Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-08-16 CC MINQ. g* ate ... f.f......E Of •.1f.... CITY COUNCIL MINUTES August 16, 2011 BUDGET WORKSHOP Mayor Harycki called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. 4:30 P.M. Present: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna and Roush and Mayor Harycki Absent: None Staff present: City Administrator Hansen City Attorney Magnuson Finance Director Harrison Mayor Harycki reviewed the process of the budget workshop for Councilmember Menikheim as this is his first budget workshop. There was discussion regarding others' experience and situations. City Administrator Hansen explained tax changes and that the preliminary budget he submits is basically accurate and reliable, LGA $175,000, state cuts, tax levy, levy limits, formulas. He stated that tonight we are looking at line items, for something you see that looks out of whack. Next week will be the session where items need to looked at more closely and decisions need to be made. There can be wish list items that need to be considered. Tax rates change, bases change, home values and homestead credits changes. Department heads have already done a good job of paring expenses, so there is little left that can be cut. These are bare -bone budgets. A report will be sent to the County on September 15 for the tax levy. This is then locked in; it can later go down but cannot go up. State aid to cities cannot be counted on. Councilmember Menikheim complimented Finance Director Harrison on the informative, user - friendly budget books. 4:30 MIS MIS Director Holman explained her role with all departments, and began with the Police Department's unplanned public safety hardware and software costs needed in connection with the new Washington County system that will be implemented March, 2012. She indicated that she will not have a final number until they get information regarding licensing fees for the new system, however their usual monthly budget will remain similar to what they are already paying. We don't know yet about licensing fees. Ms. Holman stated that the Fire Department will also be on board with this new system, however, as much as $10,000 in additional funds may be needed for their budget. City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 Councilmember Menikheim asked where the extra money would come from and Mayor Harycki replied that it is added to a laundry list of items to be included in the budget or out. Councilmember Roush clarified that the 2011 numbers were year to date. Ms. Holman added that the only other item was seminar conference fees of $5,000 that had not been in recent budgets, as neither Ms. Holman nor Mr. Bornt have attended training since 2007, and need to be trained on new technology and upgrades. Mayor Harycki noted that maintenance agreements for all copiers in the building have jumped in cost and Ms. Holman responded that it is from the extra fees for color copies, fire walls, licensing, software, etc. There was discussion about reducing color copies, considering paperless packets, required duplex copying, and shared printers. Some items such as maps are not readable if they are not in color. There is an access code for anyone making color copies, so that is a good control. Staff is encouraged to go to trainings, but hopefully the training is local rather than outstate to save cost. Updated trainings are required for many positions for licensing. Discussion followed regarding staff licensing fees -- police, fire, engineers, building inspector. Should the City pay for the license or should the individual? MIS capital outlay for virtualized servers: one large server takes up less space, is cheaper and sections off. Wireless electronic notepads are improving efficiency from police and fire to Councilmembers going paperless. These can be used by building inspectors as well. Council members complimented staff on being proactive on the recent HVAC system repairs on the faulty system and the air conditioning malfunction. It was discussed that 20% of IT Technician Bornt's time is allocated to the Library. One person at the library is to act as the liaison. Recently more and more of Mr. Bornt's time is spent there, so there needs to be some adjustments on library staff taking over some of the minor computer issues. There is a request for $4,000 in the budget for the wellness program under "unallocated." City Administrator Hansen explained the benefits of the program and resulting productivity. This year there was a very high participation rate and it does save money in having healthier employees using less sick leave. 5:00 Library Mayor Harycki asked about the 2012 Sundays being funded by donors and Library Director Bertalmio responded that it was a generous donation, but will not continue into the next year. Staff and board members were introduced. Library Director Bertalmio reported the library's goals of zero percent change in City support, increased revenues, Stillwater Foundation to forego the income on their furniture rentals, increase rental rates for events, and increased marketing for business meetings and school district workshops. Over $69,000 is anticipated for special event income in 2012. The library terrace was named by The Knot Minnesota magazine as the 2nd best place in the Twin Cities to get married. Efforts have been made to reduce noise from rooftop events, and there have been very few complaints. Outdoor music has to be over by 10 p.m. Potted plants with more foliage could Page 2 of 13 City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 be added to screen noise, but the view and maintenance must be considered as well. The noise source is directed towards Ascension when possible. It was reiterated that Mr. Bornt's time is at 20 %, so an effort should be made to reduce IT support. Part of the problem is the need for new computers and equipment that works better. On a question from Councilmember Menikheim, Director Bertalmio explained that the Library Foundation is an independent 501C. The library can express their needs, but the Foundation makes decisions on what programs they support, materials and programming, disposal of funds, and finding other sources for funding. They pay the contract for the marketing person. MELSA gets Legacy funds, which contributes to children's programs, adult programs, and family concerts. The library is looking for other sources for programming, security cameras, and a one -way window /mirror in the circulation department, so that staff can see out but the public cannot see in. Councilmember Roush asked for clarification on the $16,500 for machinery and equipment. This feeds into the $25,500 on the capital schedule that is on the schedule. The relationship with Washington County is going well, with Stillwater library providing demographics, programs for active retirees, children's programs, eBooks, and volunteers. The County takes care of ordering, cataloging, and processing. The school district would like to collaborate on library services and technology and a meeting has been set up for later this week. Ms. Bertalmio is looking at ways to attract more volunteers as a cost - saving measure. The library has three full -time staff and about thirty part-time. 5:30 Legal City Attorney Magnuson reported that the prosecution fee is 10% less than in 2007. The retainer hours were 549.40 hours for July 2010 to July 2011. Number of cases is gradually going up for time involved. The increase in activity downtown and the number of DWIs contribute to the amount of legal time needed. Councilmember Roush wanted to confirm that questions should be directed to City Administrator Hansen first rather than going directly to City Attorney Magnuson. The response was that this is correct. The City Administrator can triage out work, direct questions to department heads. Administrative fees are in the revenue. The police department handles intersection accidents (drivers have to receive either a ticket or an administrative citation to assign fault). The state hires police officers for some programs like "Click it or Ticket" and then covers some of the resulting expenses, such as salary at time and a half. The City covers much of the police officer time and pay. Some revenue comes from bar fees and cases taken to Conciliation Court to reclaim fees. We could add a Downtown liquor sales tax. Offenders could be fined for fighting, theft, etc., and be banned from the downtown area, but this leads to more court costs. It was suggested that the City check on ways to recoup more costs. Councilmember Roush complimented City Attorney Magnuson on his invaluable memory for City information and the longevity of his service. Councilmember Menikheim asked who has the ultimate accountability for the library. Administrator Hansen replied that City Council controls the budget amount, but the library board controls how it is spent. Rules are based on the City Charter. The library director is Page 3 of 13 City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 paid out of the Library Board funds; the director answers to the board, not to the City Council. The City has a good relationship with the library. Libraries are governed by state statutes. The City acts as trustee of their money in a separate library fund. It was suggested that since 70% of their budget is personnel, something could be done to offset that, perhaps with more volunteers. Library Director Bertalmio was complimented as the driving force behind the library, and on the great job she has done in initiating new programs and increasing revenue through rentals. She has also worked with groups to garner more donations and funding. It was also suggested that term limits be considered. The meeting was recessed at 6:30 p.m. RECESSED MEETING Mayor Harycki called the recessed meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. 7:00 PM Present: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna, and Roush, and Mayor Harycki Staff present: City Administrator Hansen City Attorney Magnuson Finance Director Harrison Fire Chief Glaser Community Development Director Turnblad Public Works Director Sanders Admin Secretary Manos PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Harycki led the Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion by Councilmember Roush, seconded by Councilmember Polehna, to approve the minutes from the July 19, 2011 regular meeting minutes and July 25, 2011 recessed and regular meeting minutes. All in favor. PETITIONS, INDIVIDUALS, DELEGATIONS & COMMENDATIONS Council Service Award — Officer Andrea Olson Mayor Harycki expressed the appreciation of the City Council, along with many others, for the contribution by Officer Andrea Olson to make National Night to Unite a great success. Chief Gannaway presented the Council Service Award to Officer Olson. Preferred Site Plan Concept for the New Armory and Fire Station Col. Bruce Jensen, Facilities Management Officer, along with Mike Ramsdell, Master Planner, Lt. Col. Jeff Turner, and consultant Greg Hulne from Burns & McDonnell were present. Col. Jensen reviewed the program planning charrette that was conducted for the Page 4 of 13 City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 proposed new armory and fire station facility in early June. In addition to presenting the preferred conceptual site plan, Col. Jensen discussed some of the next major milestones in the project schedule. He proposed decisions that need to be made by the City Council in the near future include: Fire station program planning; reasonably assure that the fire station and armory will be able to function side by side; Fire station construction concurrently with the armory, if later then Fire station architectural design completed now so that the two buildings' systems and programs will function together; extra gymnasium space constructed concurrently with the armory or later. Col. Jensen reviewed three preferred concept site plans. In each the conceptual building layout is the same, but site circulation and parking vary. The City's preferred version has a fire station entrance that is separated from public entrances. Col. Jensen pointed out that there are cost savings in combining the two buildings, when functional relationships, mechanical and electrical elements, and several different disciplines involved in the design are considered. Personnel from the City, MNARNG Stakeholders, architectural consultants, Washington County personnel, and National Guard Bureau representatives were included in the site planning. The group looked at traffic flow, access to the facility, environmental sustainability, and more in determining how to best use the facility and interact, based on the site. Three main uses were considered: fire station, expansion of the drill floor, and potentially an aquatic center (which was ruled out halfway through the session due to lack of space). There are a number of wetlands on the site that will be left alone. Force protection stand -off requirements need to be considered, along with minimizing the environmental impact to the existing site. Six possible courses of action were narrowed down to two which were further refined June 16. A conceptual map shows what is planned. The fire station needs dedicated parking so staff can get in and out quickly to respond to calls. National Guard parking is in another area. Parking areas will be available for community groups who will use the building as well, with sidewalk access to the front of the building. Controlled access will ensure that conflict is avoided with the fire department answering calls and National Guard staff entering office areas. Councilmember Cook asked about fire station access and Col. Jensen explained that fire station personnel could enter and exit directly onto Hwy. 12 (75th St.) or onto Boutwell Road. Shared opportunities for the fire station, National Guard, and community include classrooms, physical fitness room, kitchen, assembly hall, and a number of systems such as back -up power generation, common HVAC systems and utilities. Federal dollars are authorized in the amount of $188 per square foot, or about $2.8 million. The City and the community would benefit in sharing these facilities. Operating and maintenance costs would be shared based on actual hourly usage. Col. Jensen reiterated the potential courses of action, and upcoming actions Councilmember Cook asked about various costs that are the responsibility of the armory versus the City and Col. Jensen showed on the displayed map what buildings, parking lots, roads, etc., will come out of National Guard funding. Once City Council gives the green light to go ahead and lay out the scope of the work, a more specific proposal from the consulting firm can be completed and brought to the next council meeting. Page 5 of 13 City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 The National Guard standard for a drill floor is polished concrete which can accommodate light vehicles being brought in. If a wood floor is needed (for basketball, etc.), this could involve an extra expense at least partially paid for by the City. Councilmember Polehna suggested that a history area be included in the armory to showcase Stillwater's commitment to the military, paying tribute to those who have served and sacrificed to the community. Financial Statement - Tom Koop, Larsen Allen Mr. Koop and Brady Hoffinan, audit manager, complimented Finance Director Harrison and her department for their hard work and cooperation. He presented the 2010 financial statements and commented that they were found to be consistent with previous years, and no unusual transactions were found during the course of the audit. He noted that there will be a change next year in government accounting standards issued for Statement #54, which redefines fund type definitions and fund balance categories, and they will work with the Finance Dept to implement the new standards. There will be five categories that will give a better picture of the City's dollars in reserve and what they are being used for. Mr, Koop noted one misstatement in the entry for a utility bill impacting the Rec Center and the signs and lighting funds; they had no disagreements with management. They issued a clean opinion on the financial statements, the best opinion they are able to give, which means financial statements were fairly stated in all material respects. As far as internal controls, no material weaknesses were reported. He indicated some less severe internal control items, primarily Rec Center, and suggested putting internal controls into the contract with outside services at the Rec Center. City Administrator Hansen reminded the Council that these controls and procedures were requested by the City, particularly at the Rec Center, because they are an outside entity, to make things better and more secure. In reference to Minnesota legal compliance, the auditors noted two compliance exceptions: one was an invoice not paid within 35 days as required by Minnesota statutes; the other was a compliance directive that is required to be on the back of checks that was not there. Both are easily fixed and have already been taken care of. Mr. Koop reiterated that overall this is a very favorable audit report and the finance department is to be commended. LarsonAllen recommends that a City the size of Stillwater continue to have Council involved in the approval of disbursements. Efficiency should be considered along with costs versus benefit. A line or standard should be set as to what needs Council approval and what does not, so as not to become too costly and burdensome. City Administrator Hansen stated that the City does have an existing purchasing policy that he is working on revising. He will consult LarsonAllen before the final policy is adopted. The City can set the threshold on what needs Council approval and what does not. Next, Mr. Hoffinan highlighted Financial Results, including General fund expenditures that exceeded revenues by $70,258, partially due to out -of- pocket flood costs of $113,129 and Cayuga removal of $48,450. As far as general fund -days operating expenditures in fund balance, 2009 and 2010 exceeded the goal. Page 6 of 13 City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 Revenues and transfers -in versus expenditures and transfers -out were presented for the St. Croix Valley Recreation Center, the Library Fund, and Parks Fund. Enterprise Funds (non- governmental) included Sanitary Sewer Fund, Storm Sewer Fund, Signs and Lighting Fund, Parking Fund, and Board of Water Commissioners Water Fund. The Governmental Revenues by Source showed a consistent funding year to year (2001 -2010) from taxes, franchise fees, intergovernmental revenue, tax increment, special assessments, charges for services, and other. Capital Outlay and Construction Governmental Funds peaked four different years due to major construction projects. The Sanitary Sewer Fund shows that net assets before capital contributions decreased by $348,435, partially due to an increase by Metropolitan Council of 6.8 %. It is recommended that a rate increase should be considered for 2011 to stop the negative cash flow of reserves. The Signs and Lighting Fund is sitting at a deficit of about $90,000, so that one is a concern. Parking Fund was up in 2010 due to increased revenues from the new ramp. Water Fund — a separate audit was issued to the Water Board. Trend Data Total Net Tax Capacity shows a slight decline for 2010, as property valuation has gone down. On pages 116 -117 in the blue budget book, the third column of dollars shows a deficit for total gross levy versus what was collected. Contributing to that is the Market Value Homestead Credit that was un- allotted, so part of that is the state not paying its share of about $300,000. Outstanding Debt — 2010 shows a lower debt than 2009, partially due to an outstanding debt from 2009 that was paid off. Councilmember Cook asked for clarification on a comment she remembered from the 2009 audit about being more cautious about debt. Mr. Koop responded that based on the slides, the numbers this year show an improvement, and the debt, while significant, is not out of line for a city of this size. Mayor Harycki asked that if road repairs are funded through reserves, reports show that only one to two year's worth of projects can be done before we run out of reserves. He is looking for a schedule to lay out the beginning reserves, payback from citizens on various projects, and the 5% surplus on bonds. Ms. Harrison responded that she is working on that and will have it available at the next meeting. The mayor also noted that from the proposed budget book, there is so much movement in tax rates and market values and the City is proposing a 1.6% increase in the budget presented. He wondered if there is a way to take the payback from citizens, bond for it and net it out as a defeasance type of item. Mr. Koop responded that he should talk to the public finance bonding people. Some cities are using PAR bonds, so that as assessments are collected, the City is able to use those monies. New School Superintendent Dr. Corey Lunn, the new superintendent of Stillwater Area Schools, introduced himself and stated that he is very excited to be moving into the area with his family. He thanked the City Page 7 of 13 City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 for supporting the new Early Childhood Family Education Center. Groundbreaking was last week, and the kids were the first ones to shovel the sands. He has already met with Mayor Harycki to talk about ways to work together. OPEN FORUM There were no public comments. STAFF REPORTS Police, Fire, Acting City Clerk, Finance Director, City Attorney, City Administrator - No special reports. On a question by Councilmember Roush, Community Development Director Turnblad replied that they have begun to look at additional services like parking, trail heads, and bathrooms regarding the sale of the Zephyr line and its conversion to a bike trail. He added that preparations are being made for the changing dynamics of City's economic development. The purchase should be approved shortly, but improvements will take awhile. Public Works Director Sanders reported that he and Chief Gannaway met with FEMA and were told that the City's reimbursement for flood control expenses should be about $220,000, with the State covering the rest of that expense. Public Works Director Sanders reviewed that last year, $5,000 was included in the Signs and Lighting fund for a portable speed display sign. He indicated that he would like to purchase one that can be mounted to a pole and runs off lithium batteries. It comes with a locking mechanism to help prevent theft. Motion by Mayor Harycki, seconded by Councilmember Polehna, to authorize the purchase of a portable speed display sign. Motion passed unanimously. Public Works Director Sanders pointed out that the State sent the City an e -mail about the fuel consumption program whereby the City buys fuel at a fixed rate for the entire year. He estimated that $12,000 has been saved to date in 2011. Council gave verbal approval to continue this program. Councilmember Roush asked about borrowing a sign from the County that says it is illegal to pass on the shoulder. Others agreed that this would be a good idea. There already is such a sign that has been used along Manning between Highways 36 and 96. CONSENT AGENDA (ROLL CALL) 1. Resolution 2011 -109, directing payment of bills 2. Resolution 2011 -110, approving name change from Oliver & Louis, Inc. DBA: The Bikery to Vackra Nya Liv, Inc., DBA: The Bikery 3. Resolution 2011 -111, approving Minnesota Premises Permit for lawful gambling for American Legion Post 491, located at No -Neck Tony's, 231 Myrtle Street 4. Resolution 2011 -112, authorizing Certified Local Government Grant Application through Minnesota Historical Society Page 8 of 13 City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 Councilmember Cook asked that payment of bills be separated out. She questioned the $80,000 consulting services for the River Crossing. Motion by Councilmember Polehna, seconded by Councilmember Roush, to approve the consent agenda as presented and pull the bills at this time. Motion passed unanimously. Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna, and Roush, and Mayor Harycki Nays: None Motion by Councilmember Roush, seconded by Councilmember Polehna, to approve payment of the bills. Motion passed 4 -1. Ayes: 'Councilmembers Polehna, Roush, Menikheim, Mayor Harycki Nays: !Councilmember Cook PUBLIC HEARINGS This is the date and time for a public hearing_ to consider the issuance of a new On -Sale Tap Room Liquor License at 1900 Tower Drive, Lift Bridge Brewing Technologies, LLC, Daniel Schwartz applicant. Notice was published in the Stillwater Gazette on August 5, 2011. City Administrator Hansen referred to the memo on the Department of Agriculture review, as there are some issues the company will need to take care of. Subject to approval of liquor control and the Department of Agriculture, City Clerk Ward recommends approval by the City. The public hearing was opened. No one was present who wished to speak. Motion by Councilmember Cook, seconded by Councilmember Roush, to approve Resolution No. 2011 -113, approving the issuance of a new On -Sale Brewer's Tap Room Liquor License to Lift Bridge Brewing Technologies LLC, DBA: Lift Bridge Brewery located at 1900 Tower Drive, based upon the conditions set forth in the City Clerk's memo. Motion passed unanimously. Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna, and Roush, and Mayor Harycki Nays: None This is the date and time for a public hearing to consider the transfer of the On -sale and Sunday liquor license from Loggers, Inc, DBA: Loggers, to TJ Stillwater LLC, DBA: No -Neck Tony's located at 231 Myrtle Street Stillwater, MN. Anthony Misenor and Jessica Junker, applicant. Notice was published in the Stillwater Gazette on August 4, 2011. (Resolution — Roll Call) City Administrator Hansen stated that this is a transfer only. The public hearing was opened. No one was present who wished to speak. Motion by Councilmember Cook, seconded by Councilmember Polehna, to approve Resolution No. 2011 -114, approving transfer of Ownership of the On -sale and Sunday liquor licenses from Loggers, Inc, DBA: Loggers, to TJ Stillwater LLC, DBA: No -Neck Tony's, based upon the approvals as spelled out in the City Clerk's memo dated from August 3, 2011. Motion passed unanimously. Page 9 of 13 City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna, and Roush, and Mayor Harycki Nays: None This is the date and time for a public hearing to consider the issuance of a new On -Sale Tap Room 'Liquor License at 402 Main Street S, Stillwater Brewing Company, LLC. Zachary Morgan and Justin Stanley, applicant. Notice was published in the Stillwater Gazette on August 5, 2011. City Administrator Hansen stated that this is similar to the application considered earlier. The public hearing was opened. No one was present who wished to speak. Motion by Councilmember Roush, seconded by Councilmember Polehna, to approve Resolution No. 2011 -115, approving the issuance of a new On -Sale Brewer's Tap Room License Stillwater Brewing Company, LLC, DBA: Stillwater Brewery located at 402 Main Street S, based upon the approvals of the other agencies involved. Motion passed unanimously. Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna, and Roush, and Mayor Harycki Nays: None Case No. 2011 -04a. This is the date and time for a public hearing to consider a request from City of Stillwater for future land map amendments related to the Comprehensive Plan rezoning and any variances related thereto. Notices were mailed to affected property owners and published in the Stillwater Gazette on July 15, 2011. Case No. 2011 -04b. This is the date and time for a public hearing to consider a request from City of Stillwater for special use permits for properties related to the Comprehensive Plan rezoning and any variances related thereto. Notices were mailed to affected property owners and published in the Stillwater Gazette on July 15, 2011. These were tabled from the July 25, 2011 meeting. Community Development Director Turnblad explained that to make our zoning map consistent with our Comp Plan, the City has rezoned 369 properties. During that process the City and property owners for a dozen properties agreed to amend the Future Land Use Map and leave zoning as it is. Two areas being considered for changing the map and not rezoning are the 10 properties located on Linson Circle. They will be left RB for two duplexes. The other properties are the Gulf Gas Station and SE -TAC at the corner of Curve Crest Blvd and Greeley St S. They are retail up front and commercial in back, and would like to stay Business Park Commercial rather than Industrial and the land use map will be changed to reflect this. He indicated that the Planning Commission recommends approval as both the property owners and neighbors agree. Mr. Turnblad explained that a map change requires an ordinance, so this becomes the first reading of Ordinance No. 1038. The public hearing was opened. No one was present who wished to speak. Motion by Councilmember Roush, seconded by Councilmember Polehna, to approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 1028 as presented. The motion passed unanimously. Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna, and Roush, and Mayor Harycki Nays: None Page 10 of 13 City Council Meeting UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. NEW BUSINESS August 16, 2011 Possible approval of resolution declaring costs and preparing assessment roll and resolution calling for assessment hearing for 2011 Street Improvements (Project 2011 -02) Public Works Director Sanders stated that as part of the public improvement process, an assessment hearing needs to be held for the street improvement project. The first step is to declare cost to be assessed, and since the City received favorable bids, it lowered the assessment rate from the feasibility report 3% to reflect the cost saving for the project. Replacing galvanized water came in at 33% less and those costs are assessed 100 %. Tonight the department is asking for the approval of two resolutions declaring cost to be assessed, ordering the preparation of the assessment role, and the calling for a hearing on September 20. Motion by Councilmember Cook, seconded by Councilmember Polehna, to approve Resolution No. 2011 -116, declaring cost to be assessed and ordering preparation of proposed assessment for 2011 Street Improvements (Project 2011 -02), L.I. #390. Motion passed unanimously. Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna, and Roush, and Mayor Harycki Nays: None Motion by Councilmember Cook, seconded by Councilmember Polehna, to approve Resolution No. 2011 -117, calling for hearing on proposed assessment for 2011 Street Improvements (Project 2011 -02), L.I. #390. Motion passed unanimously. Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna, and Roush, and Mayor Harycki Nays: ,None Councilmember Polehna stated that he has been contacted by Mr. Kress, who says he was assessed for a copper water line back in the 60's. However, neighbors on each side of him have copper and he has galvanized. As we move forward on final assessments, is there a way to go through the records and determine what was done. The water department has no such records. Public Works Director Sanders responded that the City has past records of assessment rolls and he will go back and check them. Mayor Harycki asked Mr. Sanders asked about the Wilkins Street project. The gas line is holding up the show right now, but should be completed the end of this week. Work on the street should begin shortly thereafter. The schools will be notified of status so that they can plan busing. Sidewalks should not be affected. Most of the work is curb to curb. Possible approval of authorization to bid the Pedestrian Walkway project Community Development Director Turnblad reviewed that plans and specs are finished and are identical to what has already been discussed. They would like to publish them and request bids so that it can be presented at the October 4 council meeting. Page 11 of 13 City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 Councilmember Cook questioned whether a waiver from FEMA was needed and Mr. Turnblad responded that FEMA makes an advisory review as does the DNR on the flood plain issue. The Planning Commission approved the variance for the floodplain and the height issue. The building will be flood proofed. Council will look at the variance during a public hearing at their next meeting. Motion by Councilmember Polehna, seconded by Councilmember Roush, to adopt Resolution No. 2011 -118, approving plans & specifications and ordering advertisement for bids for the Pedestrian Walkway project. Motion passed unanimously. Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna, and Roush, and Mayor Harycki Nays: None Possible approval of new playground equipment for Triangle and Ramsey Grove Parks Public Works Director Sanders reviewed the equipment will be paid for out of parks capital in the amount of $84,000. By working through a state bid contract, the bids came in at a lower cost, including installation. St. Croix Recreation Company was the low bidder. The design was displayed. Notices were sent out to both neighborhoods and resulted in primarily positive comments. Suggestions were made about some of the panels included. On a question by Councilmember Roush, Mr. Sanders responded that what is pictured is what we will install. Councilmember Roush suggested that two plain panels seem like a waste of money and agreed that more interactive panels would be more appropriate. There was discussion regarding the feedback received and safety of crossing the street. Motion by Councilmember Roush, seconded by Councilmember Polehna, to approve Resolution 2011 -119, approve contract with St. Croix Recreation Company to furnish and install play equipment for Triangle and Ramsey Grove Park, with the suggestion to reconsider the two panels on the toddler assembly. Motion passed unanimously. Ayes: Councilmembers Cook, Menikheim, Polehna, and Roush, and Mayor Harycki Nays: None COUNCIL REQUEST ITEMS Councilmember Cook mentioned that there is signage put up throughout Stillwater that look like litter; it is unclear what is being advertised. She would like to see more signage enforcement and mentioned that in the past City Planner Pogge has indicated that if signs are left on public property, they can be picked up. Community Development Director Turnblad indicated that sign issues are cyclical; when the number of signs that show up reaches a certain mass, then staff is asked to take care of it. This generates a lot of phone calls to Council, and then staff is told to stop. The sign ordinance has been amended so that garage sale signs, realtor signs, etc., are allowed as long as they follow the guidelines in the ordinance. There is also an issue with newspapers being thrown on the ground by mailboxes or in the street. Councilmember Cook asked about what can be done regarding the water system on the North Hill, and if a feasibility study is appropriate. Mayor Harycki responded that feasibility study Page 12 of 13 City Council Meeting August 16, 2011 is very expensive. Residents could put in a private lift station, but so far the neighbors won't cooperate and the one selling is left to handle it on his own. City Administrator Hansen said City staff would discuss what can be done at Wednesday's staff meeting. Councilmember Polehna reported that the Legislature has hired a person to evaluate and do a report on Middle St. Croix WMO (Water Management Organization), which got a very favorable rating on cost effectiveness. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Councilmember Menikheim, seconded by Councilmember Roush, to adjourn at 9:25 p.m. All in favor. ATTEST: QN _ Larry D. H61en, Acting City Clerk Resolution 2011 -109, Directing the Payment of Bills Resolution 2011 -110, Approving name change from Oliver & Louis, Inc. DBA: The Bikery to Vackra Nya Liv, Inc., DBA: The Bikery Resolution 2011 -111, Approving Minnesota Premises Permit for lawful gambling for American Legion Post 491, located at No -Neck Tony's, 231 Myrtle Street Resolution 2011 -112, Authorizing Certified Local Government Grant Application through Minnesota Historical Society Resolution 2011 -113, Approving the issuance of a new On -Sale Brewer's Tap Room Liquor License to Lift Bridge Brewing Technologies LLC, DBA: Lift Bridge Brewery located at 1900 Tower Drive Resolution 2011 -114, Approving transfer of Ownership of the On -sale and Sunday liquor licenses from Loggers, Inc, DBA: Loggers, to TJ Stillwater LLC, DBA: No -Neck Tony's Resolution 2011 -115, Approving the issuance of a new On -Sale Brewer's Tap Room License Stillwater Brewing Company, LLC, DBA: Stillwater Brewery located at 402 Main Street S Resolution 2011 -116, Declaring cost to be assessed and ordering preparation of proposed assessment for 2011 Street Improvements (Project 2011 -02), L.I. #390 Resolution 2011 -117, Calling for hearing on proposed assessment for 2011 Street Improvements (Project 2011 -02), L.I. #390 Resolution 2011 -118, Approving plans & specifications and ordering advertisement for bids for the Pedestrian Walkway project Resolution 2011 -119, Approve contract with St. Croix Recreation Company to furnish and install play equipment for Triangle and Ramsey Grove Park Page 13 of 13