HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-01-20 CC MIN
. lwater
THE I..T"'LACE OF MINNEIOTA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
January 20, 2009
SPECIAL MEETING
4:30 P.M.
Mayor Harycki called the City Council meeting to order at 4:30 p.m.
Present:
Staff present:
Councilmembers Cook, Gag, Polehna, Roush and Mayor Harycki
City Administrator Hansen
City Attorney Magnuson
Public Works Director Sanders
City Clerk Ward
Brown's Creek Watershed District Board President Craig Leiser called the Watershed Board
meeting to order. Administrator Karen Kill did the roll call.
Present:
Absent:
Managers Craig Leiser, Gail Pundsack, Connie Taillon and Rick Vanzwol
Manager Gerald Johnson
Staff present:
Administrator Kill
Engineer Pat Conrad
OTHER BUSINESS
Workshop with Browns Creek Watershed District
Lonq Lake
Mr. Leiser stated the Watershed District would be willing to do some modeling regarding
the lake elevation and issues related to the weir at 72nd Street, but stated at this time
there is not enough high water data to proceed with such a study. He noted there is
plenty of data for low water conditions, but stated the Watershed would like to have
another year of data when there is a heavy snow melt or several large storms for high
water data.
Mr. Leiser stated the Watershed District is conducting a Long Lake draw down feasibility
study. He stated a financial estimate should be available in the near future, and the
District is looking at results from two other lakes where draw downs have been done.
He said the Watershed is not contemplating doing any dredging at this time. Mayor
Harycki and Councilmember Polehna asked about the delta areas at the south end of
the lake. Ms. Kill said some limited dredging may be done in that area. Mayor Harycki
suggested perhaps the City might be able to offer some assistance with a draw
City Council Meeting
January 20, 2009
down/dredging. During discussion, Mr. Leiser pointed out that according to state statute,
a draw down requires 100 percent approval of adjacent property owners, which in the
case of Long Lake, is about 60 or 65 property owners. Mr. Leiser said there has been
some talk of legislation to change the 100 percent approval requirement.
Motion by Mayor Harycki, seconded by Councilmember Polehna directing City staff to prepare
a letter to the City's state legislators seeking their support for legislation which would reduce
the 100 percent approval requirement for a lake draw down. All in favor.
Mr. Leiser stated he would provide City staff with the actual wording of the law for
incorporation in the letter
Mr. Leiser and Ms. Kill reviewed several projects to improve the water quality of Long
Lake. They stated an experimental engineering solution is being tested at the holding
pond by Herberger's where a filter that adheres to phosphorus has been installed. They
said this is a new technique and the Watershed District is currently working with the
manufacturer on this possible solution to high phosphorus levels. In 2009, automated
sampling will be done at the pond. Mr. Leiser and Ms. Kill both expressed appreciation
for the assistance that has been provided by City staff. Other water quality projects
include Best Management Practices grants for lakeshore restoration or installation of
rain gardens. Ms. Kill described a shoreline restoration project completed in 2008. In
2009, Ms. Kill said the Watershed District will be doing shoreline restoration in two City
park areas; the two projects total 3,000 feet of shoreline, a total of 105,000 square feet.
It was noted that the Watershed District has $50,000 budgeted for matching funds for
Best Management Practices. It was noted that each rain garden removes from .5 to 5
pounds of phosphorus. In 2008, there were 20 shoreline restorations or rain garden
projects installed, with 23 additional projects approved, according to a Watershed
handout. Councilmember Polehna suggested that information about the rain garden
program be included in a City newsletter. Mr. Leiser briefly highlighted a summary of
lake quality which indicates Long Lake had a C+ grade in 2008 and which indicates an
improving trend for water transparency and average total phosphorus.
Long Lake/McKusick Lake/Lily Lake management plans - City Engineer Sanders
provided copies of an internal phosphorus loading assessment for McKusick Lake
prepared by Wenck & Associates. Mr. Sanders noted that it has been determined that
the algae growth at McKusick is not due to the sediment in the lake - the phosphorus
loading is coming from upstream. Ms. Kill reviewed the results of the 2008 sampling of
the Long Lake-Brown's Creek diversion drainage area. She stated that samples were
collected at the Long Lake outlet, the Jackson Wildlife Management Area outlet, the
drainage crossing at Boutwell Road and at the diversion structure. She said sampling
indicates that total phosphorus increases as water goes down the system, noting there
is a significant difference between samples collected at the Boutwell site and the
diversion structure; she pointed out there are several large wetlands in that area which
may be significant. Ms. Kill said the Watershed plans to add four additional sampling
sites in 2009 to try to pinpoint where the large spikes are coming from. Mayor Harycki
questioned whether four additional sites would be adequate and whether sampling
Page 2 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20, 2009
results would be available in a timely fashion. There was discussion about the need to
determine the source of the pollution before determining a solution, and discussion of
the feeling by McKusick Lake property owners that the Brown's Creek diversion project
is responsible for the current problems at McKusick Lake.
Ms. Kill stated the City's three lake management plans will be used to complete the final
Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) study report, which will make the City/Watershed
eligible for federal funds. The Washington County Conservation District will serve as
applicant, she said.
Brown's Creek
Mr. Leiser stated Brown's Creek has been listed as impaired water because of its low
biota - not enough creatures to support a fish population. He said the TMDL indicates
quantities of suspended solids, a high copper concentration and temperature as
possible contributing factors. Ms. Kill noted that Stillwater is a MS4-permitted
community and its MS4 permit will have to be updated to comply with the TMDL. Ms.
Kill asked how the Council wished to be informed of the process - at workshop
sessions, through staff, or at Council meetings. It was consensus that the workshop
sessions are helpful and ought to be held on a more regular basis; it was decided to
schedule the next workshop in late April/early May. It was noted that the Watershed has
received a grant from Trout Unlimited for a stream bank restoration project. Ms. Kill said
she has identified a possible site in the Brown's Creek Park Reserve for the restoration
project.
Stone Arch Bridqe
Mr. Leiser updated the Council on efforts to repair the Stone Arch Bridge. He noted the
bridge is located on private property. He said the property owner is working with a
number of funding sources in an effort to refurbish the bridge. He stated the Watershed
District has agreed to redirect the stream flow of Brown's Creek as the current flow is
eroding the bridge abutment on the east side.
It was the consensus of the City Council and the Brown's Creek Watershed District
Board that another joint meeting should be held the end of April or beginning of May.
The Brown's Creek Watershed District Board meeting was adjourned at 5:52 p.m. The
City Council meeting was recessed until 7 p.m.
REGULAR MEETING
7:00 P.M.
Mayor Harycki called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Present: Councilmembers Cook, Gag, Polehna, Roush and Mayor Harycki
Staff present: City Administrator Hansen
Page 3 of 14
City Council Meeting
~
January 20, 2009
City Attorney Magnuson
Community Development Director Turnblad
Finance Director Harrison
Fire Chief Glaser
Police Chief Gannaway
Public Works Director Sanders
City Clerk Ward
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Lieutenant Jorgenson of the 34th Military Police Company stationed in Stillwater led the
Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Councilmember Cook noted the proper spelling of her first name for the record
Motion by Councilmember Polehna, seconded by Councilmember Gag, moved approval of
January 6, 2009, regular meeting minutes. All in favor.
PETITIONS, INDIVIDUALS, DELEGATIONS & COMMENDATIONS
Resolution of Support for the 34th Red Bulllnfantrv Division & Stillwater based 34th Militarv
Police Company
Motion by Councilmember Roush, seconded by Councilmember Polehna to adopt Resolution
2009-18, resolution of support for the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division and Stillwater-based 34th
Military Police Company.
Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Gag, Polehna, Roush and Mayor Harycki
Nays: None
Mayor Harycki read the resolution of support as the Division and Company prepares for
deployment to Iraq. Lt. Jorgenson thanked the Council and community for their support.
Certificate of Appreciation - Tim Thomsen retirinq Januarv 23. 2009
Mayor Harycki read a resolution expressing appreciation to Tim Thomsen for his 25
years of service to the City of Stillwater.
Motion by Councilmember Gag, seconded by Councilmember Polehna to adopt Resolution
2009-17, certificate of appreciation to Tim Thomsen.
Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Gag, Polehna, Roush and Mayor Harycki
Nays: None
Page 4 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20, 2009
Stillwater Bicycle Criterium - June 14. 2009 - Andrew Dahl
Andrew Dahl, representative for the Stillwater Bicycle Criterium and technical race
director, was present. Mayor Harycki referred to the City's budget constraints and noted
the Council recently approved forming a committee to look at issues related to special
events that take place in the City. Mr. Dahl highlighted some of the details of the Nature
Valley Grand Prix and requested that the Council consider allowing the race to take
place in Stillwater for the 8th consecutive year. Mr. Dahl asked the Council to consider
reserving Teddy Bear Park on the day of the race, June 14, so there are not two
overlapping events in the same area of downtown. He said he was aware of budget
constraints. He said he would be working with the Police Department to address parking
issues. Mayor Harycki pointed out it will be some time before the special events
committee, yet to be formed, will begin addressing issues and be able to provide
guidance. Mayor Harycki asked about the number of police officers usually assigned to
this event; Chief Gannaway stated in the past, four officers on overtime have been
provided. Mr. Dahl suggested they could work with Chief Gannaway and Chief Glaser or
Lakeview Hospital regarding the number of officers and EMTs. Councilmember Gag
asked about Public Works involvement; Public Works Director Sanders responded the
streets are swept before the race and cracks sealed, about a 12-16-hour time
commitment. Mr. Dahl stated at this time, the race people are just seeking the approval
to hold the race in Stillwater in order to begin planning. Mr. Dahl said race organizers
are aware of budget issues and would be willing to reimburse the City for staff time, if
necessary, noting the race is a non-profit organization that helps raise funds for
Children's Hospital hospice. During discussion, it was suggested any agreement with
bike race organizers should be consistent with the agreement for the new Stillwater
Marathon. Council member Cook suggested that an agreement should consider the
issue of street closures, which she said has been raised as a concern with some of the
larger special events.
Councilmember Polehna expressed his concern about closing Teddy Bear Park, as
requested, on Father's Day weekend. Mr. Dahl explained they are not requesting
closure of the Park but reserving the park so no other large events, such as a family
reunion, are scheduled there for the same time as the race.
Motion by Councilmember Cook, seconded by Councilmember Polehna to form a task force to
look at pursuing hosting the Stillwater Bicycle Criterium. All in favor.
OPEN FORUM
No public comments.
STAFF REPORTS
Police Chief Gannaway reported on parking alternatives as requested. He stated
currently a monthly $10 parking pass is available to citizens which enables holders to
park anywhere in the City. He stated all parking lots are free after November 1. Mayor
Page 5 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20, 2009
Harycki said downtown business owners have suggested there be a program of free
parking during weekdays that accommodates downtown business employees and
encourages local residents to shop downtown. Chief Gannaway noted that employees
have a tendency to take prime parking spots, which should be reserved for paying
customers. Councilmember Gag said the Parking Commission felt that $10 was a
reasonable price for monthly parking privileges.
Mayor Harycki reported that Greg Gartner has offered parking spots behind the former
Associated Eye Building for weekend parking and may be willing to consider off-hour
parking as well. Community Development Director Turnblad said he had additional
discussions with Mr. Gartner and will be bring the details to the Parking Commission.
Police Chief Gannaway also reported on options for dealing with graffiti, as requested.
He stated the Police Department has been working with the Youth Service Bureau to
have juvenile offenders do some of the cleanup. He said the Youth Service Bureau is
currently waiting for referrals for such a program. Councilmember Cook suggested
getting property owners' permission in advance, so when there are referrals, the work
can be done immediately.
Fire Chief Glaser reported that Captain Ron Johnson will be retiring effective Jan. 31,
2009, leaving the department with a full-time staff vacancy. He noted that Captain
Johnson has served the City for over 26 years; he stated a more formal recognition
ceremony will take place at a later date.
Community Development Director Turnblad provided an update on the parking ramp.
He stated next week major equipment will begin to be brought to the site. In early
February, pile driving will start, with utility construction scheduled to begin in mid-March,
retaining wall construction in late March, and foundation work to begin in April. He
stated the building will begin to come out of the ground in May, with completion
estimated around November 1. He stated that by February 1, the Lowell Inn, Second
Street and Rivertown Commons' lot will no longer be usable, with the interim parking
park in place before that time.
Public Works Director Sanders reported staff and the Corps of Engineers have agreed
upon an appraiser to work on land acquisition costs for the levee project and that he is
trying to schedule a meeting to get that process moving. He provided a brief history of
the project for new Councilmembers. Mayor Harycki addressed some budget issues
related to the project.
City Administrator Hansen told the Council staff has been looking at refunding of four
bond issues for a possible cost savings. He said at this time the bond market is
favorable and it appears that if three of the issues are refunded, the City could save
nearly $400,000. He asked the Council to authorize a resolution for staff to pursue a
refunding with staff to come back with the details when they are known.
Page 6 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20, 2009
Motion by Mayor Harycki, seconded by Councilmember Roush to adopt Resolution 2009-21,
authorize the refunding of the three bond issues 1998B, 2000D, and 2002A.
Ayes: Councjlmembers Cook, Gag, Polehna and Roush and Mayor Harycki
Nays: None
CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Harycki asked that item NO.5 be pulled for staff explanation.
Motion by Councilmember Polehna, seconded by Councilmember Gag to approve the Consent
Agenda, excluding item NO.5.
1. Resolution 2009-14, directing payment of bills
2. Possible approval of waiver of garbage collection charges
3. Possible approval to renew antivirus licenses for 2009
4. Resolution 2009-15, approval of Northland Park Warming House
agreement
5. Resolution 2009-16, a resolution adopting a reassessment and
providing for an abatement of certain assessments and the refund
of an assessment that has been paid but determined to be invalid
Councilmember Cook asked that large expenditures, such as the TIF payments, be
explained in more detail to reference a specific project. Community Development
Director and Mayor Harycki explained the TIF concept.
Councilmember Roush asked about Item 2; City Clerk Ward explained the City's
ordinance provides relief for senior citizens, either reduced rates or a waiver of fees.
Ms. Ward noted seniors must make application and meet certain income criteria.
Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Gag, Polehna, Roush and Mayor Harycki
Nays: None
City Attorney Magnuson explained Item NO.5 relates to the Liberty West development
and the policy that established the transportation adequacy fund. He explained that the
assessment is being recertified over 17 units, so the developer is paying the entire
assessment, rather than including two property owners who were unaware of the
assessment when they purchased their properties. Mr. Magnuson explained this is a
housekeeping measure.
Motion by Councilmember Polehna, seconded by Councilmember Roush to approve Item No.
5, Resolution 2009-16.
Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Gag, Polehna, Roush and Mayor Harycki
Nays: None
Page 7 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20, 2009
PUBLIC HEARINGS
This is the date and time for a public hearinq to consider the transfer of an Off-sale liquor and
tobacco license from Sutler's. Inc.. DBA: Sutler's to Haskell's Inc.. DBA: Haskell's located at
2225 Curve Crest Blvd. Notice was published in the Stillwater Gazette on Januarv 8. 2009.
City Clerk Ward noted that approval should be contingent upon Police, Finance, Fire,
Building departments and Minnesota Liquor Control approvals. Mayor Harycki opened
the public hearing. No comments were received, and the hearing was closed.
Motion by Councilmember Gag, seconded by Councilmember Roush to adopt Resolution
2009-19, approving transfer of ownership of Off Sale Liquor and To~acco licenses.
Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Gag, Polehna, Roush and Mayor Harycki
Nays: None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Possible 2nd reading of Ordinance 1003, an ordinance amendinq the Stillwater City Code
Section 31-300, entitled district boundaries & Ordinance 1004. an ordinance amendinq the
Stillwater City Code Chapter 31. entitled Zoninq Ordinance by addinq "Senior Care Livinq
Facility" in the Lakeshore Residential Zoninq District as a Specially Permitted Use and
approval of the Development Aqreement
Mayor Harycki brought up the issue of the time between first and second reading of an
ordinance, recalling an instance when several years had elapsed between the two
readings; he suggested perhaps that is an issue to be referred to the Charter
Commission to determine if there should be a time limit between first and second
reading of an ordinance.
Motion by Mayor Harycki, seconded by Councilmember Polehna to refer this issue to the
Charter Commission. All in favor.
Community Development Director Turnblad reviewed the request. He noted that there
have been no changes to the ordinances since the first reading and the only changes to
the development agreement were clerical changes. Mr. Turnblad said the major issue
with the development agreement was the potential payment in lieu of taxes if the
property changes hands or status in the future, from profit to non-profit. He stated
approval of the ordinances is recommended and is consistent with the final plat that was
previously approved.
City Attorney Magnuson spoke to the development agreement and the payment in lieu
of taxes, noting the agreement provides a promise from the present owner that the
project will be held by a non-charity; the problem is any remedy if the property changes
to a tax-exempt status. Mr. Magnuson said he thought the development agreement
does provide an opening to have discussions about this issue with any future owners.
Page 8 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20, 2009
Mayor Harycki pointed out that this clause, which would be a,covenant to the title, would
expire in 20 years and wondered if there is a more permanent solution. City Attorney
Magnuson suggested perhaps the City could pursue a separate payment in lieu
agreement. Greg Johnson, speaking for the developer, said they have no problem in a
payment in lieu agreement of some type.
Motion by Councilmember Polehna, seconded by Councilmember Gag to adopt Ordinance
1003, an ordinance amending the Stillwater City Code Section 31-300, entitled district
boundaries & Ordinance 1004, an ordinance amending the Stillwater City Code Chapter 31,
entitled Zoning Ordinance by adding "Senior Care Living Facility" in the Lakeshore Residential
Zoning District as a Specially Permitted Use. Ordinance 1004 would not be published until an
actual building permit is ready for issuance by the City Building Official.
Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Gag, Polehna, Roush and Mayor Harycki
Nays: None
It was the consensus of the Council to bring the development agreement back at the
next Council meeting with the direction that a separate agreement is crafted dealing
with the payment in lieu of issue.
Information on Term limits & Council Representative as a votinq member on HPC & Human
Riqhts
City Clerk Ward referred to a memo in the agenda packet. Regarding term limits, she
stated not enough applications are received to fill vacancies, noting the Planning
Commission and Parking Commission are both short of membership. Mayor Harycki
suggested that term limits could be suspended if there is a drought of applicants.
Councilmember Gag spoke of the value of experience on Commissions, referring to the
Heritage Preservation Commission.
Regarding non-voting membership, Ms. Ward pointed out that to make the Council
representative to the Heritage Preservation and Human Rights commissions voting
members would require adding or eliminating another citizen representative, and
applications are down at this time. Ms. Ward suggested a change could be made when
Commission terms expire next or if someone resigns.
Motion by Mayor Harycki, seconded by Councilmember Cook to table this issue until the next
meeting, with City Clerk Ward to provide information on the term length of the various
commissions. All in favor.
Mayor Harycki noted while not on the agenda, makeup/mission of a special events
committee was supposed to be brought back at this meeting. He asked if Council
wished to take this issue up now or direct staff to prepare a write-up and bring it back at
the next meeting. It was consensus to have staff prepare a write-up for discussion at the
next meeting.
Page 9 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20,2009
Mayor Harycki also noted that when doing committee assignments, appointment to the
personnel (review) committee was missed, noting that the committee previously
consisted of the mayor and one councilmember; he asked City Clerk Ward to add it to
the committee list so it is not missed next year when making assignments.
Councilmember Polehna volunteered to serve on the personnel committee.
Councilmember Roush suggested that the committee be made up of the mayor and vice
mayor in future years.
Motion by Councilmember Gag, seconded by Councilmember Roush, moved to appoint Mayor
Harycki and Councilmember Polehna to the personnel committee and in future years put the
Personnel Committee on the Council Representatives appointment list that the Mayor and Vice
Mayor shall serve on the Personnel Committee. All in favor.
NEW BUSINESS
Consideration of a noise variance at Stillwater Public Librarv for June 6. 2009 - Trent Oqren
City Clerk Ward stated a request for a variance from the noise ordinance had been
received for a wedding being held at the Stillwater Public Library on June 6. The request
is to waive the noise ordinance until 11 :30 p.m., Ms. Ward noted that previously the
Council had directed staff to notify a neighborhood contact person; she said a letter had
been sent to the contact person making him aware of the req'uest.
Mayor Harycki pointed out that the Council had indicated it would look at this issue in
depth at the conclusion of last year's wedding season to analyze the impact on the
neighborhood, something that was never done. The neighborhood contact person
asked if this could be put off until there is further discussion at the Council level; he
stated that for some folks, the noise has diminished, but for others, it is still a problem.
The spokesperson wondered if granting this variance would ~et precedence for other
requests; he suggested having a "switch" to move music indoors after 10 p.m.
Police Chief Gannaway stated one complaint had been received last year. Mayor
Harycki suggested notifying all the neighborhood and invite feedback at the next
Council meeting. The applicant was present and stated they are planning to have a
band and were planning to have it outdoors. Ann Young, event coordinator for the
Library, said the problem with moving activities indoors is with the capacity of the indoor
room; the room has a capacity of about 100, while many weddings may have as many
as 300 guests. Ms. Young also spoke to the potential impact on Library rentals. Mayor
Harycki noted the request is just to move the music/dancing indoors, other activities
could still take place outdoors. It was determined that because the issue has not been
settled and that the applicant needs to plan for a wedding that a formal decision should
be made.
Motion by Councilmember Polehna, seconded by Council member Gag to deny the requested
noise variance. All in favor.
Page 10 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20, 2009
Mayor Harycki directed staff to send notices to the neighborhood for discussion of this
issue at the 4:30 workshop session at the next Council meeting on February 3, 2009
Possible release of capital for purchase of 3M Selfcheck & Storaqe Room Ladder & Railinq -
Librarv
Mayor Harycki noted the City has instituted a freeze on capital spending. On a question
from Councilmember Polehna, City Administrator Hansen said Library Director
Bertalmio did speak with him about these requests. Regarding the Selfcheck
equipment, Mr. Hansen said the intent is for efficiency in staffing. Regarding the ladder
and railing, he said he thought that was a safety issue.
Mayor Harycki suggested taking up the request for the Selfcheck at the next meeting
when other library issues are to be discussed and when Ms. Bertalmio will likely be
present to explain the necessity of the purchase.
Motion by Councilmember Polehna, seconded by Councilmember Cook to approve the
purchase of the storage room ladder and railing and table the Selfcheck request until the next
meeting. All in favor.
Request the purchase of replacement chief command vehicle - Fire Department
Fire Chief Glaser requested the release of funds for the purchase of a replacement chief
command vehicle. He noted funds had been approved in the 2009 capital improvement
budget. The new vehicle will be replacing a 2001 Chevy Blazer with over 91,000 miles
and maintenance costs of over $10,000 in the last several years, he said. Chief Glaser
noted command vehicles are important pieces of equipment for appropriate response to
incidents. Councilmember Polehna noted this issue had been discussed extensively
during the budget process. Councilmember Roush stated that he thought this was an
essential, rather than non-essential, purchase
Motion by Councilmember Gag, seconded by Councilmember Roush to approve the capital
purchase of a replacement chief command vehicle for the Fire Dep~rtment. All in favor.
Request the purchase of ice resurfacing machine - St. Croix Valley Recreation Center
City Administrator Hansen stated Rec Center Manager Doug Brady had spoken with
him about this request. He said the current machine is 10 years old, and Mr. Brady has
found that the optimum trade-in time is about 8 years. Mr. Hansen noted that Mr.
Brady's memo also includes a number of expenses that will likely be incurred if the
machine is not replaced. Mr. Hansen noted the purchase is scheduled over a five-year
cycle. Councilmember Polehna said he would encourage that sponsorships be pursued
but noted the machine is essential to the functioning of the Center.
Motion by Councilmember Polehna, seconded by Councilmember Gag to approve the request
as presented. All in favor.
Page 11 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20, 2009
Councilmember Cook expressed concern about the cost and spoke in favor of being
creative in pursuing other funding sources. It was noted the St. Croix Valley Recreation
Center is very-well managed and does contribute toward debt service on the facility.
Councilmember Roush asked whether a refurbished unit would be a reasonable option.
Councilmembers Polehna and Gag agreed to rescind the motion pending additional
information regarding the viability of utilizing a refurbished machine.
Motion by Councilmember Roush, seconded by Councilmember Cook to table the request to
the next meeting for additional information. All in favor.
Possible budqet cuts
City Administrator Hansen stated after the December 2008 state funding reductions,
department heads were asked to look at budget cuts in the 4 percent and 6 percent
range. He said he anticipates when the Governor announces his budget; the City will
see additional cuts in the range of 5-10 percent. He reviewed the summary of possible
department cuts that total a bit over $650,000 and suggested it is critical the Council
take action in the very near term or making cuts becomes even more difficult as the
budget year progresses. Mr. Hansen specifically reviewed the Mayor and Council
budget cuts, noting the recommendation includes the elimination of lobbyist services
and all contingency funds and elimination of AMM membership.
Mayor Harycki spoke in favor of continuing to fund lobbyist services given the two big
projects, levee and bridge, which the City needs to see to fruition. Councilmember Gag
agreed it would be shortsighted not to include funding for lobbying services.
City Administrator Hansen mentioned possible additions to the proposed cuts which
consisted of Council medical insurance, limit seal coating, limit sweeping, sell unused
City land, charge for planning staff time, voluntary unpaid leave program, bill for medical
calls, eliminate overtime by using comp time; and contract out MIS and Engineering
services to other entities.
Councilmember Roush had several specific questions related to police and fire line
items; he also asked whether the contribution for fireworks included both the 4th of July
and Lumberjack Days, saying he would expect the City to contribute for the 4th of July
celebration, but not the Lumberjack Days display, as a private venture. City
Administrator Hansen said he would check the contract with St. Croix Events.
Motion by Mayor Harycki, seconded by Councilmember Polehna to accept the budget cuts as
presented, with the exception of the lobbying pending further Council discussion, with the
added direction to begin preparation for an additional 5 percent reduction. All in favor.
Page 12 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20,2009
Possible appointment of alternate for Joint Cable Commission
Motion by Mayor Harycki , seconded by Councilmember Polehna to' adopt Resolution 2009-
20, appointment to Joint Cable Commission.
Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Gag, Polehna, Roush and Mayor Harycki
Nays: None
COUNCIL REQUEST ITEMS
Mayor Harycki asked Councilmembers to check their schedules for the first or second
Friday in May for possible scheduling of a Council retreat session; that was changed to
the second or third Friday due to a conflict with Councilmember Cook's schedule. Mayor
Harycki asked if conferences and non-essential classes have been eliminated from the
budget; City Administrator Hansen responded in the affirmative to the extent possible,
noting that some Police and Fire education is required.
Councilmember Polehna said he has been made aware of some problems with parking
around nursing homes and asked that staff come back with suggestions regarding
possible adjustment of the odd-even ordinance to alleviate some of the problem. Mayor
Harycki asked staff to check to see if a previous parking concern by Acer's off Poplar
had been taken care of.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Councilmember Roush, seconded by Councilmember Polehna, moved to adjourn at
10:09 p.m. All in favor.
ATTEST:
~ dj{J/7~
Diane F. Ward, City Clerk
Resolution 2009-14, directing payment of bills
Resolution 2009-15, approval of Northland Park Warming House
agreement
Resolution 2009-16, a resolution adopting a reassessment and
providing for an abatement of certain assessments and the refund of an
assessment that has been paid but determined to be invalid
Resolution 2009-17, certificate of appreciation to Tim Thomsen.
Page 13 of 14
City Council Meeting
January 20, 2009
Resolution 2009-18, resolution of support for the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division and
Stillwater-based 34th Military Police Company.
Resolution 2009-19, approving transfer of ownership of Off Sale Liquor and Tobacco
licenses
Resolution 2009-20, appointment to Joint Cable Commission
Resolution 2009-21, authorize the refunding of the three bond issues 1998B, 2000D,
and 2002A
Ordinance 1003, an ordinance amending the Stillwater City Code Section 31-300,
entitled district boundaries
Ordinance 1004, an ordinance amending the Stillwater City Code Chapter 31, entitled
Zoning Ordinance by adding "Senior Care Living Facility" in the Lakeshore Residential
Zoning District as a Specially Permitted Use (not be published until an actual
building permit is ready for issuance by the City Building Official)
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