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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004-01-29 CC Resident Input Meeting - 2004 Street CITY OF CENTERVILLE Resident Input Meeting – 2004 Street Project JANUARY 29, 2004 6:30 p.m. (Centerville Elementary School) Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the City of Centerville held their regularly scheduled meeting on January 29, 2004, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street. PRESENT: ActingMayor Linda Broussard Vickers Council Member Lee Council Member Paar Council Member Capra ABSENT: Mayor Terry Sweeney STAFF: City Administrator, Ms. Moore-Sykes City Engineer, Mr. Peterson City Financial Advisor, Mr. George Eilertson City Finance Director, Ms. Ellen Paulseth Public Works Director/Building Official, Mr. Paul Palzer City Clerk, Ms. Teresa Bender I. CALL TO ORDER Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers called the January 29, 2004, Resident Input Meeting – 2004 Street Project meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Council Members introduced themselves to the audience. City Engineer, Mr. Tom Peterson, Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik and Associates was introduced, presented the proposed project and answered questions. The following discussion and dialogue took place. Mr. Peterson stated that he was directed by Council to prepare a Pavement Management Plan which encompassed the entire City. From that study and Councils direction, the Feasibility Study was prepared. Mr. Peterson explained that mill and overlay projects take approximately two (2) days and it entails grinding down of the current asphalt and asphalt gutters. rd Mr. Rod Henslin, 1967 – 73 Street, stated that he had lived in town for twelve (12) years and that the street is spongy. That there is water infusion underneath the street and unless something is done, a new road will just deteriorate further. Mr. Peterson stated that at the time of total reconstruction of the road, the softer material would be removed and new City of Centerville January 29, 2004 Resident Input Meeting Minutes material added. Mr. Peterson stated that this was not a total reconstruction of the street only mill and overlay. rd Ms. Sherry Gust, 1975 – 73 Street, questioned access to resident homes during street construction. Mr. Peterson stated that mill and overlay removed approximately 1 to 1 and ½ inches of asphalt and then new asphalt is applied on top of the ground down asphalt and access should not be an issue. Mr. Timothy Noyes, 7224 Peterson Trail, questioned drainage issues in the area. Mr. Peterson stated that the mill and overlay will assist in water shed issues. Mr. Noyes questioned whether gutters would be replaced. Council advised Mr. Noyes to express his desire for gutters in a letter to Council. Mr. Peterson discussed the proposed reconstruction portion of Heritage Street and LaMotte Drive. Mr. Peterson stated that the Buckthorn needed to be removed from the area, explained the proposed installation of a new water treatment system prior to flowing into Centerville Lake, curbing and widening of the street. Mr. Al LaMotte, 1643 Heritage Street, had several questions regarding the new water treatment system and the road near the lake. Mr. Peter Despen, 1688 Heritage Street, questioned the need for widening the street. Mr. Peterson stated that the street would be widened to 33 feet, back to back with two (2) layers of blacktop, base and draintile. Mr. Despen stated that he felt that the drainage problems by the church road needed to be corrected before the water came to his lot. Mr. Peterson stated that the cost to hook up to the watermain is $1,500 and the cost to run the line from the main to the house would be approximately $1,000 to $1,500. Mr. Peterson stated that a plumber would need to be hired and capping of existing wells if needed would all be a cost beyond the proposed project assessments. Mr. LaMotte questioned the tonnage for the new Heritage Street. Mr. Peterson replied that it would be of a 7 ton design, a typical Centerville Road. Mr. Peterson stated that discussions have taken place with the City of Lino Lakes in regards to their residents accessing the road during construction and the possibility of joint road reconstruction. Mr. Peterson stated that the project would also involve paving of the LaMotte Park parking lot and an asphalt pad for the skate park equipment. Mr. Peterson stated that park dedication funds would be used for this project and no assessments would be incurred by residents. Mr. John McCall, 7021 LaMotte Drive stated that the park was located in Lino Lakes. Council stated that the park was located in the City of Centerville. Mr. Tom Wilharber, 6849 Centerville Road, stated that he was appointed a trustee of St. Genevieve Church and questioned the widening of Heritage Street, the computation for Page 2 of 9 City of Centerville January 29, 2004 Resident Input Meeting Minutes corner lots and the church’s current water services and assessments associated with that service. Mr. Peterson stated that the road should be brought to a typical size with each side of the existing street being widened, and explained the Church’s proposed assessment. Mr. Peterson stated that the computation was based on an equivalent lot basis. Mr. Peterson stated further research would need to be completed in regards to the Church’s current water connection and associated assessment. An audience member commented that the downtown area had been requesting water for many years and water still is not in that area and why is the City looking at installing it in all of these other areas. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that Anoka County intends on widening County Road 14/Main Street in 2006 and at that same time, it would be the most cost effective time to install municipal services to that area. Mr. Theodore Hippe, 1833 Center Street, questioned whether the storm ditch would be finished which stops three (3) homes away from him at Eagle Trail. Mr. Peterson stated that he was not sure about the current vegetation along the ditch but would be looking into the area. Council Member Capra stated that the current drainage is a beehive in that area and council is looking at ways for residents to discharge their sump pumps into drain tiles to assist in alleviating surface water. Mr. Fred Curran, 6907 Oak Circle, stated that he and his neighbor paid for the installation of a culvert located in his yard and the City has never cleaned it out. Mr. Curran asked if the existing culvert could be relocated or extended to the rear of his yard. Mr. Peterson stated that a pipe could be run the entire way. Mr. Curran questioned the method used to calculate the storm sewer assessment dollar amount when everyone benefits. Mr. Dave Lutz, 7170 Shad Avenue, questioned whether the City would dredge the ditch or check the culvert by his home and if they would build a catch basin. Mr. Lutz felt that residents would not be getting their monies worth if these issues were not addressed. Mr. Peterson stated that they would research the possibility of including Mr. Lutz’ suggestions in the project and that the City would need to secure access to the areas. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that there would be additional charges for hooking into the water system of $1,500 and a water meter fee of $290 that are not included in the assessment estimates. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that residents do not have to immediately hook up to the water if their well is in working condition or not contaminated, that a stub will be placed in their front yard. When the current well breaks down or becomes contaminated is when the connection will occur. Mr. Lutz questioned the hookup fees and their purpose. It was explained to Mr. Lutz that the fees for hookup assist the maintenance of the water system and infrastructure. Mr. Lutz felt that the fees for hookup and water meter should be a part of the assessment and it was not reasonable to him. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that the City needed to maintain the infrastructure. Mr. Lutz stated that Shad Avenue was built in Page 3 of 9 City of Centerville January 29, 2004 Resident Input Meeting Minutes 1981 and reconstructed in 1985, residents had be assessed $3,500 in the past. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that the average life span of a road is approximately 10 to 15 years. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers reiterated that residents did not have to hookup to City services until their existing well breaks down or goes bad. Mr. Lutz questioned the need of a water softener and where the water would come from. It was stated that the City’s current water supply comes from Prairie Duchene. Mr. Lutz felt that the fees were excessive for an average water bill. Council Member Capra stated that the average water, sewer and drain fee is $120 per quarter. Council Member Capra stated that the City is commencing pond dredging throughout the City with Hardwood pond being the first. Ms. Julie Dixon, 1822 Center Street, questioned the need for such a project and why Council did not ask residents for their opinion prior to making a decision. Council Member Lee stated that municipal services are needed for public safety (fire) reasons and looping of the existing mains. Council Member Lee explained that these services benefit the entire City as a whole. Council Member Capra stated that recently the Peltier Preserve subdivision was constructed with municipal services and abutting residents choose to have the water main directionally bored underneath the street rather than re-constructing the existing street with special assessments totaling approximately $4,000 each. Council Member Capra stated that the budget covered the remainder of the improvements such as over sizing, etc. Mr. Peterson stated that property values do increase from such service installation and everyone’s taxes are affected. Council Member Capra stated that police and fire protection services are the most expensive expenditures from the City’s budget and take the largest portion. The remainder of the budget Council makes their best decisions for its use. Council Member Capra stated that she very seriously attempts to maintain the City’s budget throughout the year. Council Member Capra stated that the assessment figures are estimates and are worst case scenario and can be lowered if the construction is completed without additional problems arising. Council Member Capra stated that the City Hall building was paid off last year and this years’ focus of Council is on infrastructure. Council Member Paar stated that higher property taxes are due to higher market values of homes and Council is conscientious of resident concerns. Mr. Jeff Haider, 1744 Center Street, stated that the City must operate like his household and keep in its means of a budget. Mr. Haider questioned what prompted this action by Council, the feasibility study and how much it would cost. Council Member Paar stated that the City can not leave the infrastructure fall apart and routine maintenance and upgrades need to be completed. Page 4 of 9 City of Centerville January 29, 2004 Resident Input Meeting Minutes Mr. Haider stated that businesses are requesting municipal services, not residents and why are businesses not being provided with same. Council Member Lee stated that with the impending widening of County Road 14, municipal services would be provided to those businesses in the downtown area and joint trenching of services provides less costs associated with the services. Mr. Haider stated that with the rapidly growing market values the League of Minnesota Cities states that taxes have increased from 23.5% to 49% in Centerville. Council Member Lee stated that most cities have had their local government aid cut or taken away and same increases taxes. Council Member Capra stated that the bulk of the budget is for police and fire services. Council Member Capra stated that she feels that the police and fire departments both provide the City with excellent service. Council Member Capra stated that she felt that local government aid was welfare from the State. Mr. Haider stated that he can not build something if he can not afford to, he can not buy a new truck if he can not afford to. Why can the City build something and push it onto residents. Most people can not afford a second mortgage and that the City is going beyond the budgets of most residents in his area. Mr. Haider felt that there would be numerous “for sale” signs. Mr. Jim Hofsetter, 6905 Dupre Road, questioned what determined the streets that would be affected. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that the reconstruction of roads were determined based on current condition. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that municipal water would not be placed unless the road showed stress. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers also stated that there will be many projects within the next 10 years. Assessments of $6,000 to $7,000 is or has been allowable for municipal water services. Council Member Capra stated that the current sewers in the areas of proposed construction would be telescoped at the same time as construction in case there are problems with existing infrastructure. Mr. Keith Okan, 1841 Center Street, questioned whether the entire community benefited from sidewalks rather than just those whose property abutted same. Mr. Okan felt that the sidewalks did not add to the value of his property. Mr. Peterson explained that the proposed sidewalk would connect to the Eagle Pass sidewalk in the future. Mr. Peterson explained that 25% of the total cost was shared by 10 people, divided between both sides of the street. Ms. Connie Gerszewski, 1752 Center Street, questioned where the City had obtained its information regarding the increase/benefit to their property. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that the State can not assess more than the value of the improvements. Page 5 of 9 City of Centerville January 29, 2004 Resident Input Meeting Minutes Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that $6,000 to $7,000 is allowable for municipal water alone. In cases where residents have challenged cities assessments, appraisers have been brought in and past experience is that it is not difficult in court to prove that there are values to proposed projects such as this one. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that residents will have the right to challenge or appeal the special assessments further in the process. Ms. Gerszewski questioned why residents would be expected to pay 6% interest when rates are really low. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that a resident has the right to choose alternative financing and has the ability to pay the assessment off without any interest 30 days from the date of adoption of the assessment roll. Council Member Capra stated that there were concerns regarding trees and those discussions could be taken up with the Engineer. Council Member Capra stated that the dredging of Hardwood Pond would cost the City approximately $30,000. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that this pond is in the worst condition so it has received priority status. Council Member Lee stated that the pond dredging is not arbitrary; each pond in the City has been considered and prioritized the same as the street projects. City Administrator, Ms. Moore-Sykes reiterated that the dredging of the ponds can only be completed when the conditions are optimum, ground and water both frozen. A gentleman from the audience stated that the last time Center Street was reconstructed, some residents had new driveways and does the City have to repair the driveway to the condition is was in prior to construction. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that the driveways will be repaired at the end of them or parts that were removed due to construction. The gentleman stated that previously this was not done to the same quality. The gentleman stated that the City does a poor job of maintaining the street and that residents do not want and can not afford the project. Finance Director, Ms. Ellen Paulseth stated that the City Council does not intend on raising taxes but that does not mean they can not decide to do so at some point. The City Council does have levy authority and sets aside monies for capital projects. If the proposed street project is approved by Council, at a later date they will set an interest rate and a term for the special assessments and residents will have an opportunity to pay them off without paying interest in a period of time or to challenge the City with an appeal. Ms. Dixon questioned if the current sewer was damaged during the construction would the entire City be assessed or only those residents benefiting from the repairs. Mr. Peterson stated that current elevations of the sewer lines will be checked and lines located prior to construction. Mr. Peterson also stated that parking may be an inconvenience for residents; however, permits will be issued so that parking in the street is not a violation of the current ordinance. Ms. Debra Martin, 1768 Center Street, questioned the length of construction and stated that previously during reconstruction she had a rather large bump at the end of her driveway and a car could not pass into same. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that residents will be inconvenienced by the construction but will be given access when Page 6 of 9 City of Centerville January 29, 2004 Resident Input Meeting Minutes available. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers also stated that if the construction becomes too bother some, contact City Hall. Ms. Martin questions drain tile, driveways and cement driveways. Mr. Peterson stated that the existing area does have bad soils and drain tile would be installed along both sides of the street which would remove water from driveways and the street. Ms. Jolene Peterson, 6933 Pheasant Lane, questioned whose decision was it to reconstruct the street and bring municipal water to the areas proposed and does Council ask residents if they desire these services. Mr. Kevin Fogerty, 7088 Brian Drive, stated that he desired to hear something like every third day residents would be allowed to enter their driveways and may be same should be a part of the bid. Mrs. Fogerty questioned the asphalts for driveways. Mr. Peterson stated that Type LV3 Wearing Course Mix is the same grade as driveway mix. Mr. Peterson explained how the unit price was calculated. Mr. Peterson also stated that there was a tree issue along Brian Drive. Mr. Peterson also stated that there were drainage problems with Brian Drive and catch basins may assist in drainage. Mr. Fogerty questioned the widening and straightening of Brian Drive. Mr. Peterson stated that the intention was to remove the “S” curve and tapering the street to get across the culvert for the creek. Mr. Mike Johnson, 7044 Brian Drive, questioned how many contractors there would be on the project. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that there would be one bid for all work. Mr. Peterson stated that there would be one primary contractor. Mr. Desmond England, 7081 Brian Drive, questioned whether the road would be widened to the west and why. Mr. Peterson reiterated that the “S” curve would be removed. Mr. England requested that he not loose any front yard and stated that he had concerns regarding speeding in the area. Council Member Lee stated that explained that the Centennial Lakes Police Department have recently requested a radar machine and do park on the street to deter speeding. If residents feel that individuals are speeding along the street, do not hesitate to contact the Police. Mr. England questioned the rating of Brian Drive. Mr. Peterson stated that the section of Brian Drive slated for reconstruction is among one of the oldest sections, right along with LaMotte Drive and Heritage Street. Mr. Peterson stated a 1 to a 3 is what it was rated. Mr. Mike Dunne, 6907 Tourville Circle, questioned how residents would receive mail and garbage services during the construction. Mr. Peterson stated that services will continue to be provided throughout the construction period; however, inconveniences will be felt by residents. Mr. Ole Mersinger, 6936 Tourville Circle, questioned why the construction needed to be done. Both Council Member Paar and Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers reiterated to maintain the road. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that the current Council would not judge previous Council’s action or decisions. Mr. Mersinger stated that Page 7 of 9 City of Centerville January 29, 2004 Resident Input Meeting Minutes previously there were problems with snowmobiles and their studs. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that snowmobiles are not prohibited on City streets. Mr. Gary Wilson, 7094 Brian Drive, questioned whether any Council members were being assessed. Council Member Lee stated that he paid for municipal improvements (streets, curb, gutter, sewer and water) when he bought his house and other members of Council concurred. Mr. Wilson stated that the contractor should be held responsible. Mr. Wilson also questions why Main Street (CSAH 14) did not have municipal water services. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that Main Street may municipal water services when the road is widened. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that she felt the project was an all or nothing. Council Member Capra concurred. Council Member Lee stated that he preferred to stick to the plan due to the fact that it was most cost effective. Council Member Lee also stated that he felt the project was “keeping the truck running and not buying a new truck”. Council Member Lee stated that Council may make decisions that not everyone likes and some of the decisions involve infrastructure. Council Member Capra stated that Heritage Street and LaMotte Drive are major projects and of the highest priority in her mind. Council Member Capra stated that she was grateful for resident input and she has page after page of notes. A resident suggested that a sign be placed near the construction sites with the telephone number to the contractor in an attempt at making them accountable. Another resident questioned the replacement of trees. Council Member Lee stated that if the trees are in the boulevard or City right-of-way they would not be replaced. Mr. Peterson stated that trees would be looked at on an individual basis with some being saved and others needing removal. Mr. Gerszewski stated that drain tile was installed shortly after Mr. Palzer’s hiring and sealcoating of driveways was never done. Mr. Palzer stated that sealcoating is completed on the roadways. Mr. Palzer also stated that Center Street moves approximately 8 to 10” inches every Spring. Mr. Gerszewski stated that he would not be voting for anyone on Council this year. Mr. Gerszewski questioned if fines for the contractor would reduce his assessment. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that fines would not decrease Mr. Gerszewski’s assessment. Mrs. Fogerty questioned the type of curbing that would be used. Mr. Peterson stated that the same type of curb that can be driven over. Resident from 7067 Brian Drive questioned the widening of the road and was against making it wider. Mr. Peterson stated that the width of the road could be considered and may be 30 feet was suitable. Mr. Peterson stated that trees along the road would need to be removed. Mr. Peterson requested that the residents meet with him prior to the February 11, 2004 meeting. Page 8 of 9 City of Centerville January 29, 2004 Resident Input Meeting Minutes Mr. Jerry Furmeister, 6913 Oak Circle, questioned what was wrong with Oak Circle. Mr. Furmeister stated that the street drains well. Mr. Fred Curran, 6907 Oak Circle also felt the same way. Mr. Bob Olson, 1721 Center Street, questioned the need for storm sewer. Mr. Peterson stated that storm sewer would assist in drainage and municipal water services would loop the system with Dupre Road and add the needed pressure for fire protection. Mr. Olson suggested milling the road and fixing the bad spots. Murry Wilke, 1814 Center Street, questioned whether the 10 to 12” inches of movement would be corrected with the new construction of the street. Mr. Peterson stated that the drain tile was assist in the problems that Center Street is having with movement. Mr. Mersinger suggested that the City look into storm water quality and to be conscience of same. Council Member Capra stated that the Met. Council has been present at some meeting held at the City of Hugo discussing such issues as heavy rains and infiltration of sewer systems. Ms. Moore-Sykes stated that the City is working on its Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP) and an upcoming hearing will be held. Mr. Tom Wilharber, 6849 Centerville Road, Treasurer for the Centerville Lion’s questioned whether the parking lot at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park would be completed by the August Celebration. Mr. Peterson stated that it would be. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that the formal Public Hearing for the 2004 Street Project would be held February 11, 2004 at City Hall. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers reiterated that the feasibility study is not the final product and modifications may be made prior to approval, bids and specifications would need to be obtained and additional public hearings held. Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers stated that if residents had specific concerns that email and telephone calls would be received by City Staff, City Council and the City Engineer. II.ADJOURNMENT Acting Mayor Broussard Vickers thanked residents for their input and adjourned the meeting at 9:30 p.m. Transcribed by: Teresa Bender, City Clerk. Page 9 of 9