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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014 05-20 CC MinutesMinutes of Gem Lake City Council meeting, May 20, 2014 Mayor Uzpen called the meeting to order at 7:01 PM Present: Mayor Uzpen, Council members Lindner, Artig-Swomley, Kuny, and Bosak. Through an administrative error, no sign in sheet was available but some people in attendance were Angie Gonzalez, Fred Macalus, Larry Waldoch, Patrick Kelly, Chris Knopik, Ron Bartosh, and Charles Granlund. May agenda Mayor Uzpen asked for additions to the April agenda. Motion by Artig-Swomley and seconded by Bosak the agenda was approved 5-0. April City Council minutes Upon motion by Artig-Swomley and seconded by Bosak the April minutes were approved, with no corrections, 5-0. Committee reports – none. Old business City newsletter for May, 2014. Potential topics were discussed by the council including Marc Putman’s final report, the Phase I environmental review of Hoffman’s Corner area, specific Putman survey topics such as city water, and a general discussion. New business 2013 city audit. Chris Knopik of Clifton Larson Allen presented the 2013 City of Gem Lake financial audit report. Mr. Knopik reviewed several required communications, explained the instance where collateral coverage was needed at the end of 2013, reviewed revenue and expenditures, explained the status of the sewer fund, city debt, and other highlights. The city is in a strong financial position, exceeding the state’s recommended amount of reserves. Mr. Knopik then reviewed the additional audit of Gem Lake’s charitable gambling records. The auditors reviewed records dating back to 2007. The recommendation was that Gem Lake’s financial director create a separate fund for charitable gambling to show how much money is available at any given time. May claims. Upon motion by Lindner and seconded by Artig-Swomley the council voted to approve the claims for May 5-0. Mayor Uzpen presented the May financial report and general discussion followed. Fred Macalus. Mr. Macalus resides a 1216 Little Fox Lane and responded to a letter sent to him by Mayor Uzpen regarding a possible auto repair business being run from Macalus’ property, trash accumulations, and a shed placed within the setback area for his zoning district. Mr. Macalus stated he will move the shed and said there was no business being operated from his house or in his yard. He said he has cars of relatives parked on his property. He also said he would remove the trash that accumulated during the winter months from various businesses he’s been involved with. Setback rules for the R1 district were explained to Mr. Macalus. Presentations from the public – Angie Gonzalez representing Hi Tech Auto explained her cousin (also in attendance) recently purchased the business from the previous owner and had paid for the business license at White Bear Township. The previous owner had a non-transferable conditional use permit (CUP) to operate hi Tech Auto but as there is a new owner the CUP terminated with the sale of the business. Larry Waldoch spoke on behalf of the new Hi Tech Auto owner stating he was a good tenant. Attorney Kelly said this matter can be resolved upon completion of a fact finding investigation. Upon a motion by Bosak seconded by Artig-Swomley, the council voted 5-0 to extend a deadline to August 1, 2014 for attorney Kelly to work with Hi Tech Auto and the Waldochs to resolve any issues relating to obtaining a new CUP and all required business licenses. Ron Bartosh informed the council that the Phase I engineer gave his property along Schueneman Road favorable reviews. Charles Granlund 3907 Tessier Road told the council of his intention to build a garage on his property for classic autos he owns. He said he submitted the drawings to White Bear Township for approval. Setback requirements for his zoning district were explained to him. Presentations from the council – Artig-Swomley re-iterated her earlier comments about the city’s mailing list of businesses and residents is out of date, which negatively impacts the city’s ability to communicate with residents and business owners. Kuny said she received a call regarding the house for sale currently owned by Tony Carlson. Uzpen said that John Birkeland has offered to purchase the Waldoch property. Adjourn There being no further business upon motion by Lindner and seconded by Artig-Swomley, Mayor Uzpen adjourned the meeting at 8:22PM.