HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024 10-15 CC PacketCITY OF GEM LAKE
Heritage Hall
4200 Otter Lake Road | Gem Lake, MN 55110
651-747-2790/92 | 651-747-2795 (fax)
E-mail city@gemlakemn.org
City Council Meeting – October 15, 2024
Call to Order of City Council Meeting
By Mayor Artig-Swomley at 7:_____ p.m.
Call of Roll
Artig-Swomley Cacioppo Hynes-Amlee Johnson Lindner
Approve Agenda and Minutes
• Accept the Agenda for the October 15, 2024, City Council Meeting
• Approve the Minutes from September 17, 2024, City Council Meeting
Special Presentations/Public Hearings
• None
Consent Agenda
• Resolution #2024-0022 October 2024 Donation to White Bear Lake Area Food Shelf
• Resolution #2024-0023 Certify to Tax Rolls – Utility Billing
• Resolution #2024-0024 Certify to Tax Rolls – 2023 Annual Septic Maintenance Inspections
• Corporate Mechanical Annual Maintenance Quote 2025 Rate
• Monthly Financial Report(s)
• Claims
Committee Reports
• Planning Commission
Old Business
• Newsletter Updates / Topics / Suggestions
• White Bear Lake Public Safety Contract
• Council Pay Discussion
• 2025 Utility Rate Discussion
New Business
• Archery Deer Hunting Applications
o 1270 Goose Lake Road
• Resolution #2024-0025 - Ramsey County Municipal Concurring (New CSAH Designation)
• Goose Lake Road Construction Information
• Code Enforcement Issues Discussion
• Laptop/Scanner Quote
• City Clerk Vacation
• Future Charitable Gambling Donations
o White Bear Lake Emergency Food Shelf
Community Outreach to Other Cities and Government Bodies
Presentations from the Public, 2 minutes maximum
CITY OF GEM LAKE
Heritage Hall
4200 Otter Lake Road | Gem Lake, MN 55110
651-747-2790/92 | 651-747-2795 (fax)
E-mail city@gemlakemn.org
Open Items for Council Members to Bring Up
Future Council Meetings
• Next City Council Meeting, Tuesday, November 19, 2024
o Attendance Inquiry
• Special Canvassing Meeting, Thursday, November 7, 2024
o Attendance Inquiry
• Next City Council Workshop, Monday, November 11, 2024 – CANCELED
Adjournment – The meeting adjourned at ________
City of Gem Lake City Council Meeting Minutes September 17, 2024 1
City of Gem Lake
City Council Meeting – September 17, 2024
Meeting Minutes
Mayor Gretchen Artig-Swomley called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Councilmembers Len Cacioppo, Jim
Lindner, Ben Johnson and Laurel Amlee were present. Also present: City Attorney Kevin Beck, City Treasurer Tom
Kelly, Planning Commission Chair Joshua Patrick, and Commission Member Don Cummings, Civil Site Group
Civil Engineer Robbie Latta, Phillps Architects & Contractors President David Phillips, Barnett Companies General
Manager Jack Mayeron, Minnesota Senator Heather Gustafson, Acting City Clerk Melissa Lawrence and residents
Betsy DiFabio, Rick Bosak, and Jim Wilson.
September 20, 2024, Agenda
A motion was introduced by Councilmember Linder to accept the agenda, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo.
Motion carried 5-0.
Minutes
A motion was introduced by Councilmember Lindner, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo to approve the
August 20, 2024, City Council Meeting Minutes. Motion carried 5-0.
A motion was introduced by Councilmember Lindner, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo to accept the
September 10, 2024, Planning Commission Meeting Minutes. Motion carried 5-0.
Special Presentations/Public Hearings
Minnesota Legislative Session Update – Minnesota Senator Heather Gustafson, District 36, DFL
Minnesota Senator Heather Gustafson provided highlights of this year’s session and discussed future
projects, including the fact that she will be aiming to repeat her 2023 Public Safety Bill in some form,
which provided significant public safety funding to every city in Minnesota. She also reiterated her
priorities on education and infrastructure, offering advice and assistance where possible, on the City’s quest
for municipal water funding.
2025 Preliminary Budget Presentation / Public Hearing – White Bear Township Finance Officer,
Tom Kelly
Under state law, cities must adopt a proposed property tax levy by September 30 of each year. The
proposed levy will be used to produce parcel-specific taxpayer notices, also referred to as truth-in-taxation
notices, which will be distributed to taxpayers in November. If a city fails to certify its proposed levy to the
county by September 30, the county auditor is required to use the authority’s previous year’s final levy as
the levy for the following year.
City Treasurer Tom Kelly gave an overview of the 2025 preliminary property tax levy is proposed at
$733,757, which is a 2.231% increase from the 2024 certified preliminary property tax levy. The 2025
preliminary property tax levy consists of a debt levy of $83,736.00 (an increase from 2024 preliminary debt
levy of $2,182.00) and the general operating levy of $650,021.00 (an increase of 2.174% from the 2024
preliminary tax levy).
The following changes were made from the 2024 adopted budget as a basis for the 2025 proposed
preliminary property tax levy:
1. Based on the 2015 Refunding Bond schedule the debt levy for 2025 is set for $79,711.00. In
addition, in 2018, the City issued bonds for the improvements on Scheuneman Road and the 2025
debt levy for this issue is $4,025.00. The two of these debt levies makes up the City’s 2025 debt
levy of $83,736.
2. Increased City Council wages 3%.
3. City Council contingency was increased to $15,000 (was $9,000).
4. Clerk/General Government budget includes $63,000.00 for wages and $11,550 for health
insurance coverage.
City of Gem Lake City Council Meeting Minutes September 17, 2024 2
5. Planning & Zoning budget increased $8,950.00 based on past expenditures.
6. Police budget was increased 13.85% to $147,396 based on the City of White Bear Lake budget
provided Gem Lake and includes $133,089 for police services and $14,307 for debt payments on
the new public facilities building.
7. The cost of fire services increase 8.54% to $52,827.00. It includes $35,300 for fire services,
$8,181 for fire marshal services, and $9,346 for depreciation on the new public facilities building.
a. Overall, the City of White Bear Lake would like Gem Lake to pay $23,653 for the next
20 years for their new facility.
8. Road Maintenance budget includes $20,000 for road maintenance/repair and $8,000 for trimming
boulevard trees.
9. Salt/sand reduced $4,000 to $8,000 and snow plowing contract increased from $14,500 to
$15,000, both based on past expenditures.
10. Heritage Hall budget includes $10,000 for building improvements and $10,000 for other
equipment/improvements.
11. Included a park maintenance budget of $7,000 for maintaining park area of the Villas of Gem
Lake.
12. The 2025 budget includes $20,000.00 for future improvements.
13. Other revenue and other expenditure line items adjusted based on past history.
These changes result in the City proposed preliminary tax levy of $733,757.00 for 2025. This compares to
2024 preliminary levy of $717,742.00 and 2024 final levy of $697,081.00. Using a 2025 property tax levy
of $733,757.00 and the City’s 2025 estimated tax capacity ($1,799,843.00) and median valued home
($443,750.00) for Gem Lake, that median valued home, would pay City property taxes of $1,725.55 in
2025 compared to 2024 preliminary levy of $1,872.22 (a decrease of $146.67) and the 2024 final levy
amount of $1,652.20 (an increase of $73.35).
One final change for the 2025 budget was a legislative change, which increased the market value exclusion
from 40% of the first $76,000 to the first $95,000 minus 9% of the value between $95,000 to $517,200
(was $76,000 to $413,800). Homes valued at or above $517,200 do not receive an exclusion compared to
$413,800 previously. This change saves the median value home $26.10 in City taxes in 2025.
Mayor Artig-Swomley informed those in attendance that the Council would begin with the preliminary
levy public hearing, and that the public would have a chance to provide input on the topic.
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to open the public hearing at 7:20 p.m. on the 2025
preliminary budget, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
The public had no comment on the subject.
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to close the public hearing at 7:21 p.m. on the 2025
preliminary budget, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
Consent Agenda
Resolution #2024-0017 Gem Lake 2025 Preliminary Budget
Resolution #2024-0018 September 2024 Donation to White Bear Lake Area Food Shelf
Monthly Financial Report(s)
Claims
All items on the consent agenda were reviewed by the Council. Councilmember Lindner introduced a
motion to approve all the items listed on the consent agenda as is, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo.
Motion carried 5-0.
City of Gem Lake City Council Meeting Minutes September 17, 2024 3
Committee Reports
Planning Commission Chair Joshua Patrick shared with the Council that the Commission reviewed a variance
request from the White Bear Montessori School for an already built accessory structure within the side yard setback
requirements and recommend the Council approve the request. The Commission also resumed discussion of the
Barnett Kia zoning requests. The Commission was waiting for input from other agencies and that feedback was
received and the Commission is not recommending approval to the City Council of all three zoning requests. The
Commission also discussed additional language and amendments to the archery hunting ordinance to include
language on turkey hunting and the alarm ordinance to tighten up language and suggest a new fee rate structure for
reported false alarms. Both ordinances are recommended for approval of the suggested changes.
Old Business
Newsletter Updates / Topics / Suggestions
Mayor Artig-Swomley shared that a current City Newsletter is being worked on and will be ready to go
after the meeting and she can write up stories based off topics discussed at the September City Council
meeting.
City Council Pay Discussion
The Council revisited the ongoing discussion of possibly increasing the pay rate for the Gem Lake City
Council members. Councilmember Johnson is in favor of increasing the pay rate to encourage people to
participate and keep up with the times. He also stated that its not about the money, but acknowledgement of
the time spent serving on the Council. Discussion on City Council pay also brought up discussion on if the
Planning Commission should be receiving any monetary compensation for the work they do. Mayor Artig-
Swomley asked City Treasurer Tom Kelly if White Bear Townships pays their Planning Commission. Mr.
Kelly responded that they do, but it is only around $10.00 a meeting to help cover the cost of mileage for
anything their Planning Commission member may do to research topics being discussed.
The Mayor asked if anyone from the Council would be willing to do more research on the topic and bring it
back it to the October meeting. Councilmember Cacioppo volunteered to do some research and bring it to
the October meeting for further discussion.
Planning Commission member Don Cummings shared his thoughts on the topic. He wanted to share that
most people that volunteer for a position do not expect money. What is appreciated is the money spent on
city staff and outside consultants that help make the Planning Commission meetings run so smoothly and
efficiently.
New Business
Zoning Requests – Barnett Kia (Zoning Compliance Request, Lot Line Adjustment Request, Zoning
Amendment Request)
City Planner Evan Monson prepared a memo for the City Council summarizing the requests. Located at
3610 Highway 61, Barnett Companies is looking to remove their existing building (31,865 SF)
and build a new one (34,060 SF) on the north side of their property. The building would be an upgraded
version of their existing one, including spaces for a carwash, service garage, sales floor, vehicle delivery,
and administration. The existing building is proposed to remain until the new building is constructed, and
then would be removed. Phasing and sequencing plans would be put in place to remain operational during
construction.
The property to the north, 3700, is also owned by Barnett Properties. Both properties are within the City’s
Gateway District and are within the Neighborhood Center (NC) Sub-Zone. The applicant’s proposed
building type would not be consistent with the building types currently in the Gateway District, while the
proposed use is currently listed as a nonconforming use in the zone.
City of Gem Lake City Council Meeting Minutes September 17, 2024 4
This request requires three separate applications for review and approval:
1. A lot line adjustment application. Barnett Properties owns both subject properties and is
requesting a lot line adjustment to the north, to align with the parking lot entrances. The city
reviews lot line adjustments through the ‘Minor Subdivision’ process.
2. A zoning ordinance amendment application. The Gateway District does not currently permit
Automotive Dealerships; the applicant is requesting to allow Automotive Dealerships as a
permitted use in a new building type template.
3. A zoning compliance permit application. This permit is required for any redevelopment projects
within the Gateway District.
The Planning Commission recommends the Council approve all three requests based on the conditions of
the City Planner which can be found on the City Planner memo included with the City Council packet of
documents.
Resolution #2024-0019 Approving a minor Subdivision for 3610 Highway 61 and 3700
Highway 61
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to approve Resolution #2024-0019 approving a
minor subdivision, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
Resolution #2024-0020 Approving a Zoning Compliance Permit for 3610 Highway 61 and
3700 Highway 61
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to approve Resolution #2024-0020 approving a
zoning compliance permit, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
Ordinance No. 131 Amendments
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to approve Ordinance No. 131 amendments to create
a proposed Building Type Template 15a, with the edits as proposed by staff., seconded by
Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
Variance Request – 1201 County Road E East – White Bear Montessori School (Shed Setback from
Side Yard)
City Planner Evan Monson prepared a memo for the City Council summarizing the request. The White
Bear Montessori School (WBMS) operates at 1201 County Road E East, at the southwest corner of the city.
The school is in the midst of an expansion project that started earlier this year. Building permits for the
project were issued by the City in April of 2024. The project includes an addition onto the existing school
and exterior improvements to the site. As part of the project, a 14-foot by 16-foot storage shed was
constructed on the south side of the property. The shed was placed at a setback of 33.2 feet from the south
lot line, which is within the required side yard setback of 50 feet. Prior to the new construction on the
property, a storage shed of similar size was located on the property, just east of the parking lot, at a setback
of 62 feet from the south lot line.
The Building Department inspected the site and noted that the shed was within the setback from the side lot
line. Building Department staff notified the applicant’s contractor and noted that the two options were to
move the shed to a compliant setback or request a variance from the city to keep the shed in the existing
location.
The contractor for the project stated that the shed was built in the following location for two reasons, per
the narrative from their submittal dated 8/15/24:
1. The site needs as much additional parking as possible. Construction of the shed in the as-built
location [within the setback] allowed 2 additional ADA parking stalls along the existing row of
parking. The previous shed location required the pavement space in front of the shed to be
designated ‘no parking’ to maintain access by garbage truck and maintenance staff. Given this
issue. the decision was made to move the shed location to an area not otherwise needed by
additional parking.
City of Gem Lake City Council Meeting Minutes September 17, 2024 5
2. While the pavement to the east of the existing parking lot could have been expanded to increase
the number of site parking stalls and provide space for the shed in compliance with the setback,
the watershed’s 10,000 SF of new/reconstructed impervious surface threshold for stormwater
management would be triggered. The current site plan incorporates 9884 SF of new and
reconstructed impervious, only 116 SF less than the threshold. Triggering the management
threshold would have required enlarging the existing rain garden in the southwest corner of the
site which has the lowest topography for rainwater retention. However, the existing rain garden is
at its largest possible size and depth. Therefore, existing pavement and parking stalls would need
to be removed and relocated elsewhere, thus requiring more reconstructed impervious, and,
therefore, yet more retention volume. Furthermore, enlargement of the rain garden would require
additional tree removals which aid in screening the parking lot from the street.
The Planning Commission recommends the Council approve the request based on the conditions of the City
Planner which can be found on the City Planner memo included with the City Council packet of
documents.
Resolution #2024-0021 Approving a Variance for 1201 County Road E East
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to approve Resolution #2024-0021 approving a
variance, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
Ordinance No. 124B Hunting and Discharge of Weapons Proposed Modifications
City Planner Evan Monson prepared a memo for the City Council summarizing the proposed modifications
to Ordinance No. 124B. Ord. No. 124B was adopted in November 2016 and updated in August 2021. The
ordinance prohibits the discharge or use of dangerous weapons within the City of Gem Lake. There are
currently 4 exceptions: (1) Archery Deer Hunting, (2) Target Archery, (3) Defense of Self and Property
Against Vicious Animals, and (4) Law Enforcement. The Planning Commission directed staff to consider
amendments to the ordinance to add archery turkey hunting. On Tuesday, September 10, the Planning
Commission reviewed proposed amendments. A draft of the amended ordinance and City Planner memo is
available for the Council to review and is part of the City Council Packet documents.
The Council discussed the proposed modifications and the suggested fee for a Turkey Hunting permit. Only
one (1) turkey is allowed to be taken during the season and a tag to hunt costs around $25.00, so a minimal
fee is suggested based on the bag limit.
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to approve the proposed modifications to Ordinance No.
124B, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
Ordinance No. 48 Alarm Systems Proposed Modifications
City Planner Evan Monson prepared a memo for the City Council summarizing the proposed modifications
to Ordinance No. 48. Ordinance No. 48 was adopted in August of 1987, and has not been amended since.
The ordinance regulates the use of alarm systems, establishes user fees, and provides penalties for false
alarms. The City of Gem Lake works with the City of White Bear Lake’s (WBL) Fire Department to
respond to triggered fire alarms and the Ramsey County Sheriff's Department to respond to
burglary/robbery alarms. Proposed changes are being suggested for Section 5 User Fees; Notice, Section 8
Alarm Report, and Section 11 Enforcement and penalties. A draft of the amended ordinance and City
Planner memo is available for the Council to review and is part of the City Council Packet documents.
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to approve the proposed modifications to Ordinance No. 48,
seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
Fee Schedule Updated per Ordinance Suggested Changes
The City’s fee schedule currently includes False Alarm User fees within Section 12,
Miscellaneous. 3 - 14 false alarms are $50.00/occurrence within a calendar year and $150.00 for
15+ false alarms/occurrence within a calendar year. Rather than raising fees like other
communities, it is recommended by City Staff, that the “15+ False Alarms” be reduced to “7+
False Alarms”.
City of Gem Lake City Council Meeting Minutes September 17, 2024 6
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to approve the proposed modifications to the fee
schedule, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
Scheduling of Date and Time of Truth in Taxation Hearing
Cities with a population of 500 or more must hold a “Truth in Taxation” public meeting where the final
2025 budget and property tax levy will be discussed, and public input is encouraged. The meeting must
occur after November 25th and before December 28th and must start after 6:00 p.m. The budget and levy
cannot be approved by City Council until this meeting is held but can be the same meeting.
Mayor Artig-Swomley stated that the December 17, 2024, City Council meeting is when the Truth in
Taxation hearing will take place.
Utility Rate Discussion
Mayor Artig-Swomley asked City Treasurer Tom Kelly if he has had a chance to review the utility rates for
the 2025 year. Mr. Kelly has not had a chance to do so yet and would like to table the discussion to a future
meeting.
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to table the utility rate discussion for the October City
Council meeting, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
White Bear Montessori School Open House
The White Bear Montessori School is holding an open house on Friday, September 20 at 6:30 p.m. to
celebrate their 55th year as a Montessori School and their recent expansion. Mayor Artig-Swomley asked if
there was anyone from the Council that would be able to attend. Councilmember Amlee volunteered and
will take pictures for the Newsletter.
Archery Deer hunting Applications
5 Daniels Farm Road
A permit request for a hunt on private property located at 5 Daniels Farm Road was received. The
requested dates of the hunt will be October 25 - 27, November 1-3, and November 8 - 10. The
hunting party consists of 5 hunters, all of which have obtained their Bow Hunters Certification and
a MN DNR Hunting License. Deer stand locations were given and consent of neighbors is not
needed.
Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to approve the Archery Deer Hunting application at
5 Daniels Farm Road, seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
Code Enforcement Issues Discussion
The City of Gem Lake has an ongoing problem with one particular property. The City Building Official is
working with City Attorney Kevin Beck to request an administrative search warrant for the property.
Mayor Artig-Swomley has spoken with the White Bear Lake Police Chief to which he informed her that the
property in question has had three (3) police calls in the last two (2) weeks. Drug paraphernalia has begun
showing up around the property and other issues have been brought to the Acting City Clerks attention. The
Mayor is going to reach out to the White Bear Lake Police Chief to see about having him come to Gem
Lake for a meeting at some point. The Mayor is also going to invite City Building Official Mike Johnson to
the October City Council meeting to discuss the ongoing code enforcement issues in the City.
Heritage Hall Room Rental Coverage
Tuesday, October 22, 2024, - WB Preserve Condo Association – No AV Equipment Needed –
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Mayor Artig-Swomley volunteered to be the staff coverage for this meeting.
City of Gem Lake City Council Meeting Minutes September 17, 2024 7
Wednesday, October 30, 2024, - Otter Lake Technology – AV Equipment Needed – 6:00 p.m.
– 8:00 p.m.
Councilmember Johnson volunteered to be the staff coverage for this meeting.
White Bear Lake Police and Fire Contract Discussion
The City of White Bear Lake sent over the 2025 Fire and Police contracts. Gem Lake is being hit with both
depreciation and the interest for the new fire house building. Up until August 2024 Gem Lake was not
paying the principal or interest for the new build because the City Council, City Treasurer, and City
Attorney did not agree that the City could be charged interest on the new build. Gem Lake has since begun
paying the principal amount due but is still holding off on paying the interest.
City Attorney Kevin Beck and Mayor Artig-Swomley had a meeting with White Bear Lake recently.
Letters have been received threatening cancelation of the Police and Fire contract through White Bear Lake
for non-payment. City Attorney Kevin Beck was asked to prepare a response to the recent letter received.
There is other routes Gem Lake can take such as litigation.
White Bear Township is also dealing with the same concerns. If White Bear Township decides to pull out
of the contract there is the possibility that their portion of the fees could then be spread to all the other cities
contracted with White Bear Lake for fire services.
The Mayor and several other cities serviced by White Bear Lake plan to attend the White Bear Township
Executive meeting on Friday, September 27 to discuss this topic further.
Future Charitable Gambling Donations
White Bear Lake Emergency Food Shelf
Mayor Artig-Swomley suggested that the Council donate in October in the amount of $1,500.00 to
the White Bear Lake Emergency Food Shelf. Councilmember Lindner introduced a motion to
request a donation in the amount of $1,500.00 for the White Bear Lake Emergency Food Shelf,
seconded by Councilmember Cacioppo. Motion carried 5-0.
Community Outreach to Other Cities and Government Bodies
Mayor Artig-Swomley shared that a special meeting would need to take place on Thursday, November 7, 2024, to
canvass the election results. Canvassing is due to the County by Tuesday, November 12.
Mayor Artig-Swomley shared that Goose Lake Road was closed all weekend because of a large, downed tree that
took a power line with it when it fell.
Mayor Artig-Swomley shared that the City of Maplewood recently pulled their support of the Purple Line for both
options. The Mayor plans to attend the next Maplewood City Council meeting on Monday, September 23.
Presentations from the Public, 2 minutes maximum
Planning Commission Member Don Cummings spoke about the Barnett Kia meeting that the Planning Commission
had on Tuesday, September 10. The Commission was thrilled with the lighting plan. Mr. Cummings also brought up
the water bills in the Villas. He presented some research he did to City Treasurer Tom Kelly regarding his current
bill which shows that Villa’s residents are overpaying by four (4) times the price of water because of the feed taxed
on by Vadnais Heights.
Open Items for Council Members to Bring Up
None
Future Council Meetings
City of Gem Lake City Council Meeting Minutes September 17, 2024 8
City Council, Tuesday, October 15, 2024. City Council Workshop, Monday, October 14, 2024, is CANCELED.
Attendance Inquiry
At this time all in attendance will be at the October meeting.
Adjournment
Being there no further business, following a motion from Councilmember Lindner, seconded by Councilmember
Cacioppo, the meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Melissa Lawrence
City of Gem Lake
County of Ramsey
State of Minnesota
Resolution No. 2024-0022
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY TREASURER TO DISTRIBUTE A
PORTION OF THE CHARITABLE GAMBLING FUNDS TO THE WHITE BEAR
LAKE AREA FOOD SHELF.
WHEREAS, the City of Gem Lake participates in the distribution of charitable gambling funds
received from the Country Lounge
WHEREAS, the City of Gem Lake distributes these funds to local 501(c)(3) tax-exempt
organizations
WHEREAS, the City of Gem Lake City Council suggested a donation at their September 17,
2024 meeting in support of the White Bear Lake Area Food Shelf.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City of Gem Lake, Minnesota, the City
Treasurer is authorized to send $1,500.00 to support the White Bear Lake Area Food Shelf for
the month of October 2024.
The motion for adoption of the foregoing Resolution was duly introduced by Councilmember
__________ and supported by Councilmember __________, and upon vote being taken thereon,
the resolution passed with a vote of _____ in favor and _____ against.
ATTEST
I, Melissa Lawrence, the duly qualified Acting City Clerk of the City of Gem Lake, County of
Ramsey, State of Minnesota, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution is a true and
accurate representation of action taken by the City Council of the City of Gem Lake on the date
first written.
October 15, 2024
Melissa Lawrence, Acting City Clerk Date
City of Gem Lake
County of Ramsey
State of Minnesota
Resolution No. 2024-0023
RESOLUTION CERTIFYING DELINQUENT SEWER CHARGES TO THE RAMSEY COUNTY
AUDITOR (AUDITOR NO. S372500010) FOR 2024
WHEREAS, Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Gem
Lake, Minnesota, was duly held at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, at 7:00 o’clock p.m.;
WHEREAS, the following members were present: Mayor Artig-Swomley, Councilmembers Lindner, Cacioppo,
Johnson and Hynes-Amlee.
NOWTHEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, pursuant to Section 4.13.2, of Ordinance No. 64E, the Clerk, is hereby
authorized and directed to certify to the Auditor of Ramsey County, Minnesota, the delinquent sewer charges on the
following described parcels of real estate in the City of Gem Lake:
Property ID No. Certification Amount
27-30-22-11-0031 $304.10
27-30-22-13-0008 $342.61
27-30-22-13-0012 $131.16
27-30-22-13-0001 $177.05
Total Delinquent Charges $954.92
The motion of the adoption of the foregoing Resolution was duly introduced by Councilmember __________ and
supported by Councilmember __________, and upon vote being taken thereon, the resolution passed with a vote of
_____ in favor and _____ against.
WHEREUPON said Resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.
STATE OF MINNESOTA }
COUNTY OF RAMSEY }
CITY OF GEM LAKE }
ATTEST
I, the undersigned, being the duly qualified and Acting Clerk of the City of Gem Lake, Minnesota, do hereby certify,
that I have carefully compared the attached and foregoing Extract of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City
Council of said City held on the 15th day of October 2024, with the original on file in my office and that the same is
a full, true and complete transcript therefrom insofar as the same relates to a Resolution directing certification of
Delinquent Sewer Charges.
WITNESS my hand as such Clerk and the Acting City Clerk’s seal this 15th day of October 2024.
Melissa Lawrence, Acting City Clerk, City of Gem Lake, Minnesota
City of Gem Lake
County of Ramsey
State of Minnesota
Resolution No. 2024-0024
RESOLUTION CERTIFYING DELINQUENT ANNUAL SEPTIC MAINTENANCE INSPECTION CHARGES TO
THE RAMSEY COUNTY AUDITOR (AUDITOR NO. S372500020) FOR 2024
WHEREAS, Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Gem Lake,
Minnesota, was duly held at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, at 7:00 o’clock p.m.;
WHEREAS, the following members were present: Mayor Artig-Swomley, Councilmembers Lindner, Cacioppo, Johnson and
Hynes-Amlee.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, pursuant to Section 26.e.2, of Ordinance No. 67D, the Clerk, is hereby authorized
and directed to certify to the Auditor of Ramsey County, Minnesota, the delinquent septic inspection charge on the following
described parcels of real estate in the City of Gem Lake:
Property ID No. Certification Amount
28-30-22-13-0018 $90.00
22-30-22-43-0002 $90.00
22-30-22-43-0034 $90.00
28-30-22-44-0005 $90.00
28-30-22-42-0004 $90.00
22-30-22-44-0025 $90.00
22-30-22-44-0027 $90.00
22-30-22-44-0022 $90.00
Total Delinquent Charges $720.00
The motion of the adoption of the foregoing Resolution was duly introduced by Councilmember __________ and supported by
Councilmember __________, and upon vote being taken thereon, the resolution passed with a vote of _____ in favor and _____
against.
WHEREUPON said Resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.
STATE OF MINNESOTA }
COUNTY OF RAMSEY }
CITY OF GEM LAKE }
ATTEST
I, the undersigned, being the duly qualified and Acting Clerk of the City of Gem Lake, Minnesota, do hereby certify, that I have
carefully compared the attached and foregoing Extract of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City Council of said City held
on the 15th day of October 2024, with the original on file in my office and that the same is a full, true and complete transcript
therefrom insofar as the same relates to a Resolution directing certification of Delinquent Annual Septic Maintenance Inspection
Charges.
WITNESS my hand as such Clerk and the Acting City Clerk’s seal this 15th day of October 2024.
Melissa Lawrence, Acting City Clerk, City of Gem Lake, Minnesota
HVAC Commercial/Industrial Installation Scheduled Maintenance 24 hr Service
Energy Management Design Build Engineering
PROPOSAL
DATE: 9/18/2024
SUBMITTED TO: Melissa Lawrence
FROM: Kevin Alger
JOB NAME: HVAC Preventative Maintenance
LOCATION: Gem Lake City Hall
We propose the following:
We propose to provide labor and material to perform semiannual preventative maintenance on the HVAC
equipment at 4200 Otter Lake Road. Our cost includes: semiannual filter replacement, annual belt replacement,
basic lubrications, inspection of all equipment, seasonal cooling & heating startup, and annual condenser coil
cleaning.
ANNUAL COST: $1,685.00 *Cost to be invoiced quarterly for the amount of $421.25.
*Any repairs found to be needed during the preventative maintenance are not included in this cost and
will be quoted on a time & material basis.
Excluded: Engineering
Overtime labor
All material is guaranteed to be as specified. All work to be completed in a workman like manner according to standard practices. Any
alteration or deviation from above specifications involving extra cost will become an extra charge over and above the estimat e. All
agreements contingent upon strikes, accidents or delays beyond our control. Owner to carry fire, tornado and other necessary
insurance. Our workers are fully covered by Workman’s Compensation Insurance. Price is firm for 30 days.
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE:
ACCEPTANCE OF PROPOSAL: The above prices, specifications and conditions are satisfactory and are hereby accepted. You are
authorized to do the work as specified. Payment will be made as outlined above.
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE: ___________________________
DATE OF ACCEPTANCE:____________________
5114 Hillsboro Avenue North New Hope, MN 55428
Phone: (763) 533-3070 Fax: (763) 533-3464 www.corporatemechanical.com
CITY OF GEM LAKE
Claims For Payment Period Ending:10/15/2024
Signatures Approving Claims Date of Approval
Gretchen Artig-Swomley, Mayor
Ben Johnson, Council
Jim Lindner, Council
Len Cacioppo, Council
Laurel Amlee, Council
Tom Kelly, Treasurer
Fund Totals $ Amount
General Fund 52,227.87
Parks & Playgrounds 0.00
2004 Debt Service Fund 0.00
2006 Debt Service Fund 0.00
2015 Debt Service Fund 0.00
2018 Debt Service Fund 0.00
Improvement Fund 0.00
Scheuneman Road Improvements 0.00
Hoffman Road Improvements 0.00
602-Sewer Fund 12.15
601-Water Fund 0.00
Investment Trust Fund
Total All Funds 52,240.02
Claims for Payment Check Numbers 12643 through 12662
Check Date Bank
Account
Check #Payee Description Accoun
t
Dept Amount
CHECK DATE 10/15/2024 - 10/15/2024
CHECK DISBURSEMENT REPORT FOR CITY OF GEM LAKE
Fund: 100 GENERAL
10/15/2024 GEN 12643 CINTAS RUGS 40319 41940 31.95
10/15/2024 GEN 12644#City of White Bear Lake POLICE SERVICES 40314 42100 2,665.17
FIRE SERVICES 40311 42200 9,656.42
FIRE MARSHALL SERVICE 40312 42200 645.50
Check GEN 12644 Total for Fund 100 GENERAL 12,967.09
10/15/2024 GEN 12645 City of White Bear Lake PRINCIPLE ON NEW POLICE BLDG 40314 42100 736.09
10/15/2024 GEN 12646 City of White Bear Lake OCTOBER 2024 FIRE BLDG 40311 42200 484.30
10/15/2024 GEN 12647 Corporate Mechanical NO COOLING IN THE MAIN OFFICE 40319 41940 4,570.34
10/15/2024 GEN 12648 Coverall of the Twin Cities OCOTBER 2024 JANITORIAL SERVICES 40319 41940 320.00
10/15/2024 GEN 12649 GDO Law PROSECUTION 41304 41600 285.00
10/15/2024 GEN 12651 Jim Lindner SEPTEMBER 2024 MEETING COVERAGE 36400 00000 60.00
10/15/2024 GEN 12652 Kelly & Lemmons, PA SEPTEMBER 2024 GENERAL COUNSEL 40304 41600 2,152.48
10/15/2024 GEN 12653 League of Minnesota Cities 4 MONTH MEMBERSHIP DUES 41437 41900 288.00
10/15/2024 GEN 12654 Melissa Lawrence 2024 SEPTEMBER MILEAGE 40331 41900 10.05
2024 OCTOBER MILEAGE 40331 41900 15.34
Check GEN 12654 Total for Fund 100 GENERAL 25.39
10/15/2024 GEN 12655 METRO-INET OCTOBER 2024 IT SERVICES 40309 41900 981.00
10/15/2024 GEN 12656 Ramsey County 2024 4TH QTR ELECTION SVCS 40300 41410 1,166.00
10/15/2024 GEN 12657 RED LILY SEPTEMBER 2024 WEBSITE MAINTENANCE 40300 41940 80.00
10/15/2024 GEN 12658 SEH GEMLK 2023-24 GEN ENG SVCS 40303 41910 250.87
10/15/2024 GEN 12659 Trade Press Inc NEWSLETTER/PUBLIC RELATIONS 40352 41900 398.00
10/15/2024 GEN 12660#White Bear Township PW LABOR- 6/7/24-8/21/2024 40319 41940 2,202.00
EQUIPMENT 6/7/24-8/21/24 40319 41900 1,435.00
FIELD MAINT SUPERVISOR -6/18 &6/19, 7/19 40319 41940 280.00
WILLOW TREE PLANTING 40319 41900 7,654.44
POSTAGE 6/4/24-8/28/24 40322 41900 560.48
BUILDING INSPECTIONS 2-5-24-9-5-24 40313 42401 3,990.00
TREASUER 2-9-24-9-20-24 40329 41500 11,020.00
Check GEN 12660 Total for Fund 100 GENERAL 27,141.92
10/15/2024 GEN 12661 WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP UTILITY BILLIN 2024 3RD QTR UTILITY BILL 40385 41940 226.80
10/15/2024 GEN 12662 Xcel Energy STREET LIGHTS 40386 43122 74.79
Total For Fund: 100 52,240.02
Fund: 602 SEWER UTILITY FUND
10/15/2024 GEN 12650 Gopher State One Call SEWER LOCATES 40319 43200 12.15
Total For Fund: 602 12.15
'#'-INDICATES CHECK DISTRIBUTED TO MORE THAN ONE DEPARTMENT
Report Total:52,252.17
Page:1/110/11/2024 12:09 PM
Check Date Check Vendor Name Amount
CHECK DATE 10/15/2024 - 10/15/2024
CHECK REGISTER FOR CITY OF GEM LAKE
Bank GEN GENERAL CHECKING
10/15/2024 12643 CINTAS 31.95
10/15/2024 12644 City of White Bear Lake 12,967.09
10/15/2024 12645 City of White Bear Lake 736.09
10/15/2024 12646 City of White Bear Lake 484.30
10/15/2024 12647 Corporate Mechanical 4,570.34
10/15/2024 12648 Coverall of the Twin Cities 320.00
10/15/2024 12649 GDO Law 285.00
10/15/2024 12650 Gopher State One Call 12.15
10/15/2024 12651 Jim Lindner 60.00
10/15/2024 12652 Kelly & Lemmons, PA 2,152.48
10/15/2024 12653 League of Minnesota Cities 288.00
10/15/2024 12654 Melissa Lawrence 25.39
10/15/2024 12655 METRO-INET 981.00
10/15/2024 12656 Ramsey County 1,166.00
10/15/2024 12657 RED LILY 80.00
10/15/2024 12658 SEH 250.87
10/15/2024 12659 Trade Press Inc 398.00
10/15/2024 12660 White Bear Township 27,141.92
10/15/2024 12661 WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP UTILITY B 226.80
10/15/2024 12662 Xcel Energy 74.79
Total of 20 Disbursements:52,252.17
Less 0 Void Checks:0.00
Total of 20 Checks:52,252.17
GEN TOTALS:
Page:1/110/11/2024 12:10 PM
GL Number GL Description DR Amount CR Amount
Post Date Journal Description
INVOICE JOURNAL REPORT FOR CITY OF GEM LAKE
10/15/2024 AP CINTAS RUGS
100-41940-40319 Contract Services 31.95
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 31.95
31.95 31.95
10/15/2024 AP City of White Bear Lake OCTOBER 2024 FIRE SVCS/INSPECTION
100-42100-40314 Regular Law Enforcement 2,665.17
100-42200-40311 Fire Services 9,656.42
100-42200-40312 Fire Marshall Service 645.50
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 12,967.09
12,967.09 12,967.09
10/15/2024 AP City of White Bear Lake OCTOBER 2024 PRINCIPLE
100-42100-40314 Regular Law Enforcement 736.09
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 736.09
736.09 736.09
10/15/2024 AP City of White Bear Lake OCTOBER 2024 FIRE BLDG
100-42200-40311 Fire Services 484.30
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 484.30
484.30 484.30
10/15/2024 AP Corporate Mechanical NO COOLING IN THE MAIN OFFICE
100-41940-40319 Contract Services 4,570.34
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 4,570.34
4,570.34 4,570.34
10/15/2024 AP Coverall of the Twin Cities JANITORAL CLEANING OCTOBER 2024
100-41940-40319 Contract Services 320.00
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 320.00
320.00 320.00
10/15/2024 AP GDO Law SEPTEMBER 2024 PROSECUTION FEES
100-41600-41304 Prosecution 285.00
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 285.00
285.00 285.00
10/15/2024 AP Gopher State One Call SEWER LOCATES
602-43200-40319 Locates 12.15
602-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 12.15
12.15 12.15
10/15/2024 AP Jim Lindner SEPTEMBER 2024 MEETING COVERAGE
100-00000-36400 Facility Rental 60.00
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 60.00
60.00 60.00
10/15/2024 AP Kelly & Lemmons, PA SEPTEMBER 2024 GENERAL COUNSEL
100-41600-40304 Legal 2,152.48
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 2,152.48
2,152.48 2,152.48
10/15/2024 AP League of Minnesota Cities 4 MONTH MEMBERSHIP DUES
100-41900-41437 League of MN Cities 288.00
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 288.00
288.00 288.00
10/15/2024 AP Melissa Lawrence 2024 SEPTEMBER MILEAGE
100-41900-40331 Mileage 10.05
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 10.05
10.05 10.05
10/15/2024 AP Melissa Lawrence 2024 OCTOBER MILEAGE
100-41900-40331 Mileage 15.34
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 15.34
15.34 15.34
10/15/2024 AP METRO-INET OCTOBER 2024 IT SVCS
100-41900-40309 Computer Services 981.00
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 981.00
981.00 981.00
10/15/2024 AP Ramsey County 2024 4TH QTR ELECTION SVCS
100-41410-40300 Contracted Services 1,166.00
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 1,166.00
1,166.00 1,166.00
10/15/2024 AP RED LILY SEPTEMBER 2024 WEBSITE MAINTENANCE
100-41940-40300 Professional Services 80.00
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 80.00
80.00 80.00
Page:1/210/11/2024 11:53 AM
GL Number GL Description DR Amount CR Amount
Post Date Journal Description
INVOICE JOURNAL REPORT FOR CITY OF GEM LAKE
10/15/2024 AP SEH GEMLK 2023-24 GEN ENG SVCS
100-41910-40303 Engineering 250.87
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 250.87
250.87 250.87
10/15/2024 AP Trade Press Inc NEWSLETTERS
100-41900-40352 Newsletter/Public Relations 398.00
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 398.00
398.00 398.00
10/15/2024 AP White Bear Township JUNE - SEPTEMBER 2024
100-41940-40319 Contract Services 2,482.00
100-41900-40319 Miscellaneous 9,089.44
100-41900-40322 Postage 560.48
100-42401-40313 Building Inspections 3,990.00
100-41500-40329 Financial Services 11,020.00
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 27,141.92
27,141.92 27,141.92
10/15/2024 AP WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP UTILITY BILLING 2024 3RD QTR UTILITY BILL
100-41940-40385 Water/Sewer Utilities 226.80
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 226.80
226.80 226.80
10/15/2024 AP Xcel Energy STREET LIGHTS
100-43122-40386 Street Lights 74.79
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 74.79
74.79 74.79
GRAND TOTAL:52,252.17 52,252.17
602-43200-40319 Locates 12.15
602-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 12.15
100-43122-40386 Street Lights 74.79
100-42401-40313 Building Inspections 3,990.00
100-42200-40312 Fire Marshall Service 645.50
100-42200-40311 Fire Services 10,140.72
100-42100-40314 Regular Law Enforcement 3,401.26
100-41940-40385 Water/Sewer Utilities 226.80
100-41940-40319 Contract Services 7,404.29
100-41940-40300 Professional Services 80.00
100-41910-40303 Engineering 250.87
100-41900-41437 League of MN Cities 288.00
100-41900-40352 Newsletter/Public Relations 398.00
100-41900-40331 Mileage 25.39
100-41900-40322 Postage 560.48
100-41900-40319 Miscellaneous 9,089.44
100-41900-40309 Computer Services 981.00
100-41600-41304 Prosecution 285.00
100-41600-40304 Legal 2,152.48
100-41500-40329 Financial Services 11,020.00
100-41410-40300 Contracted Services 1,166.00
100-00000-36400 Facility Rental 60.00
100-00000-20200 Accounts Payable 52,240.02
TOTALS:
Report Total:
Page:2/210/11/2024 11:53 AM
City of White Bear Lake
4701 Highway 61 N.
White Bear Lake, Minnesota 55110
651-429-8526 | www.whitebearlake.org
August 30, 2024
Melissa Lawrence, City Clerk
City of Gem Lake
4200 Otter Lake Road
Gem Lake, MN 55110
Dear Ms. Lawrence,
The City of Gem Lake (Gem Lake) has contracted with the City of White Bear Lake (White Bear
Lake) for fire services for many years. Per the 2023-2028 Fire Services Agreement, White Bear
Lake is required to provide Gem Lake with the costs budgeted for the following year and the
most recent figures for tax capacity valuation and population by September 1 of each year.
Enclosed you will find said information in addition to costs for fire inspection services
specifically for Gem Lake in 2025.
The Fire Department’s average response rate currently is 6 minutes. You may recall that just a
few years ago the average response rate was 12 minutes. The Fire Department has made
strides to improve its quality of service by recruiting and retaining highly skilled personnel,
securing the necessary equipment to operate a department that provides fire, rescue, and
Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance service, and improving facilities to meet the demands
and expectations of the communities it serves. The proposed 2025 Fire Department budget
continues these efforts with the addition of one full-time firefighter/paramedic position,
necessary market salary adjustments, and a replacement squad.
On behalf of the Fire Department, I want to thank you for allowing White Bear Lake to continue
serving Gem Lake. White Bear Lake values our partnership, and the Fire Department takes great
pride in providing exceptional service your community.
As always, if you have questions regarding this financial information, please feel free to contact
me at kkindsvater@whitebearlake.org or 651-429-8517.
Sincerely,
Kerri Kindsvater
Finance Director
cc: Lindy Crawford, White Bear Lake City Manager
Greg Peterson, White Bear Lake Fire Chief
Encls.
2025 Operating Budget (a)1,702,336$
2023 Budget Adjustment - Surplus (Deficit)(b)48,891
Total 2025 Operating Budget Cost Alloction 1,653,445
2025 Building Depreciation (c)14,135
2024 - 2043 Facility Depreciation (d)641,624
2025 Equipment Depreciation (e)278,620
2025 Total Fire Contract Costs 2,587,824
35% of Total 65% of Total
Pay 2024 Final Met Council Contract Costs Contract Costs Facility
Unit of Tax Capacity Population as of Allocated by Tax Allocated by Depreciation 2025
Government Value July 2024 Capacity Value Population by Population (d)Grand Total
Birchwood Village 2,321,206$ 898 20,311$ 29,708$ 15,068$ 65,087$
Dellwood 6,212,777 1,160 54,363 38,375 19,464 112,202
Gem Lake 1,928,289 557 16,873 18,427 9,346 44,646
White Bear Township 23,356,385 11,007 204,372 364,136 184,690 753,197
White Bear Lake 44,027,991 24,617 385,252 814,384 413,056 1,612,692
Grand Total 77,846,648 38,239 681,170 1,265,030 641,624 2,587,824
WHITE BEAR LAKE FIRE DEPARTMENT
2025 Contracting Jurisdiction Cost Allocations
(a) 2025 Operating Budget:
Operations 1,863,295
State Fire Relief Aid, estimated based on 2023 aid payment (317,000)
Dispatch 254,600
Police calls 15,414 75.30%(Subtract police share)(191,723)
Ambulance calls 3,965 19.37%
Fire calls 1,090 5.33%
Total 20,469 100.00%
Administrative Costs - 5% of Operations 93,165
Total Budget 1,702,336
(b) 2023 Budget Adjustment - Surplus (Deficit)
2023 Adopted Budget 1,521,177
2023 Actual Expenditures per audit (1,472,286)
Total Adjustment - Surplus (Deficit)48,891
(c) 2025 Building Depreciation
Year Total Life in Depreciation
Item Added Cost Years Years
Alarm/Key System 2022 29,625$ 5 2022-2026 5,925
Station #920 Roof 2023 155,000$ 20 2023-2042 7,750
Station #920 Training Tower 2025 9,200$ 20 2025-2044 460
Total Depreciation 14,135
(d) 2024 - 2043 Facility Depreciation
Year Total Less Life in Depreciation
Item Added Cost Police Portion Net Cost Years Years
Public Safety Facility 2023 25,764,966$ (12,932,483)$ 12,832,483$ 20 2024-2043 641,624
WHITE BEAR LAKE FIRE DEPARTMENT
2025 Cost Allocation Details
WHITE BEAR LAKE FIRE DEPARTMENT
2025 Cost Allocation Details
(e) Equipment Depreciation
Year Total Trade-In Life in Depreciation
Item Added Cost Estimate Net Cost Years Years
SCBA equipment 2018 330,000 - 330,000 10 2018-2027 33,000
Fire truck - pumper 2019 535,000 22,500 512,500 15 2019-2033 34,167
Fire truck - ladder 2020 1,050,000 45,000 1,005,000 20 2020-2039 50,250
Vehicle radios 2022 47,100 47,100 5 2022-2026 9,420
Radios 2023 20,000 20,000 5 2023-2027 4,000
Rescue boat 2023 200,000 200,000 10 2023-2032 20,000
Ambulance 2023 236,000 7,500 228,500 6 2023-2028 38,083
Lucas devices 2023 60,000 60,000 10 2023-2032 6,000
Radios 2024 20,000 20,000 5 2024-2028 4,000
Fire squad 2024 66,250 6,000 60,250 5 2024-2028 12,050
Vehicle Laptop computer 2024 5,000 5,000 5 2024-2028 1,000
Vehicle equipment 2024 24,000 24,000 10 2024-2033 2,400
Ambulance 2024 340,000 34,000 306,000 6 2024-2029 51,000
Fire squad 2025 66,250 66,250 5 2025-2029 13,250
Total Depreciation 278,620
2025 Total Fire Inspector Personnel Costs 163,610
Unit of Distribution 2025
Government Percentage Grand Total
Gem Lake 5.00%8,181$
White Bear Township 12.50%20,451$
White Bear Lake 82.50%134,978$
Grand Total 100.00%163,610
WHITE BEAR LAKE FIRE DEPARTMENT
2025 Fire Inspection Cost Allocations
City of White Bear Lake
4701 Highway 61 N.
White Bear Lake, Minnesota 55110
651-429-8526 | www.whitebearlake.org
August 30, 2024
Melissa Lawrence, City Clerk
City of Gem Lake
4200 Otter Lake Road
Gem Lake, MN 55110
Dear Ms. Lawrence,
The City of Gem Lake (Gem Lake) has contracted with the City of White Bear Lake (White Bear
Lake) for police services for many years. Per the Patrol Services Agreement, White Bear Lake is
required to provide Gem Lake with the costs budgeted for the following year and the most
recent figures for population.
Enclosed you will find said information for Gem Lake in 2025.
On behalf of the Police Department, I want to thank you for allowing White Bear Lake to
continue serving Gem Lake. White Bear Lake values our partnership, and the Police Department
takes great pride in providing exceptional service your community.
If you have questions regarding this financial information, p lease feel free to contact me at
kkindsvater@whitebearlake.org or 651-429-8517.
Sincerely,
Kerri Kindsvater
Finance Director
cc: Lindy Crawford, White Bear Lake City Manager
Dale Hager, White Bear Lake Police Chief
Encls.
Total 2025 Budget Cost Alloction (a)6,015,059
2024 - 2043 Facility Depreciation (b)646,624
2025 Total Police Contract Costs 6,661,683
Total
Met Council Contract Costs Facility
Unit of Population as of Allocated by Depreciation 2025
Government July 2024 Population by Population Grand Total
Gem Lake 557 133,089 14,307 147,396
White Bear Lake 24,617 5,881,970 632,317 6,514,287
Grand Total 25,174 6,015,059 646,624 6,661,683
WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE DEPARTMENT
2025 Contracted Jurisdiction Cost Allocations
(a) 2025 Budget Cost Allocation:
Operations 6,372,223
State Police Aid (318,000)
WBL Area Schools, School Resource Officer Aid (274,000)
Grants (148,414)
Capital Equipment 383,250
Total Budget 6,015,059
(b) 2024 - 2043 Facility Depreciation
Year Total Less Life in Depreciation
Item Added Cost Fire Portion Net Cost Years Years
Public Safety Facility 2024 25,864,966$ (12,932,483)$ 12,932,483$ 20 2024-2043 646,624
WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE DEPARTMENT
2025 Cost Allocation Details
CITY OF GEM LAKE, RAMSEY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE NO. 70C
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 70B, RENAMING SAID ORDINANCE
AS ORDINANCE NO. 70C AND PROVIDING FOR COMPENSATION FOR THE
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS.
The City Council of the City of Gem Lake does hereby ordain:
Section 1.
Section 1.1. Base Compensation. The base compensation of the Mayor and Council
Members shall be increased, effective 12:01 am on 01 January 2015, as follows:
Mayor $ 2,400 per year
Each Council Member $ 1,200 per year
Section 2.
Section 2.1. Additional Compensation. Additional compensation of $20.00 for each
meeting (other than a regular meeting of the City Council) which any of the foregoing
persons is directed by the City Council to attend.
NOW, THEREFORE, the motion for the adoption of the foregoing Ordaniance was made
by Councilmember Artig-Swomley and seconded by Councilmember Bosak with ___5____ votes
in favor and _0__votes in opposition.
Dated 10/21/ 2014 ____________________________________
William Short, City Clerk
Page 1 of 2
C IT Y O F G E M L A K E
ORDI NANCE NO. 70B LEG E ND
T h e E l ecte d O fficial Com p ensa tio n O rd ina nce o f the C it y o f G em L ake was o rig ina lly enact e d b y the C ity
C ouncil a s C ity o f G e m Lake O r d inanc e N o . 5 0 o n 01 O c to b er 1 988. S ince that time, th e C ity C o u n cil h a s adop ted
severa l chan ge s in k eepin g w ith th e chan g in g times and n eeds a nd wis hes o f th e com munity. T he fo llowi n g table is added
to O r d ina nce N o . 7 0 B a s a n histo ric r e fer ence t o th o se changes. A ll changes s h o w n ha v e b een inc o rp o ra te d into
O rd i nanc e N o . 70B , the C ity E lecte d O ffic ia l C o m p ensatio n O r d inance.
ORDINANCE
NO.TITLE & DESCRIPTION ENACTED
# 50 An Ordinance Providing For Compensation For The Mayor, Council Members, Treasurer And
Clerk
10/17/88
# 62 An Ordinance Replacing Ordinance No. 50 And Providing For Compensation For The
Mayor, Council members, Treasurer And Clerk
08/17/92
#70 An Ordinance Repealing Ordinance No. 62 and Providing For Compensation For The Mayor
And Council Members.
01/01/99
#70B An Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 70 and Providing For Compensation For The Mayor
And Council Members.
12/19/05
#70C An Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 70B and Providing For Compensation For The Mayor
And Council Members.
10/21/2014
I’m not sure how the pay for City Council and Mayor were decided, but I was trying to look and see what others are getting paid and I wanted to see what you
thought.
Also, if someone doesn’t come to a meeting, should they still get paid for that month? Or do we treat it as “earned vacation time”? Might be time to update the
current ordinance and have a pay review? It looks like the current ordinance was passed in 2014 for 2015. It’s been 9 years since the pay was looked at.
Howard Lake MN – Meets the third Monday of each month (population 1,852)
Mayor - $5,000.00 per year ($416.67 a month, $1,250.00 a quarter)
Council - $3,750.00 per year ($312.50 a month, $937.50 a quarter)
Edina MN – Meets the first and third Tuesday of each month (population 53,037)
Mayor - $13,500.00 per year (if meeting only once a year - $6,750.00 a year, $562.50 a month, $1,687.50 a quarter)
Council - $10,740.00 per year (if meeting only once a year - $5,370.00 a year, $447.50 a month, $1342.50 a quarter)
Brainerd MN - Meets the first and third Monday of each month (population 14,412)
Mayor - $7,800.00 per year (if meeting only once a year - $3,900.00 a year, $325.00 a month, $975.00 a quarter)
Council - $6,600.00 per year (if meeting only once a year - $3,300.00 a year, $275.00 a month, $825.00 a quarter)
St. Cloud MN - Meets two Monday of each month (population 68,910)
Mayor - $14,000.00 per year (if meeting only once a year - $7,000.00 a year, $583.33 a month, $1,750.00 a quarter)
Council - $12,500.00 per year (if meeting only once a year - $6,250.00 a year, $520.83 a month, $1,562.50 a quarter)
CITY OF GEM LAKE
Heritage Hall
4200 Otter Lake Road | Gem Lake, MN 55110
651-747-2790/92 | 651-747-2795 (fax)
E-mail city@gemlakemn.org
Look for us on the World Wide Web at gemlakemn.org
Date: 10/10/24
To: Mayor & City Council
From: Tom Kelly, Treasurer
RE: 2025 Water & Sewer Rates.
After reviewing the 2025 rates provided by the City of White Bear Lake and current rates by the
City of Vadnais Height, along with 2025 charges provided by the M.C.E.S. for sanitary sewer
charges, I am recommending the following proposed water and sewer rates;
Utility Service Current Proposed
Charge Charge
Vadnais Heights:
Water:
Base Charge $55.00 $25.00
Volume
1-15,000 Gallons $8.10 $7.00 Per Thousand Gallons
15,001-25,000 Gal.$10.15 $8.75 Per Thousand Gallons
Over 25,001 Gal.$12.75 $11.00 Per Thousand Gallons
Irrigation
Base Charge $55.00 $25.00
Volume $10.75 $9.50 Per Thousand Gallons
Sewer:
Base Charge $55.00 $55.00 Per SAC unit per quarter
Volume $10.00 $7.00 Per Thousand Gallons
Based on Winter Quarter Use
White Bear Lake:
Water:Base Charge $55.00 $25.00
Volume
1-15,000 Gallons $2.40 $5.25 Per 750 Gallons
15,001-25,000 Gal.$2.50 $6.60 Per 750 Gallons
Over 25,001 Gal.$2.60 $8.25 Per 750 Gallons
Sewer Only Customers
Flat Rate $55.00 $55.00 Per SAC unit per quarter
Water State Surcharge $2.43 $2.43 Per State of MN
Commercial Sales Tax 7.875%7.875%Per State of MN
CITY OF GEM LAKE
Heritage Hall
4200 Otter Lake Road | Gem Lake, MN 55110
651-747-2790/92 | 651-747-2795 (fax)
E-mail city@gemlakemn.org
Look for us on the World Wide Web at gemlakemn.org
The rates for the City of Vadnais Heights are based on current 2024 rates plus an 8% rate increase. The
City of Vadnais Heights increased rates from 2023 to 2024 8%, which is why I am increasing rates 8% for
2025. Also the City of Vadnais Heights lowered the meter (base) fee to reflect the actual meter size and
started subtracting the irrigation meter usage from sewer usage in their bills to the City of Gem Lake.
These changes are allowing the City of Gem Lake to lower the charges for water and sewer to those
customers serviced by Vadnais Height.
Ramsey County owns and operates over 290 miles of roadway. County Roads are classified as
either County State Aid Highways or County Roads. Funding comes from various sources; a large
source of funding comes from the gas tax that gets deposited in the County State Aid Highway Fund
account. These funds can only be used on County State Aid Highways (CSAH). There are several
variables that determine the amount of money is allocated to each roadway, sometimes referred to
as “needs”.
Ramsey County recently completed a countywide study to determine if any roadway classifications
should be changed from CSAH or County Road (CR) status. The objective of this study was to
maximize the needs of our CSAH system to maximize the funding allocated to our CSAH roadway
network (which is over 85% of our miles). The study identified several short sections of roadway in
Gem Lake that draw higher needs that other CSAH segments elsewhere in the county. The
reallocation of Otter Lake Road, Scheuneman Road, and Labore Road from County roads to CSAHs
will create more needs, and therefore bring in more annual funding to Ramsey County for roadway
construction and maintenance.
The roadway classification does not impact how, or when, we program roadway improvements –
instead it simply identifies which pot of money is used to fund these improvements. This action is
administrative in nature and requires impacted Cities to pass a resolution
supporting/acknowledging the modifications. That is the resolution request that was sent to you
along with our board action detailing all of the modifications throughout the county.
15 West Kellogg Blvd.
Saint Paul, MN 55102
651-266-9200
Board of Commissioners
Resolution
B2024-185
Sponsor: Public Works Meeting Date: 9/24/2024
Title: Designation and Revocation of County State Aid Highway
Mileage on Various County Roadways
File Number: 2024-395
Ramsey County completed a system designation study which included a comprehensive evaluation
of the existing and future transportation system within the county. This study aimed to evaluate the
county’s roadway system designations and identify changes that maximize our system needs,
mileage allotment, and, ultimately, our County State Aid funding. As a result of this analysis,
Ramsey County has prepared, for review and consideration by the Minnesota Department of
Transportation (MnDOT)’s Division of State Aid for Local Transportation, several jurisdictional
changes based on the consideration of the rules governing the designation of State Aid Routes and
current and future needs identified by county staff.
Ramsey County currently has 262.6 designated County State Aid Highway (CSAH) miles and 0.65
banked miles. This request proposes several segment redesignations and utilization of a portion of
our current banked mileage. The proposed changes result in no net increase to the system mileage
and can be completed through an administrative process upon MnDOT State Aid approval.
A resolution from the Ramsey County Board is required to complete this adjustment to the county’s
CSAH designations.
Background and Rationale:
Recommendation:
The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners resolved to:
1.Authorize the revocation of previously designated County State Aid Highway mileage for:
a.New Brighton Road (CSAH 47), from Lake Johanna Boulevard (CSAH 149) to its
intersection with County Road E2 (CSAH 73) (depicted as Segment 1 on Attachment A)
b.Sherwood Road (CSAH 4) from County Road J/Ash Street (CSAH 1) to its intersection
with Turtle Lake Road (depicted as Segment 2 on Attachment A)
2.Establish, locate, and designate as a County State Aid Highway of Ramsey County, subject
to the approval of the Commissioner of Transportation of the State of Minnesota:
a.Otter Lake Road (CR148)/Scheuneman Road (CR 147)/Hoffman Road (CR 146)/CR F
(CR 95) from Goose Lake Road (CSAH 14) to US 61 (depicted as Segments 1-4 on
Attachment B)
b.Labore Road (CR 108) from Goose Lake Road (CSAH 14) to County Road E East (CSAH
15) depicted as Segment 5 on Attachment B)
c.Lydia Road (CR 107)/Joy Road (CR 109) from Bellaire Ave (CSAH 19) to Geneva Ave
(MN 210) (depicted as Segments 6-7 on Attachment B)
d.County Road J (CR 81) from Centerville Road (CSAH 59) to I-35E (depicted as Segments
8 on Attachment B)
e.County Road E (CR 99)/Soo Street (CR 136) from Victoria (CSAH 52) to Owasso
Boulevard (CSAH 18) (depicted as Segments 9-10 on Attachment B)
Page 1 of 2
File Number: 2024-395 Resolution Number: B2024-185
A motion to approve was made by Commissioner Moran, seconded by Commissioner Ortega.
Motion passed.
Aye: - 5: Frethem, Moran, Ortega, Reinhardt, and Xiong
Absent: - 1: McGuire
By:
Mee Cheng, Chief Clerk - County Board
Page 2 of 2
City of Gem Lake
County of Ramsey
State of Minnesota
Resolution No. 2024-0025
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF GEM LAKE TO ESTABLISH, LOCATE,
AND DESIGNATE OTTER LAKE ROAD (CR 148)/SCHEUNEMAN ROAD (CR 147) AND
LABORE ROAD (CR 108) AS A COUNTY STATE AID HIGHWAY OF RAMSEY COUNTY
WHEREAS, the County Board of the County of Ramsey did adopt a resolution on 9/24/2024, locating,
establishing, designing and numbering the County State Aid Highway System of Ramsey County, and
WHEREAS, said resolution locates and establishes certain County State Aid Highways within the
corporate limits or the City of Gem Lake.
WHEREAS, three roads in Gem Lake were impacted by this board action. Otter Lake Road (from Goose
Lake to Scheuneman Road), Scheuneman Road (from Otter Lake Road to the City border) and Labore
Road (from CR E to Goose Lake Road) were changed from County Roads to County State Aid
Highways.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Gem Lake that the
resolution adopted by the County Board, a copy of which is attached hereto and made a part thereof,
locating or establishing the County State Aid Highway system within the City limits (and revoking certain
portions of said system) is in all things approved.
The motion for adoption of the foregoing Resolution was duly introduced by Councilmember
__________ and supported by Councilmember __________, and upon vote being taken thereon, the
resolution passed with a vote of _____ in favor and _____ against.
Adopted/Not Adopted by the City Council of the City of Gem Lake, Minnesota, this 15th day of October
2024.
Gretchan Artig-Swomley, Mayor
ATTEST:
Melissa Lawrence, Acting City Clerk
Certification
I hereby certify that the above is a true and correct copy of a Resolution duly passed, adopted, and
approved by the City Council of Gem Lake on the 15th day of October 2024.
Melissa Lawrence, Acting City Clerk
Here is pricing and specs on a couple laptop options. The main difference
you will see is the screen size:
Dell Latitude 5550 (Standard Specs)
15", 10-key
$980.30
Core Ultra 5 125U processor
16 GB RAM
256 GB Hard Drive
Dell Latitude 5450 (Standard Specs)
$1,078.11
14" screen
Core Ultra 5 125U processor
16 GB RAM
256 GB Hard Drive
For the scanner, this option is comparable to what WBT recently
implemented:
Canon imageFORMULA DR-C230 Office
$366.10
Updated 9/30/2024
Current Hours Available: 214 (26 days, 6 hours)
Hours to earn for the rest of 2024: 42 (5 days, 2 hours)
Total for 2024: 256 (32 days)
Carryover Amount: 160 (20 days)
Total that needs to be used or I lose it: 96 (12 days)
October (Just needed to use up days so I don’t lose them)
• October 28 – Vacation (8 Hours)
• October 29 - Vacation (8 Hours)
• October 30 - Vacation (8 Hours)
• October 31 - Vacation (8 Hours)
• Grand Total of 4 day used.
November (Birthday and Thanksgiving Week)
• November 21 – Vacation (8 Hours)
• November 25 – Vacation (8 Hours)
• November 26 – Vacation (8 Hours)
• November 27 – Vacation (8 Hours)
• November 28 – Thanksgiving (Paid Holiday, 8 Hours)
• November 29 – Day After Thanksgiving (Paid Holiday, 8 Hours)
• Grand Total of 4 day used.
December 23 – January 1 (Christmas and end of year break)
• December 23 – Vacation (8 Hours)
• December 24 – Christmas Eve (Paid Holiday, 8 Hours)
• December 25 – Christmas (Paid Holiday, 8 Hours)
• December 26 – Vacation (8 Hours)
• December 30 – Vacation (8 Hours)
• December 31 – Vacation (8 Hours)
• January 1 – New Years Day (Paid Holiday, 8 Hours)
• Grand Total of 4 days used.
After talking with Tom Kelly, I realized that some of the hours I plan to take will be for next years cumulative
hours worked because they fall on the last paycheck of the year which gets paid out in 2025. These hours will
technically county towards 2025 hours used and not 2024.
This means that for me not to lose any vacation days Tom suggested I reach out to the Council and request
that 4 days (32 hours), be added to the carryover limit for this year to ensure that I do not lose those hours.
Once that week has passed, Tom or BS&A Support would go back in and change the threshold back to 160
hours.
I will do better in 2025 to manage my vacation hours so that I don’t have to rush to take so many at the end of
the year so that I do not lose them.
CITY OF GEM LAKE
Heritage Hall
4200 Otter Lake Road | Gem Lake, MN 55110
651-747-2790/92 | 651-747-2795 (fax)
E-mail city@gemlakemn.org
City Council Meeting – November 19, 2024
Call to Order of City Council Meeting
By Mayor Artig-Swomley at 7:_____ p.m.
Call of Roll
Artig-Swomley Cacioppo Hynes-Amlee Johnson Lindner
Approve Agenda and Minutes
• Accept the Agenda for the November 19, 2024, City Council Meeting
• Approve the Minutes from October 15, 2024, City Council Meeting
• Approve the Minutes from the November 7, 2024, Canvassing Meeting
• Accept the Minutes from the November 12, 2024, Planning Commission Meeting
Special Presentations/Public Hearings
• None
Consent Agenda
• Resolution #2024-0026 November 2024 Donation to White Bear Lake Area Food Shelf
• Liquor Licenses
o ???
• Tobacco Licenses
o ???
• Monthly Financial Report(s)
• Claims
Committee Reports
• Planning Commission
Old Business
• Newsletter Updates / Topics / Suggestions
• Code Enforcement Issues Discussion
New Business
• Future Charitable Gambling Donations
o White Bear Lake Emergency Food Shelf
Community Outreach to Other Cities and Government Bodies
Presentations from the Public, 2 minutes maximum
Open Items for Council Members to Bring Up
Future Council Meetings
• Next City Council Meeting, Tuesday, December 17, 2024
o Attendance Inquiry
• Next City Council Workshop, Monday, December 9, 2024 – CANCELED
Adjournment – The meeting adjourned at ________