could not afford the liability for all the
elderly people coming from the senior housing and crossing Ojibway Drive to Dupre
Road.
Mr. Brian Carlson of 1771 Meadow Lane reminded Mr. Quigley that he had agreed to
push Units 9 and 10 forward 10 feet. Mr. Quigley agreed to do so.
Mayor Swedberg complimented Mr. Quigley on his efforts to blend the development in
and his efforts to address the issues of the existing development.
Ms. Lori Peterson of 7065 Dupre Road indicated that the motion that was made at the
Planning and Zoning meeting included the addition of the association requested items
which were trees, trailway through the outlot, concerns with screening and a written
guarantee for Ojibway Drive.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that those sorts of items are handled in the developer's
agreement.
Ms. Peterson asked when residents would have input into the developer's agreement.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the details would be approved when the final plat is
approved.
Mayor Swedberg asked Ms. Moore-Sykes to notify the Association when the final plat is
before Council for final plat approval.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked whether it was appropriate to put the road
agreement in the developer's agreement or whether it should be between the Association
and the developer. City Attorney Hoeft indicated he did not want the road in the
developer's agreement.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned whether the Association's only recourse
is a civil suit ifthe City approves the development and the road is damaged.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the Association would have civil recourse and said the City
would not condition approval of the development on the agreement between the
developer and the Association.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked how the Association could prevent access to
the road. City Attorney Hoeft indicated he was not prepared to give the Association legal
Page 9 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
advice on that matter. He then commented that the City should not dictate how the
Association governs its roads.
Mr. Quigley indicated that he has committed several times in a public forum and again in
written form that any street damage would be taken care of for a period of two years. He
then indicated that he had another letter with him at the meeting that he was prepared to
give to the Association.
City Attorney Hoeft clarified that approval of the final plat would be contingent upon
Units 9 and 10 being moved forward 10 feet. He then indicated that Council needed to
determine whether the new street on the eastern side of the proposed development would
be public or private.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked the Association if they wished to have the
road public or private.
Bert Casper of 6979 Dupre Road indicated he did not want any more private roads in the
development.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she was not in favor of adding another
private street when the current private street has caused so many problems.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he was fine with requiring the street be public.
Ms. Lori Peterson of 7065 Dupre Road indicated that the extension to Ojibway Drive has
to be supported by 18 current units and 12 potential new units and the proposed other
private road is supported by 65 units. She then commented that it does not make sense to
allow a private street to be supported by so few residents especially since they are all
paying taxes and do not receive a break for the services the City does not provide to
them.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he understood Ms. Peterson's point but indicated that the
private street was in the agreement when she bought her house and she should have been
aware of it.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Travis to
approve the Preliminarv Plat for Eaele Pass 2nd Addition contin!!ent upon movine
Units 9 and 10 forward 10 feet and the new road to the east of the proposed
development bein!! wide enou!!h to be a public road.
Council Member Broussard Vickers commented that a few residents are burdened with
the private road and the City is adding to it. She indicated that, if the City is not
interested in taking over the road, the entrance should have been re-drawn to allow for
entrance off of a public road. She further indicated that she was not against the
development but feels the City is intensifying an existing problem by allowing the
development to continue with the extension of the private road.
Page 10 of25
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Travis commented that there are more private roads in Centerville and
questioned whether the City would have to take over all private roads.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the City had not received a petition from
any other residents asking the City to take over a private street other than the one for
Ojibway Drive.
Council Member Capra questioned whether there was another definition that could be
used other than "street" to allow the City to take over the road but not require widening
such as a trailway. City Engineer Peterson indicated a trailway would need to be marked
as such and cars are not allowed on trails.
VOTE: Ayes - 4, Nays - I (Broussard Vickers). Motion carried.
2. Mr. Llovd Drilling, Uptown Center (Comprehensive Sign Plan)
Mr. Eric Bowman of 7130 Shad Avenue indicated he had noticed that sod or seed was
being put down at the strip mall without a berm or fence. He indicated he had spoken to
the person doing the sodding and seeding and this person was not aware there was to be a
berm and fence. He also indicated that he had heard, through the grapevine, that Mr.
Drilling does not want to put in the sidewalk as required.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Mr. Drilling had agreed to provide a
berm and a fence. She then indicated that there is to be a trail on both sides.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that Mr. Drilling has until June of 2002 to complete the trail,
fence and berm.
Mr. Bowman indicated his wife had called City Hall and was told that no one would be
allowed to move into the building until everything is done. He then asked if that was
correct information. Mr. Palzer indicated that businesses would be allowed to move in
prior to the completion of the sod, fence, and berm. Mr. Palzer then indicated that the
developer's agreement requires that the sod, fence and berm be completed by June of
2002.
Council Member Travis indicated that the City has a letter of credit on Mr. Drilling that
would be used to pay for the City to have those items done if they are not completed.
Mr. Jerry Engler of 7127 Shad Avenue provided pictures of his flooded backyard to
Council for review. He then indicated that water was pumped out two or three and said
that unless the grade is corrected the same thing will happen in the spring.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that there is no pond on site and the site is supposed to
be graded such that the storm sewer will catch that water.
Page 11 of25
City of Centerville
November 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg asked City Engineer Peterson to review the matter to make sure the
property is graded correctly to eliminate Mr. Engler's water problem.
Mr. Engler indicated that if his backyard fills up everyone to the north of his property
will have the same problem because the water drains from north to south.
City Engineer Peterson indicated that the final grade had not been done at the property.
Council Member Capra asked if Mr. Palzer had reviewed the new strip mall. Mr. Palzer
indicated that Mr. Drilling had not called for a final inspection so the property has not
been reviewed.
Mayor Swedberg thanked the residents for bringing the matter to the City's attention and
indicated that the City would make sure things are done according to the agreement.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission had determined
that Mr. Drilling did not need to provide a comprehensive sign plan to Council for
approval as the change had taken place after the site plan was approved.
3. Ad Hoc Communications Committee
Theresa Brenner and the other members of the Committee reviewed with Council its
report on recommendations.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
1. October 24.2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested the following changes: On Page 18
indicate the decision was left up to the City Administrator. On Page 17, indicate she did
not think the City would find someone to buy the house.
Council Member Capra questioned whether Mr. Carpenter was informed by the
underwriter of his mortgage or by City Staff that his property was nonconforming.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the underwriter had informed him that his property was
non-conforming and then he came to City Hall to look into the matter and City Staff had
told him as well.
Council Member Capra requested the following changes: On Page 7, change "him" to
"his." On Page 8, change "hard" to "had". On Page 11 specify who made the motions.
Motion bv Council Member Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member
Council Member Capra to approve the October 24. 2001 Council Minutes as
amended. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Page 12 of25
City of CenterviUe
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
1. Grassen Companies - Streetlights (Eagle Pass 2nd Addition)
Mayor Swedberg apologized for misleading the residents in attendance into believing
that the streetlight issue had been discussed as he was not aware this was on the agenda.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the two issues were the same.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
had recommended that Council seriously consider the streetlight situation and make a
decision. She then explained that some of the Commissioners felt the City could put
some lights in and some felt the City should not put more lights in. She also explained
that there was a resident in attendance that had accused the Planning Commission of not
caring about the safety of the residents. She further explained that the residents of Eagle
Pass feel that the neighborhood is not safe because the streets are winding and there are
not enough lights.
Council Member Nelson asked if there was a way to check into why Mr. Quigley had
paid for 15 lights and there are only 12 in the development.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that getting 12 lights when he paid for 15
lights is an issue for the developer to deal with.
Council Member Travis indicated that Mr. Quigley paid the City for the 15 lights as part
of the developer's agreement.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he did not have the developer's agreement with him but
said he does not think the developer's agreement is based on a number. He then
indicated that streetlights are calculated and an amount is required for escrow or letter of
credit based on the estimate of lights for the development. He further indicated that the
City and the developer are not obligated to the 15 lights.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the lighting for the development was designed by Xcel
Energy and reviewed and signed off on by the City Engineer.
Mayor Swedberg asked staff to respond to the letter from Grassen Companies.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if it was the consensus of Council not to
authorize more street lights in the development.
Page 13 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
City Attorney Hoeft clarified that the City is not obligated to put in additional street
lights. He then indicated that Council could do so if it wanted to.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the residents had also asked for stop
signs and/or a reduced speed limit because they feel that 30 mph is excessive for the type
of street. She then questioned whether Council would be willing to pay for the cost of
running electricity to the lights if the residents were to pay for the costs of the poles and
lights.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had obtained a listing of lights owned by the City, by
NSP and residents.
Mr. Palzer indicated that it costs the City approximately $150 per light per year for
electricity. He then indicated that the lights have 100 or ISO-watt bulbs and he had been
attempting to contact NSP to determine whether the bulbs could be upgraded in an
attempt to increase the light output.
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested including the bid to run power to the poles
in with the bid for the preliminary plat to reduce costs.
Mayor Swedberg asked if it was possible to run power to the additional lights. Mr. Palzer
agreed to look into the matter.
Mr. Palzer indicated that the wattage of the light bulbs in the City varies making it
difficult to determine what areas of the City are darker than others.
Council Member Nelson indicated that she did not feel the City should pay for additional
lighting in the development. She then indicated she would consider the stop signs and
change of speed limit if the residents petition the City and state exactly what they want
the speed limit to be and where they want the stop signs.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that sometimes when a stop sign is put in it could create
worse problems than were there in the first place.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the residents were told that the Police
Department would review the request and advise Council on the matter.
Council Member Capra indicated she would like to see petitions from the surrounding
residents.
Council Member Capra indicated she was in favor of paying for the yearly electrical
charge to operate the light but not the fee to run power to the poles.
Council Member Nelson indicated she would be willing to have the City pay the yearly
electrical charge to operate the light but did not want the City to pay for running the
power to the poles.
Page 14 of25
City of Centervi1Je
November 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Travis asked how much it costs to install additional lighting. He then
indicated that he thought NSP would install the light for free because he has never seen a
street light bill. He further clarified that the City charges the developer $1,500 to $2,000
per light but he has not seen a bill from NSP for those lights.
Mayor Swedberg asked the City Engineer to look into the costs of additional street lights.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the City Engineer would need to bill
the City to do so and suggested that Mr. Palzer may be able to investigate the costs of the
streetlights.
Mr. Palzer indicated that the design and layout of the streetlights in the development was
done by NSP and said he would contact them to discuss the matter.
Mayor Swedberg asked Mr. Palzer to have NSP restate the recommendation for
streetlighting in the development.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked that Staff include in the letter to the
Association that it was the consensus of Council that the City needs to receive a petition
for reduced speed limit with a specific speed, a request for stop signs and the Association
needs to go to the Police Department for a recommendation before coming to Council.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the City has the authority to set the speed on City streets. City
Attorney Hoeft indicated that the City does have the authority to set the speed limit on
City streets and indicated that if no speed limit is set the statutory default is 30 mph. He
then indicated that the Police Department would probably agree that stop signs and
reduced speed are not going to address the safety issue the way residents think they will.
2. Mueller Pipeliners (Terminal Transport Building)
Ms. Moore-Sykes passed out a copy of the site plan because the one included in packets
cut off the aggregate parking lot which is at issue in this matter.
Brent Coatney, the owner of Terminal Transport located at 6812 20th Avenue indicated
his business is operating at that location but, due to economic considerations, he needs to
downsize his operations and is seeking approval of Mueller Pipeliners as a tenant.
Jeff Nordness of 25882 East Comfort Drive, Wyoming Township indicated they had
come before Council to get an idea of what needed to be done to gain approval of the
parking lot extension. He then indicated that the site plan is the same as the one that was
approved in 1998 with the exception of the fact that they intend to use an aggregate base
rather than bituminous because of the track vehicles.
Mr. Nordness indicated that he was asked at the Planning and Zoning Commission
meeting to obtain a letter from Rice Creek Watershed District indicating that the ponding
Page 15 of25
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
was adequate. He then explained that he had attempted to get the letter and was told by
Rice Creek Watershed District that they would not have approved the project if the
ponding was not adequate.
Council Member Travis noted there is a regional pond in the industrial park.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that on the second page of the permit under
special stipulations there is a sentence that says if the pond is not completed at the time of
construction a NURP pond is required on site. She then indicated that the Planning and
Zoning Commission had asked Mueller Pipeliners to obtain a letter from Rice Creek
Watershed District indicating that the pond was a regional pond and no NURP pond is
required.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked whether Rice Creek Watershed District could
decide to require the NURP pond at a later date if they decide the existing pond is
inadequate.
Mr. Nordness indicated that the industrial park sites were all designed for that regional
pond.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that the company would be responsible for constructing a
NURP if Rice Creek Watershed District were to require one at some point in the future.
Mr. Coatney indicated that a NURP would have been required if the ponding had not
been done but the regional pond has been constructed by Mr. Rehbein. He also indicated
that completion of the regional pond to mitigate water on the site was part of the purchase
price for the lot.
Council Member Travis indicated that the site plan for KCI does not have a retention
pond because all the water from the site drains to the regional pond. City Engineer
Peterson indicated that the site currently drains to the pond.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she did not have a problem with the plan.
Mayor Swedberg asked if there would be any type of screening done. Mr. Coatney
indicated he had planted double the number of pine trees required and commented that
the residents across the street had called him to thank him for planting the trees.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the parkin!! lot expansion for Mueller Pipeliners as presented
and require that the trees are never to be removed without the permission of
Council.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested a friendly amendment to the motion to
require that the company not be able to remove the tree line without permission of
Council.
Page 16 of25
City of Centerville
November 14, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson accepted the friendly amendment.
Council Member Capra indicated she was concerned that the permit did not specifY the
approval of the aggregate parking lot but said, if Mueller Pipeliners was willing to go on
record as saying that Rice Creek Watershed District had approved the aggregate parking
lot, she would be fine with the plan.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the permit referred to a detail sheet and
that detail sheet indicates an aggregate parking lot.
VOTE: Ayes - 5, Nays - O. Motion carried unanimously.
3. BudgetJDeferred Comp/Union Contract (Update)
Council Member Capra indicated she was not able to attend the meeting with Abdo, Eick
and Meyer due to illness. She then indicated that more records need to be pulled before
the audit can continue.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had been informed by the City Clerk that there was a list
of items needing to be pulled before the audit could continue.
Council Member Capra indicated that the representative from Abdo, Eick and Meyer was
very disappointed in the filing and record keeping systems of the City.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had just heard there was a problem and noted she was in
the office both days that the Abdo, Eick and Meyers representative was in and she was
not told of a problem with the records.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the matter needed to be moved up on the
priority list.
Council Member Capra indicated that she had thought only the records from 1996 and
1997 needed to be pulled but was told all records need to be pulled. She then indicated
she would have time in the coming week to flag items to be copied.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that Abdo, Eick and Meyers had requested all information for
1998 and 1999 and the report from PEBSCO from 1996 to 2001.
Council Member Capra indicated that Abdo, Eick and Meyers had recommended the City
hire a temp to get the files in order.
4. Quad Cities Police Department (Update)
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the City of Circle Pines had asked that the joint police
department discussions be put offuntil January due to changes in Council.
Page 17 of25
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
5. Vinco Overages (Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park)
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had sent a letter to Vinco asking that they provide
justification for the assessment of the cost of overages to the City. She then indicated
that she had not yet heard from Vinco.
6. Turcotte Property (Update - Ro-So $6.200)
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the estimate from Ro-So to excavate and haul away
debris had changed from $5,000 to $6,200.
Council Member Nelson asked why the estimate had increased. Mr. Palzer indicated that
the estimate was changed from burying the debris to hauling it away.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that, in her experience, the MPCA takes a dim view of
burying construction debris and the City could end up removing it in the future.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he had received the signed petition for the registration of
the property and that is in the hands of the attorney working on that part of the matter.
Council Member Nelson indicated she feels the City needs to take care of this matter.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she would like to get other bids because
the estimate has climbed over the $5,000 mark.
Council Member Travis asked if Mr. Palzer had been in the house. Mr. Palzer indicated
that he had been in the house.
Council Member Travis asked if Mr. Palzer felt there were hazardous materials. Mr.
Palzer indicated there were just concrete floors and bare walls downstairs.
Council Member Travis commented that the estimate is getting pretty close to what it
would cost to demolish the building and do a complete clean up.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had passed out a letter from Don Sempel House Movers
who had offered to pay the City $300 to take the house away.
Council Member Capra indicated that Mr. March had said he watches the ads in the paper
and had not seen the house advertised.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Staff had made phone calls to house
movers.
Council Member Capra indicated she had been told that one of the Barretts was interested
in purchasing the townhome at one time.
Page 18 of25
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Palzer indicated he would prefer to have a professional house mover move the house
rather than an individual who attempts to move it and the City end up with a house that is
moved off the foundation and sitting there. Council Member Capra indicated that any
offer of purchase the City receives she would assume would involve using a professional
house mover to move the house.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether the City is required to obtain bids for the house. City
Attorney Hoeft indicated there were no requirements to follow.
Council Member Nelson indicated that she liked the house mover but suggested
attempting to lower the costs.
Council directed Staff to get more bids to clean up the site.
Council Member Travis indicated he felt the bid was expensive for removmg a
foundation.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that she would approve this amount if Staff
is not able to find something lower.
7. Holiday Partv (Update)
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that she had included in Council packets information from
the League of Minnesota Cities concerning City sponsored events for employees. She
then indicated that if a prior understanding existed with the employees that the holiday
party was part of the employees' compensation it may be okay to do so but the
information suggests that it is better to avoid City sponsored events.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had called Majestic Oaks and was told that no reservation
was made but one could still be made if it was done right away.
Ms. Moore-Sykes suggested that it would be more appropriate to ask employees to pay
their own way for the holiday party. She also indicated that Staff had suggested using the
money the City would have used for the holiday party toward the volunteer event in the
spnng.
Council Member Capra indicated that there were two different events the one for
volunteers at Kellys and the other was a dinner for Staff.
Council Member Nelson indicated that individual dinners at a restaurant may have been
more money than the City was planning to spend for the volunteer event.
Council Member Capra indicated she would like to allocate the money that was used for
the Kelly's party for the volunteer event in the spring.
Page 19 of25
City ofCenterville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra suggested posting the event and holding an informal potluck type
gathering and holiday party.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he would like Staff to suggest what they would like for a
holiday party.
8. Entrance Monument
Council Member Capra indicated that the information was in packets for informational
purposes.
Mr. Palzer indicated there is an issue as to whether the City owns the property or has an
easement for the property where the sign is to be located. Council Member Nelson
indicated she thought the City had an easement for the sign. Council Member Capra
indicated that power was run out to the sign location by County Bank.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that no easement was in place at this point and
recommended that the easement be obtained before the sign is installed.
Mr. Palzer indicated that the drawing did not include any brick work. Council Member
Capra indicated that Mr. Bode would provide the name of the brick layer that did the
bank.
Mr. Palzer indicated he would check into the easement issue.
Council Member Capra asked if there were any gambling funds. Ms. Moore-Sykes
indicated that the City Clerk had not yet called but had pulled an expense sheet that
indicated there is approximately $18,155.00 in the account.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether there would be only one sign or if there would be others
in the future.
Council Member Capra indicated that the artwork for the sign could be purchased for
$100.00.
Council Member Travis indicated the City had planned for just the one entrance
monument.
Council Member Nelson indicated the City wanted to make a splash with the entrance in
the commercial area. She then commented that she feels the sign design better represents
the French Canadian heritage and she really likes it.
9. Public Works Mowing vs. Contractual Mowing (Update)
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the Public Works Director had provided an estimate for
the City to do its own mowing.
Page 20 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Palzer explained to Council how he had arrived at his cost estimate for the City to do
its own weed whipping and mowing.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the Ford tractor the Public Works Staff has had power take off
and whether there was a cutting blade that could be put on it.
Mr. Palzer indicated that the cutting blade does not have a floating deck.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Ordinance #4 Amendments
. Council Member Broussard Vickers recommended going through Mr. Palzer's list of the
changes. Mr. Palzer indicated he did not have his notes but said all of the wording
recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission was put in the Ordinance. He
also noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission would be looking at the Ordinance
again this winter.
Mr. Palzer clarified that the draft Ordinance presented to the Planning and Zoning
Commission was reviewed and contained everything that was discussed at the previous
meeting.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that it was difficult to tell what pages had
been changed because none of the changes were highlighted.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the changes are highlighted on the screen but when it is
printed out the changes do not show up. She then indicated that the intern is in the
process of going back through and marking the document.
Council Member Nelson asked if the printer was a colored printer.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that it was but said it was not cost or time efficient to print
several copies of an 80 page ordinance.
Mr. Palzer indicated he could walk Council through the document.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he would like to review the entire document at a later point
but wants to figure out how to allow the garage to be built tonight.
Council Member Travis indicated he would like to approve the garage as a separate item
and review the remaining Ordinance changes at another time.
Mayor Swedberg noted if the costs to publish the ordinance change for the garage issue
were more than $100.00 he would pay for it.
Page 21 of25
City ofCenterville
November 14,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Broussard Vickers suggested there were a couple more changes that
were straightforward and could be included in the published changes. She then read the
wording that had been changed to allow the garage in the R-4 district and noted that it
says minimum but the word should be maximum.
Mr. Palzer indicated he thought the word should be minimum.
After various discussions it was determined that the appropriate word was maximum.
Mr. Palzer indicated that the 10% greenspace was being added with this ordinance
change.
Council discussed the sideyard setbacks for comer lots with Mr. Tratar and was unable to
come to a consensus as to how the Ordinance should be worded.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that the issue could not be solved at this meeting and
suggested that the Planning and Zoning Commission should review the matter and make
a recommendation to Council.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Mayor Swedbere to approve the
Ordinance chanl!e on Pa\:e 24 of 82. Division 5. Accessory Buildinl!s to read:
commercial uses as defined by Ordinance #4 in the M-l District will follow the
commerciall!uidelines for percentaee of ereenspace. For all other properties in the
M-l district a maximum accessory structure of 704 square feet is allowed and a 440
square foot structure in the R-4 district not to exceed the size of the principal
structure if an attached earaee does not exist. If an attached earaee exists. the
maximum accessory structure size is 2% of the lot size or a maximum of 200 square
feet. Ayes - 4. Nays -l(Broussard Vickers). Motion carried.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked Mr. Tratar to bring the measurements he had
offered to gather to the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.
2. Gor-Em (Eagle Pass 2nd Addition)
This item was handled earlier in the meeting.
3. KCI - Site and Sign Plan
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the City Engineer had indicated a
grading plan needed to be provided. She also indicated that KCI needed to provide proof
of the 10% greenspace requirement.
Mayor Swedberg questioned why a new building had been built in the commercial area
without a plan before Council. Mr. Palzer indicated that the building was started prior to
the new administration.
Page 22 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Palzer indicated the building was handled under the previous administration and
never went through the process. He then indicated that he had done the building code
items but none of the zoning code items were addressed.
Council Member Capra indicated that the building stores ammunition.
Milo Bennett, Fire Chief, indicated that an ammunition distributorship is operated out of
the building.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to table approval of KCI site plan and sil!n plan {Jendinl: receipt of the
l:rading plan and 10% l!reenspace. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
4. Thermal Imaging Cameras - Centennial Fire
Milo Bennett, Fire Chief, indicated that this item was on Council's agenda because the
steering committee had met and did not have a quorum and was unable to act on the
matter. He then explained that the Fire Department has one thermal imaging camera that
was bought a year ago and it has become invaluable to the Department. He further
explained that new models are being made and the Department can purchase three
cameras that are smaller and easier to use for the price of the first one it purchased.
Fire Chief Bennett indicated that donation money is available from the Firefighters Relief
Association through its charitable gambling operations for the purchase of the cameras.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the purchase of three thermal imal:inl: cameras with donated
funds as reQuested by the Centennial Fire Department.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the Fire Department has biohazard suits.
Fire Chief Bennett indicated that the hazmat issues are handled through Anoka County by
the Fridley, Mounds View Spring Lake Park, Coon Rapids Departments. He then
indicated that there is grant money available to purchase the suits but the catch is that
personnel would need to be trained and that training would need to be maintained to
satisfy the OSHA requirements for hazmat response. He further indicated that there is no
grant money available to pay for the training.
Mayor Swedberg asked ifthere had been any progress on the 800 megahertz radio system
for the County.
Fire Chief Bennett indicated that the radio system is a $12 million dollar issue for the
County. He then indicated that the County had discussed going after a taxing district for
the radio system but is now looking into a 911 surcharge and is attempting to have
legislation passed that would allow it.
Page 23 of 25
City of Centerville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
VOTE: Ayes - 5, Nays - O. Motion carried unanimously.
Council recessed to change the tape at 9:46 p.m.
Council reconvened at 9:48 p.m.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City of Centerville October 25, 2001 through November 14, 2001
Expenditures.
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Broussard
Vickers to approve the Consent Al!enda as presented. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council Member Capra indicated she had a question on the financial statements and then
indicated she had been told some items were coded wrong. She then asked if it would be
possible to have correct information by the November 26, 2001 budget work session.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that Staff is working on the numbers and she had asked
Teresa to print an audit for all the departments. She then indicated that she went through
line by line to see why some items are excessively over budget and it appears there have
been a number of coding errors. She further indicated that she would like to change the
billing process to require that the billings be submitted to the department heads for review
and coding before being submitted for payment.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated it would be helpful for department heads to
see the invoices and it would help with coding.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she thought the change would ensure a more accurate
quarterly report.
Council Member Capra commented that the quarterly report IS not right and the
accounting and financials of the City are a disaster.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she is attempting to get a handle on the issues.
Council Member Nelson commented that it is the middle of November and Council has
not seen the numbers to know where the City is with its budget.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that she was entering week four of her employment with the
City and she is still having fun.
Page 24 of 25
City ofCenterville
November 14, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that concerns about the personnel policy would be held for
discussion after the budget process is finalized.
Council Member Capra indicated that she did not attend the Cable Commission meeting
because of the budget work session. She then indicated that the meeting was moved to
another night and she was not able to attend that meeting either. She further indicated
that the next Cable Commission meeting was scheduled for the Wednesday before
Thanksgiving and she would be attending.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
is packing the house with its numerous public hearings. She then indicated that the
Commission had received the resignation of Barry Brainard and may be receiving another
resignation in the near future.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she would speak to Teresa to determine what needs to be
done to advertise for the vacant seats.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether there was a resignation from the Planning and
Zoning Commission or Park and Recreation. Council Member Broussard Vickers
clarified that there was one resignation for sure and possibly two on the Planning and
Zoning Commission and one on the Park and Recreation Committee.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Park and Recreation Committee
had inquired as to the budget for next year and she told them that she had no information
on the budget until after the budget work sessions.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to adiourn the November 14.2001 City Council Meetin2 at 10:25 p.m. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 25 of 25
City of Centerville
November 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 28, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly scheduled
meeting on November 28,2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT:
Mayor Tim Swedberg@....
Council Member Dick Travis , . ,', r<<J'. . ~.". '. .'()
Council Member Mary Capra @ Q"
Council Member Man Nelson . ..0 ..'
Coun,,1 Mcmb" Lind. Brolli<..ro l'lfFlil.',. rQJ ~
None. LrJtr l(
ABSENT:
STAFF:
City Administrator Ms. Moore-Sykes
City Engineer, Tom Peterson
City Attorney, Mr. Jim Hoeft
Public Works Director, Mr. Paul Palzer
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the November 28, 2001, City Council meeting to order at 6:32
p.m.
II. SET AGENDA
Council Member Nelson requested that the letter from Bruce Ryden be added under
Petitions and Complaints.
Council Member Nelson requested that the Joint Powers Agreement with Lino Lakes and
Hugo be added under Old Business.
Council Member Nelson requested that acceptance of the resignation of Fete des Lacs
Committee Members be added under the Consent Agenda.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the al:enda as amended. All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Page 1 of 10
City of Centerville
Nnvember 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
1, Centerville Elementary Certificate of Recognition
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Centerville Elementary had been dedicated as a world
peace site during a ceremony on October 4,2001 that was attended by Council Members
Travis and Capra,
Council Member Capra read the Certificate of Recognition and presented it to Ms. Kathy
Millington, Centerville Elementary School Principal.
Ms. Millington thanked Council for the Certificate and explained that Centerville
Elementary is one of 200 world peace sites. She then indicated that there was wonderful
adult participation in the program. She also indicated that a video was made of the
ceremony if anyone was interested in watching it and noted that it was wonderful to see
the respect and patriotism of the young children during the ceremony.
Mayor Swedberg thanked the Principal for all she does for the children III the
Community.
Mayor Swedberg asked Ms. Moore-Sykes to look into running the video on the cable
channel.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
1. November 14.2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson requested that "Theresa" be changed to "Teresa" on Pages 24
and 25.
Council Member Capra requested that "ws" be changed to "was" on Page 6.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve the November 14. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
1. Bruce Rvden Letter
Council Member Nelson suggested directing Staff to send a letter to Commissioner
Langfield in support of Mr. Ryden's letter and to also send a letter to the cities of Lino
Lakes and Hugo requesting their support.
Page 2 of 10
City of Centerville
November 28,200]
Council Meeting Minutes
Ms, Moore-Sykes indicated she was going to be meeting with the Administrators from
those cities and indicated she would discuss the matter with them,
Council Member Capra requested that Staff send a copy of the letter to Jane Krantz,
Mayor Swedberg directed Staff to draft a letter in support of Mr. Ryden's letter and copy
Senator Krantz, and Representative Vandevere.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
1. BudgetJDeferred Comp./Union Contract (Update)
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that Teresa had faxed over almost all of the documents
requested by the auditor this morning.
Council Member Capra asked Ms. Moore-Sykes to contact the auditor to determine the
timeframe for completion of the project and a ballpark dollar amount for the City's
contribution.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the City has to cover the employee portion.
Council Member Nelson explained that the City is responsible per the IRS for paying the
taxes and can then attempt to obtain the money from its employees.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she would find out the timeframe and ask for a ballpark
figure.
2. Vinco Overages (Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park)
Ms. Moore-Sykes handed out a letter she had received from Vinco outlining how they
had arrived at the calculation of the per cubic yard charge and requesting final payment.
Mr. Peterson indicated he has reviewed the calculation and found it to be appropriate.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to authorize the final payment to Vinco.
Council Member Travis indicated that the contractor lucked out because this was a huge
overrun and he wishes that the City would have known about it and attempted to adjust
the price to stop the overage.
Council Member Nelson asked if the City could legally challenge the price.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated the City could legally challenge the price if it wished but
noted it may cost the City more money that it would save.
Page 3 of 10
City of Centerville
November 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg asked who the City representative was on the site. Mr. Peterson
indicated that Dan was the inspector but was not out at the site all the time.
Mayor Swedberg stated that in the future the City Administrator should be notified of any
anticipated overruns so that the process can be stopped and renegotiated, if possible.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the contractor had no incentive to do
so.
Council Member Capra asked if the City would have the right to bring in another
contractor for that type of work if the amount was projected to be more than was
approved. City Attorney Hoeft indicated that it would depend on the wording of the
contract.
Council Member Travis indicated he was not disputing how the contractor arrived at the
per cubic yard price but stated he does not feel that his equipment costs tripled. He also
noted that the job that was done was completely different than the job that was bid.
Council Member Nelson noted that Council would remember this overage when
receiving bids in the future
VOTE: All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
3. Holidav Party (Uodate)
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that after talking to Staff it was determined that the
employees would like to close the office at noon on December 24, 2001 and/or hold a
potluck at City Hall.
Council Member Nelson indicated she would be fine with having the potluck on
December 24,2001 and letting the employees go home afterwards.
It was the consent of Council to have a potluck on December 24, 2001 and send
employees home afterwards.
4. Gassen Companies - Street Lights (Eagle Pass Townhomes)
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she is continuing to work on this matter and had submitted a
letter to Gassen Companies. She also indicated that Mr. Palzer is waiting for information
from NSP concerning whether or not it is possible to increase the wattage of the light
bulbs in the lights.
Council Member Nelson asked if the City could take over a strip of property from the
Association in order to provide a trail for the senior citizens in the area. City Attorney
Hoeft indicated that the City could take over property by eminent domain if it is for a
Page 4 of 10
City of Centerville
November 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
public purpose but the City must pay fair market value of that property to the property
owner.
Council Member Nelson indicated she is concerned that senior citizens cannot safely
walk in the area.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that taking a strip of land does not address
the issue of the liability of dumping walkers out onto the private road.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that Mr. Palzer had provided her with a copy of the purchase
agreement and the agreement called for the installation of 10 streetlights not 15.
Council Member Capra indicated that there is a trail in White Bear Lake that is for
walking, biking and vehicles. She then questioned whether the City could come up with
a way to do that with Ojibway Drive.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he knew of a similar arrangement around Como Lake but
said he has concerns for how to demarcate vehicle traffic from bike or pedestrian traffic
and what type of barrier would be used between the two.
5. Mutual Aid Agreement
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had called Lino Lakes and Hugo to set up a meeting with
the Administrators to discuss the Joint Powers Agreement.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. 2002 Levy/Budget Discussions
This item was moved to the end of the meeting. Budget discussions ensued.
2. Mr. Tedd Peterson. Public Works - Successful Completion of Year Two (2) of
Employment
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to approve a pay increase for Tedd Peterson for successful completion of
Year Two of Employment. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
3. Centerville Elementarv Certificate of Recognition
This item was heard under Appearances.
4. Feasibility Studv - Watermain Extension (The Shores)
City Engineer Peterson gave an overview of the feasibility study to extend the watermain
to The Shores.
Page 5 of 10
City of CenlelVille
November 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Peterson indicated the total costs of the project would be approximately $169,000
and his assessment projection assumed that the costs would be split three ways. He then
explained how he had arrived at the assessment calculations.
Mr. Peterson indicated that the City would be assessed a portion of the costs because the
larger pipe is needed to maintain pressures.
Council Member Capra asked if the watermain would be looped through Lakeland Circle.
Mr. Peterson indicated that the City would like to loop the watermain along Peltier Lake
Drive when water is installed in that area.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the City usually pays extra for the
larger pipe because the City anticipates adding onto the end as water expands but in this
case the City does not anticipate extending the watermain any farther.
Mayor Swedberg asked if when the pipe goes from smaller to larger if air is introduced
into the system. Mr. Peterson indicated that it was not. He then explained that the reason
for the larger pipe is to maintain volume not pressure.
Council Member Nelson asked ifMr. Peterson could provide another assessment scenario
without the City's portion.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that when the Hunter's Crossing
development went in the City made the developer responsible for 50% of the costs. She
then suggested looking in to whether or not that would be feasible in this case.
Council Member Capra indicated that having water would be of significant value to the
commercial property.
Mayor Swedberg asked if it was in the City's best interest to have a long dead end run.
Mr. Peterson indicated that he believes that water will extend down Peltier Lake Drive in
the near future when the road is redone.
Mr. Rehbein questioned whether the future plans for County Road 14 would affect the
watermain extension.
Mr. Peterson indicated that he would check with Anoka County to determine whether any
future plans for County Road 14 would affect the watermain extension.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that he did not think that punching a few more holes in the
aquifer for wells in the proposed development would cause a problem. He further
indicated he did not think that extending the watermain was cost effective.
Page 6 of! 0
City of Centerville
November 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mr. Rehbein indicated that he was concerned that the costs to bring water to the
development do not exceed what he can recoup when he sells the lots.
Council Member Capra asked where the Lino Lakes watermain ended. Mr. Palzer
indicated that Lino Lakes does not have water in that area. He then indicated that the
City has $50,000 to use toward looping Lakeland Circle when water is extended to Peltier
Lake Drive.
Ms. Moore-Sykes commented that one benefit of City water is that it is safe and secure
which is an added value over well water.
Mr. Palzer indicated that having hydrants in the area would assist firefighters putting out
fires more quickly than with a tanker truck.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she would like to hear from Anoka County
before proceeding.
Mr. Rehbein suggested shortening the extension rather than bringing it all the way to his
property. He then stated that he is not opposed to bringing water to the development but
he wants to make sure the costs are reasonable.
Council Member Broussard Vickers commented that Mr. Rehbein is asserting that there
would not be enough value to be able to assess the 50% costs to the developer in this
case.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the 50% figure was based upon mutual agreement of
the developer and the City and is therefore, not a requirement. He then suggested starting
at 50% for discussion pUIposes and going from there.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Mr. Rehbein needed to negotiate with his neighbors
along the street concerning the assessments. Mr. Rehbein indicated he was not
comfortable trying to negotiate assessments with the individual property owners and said
he is open to whatever makes sense as determined by the City.
Mr. Rehbein indicated that he intends to start the development in the spring but has a
purchase agreement with the land owner that was to be signed soon and he is not sure of
his development costs at this point.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Council needed to see some different
options for assessments, hear input from the County and hold the public hearing before
the assessments would be set.
5. 1798 Main Street - Mill Road Extension Vacation
Mayor Swedberg asked if both property owners were agreeable to the 50/50 split.
Page 7 of 10
City of Centerville
November 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that the City has no control over how the property is
divided once it vacates the roadway. He then indicated that the City would follow a
simple vacation procedure and the rest is up to the property owners.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that it was her recollection that Council
would not hear this matter until it received letters from both sides indicating they were in
favor of the vacation.
Mr. Palzer indicated that both property owners wanted to proceed.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to direct staff to beldn the process of yacatine the Mill Road Extension.
Council Member Travis asked if the property owners were in agreement. Mr. Palzer
explained that the state process would determine how the property is divided up not the
City.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether the City would incur any costs for the vacation. City
Attorney Hoeft indicated that there would not be any costs to vacate the roadway and
noted that after the roadway is vacated the division of the property is the responsibility of
the property owners.
VOTE: Ayes - 4, Nays - 0, Abstain - l(Swedberg). Motion carried.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City of Centerville November 15, 2001 through November 28, 2001
Expenditures.
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
3. Pay Request #1 - Pheasant Marsh (Park Construction - $290,528.53)
4. Accept Resignation of Fete des Lacs Committee Members
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to approve the Consent Ae:enda as presented. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
XI. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council Member Capra indicated the Cable Commission would be making a decision in
December with regard to AT & T Broadband's proposal to pass franchise fees onto the
subscribers.
Mayor Swedberg asked Council Member Capra to determine how much had been spent
on the litigation to date and report back to Council because he is concerned that the
$17,000 in the cable fund not be exceeded.
Page 8 of 10
City of Centervi1le
November 28, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
XII. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had been researching the building on 20th Avenue and
had been unable to locate any information.
Council Member Travis indicated the name of the business was First Class Concrete.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that she would be meeting with the YMCA and the
representative had asked for a feeling as to what type of support the Council was open to.
Mayor Swedberg asked whether it was permissible for the City to give money to a private
corporation. City Attorney Hoeft indicated that it would depend on what the money is
being asked for and said he would need more information before commenting.
Council Member Capra indicated that the YMCA had offered reduced fee memberships
for City residents if the City were to contribute $150,000 over the span of a certain
number of years.
It was the consent of Council that it was not interested in funding the YMCA.
Ms. Moore-Sykes reported that she was looking into the TIF districts and had asked
Ellers for additional information.
Council Member Capra asked if Juran and Moody would be coming in.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked whether Council would need to call a special
meeting later in December to discuss the matter. Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she would
ask the representatives at the meeting and advice Council as to whether an additional
meeting in December would be needed.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that the budget work session was snowed out and said that
Council would be moving to a budget discussion at this point in the meeting.
Council recessed at 8:02 p.m.
Council reconvened at 8:08 p.m.
Council Member Nelson indicated she thought it would be a good idea to televise the
budget discussions because there may be residents watching the discussion.
Council Member Travis indicated broadcasting the discussions was fine with him.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated she did not seethe need to pay to have the
meeting broadcast and invited any residents watching it to come down to City Hall and
listen.
Page 9 of 10
City ofCenterville
November 28,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra indicated she was fine with broadcasting but questioned how late
the meeting may run.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Council would continue to broadcast but would be
sending the minute taker home to save that expense.
Council recessed at 8: 10 p.m. to change the tape.
Council reconvened at 8: 11 p.m.
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member . seconded by Council
adjourn the November 28. 2001 City Council Meetim~ at
Motion carried unanimously.
Member to
p.m. All in favor.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 10 of! 0
.
City of Centeevil/e
December 12, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 12, 2001
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly scheduled
meeting on December 12, 2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
PRESENT:
STAFF:
Mayor Tim Swedberg
Council Member Dick Travis
Council Member Mary Capra @
Council Member Mari Nelson
::dl Memb" Linda Brou",ro Vi,k"" 0 ~@\Yl@ ,0
City Admini'trato" M,. Moore- W r6I ~
City Engineer, Mr. Tom peters~V
City Attorney, Mr. Jim Hoeft
Public Works Director, Mr. Paul Palzer
ABSENT:
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the December 12, 2001, City Council meeting to order at 6:30
p.m.
II. SET AGENDA
Council Member Capra requested that Deferred Compensation Update be added under
Old Business.
Council Member Capra requested that Grants for Acorn Creek Park be added under Old
Business.
Ms. Moore-Sykes requested that Parkview be added under New Business.
Mayor Swedberg requested that the Purchase of Web for City Software and Digital
Equipment be added under Old Business.
Council Member Capra requested that Budget Discussions be added under Old Business.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded
Vickers to approve the al!:enda as amended.
unanimouslv.
bv Council Member Broussard
All in favor. Motion carried
Page 1 of 17
City of Centerville
December 12, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
III. PUBLIC HEARlNG(S)
None.
IV. APPEARANCES/AWARDS
1. Rice Creek Watershed District Request
Dan Fabian from Rice Creek Watershed District addressed Council and requested permission
to use Centerville's gravel road to get to LaMotte Drive in order to access a project they are
working on in Lino Lakes in the Anoka County Park.
Council Member Capra asked how many trucks would be using the road and how heavy the
equipment was. City Engineer Peterson indicated that the road was built as a construction
road for building the lift station and is pretty stable.
Mr. Fabian indicated that LaMotte Drive was a 5-ton road and they would need to meet that
load restriction. He then indicated that the road would be used to bring equipment in and
back out and there would not be any hauling.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member Capra to
approve Rice Creek Watershed District's use of the LaMotte Park dirt road to access
its pondinl!: proiect in Lino Lakes.
Mayor Swedberg inquired as to when the project would be started.
Mr. Fabian indicated that the silt fencing was in and said that dirt stripping would begin on
Monday or Tuesday with the schedule calling for the earth work to be done by mid-January
and the final plantings in the constructed wetland finished by June I, 2002.
Mayor Swedberg questioned whether there would be any work done over the Christmas or
New Year's holidays and then indicated he did not feel it would be appropriate to be using
heavy equipment while residents are trying to celebrate the holidays. Mr. Fabian indicated
he did not think there would be any construction going on during the Christmas and New
Year's holiday.
Mayor Swedberg asked Ms. Moore-Sykes to inform the residents of the impending
construction traffic.
Council Member Travis recommended having an inspection of the road and requiring Rice
Creek Watershed District to leave the road in the same or better condition.
All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Page 2 of17
City of Ceoterville
December 12,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
2. Joe Goetz
Mr. Goetz from Goetz Garden Center addressed Council concerning the Sheehy property.
Mr. Goetz indicated that his main interest is to find out what Council has in mind as the best
use of the property for the community because he has an interest in purchasing the land to
expand his business.
Council Member Capra asked what the current zoning of the property was.
Mr. Goetz indicated that the property was zoned industrial and then indicated he had heard
that the City wanted to purchase the property for a potential park or water tower site. He
then asked if the City had purchased or intended to purchase a portion of the property and,
whether Council would consider zoning the property agricultural.
Council indicated that there had been some discussion of Mr. Sheehy donating the property
to the City as payment for assessments but said that discussions on that matter had stalled.
Council then indicated that it did not feel it would be appropriate to zone the property
agricultural as that would be spot zoning which Council tries to avoid.
Mayor Swedberg suggested that Mr. Goetz work with City Staff to determine whether his
intended use of the property meets with the City Code requirements.
V. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
1. November 28. 2001 Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra requested that the Centerville Principal's name be added to the
Minutes as Kathy Millington.
Council Member Broussard Vickers requested that the spelling of "benefit" be corrected
on Page 7.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded bv Council Member Capra to
approve the November 28. 2001 Council Minutes as amended. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
VI. PETITIONS AND COMPLAINTS
None.
VII. OLD BUSINESS
1. CSAH 14 (Update)
Page 3 of 17
City of Centerville
December 12, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
City Engineer Peterson indicated that Anoka County has applied for funds to expand
CSAH 14 and expects to hold meetings concerning the issue in the near future.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that she is waiting for a call from the Administrator from
Hugo.
2. Deferred Compensation Uodate
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated the consultant is working on the matter and indicated that
there were two more documents that needed to be put together and submitted to him.
3. Acorn Creek Park Grant
Council Member Capra asked whether Staff had contacted the DNR about giving the City
an extension to complete the work.
Ms. Bender indicated that she and Ms. Moore-Sykes would be working on the matter
before the end of the week.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the budget work had really swamped Staff and said Staff
would begin working on the matter soon.
Council Member Capra asked that the matter be taken care of before the end of the year.
4. Communications Update
Mayor Swedberg indicated he had enjoyed the report from the Communications
Committee and indicated he thought that the City would find that most of the
recommendations could be gotten for free. He then indicated that he would like to
proceed with the Web for Cities and noted that, if the City does not have it, the City
would need to obtain Adobe Acrobat software.
Motion by Mavor Swedbere:. seconded bv Council Member Capra to approve the
purchase of Web for Cities Software. a dieital camera. and Adobe Acrobat 5
Software. if needed.
Council Member Capra suggested a friendly amendment to limit the purchase to the
recommended price of$1,180.00.
Mayor Swedberg accepted the friendly amendment to his motion.
Council Member Travis indicated he would prefer to use fees out of a different area other
than the general fund and suggested there may be Cable Commission fees that could be
used.
Council Member Capra indicated that there may be franchise fees to be used.
Page 4 of 17
City of CentervilIe
December 12, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she would look into whether there were funds available in the
Cable Fund to purchase the equipment.
Council Member Broussard Vickers expressed concern with approving this expenditure
before the budget is finalized. She also expressed concern for the amount of Staff time
involved with this project and said she would like to have input from Ms. Moore-Sykes
into whether or not she feels the project can be handled by the City's Staff.
Council Member Capra indicated she had concerns with some of the overall schemes of
the recommendations but indicated she felt the web site would be a good purchase and
cheaper than what the City is paying to Media Junction.
Council Member Travis indicated he had some concerns and suggested waiting until
more research into possible funding can be done because he does not think the funds
should come out of the general fund.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she would call Web for Cities to discuss the Staff time
commitment. She then indicated that a lot of the legwork has been done so it may not be
very time consuming.
Council Member Nelson indicated she was concerned with some of the communication
recommendations but not the Web for Cities and indicated that she feels it is appropriate
to approve it now in light of the fact that the City does not have a newsletter at this time.
Council Member Travis indicated he was not opposed to it but said he would be more
comfortable waiting until the first meeting in January to approve it.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that a tabling motion could be made if Council desired.
Vote: Ayes - 3. Nays - 2 (Broussard Vickers/Travis). Motion carried.
5. Budget
Budget discussions ensued.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Livable Communities Act - Renewal Resolution #01-25
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Travis to approve Resolution #01-25 as presented.
Mayor Swedberg asked if this was something the City has done before. Ms. Moore-
Sykes indicated that the City has participated in this before.
Page 5 of 17
City ofCenterville
December 12,2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg asked if approval of this Resolution would give the Metropolitan
Council the right to give the City any type of mandates. Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that
approval of the Resolution would allow the City the opportunity to participate in any
grant funding that may be available. She also indicated that there have not been any
mandates from the Metropolitan Council in the past.
All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
2. Delinquent Utilities 2002 Property Taxes Certification - Resolution #01-24
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Travis to a{>prove Resolution #01-24 as presented.
Mayor Swedberg asked if Staff was sure that everybody on the list was delinquent. Ms.
Moore-Sykes assured Council that those residents on the list were delinquent and
explained that the new list provided at the meeting included those residents delinquent in
paying for garbage pickup.
Ms. Bender indicated that the sewer and water bills were over 30 days past due.
Council Member Travis indicated he was concerned with those delinquencies noted with
an "occupant" and not a name. Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the delinquency would
be assessed against the property identification number, thereby making it the
responsibility of the property owner.
Mayor Swedberg asked what happened once the Resolution was approved. City Attorney
Hoeft indicated that the amounts are put on the property owner's property taxes and
indicated this matter was a housekeeping item.
Council Member Travis questioned whether garbage was added in previous years. Ms.
Bender indicated that garbage was not added last year but said it has been in previous
years.
All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
3. 2002 Liquor License Renewal/New License
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that Council had received a memo from the City Clerk
regarding those businesses who have applied for liquor license renewals for 2002. She
indicated that Wise Guys Pizza would like to add wine to the license it is requesting. She
then indicated that the Chief of Police had indicated that there were businesses that have
disclosure violations and explained that any establishment holding a liquor license in the
City is required to disclose whether it has any liquor violations during the year.
Page 6 of17
City of Centerville
December 12. 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra asked what failure to disclose was. Ms. Moore-Sykes explained
that a business is required to tell the City that it has had a liquor violation and three of the
businesses did not do that when they applied for liquor license renewal.
Ms. Bender indicated that the businesses are also required to disclose the violation to the
state.
Council Member Nelson asked which businesses failed to disclose violations.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that the three businesses were Trio, Kelly's and Sager's
Liquors.
Mr. Ken Vanderbeek of 7095 20th Avenue, owner of Wise Guys Pizza, addressed Council
and indicated that he had spoken to Mr. Sager who was unaware that he had been charged
with a liquor violation. He then explained that Mr. Sager had an employee who was
stealing beer and selling it to minors and Mr. Sager found out and reported it to the police
who filled out a report and, subsequently, charged him with a liquor violation but did not
inform him of that violation.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked Staff to research whether or not Mr. Sager was
notified of the liquor violation before he submitted his application for liquor license
renewal.
Council Member Nelson suggested approving all but the three licenses.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked what the penalty for failure to disclose was.
Ms. Bender indicated that the City could set the penalty for failure to disclose.
Council Member Travis indicated that the Trio was not found guilty. City Attorney
Hoeft indicated that the Trio was found to have a liquor license violation.
Ms. Bender indicated that she had not received an application from Water Works as the
application does not need to be turned in until the end of December.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if it would be appropriate for the City to
establish a penalty fee and order that it be collected prior to issuing the license. City
Attorney Hoeft indicated that it would be appropriate for the City to do so.
Mayor Swedberg asked if failing to disclose a liquor violation was a common occurrence.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that it does happen and indicated that those businesses not
approved at this meeting would not be able to sell after midnight on December 31, 2001.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Nelson to establish a fine of $500.00 for failure to disclose a liquor violation to the
City and request that those businesses that failed to disclose be required to pav the
fine of $500.00 prior to the issuance of their license.
Page 7 of 17
City ofCenterville
December 12, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. Bender questioned what Staff should do if Water Works wants to renew and Council
does not meet until January.
Council indicated that Water Works would need to wait until the next Council meeting as
it had not submitted a license renewal and could not be approved before the application
was submitted.
Mayor Swedberg asked if it is common practice that this is the time of year to submit
your liquor license renewal. Ms. Bender indicated that she had sent out a letter with
documentation indicating that licenses were up for renewal.
Council Member Travis indicated he thought the $500.00 fine was excessive.
Council Member Broussard Vickers explained that she felt the $500.00 was high enough
to help businesses remember that they need to disclose liquor violations. She also
indicated that, if a fine is not set and the licenses not approved, the businesses would lose
much more than $500.00 during the time between midnight on December 31, 2001 and
the next Council meeting.
Vote: Ayes - 3. Nays - 2(Swedber~Travis). Motion carried.
Council Member Capra asked how many liquor licenses are available in the City. Ms.
Bender indicated that the number oflicenses is based on the size of the City.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked whether the application process requires that
the businesses provide Certificates of Insurance. Ms. Bender indicated that the
application process does require Certificates of Insurance.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Capra to approve the liquor/tobacco licenses for Corner Express. Kelly's. Saeer
Liauors. Trio. Tom Thumb. and Wise Guvs Pizza.
Council Member Travis asked what the process for receiving a new license was. Ms.
Bender indicated that there is a background check conducted by the Police Department.
Mr. Vanderbeek indicated there were a lot of steps to follow with the state and the City
prior to approval.
Mayor Swedberg asked if Wise Guys Pizza was expanding. Mr. Vanderbeek indicated
he is expanding to include more of a sit down business.
Mayor Swedberg asked if Mr. Vanderbeek would be serving alcohol on the expanded
side of his business. Mr. Vanderbeek indicated that he would be serving alcohol on the
expanded side of his business.
Page 8 of17
City of Centerville
December 12. 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Nelson asked why wine was specified. Ms. Bender indicated that wine
is a separate license.
All in favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Council Member Broussard Vickers clarified that the intent of the approval is that the
three businesses that are to be fined must pay the fine before receiving their license. She
also noted that, if Staff is able to determine that Mr. Sager was not notified of the liquor
violation prior to submitting his application, he would be exempt from paying the
$500.00.
4. Fee Schedule Review Resolution #01-26
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that Staff has recommended Council review of the fee
schedule as a housekeeping item that is done every year. She then indicated that she had
included a list of fees provided by the League of Minnesota Cities and said she would be
sending out letters to inform residents of the changes in fees.
Council Member Capra questioned whether the dance permit fee should be eliminated.
Ms. Bender indicated that, even though it is traditionally waived, she felt that the City
should keep the fee as it may be needed at some point.
Council Member Capra suggested that the words in parenthesis following the park
dedication fees should be eliminated.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the City had gone to a lot of time and
expense to address the problem of rental certification and asked that it not be removed
from the list as suggested. She then explained that the City had no way of controlling
rental units and making sure they were properly maintained and had developed this
requirement to address the issue.
Council Member Travis asked how many rental owners paid the fee. Ms. Bender
indicated that approximately 25 rental owners had paid the fee.
Council Member Broussard Vickers questioned why, if Staff time is increasing by 7%,
fees had not been raised by 7%.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that Staff had attempted to keep fees in line with the level of
other cities.
Council Member Capra asked if the City's fees are comparable with what the League of
Minnesota Cities recommends.
Council Member Capra asked what a mailbox fee was. Mr. Palzer indicated that it was a
fee for new developments to ensure that developers install the mailboxes correctly.
Page 9 ofl7
City of Centerville
December 12, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Travis asked what the quarterly storm water management fee was for.
Mr. Palzer indicated it was an interim fee for working on the storm water plan and is
charged to everyone in the City. He then noted that the City would be adjusting that
amount when comments are received from the Metropolitan Council and the new
ordinance is adopted.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Capra to approve Resolution 01-02 with the noted cham!:es.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he would be voting against the Resolution because it was a lot
of numbers at the last minute and he thinks that it is important to hold the line on fees as
well as on taxes.
Vote: Aves - 4. Navs -l(Mavor Swedbere)
5. Centennial Little League Request
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated the City had received a letter from Centennial Little League
requesting the use of the ball fields from April 1, through August 15, 2002. She noted
that she had presented the letter to the Park and Recreation Committee and the
Committee recommend approval.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Canra. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
6. Receptionist/Secretary Hiring Recommendation
Ms. Moore-Sykes reviewed her hiring recommendation with Council and indicated that
the temporary employee, Ms. Stephan, had been working in the position since August and
Staff recommends hiring her at a wage of $11.27 per hour. She also indicated that Ms.
Stephan has shown knowledge of the position and an ability to work well with the public
and other Staff members. Ms. Moore-Sykes also recommended that the City waive the
30-day waiting period to receive holiday pay because Ms. Stephan has been working for
the City since August.
Ms. Moore-Sykes also indicated that Ms. Stephan has extensive computer skills and
knowledge that will allow her to perform duties above and beyond the receptionist
position.
Motion by Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to recommend the hirinl: of Ms. Stephan as the receptionist/secretary at
$11.27 per hour and waive the 30 day waitine period for holiday pay as
recommended bv Staff. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Page 10 of 17
City of Centerville
December 12, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
7. Resolution #01-27 Adopting 2002 Tax Levy
Mayor Swedberg thanked Council and Staff for all the time and efforts to prepare the
budget. He then explained that the City has been scrambling to prepare numbers since
there was a delay in receiving the changes from the state.
Motion by Mayor Swedbere:. seconded by Council Member Travis to keep the
property taxes at the 2001 level of$1.210.000.
Mayor Swedberg commented that the state took away $126,000 from the City in
homestead credit and local government aid that amounts to approximately 11 % of the
City's budget. He indicated that he is proposing no tax increase because taxes have
increased for the last three years. He further indicated that property taxes are rising three
times faster than population growth and taxes compared to valuation is increasing by
29%.
Vote: Aves - 2. Nays - 3 (Broussard Vickers/CapralNelson). Motion failed.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Capra to approve Resolution #01-27. approvine: the 2002 Tax Levv of $1.480.23.
Mayor Swedberg made a point of order questioning if the dollar amount that Council is
talking about is the exact same as the preliminary amount passed by Resolution whether
this Resolution needed to be voted on. City Attorney Hoeft recommended voting on this
Resolution because the first Resolution was a preliminary number and Council had
indicated it would take final action.
Council Member Travis indicated he agreed with Council Member Broussard Vickers'
comments from the budget discussion. He also indicated that he agreed with Council
Member Capra that the issues she had raised were valid. He then commented that he
wished it were not so.
Council Member Capra agreed that she wished it were not so as well and then explained
that the City had learned that there are past deficit funds that, according to the
recommendation of the auditor, need to be taken care of. She then explained that if
Council did not ask for the maximum levy the City would not be able to payoff old debts
and would pass them on to the next Council.
Council Member Nelson commented that she was sitting on the fence on this budget for
weeks and had spent a lot of time trying to stick with last year's levy amounts. She
commented that she was concerned with the article a year ago in the Quad Community
Press that had said that Centerville was a very highly taxed community. She then
commented that the City needed to plan for street repair, to payoff the deficit funds, and
for the deferred compensation liability and potential TIF liability. She further
commented that she had read a recent article that compared levies in Centerville, Lino
Lakes and Circle Pines and Centerville's increase was the lowest of the three cities based
Page 11 of 17
City of Centerville
December 12, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
on her calculations so she feels comfortable passing this levy. She also commented that
she feels Council is doing as much as it can to be responsible to the citizens.
Council Member Capra indicated that Council had done the most extensive budget
review in recent years and had asked a lot of the Staff and she feels Council consciously
looked over these budget numbers.
Council Member Nelson indicated she had concerns with the budget but was prepared to
vote on the levy.
Mayor Swedberg appealed to Council that there may be residents sitting around the
kitchen table who are making decisions based on someone losing a job or wondering if
there will be a job tomorrow and that is a much greater stress than the finances of the
City.
Vote: Ayes - 3. Nays - 2lSwedben!lTravis}. Motion carried.
Council recessed at 8:00 p.m.
Council reconvened at 8:04 p.m.
8. Lion's Club Proposal for Fete des Lacs
Council Member Capra commented that the letter from the Lion's Club had said that the
City needs to keep the festival in order to maintain Star City status and then indicated that
is not accurate. She also clarified that the City does not have $25,000 budgeted for the
festival it has $15,000. She then indicated she would like to table this request until
Council is able to meet with the committees after the first of the year.
Motion by Council Member Capra. seconded by Council Member Nelson to table
consideration of the Lion's Club proposal for Fete des Lacs. All in favor. Motion
carried unanimously.
9. Donation from Lino Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated the City had received a donation to its Park and Recreation
Committee from the Lino Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. She also indicated that
she had sent a letter to the Chamber of Commerce thanking them for the generous
donation
Council Member Capra asked if the Park and Recreation Committee had requested the
donation. Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated the donation was unsolicited.
Page 12 ofl7
City of CentervilJe
December 12, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
10. Parkview
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had received a request by Carlson and Associates for a
release of funds being held because the work is done on the Parkview Development. She
then indicated that the request was received on October 18, 2001 and sat since the City
had no administrator for a time. She then requested authorization to release the cash
deposit of $10,000 that was being held for sod escrow. Mr. Palzer confirmed that the
work is done.
Motion bv Council Member Capra. seconded bv Council Member Nelson to release
the $10.000 cash deposit to Carlson and Associates as requested by Staff. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimously.
IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. The City of Centerville November 29, 2001 through December 12, 2001
Expenditures.
2. Centennial Fire District Expenditures
3. Approval of Abdo, Eick & Meyers - Audit Contract (2001)
4. Annual Renewal of Special Use Permits
Mayor Swedberg requested that Item 4, Annual Renewal of Special Use Permits, be
removed for discussion.
Motion bv Council Member Travis. seconded bv Council Member Capra to approve
Consent Agenda Items 1. 2. and 3 as presented. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he would like a list of who is operating under a special use
permit. Ms. Bender indicated that County Bank did not renew.
Council Member Capra asked why Goetz Landscaping was not on the list because he had
indicated he was operating under a special use permit for his greenhouse.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that Council had issued a conditional use
permit until the main building was built.
Council Member Capra asked if the greenhouse was nonconforming. Mr. Palzer
indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission and Council had determined that the
greenhouse was conforming under industrial zoning.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that terminal transport was not in business any longer and
asked if they need a special use permit. City Attorney Hoeft explained that the City used
to use special use permits to control the types of uses it would allow. He then indicated
that the ordinance has been revised and most of the uses operating under special use
permits are allowed uses.
Page 13 of 17
City of Centerville
December 12, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
City Attorney Hoeft indicated that he had not been asked to make a determination of
special use permits in relationship to how they relate to the new ordinance and whether or
not they fall under permitted uses. He then indicated it could be done by Staff over a
period of time.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked if Council needed to renew the special use
permits. City Attorney Hoeft indicated that renewal was not necessary as the permit is a
perpetual permit unless there is an issue the City needs to address.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated the only permit in question would be the
Ready-Mix business because that is a short-term use allowed by special use permit. She
then asked if Council needed to renew that permit. City Attorney Hoeft indicated that no
formal action was needed and the business would continue to operate under the current
permit.
Council Member Broussard Vickers asked Mr. Palzer to look at the special use permits
and the current usages under them and bring an opinion to Council as to whether they are
operating under the new ordinance sometime in the near future.
Mayor Swedberg asked Staff to bring any special use permit issues to Council attention.
x. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
is continuing to review Ordinance #4 amendments and will bring them to Council in the
near future. She also indicated that there are two openings on the Planning and Zoning
Committee if anyone is interested.
Council Member Capra indicated she had received information from the Cable
Commission concerning the lawsuit with AT&T and had provided information to
Council.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that Ms. Bender had attended a grant seminar and obtained
information concerning grant funds for a handicapped swing at the playground.
Council Member Capra asked that Staff send the information to Kathy Millington at the
Elementary School.
Council Member Capra reported that the Cable Commission meeting was scheduled for
December 19,2001 and said she planned on attending.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the Cable Commission is aware that the City will not support
the lawsuit past the dollar amounts in the Cable Fund.
Page 140fl7
City ofCenterville
December 12, 200 I
Council Meeting Minutes
Council Member Capra indicated she would inform the Cable Commission that the City
will not support the lawsuit beyond its Cable Fund amounts.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that Circle Pines and Lexington have not agreed to the two
police officers and the community service officer but have agreed to consider one sworn
officer. He then indicated that the Police Commission meeting was scheduled for
Thursday, December 13, 2001.
XI. ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated that she had spoken to the financial consultant and was told
that the TIF report needed to be submitted to the state by December 22, 2001. She then
suggested scheduling an executive session on Wednesday, December 19,2001 to discuss
the report so that it can be submitted on time.
Council Member Capra asked if the meeting should be noticed as a special meeting in
case any action needs to be taken. City Attorney Hoeft recommended noticing it as a
special meeting and indicated it is appropriate to hold an open and closed session if need
be.
Mayor Swedberg indicated he thought this would be an exceptionally technical paper that
Council would not understand and questioned whether Council needed to review it.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he was not making the report but said he has made reports
for other governmental entities and agreed that the report will be technical in nature. He
then commented that he thinks Council should review it or get an explanation of the
report from TIF counsel.
Council Member Capra asked whether the TIF attorney would be able to attend the
meeting on December 19, 2001. Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she would check to see if
the TIF attorney was available for that meeting.
Council Member Capra asked the timeline to have the report turned in to the state. Ms.
Moore-Sykes indicated that the state had asked for a response within 60 days of receipt of
the letter.
City Attorney Hoeft indicated he was able to work out a timing issue for another City on
a similar matter and get the state to agree to push the deadline back a little. He then
added that, as a practical matter, by the time the state took remedial action against the
City the report would be turned in.
Mayor Swedberg asked if the City Attorney should review the report with the City
Administrator rather than Council. City Attorney Hoeft indicated he would be
comfortable with having the TIF attorney submit the report and then provide a detailed
explanation of the report to Council at the first meeting in January because he wants
Council to have an understanding of the report.
Page 15 of 17
City of Centerville
December 12, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
It was the consent of Council to allow the TIF attorney to submit the report by December
22,2001 and to make a report to Council in January. Council also requested that a copy
of the report be provided to Council prior to the submission to the state.
Ms. Moore-Sykes indicated she had received a report from the Metropolitan Council
concerning the Surface Water Management Plan and indicated that once comments are
received from Rice Creek Watershed District the comments would be compiled and
submitted to Council for review.
City Attorney Hoeft recommended making a motion to authorize the TIF attorney to
submit the report directly to the state auditor's office without further Council action.
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded bv Council Member
Nelson to authorize the City'S TIF attorney to submit the report directly to the state
auditor's office without further action of Council. All in favor. Motion carried
unanimously.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that the minutes were approved without the
adjournment motion and adjournment time and asked that Staff add them. She also asked
that a comment be added under budget to indicate that the budget was discussed and
reviewed.
Mayor Swedberg indicated that there would not be another December Council meeting
because it was scheduled for the day after Christmas and a quorum of Council was not
available.
Mr. Palzer indicated he had received information from Xcel Energy that the light bulbs
can be switched out from 100 watt bulbs to 150 watt bulbs for a total cost of $200.00.
Motion by Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Capra to approve the expenditure of $200.00 to switch the bulbs from 100 watt to
150 watts as recommended bv Mr. Palzer.
Council Member Travis suggested asking the Townhome Association if that is what they
would like and if they are willing to pay for the bulbs.
Council Member Broussard Vickers indicated that a few light bulbs was one thing but
street lamps is another thing and she feels this is a small concession to provide more light
in the development.
Ms. Moore-Sykes asked if the City pays to replace the bulbs if they go out. Mr. Palzer
indicated that the City pays a monthly fee for maintenance and that includes burned out
light bulbs.
Vote: Ayes - 2. Nays - 3 (Swedber~/Nelson/Travis). Motion failed.
Page 16 of 17
City of Centerville
December 12, 2001
Council Meeting Minutes
Mayor Swedberg, Council Member Nelson and Council Member Travis suggested
requesting that the Townhome Association pay for the bulbs,
2002 Draft Budget
The Council, at length, discussed the presented draft budget line item by line item.
Council concensus was to decrease line items as follows: Park Intern Salary, Fete des
Lacs, Administration Travel and Conferences.
Motion bv Council Member CaDra. seconded by Council Member Broussard
Vickers to contain a 3% Cost of Livin!!: increase and a 4% salary steD increase and
the 2002 Bud!!:et would reflect same. All in favor. Mayor Swebere and Council
Member Nelson-Nay. Council Members CaDra. Broussard Vicker and Travis-Ave.
Motion Passed.
Motion bv Council Member Nelson. seconded by Council Member Travis to
eliminate the Park Intern Dosition from the 2002 draft bud!!:et. All in favor. Mavor
Swedber!!: and Council Members Capra and Brousard Vickers-Nay. Council
Members Nelson and Travis-Aye. Motion Failed.
Motion by Mayor Swedbere to retain the $9.360 in the line item for Park Pro!!:rams.
Motion died for lack of second.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion bv Council Member Broussard Vickers. seconded by Council Member
Travis to adiourn the December 12. 2001 City Council Meetin!!: at 9:38 D.m. All in
favor. Motion carried unanimouslv.
Transcribed by:
Joan Lenzmeier, Recording Secretary
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Page 17 of17
..
'"
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
EMERGENCY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 20,2001
7:00 P.M.
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held an Emergency
Council Meeting to discuss the Office ofthe State Auditor's findings on December 20,
2001, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street, Centerville, Minnesota.
PRESENT: Mayor Tim Swedberg
Councilmember Mary Capra
Councilmember Mari Nelson
ABSENT: Councilmember Dick Travis
Councilmember Linda Broussard Vickers
STAFF: City Administrator Kim Moore-Sykes
City Financial Advisor Nick Scarich
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Swedberg called the December 20,2001 Emergency Council Meeting
to order at 7:03 p.m.
Mr. Scarich explained the Office of the State Auditor's (OSA) audit process
and procedures. He advised that the City ofCenterville's situation is quite
typical. He reported that the OSA intends to audit every Minnesota cities' TIF
program.
Mr. Scarich indicated that most ofthe findings by the OSA are being refuted.
He reported that the $44,595 needs to paid but reminded Council that this is
not a penalty, but rather money that was original spent on a non-eligible TIF
expenditure and needs to be repaid. Mr. Scarich went on to say that recent
changes in TIF legislation allow the City to refute many of the State's
findings.
Mr. Scarich recommended that the City's responses be couriered to the Office
of the State Auditor to insure that the delivery is before the deadline as stated
in the OSA's letter. He also advised that the City Administrator hand deliver
the City's check in the amount of $44,595 to the Anoka County Auditor's
Office.
.,'" *
.
Council and the City Financial Advisor discussed TIF Districts 1-1, 1-2, and
1-3.
Motion bv Councilmember Nelson. seconded bv Councilmember CaDra
to have the City Administrator hand deliver a City check in the amount
of $44.595 with a CODY ofthe City's reSDonses to the Office ofthe State
Auditor's findines to the Anoka County Auditor's Office and to courier
to the Office of the State Auditor the orieinal. executed reSDonses bv the
City of Centerville as DreDared bv Juran & Moodv and Kennedv &
Graven. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
II. ADJOURNMENT
Motion bv Councilmember Nelson. seconded bv Councilmember CaDra
to adiourn the December 20. 2001 Emereencv Council Meetine at 8:45
D.m. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
2