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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1981-11-18 JPC MINMinutes of the Joint Powers Committee November 18, 1981 MEMBERS PRESENT William Lundquist, Ray Senkus, Ann Bodlovick, Harry Peterson STAFF PRESENT Doug Swenson, Dennis O'Donnell, Rhonda Thode CALL TO ORDER Ray Senkus chaired the committee and called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes of the October 21, 1981 meeting were approved and seconded with the correction that Croixgate Realty be changed to Croixgate properties, motion carried unanimously. NEW BUSINESS Ray Senkus stated that the new business was to discuss a procedure for enforcing zoning ordinances, such as in the case of Cub selling pumpkins in the parking lot. Doug Swenson stated that there are two ways of enforcing ordinances: 1) Treat the violation as a misdemeanor. The result of that would be a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail or a $500 fine, which does not necessarily solve the problem. 2) A civil proceeding in district court, requiring the violator to get back in compliance. If they don't, the court could find them in contempt of court, which would probably be the most effective remedy. Bill Lundquist suggested somebody go over the ordinance with Cub's store manager. O'Donnell felt Cub was well aware of the ordinance, and they have already been properly warned about the violation. Bill Lundquist asked if a citation were issued and the violator got back in compliance with the ordinance, could there be any further action taken against them. Doug stated the citation would be charging them with the misdemeanor, if they were found guilty, they would pay whatever fine was imposed; but under those circumstances, it might mean the person would get a lesser penalty then they otherwise would. Doug felt if the Planning Department, Dennis specifically, becomes aware of a clear cut violation of a zoning ordinance, that he be authorized to make initial contact with the alleged violators and take whatever action he feels appropriate without coming to the committee first, thus cutting down on the preparation process. Harry Peterson felt it important that someone has to investigate and be authorized to move without checking with the Joint Powers Committee first, which was the general consensus. Bill Lundquist suggested that the violator be sent a letter explaining the committees view, and if he disagrees he could appear before the committee and state his case. Joint Powers - Minutes November 18, 1981 Page 2 Harry Peterson added he felt Dennis should be allowed to call a early meeting of the commissioners so they could be made aware of action taken and the reaction of the people involved. GENERAL DISCUSSION Ray Senkus asked Dennis if the Croixgate property sign had been changed. Dennis stated it had not. Ann Bodlovick asked if the title holder of the property had been found. Dennis stated it was still vague. Ann stated that the City Council of Stillwater has ordered a study to be done on the Spirit of St. Croix property for a drainage plan, the City of Stillwater will report to the Joint Powers Committee with the findings. ADJOURNMENT Ann Bodlovick motioned to adjourn the meeting at 6:00 p.m. Seconded by Harry Peterson. Motion carried unanimously.