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HomeMy WebLinkAboutJuly 14, 2003OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL JULY 14, 2003 The following are the minutes for the regular meeting of the City Council held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 14, 2003 in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights, MN. Pastor Briley, Oak Hill Baptist Church, gave the Invocation. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL Present: Mayor Wyckoff, Councilmember Williams, Councilmember Nawrocki, Councilmember Kelzenberg, Councilmember Ericson PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA - none PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS A) Proclamation - National Night Out Mayor Wyckoff read the 2003 National Night Out Proclamation. Pofice Chief Tom Johnson stated his pride in participating in this annual event. He encouraged anyone planning to have a party to contact the Police Department. Barricades will be distributed to those requesting their street be blocked off. Officers and Firemen attempt to attend the various parties. This function allows for a positive setting to talk to residents'. To date, 25 parties have been registered. B) Presentations - none C) Introduction of New Employees - none D) Recognition - Retiring Commission members -Tom Ramsdell, Charter Commission and Planning & Zoning Commission Chairperson; and James Fowlers, Chart Commission Member Mayor Wyckoff read a letter from Tom Ramsdell, indicating his reason for leaving and his past involvement with this community. Wyckoff read the commendation for each member. She thanked the members for their service to the Commissions. Ted Landwehr, Charter Commission Chairperson, presented the outgoing members with a Columbia Heights pen and pencil set. Tom Ramsde// thanked the community for everything they have done for him and the Pohce Department for supporting the Ramsdell Scholarship fund in his father's honor. Nawrocki indicated his pleasure to know and work with these gentlemen. Wyckoff stated that she had grown to know and respect Tom Ramsdell, and thanked him for his service to the community. CONSENT AGENDA Walt Fehst, City Manager, took Councilmembers through the Consent Agenda items. 1) Approve City Council Minutes of the June 30, 2003, Regular Council Meeting Motion to approve the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of June 30, 2003, as presented. City Council Minutes July 14, 2003 Page 2 of 7 2) Adopt Resolution No. 2003-34, being a resolution authorizing participation in the Safe and Sober Communities Grant Program. Motion to waive the reading of Resolution 2003-34, there being ample copies available to the public. Motion to adopt Resolution 2003-34, being a resolution authorizing participation in the Safe and Sober Communities Grant Program. RESOLUTION NO. 2003-34 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PARTICIPATION IN THE SAFE AND SOBER COMMUNITIES GRANT PROGRAM WHEREAS, the mission of the Columbia Heights Police Department is to ensure the safety and security of the community. In fulfilling this mission, the Police Department engages in numerous activities including traffic safety education and enforcement; and WHEREAS, the Slate of Minnesota, Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Traffic Safety recognizes the importance of traffic safety education and enforcement and has developed a grant program called SAFE & SOBER COMMUNITIES to encourage and supplement such efforts; and WHEREAS, the Columbia Heights Police Department wishes to participate with other Anoka County law enforcement agencies in the current SAFE & SOBER COMMUNITIES grant program which will run from October 1, 2003, through September 30, 2004. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Chief of Police of the Columbia Heights Police Department or his designee is hereby authorized to exercise such agreements and amendments as are necessary to implement the SAFE & SOBER COMMUNITIES project on behalf of the City of Columbia Heights and the Columbia Heights Police Department. 3) Request for Lot Split - 4333 Washington Motion to waive the reading of Resolution 2002-31, there being ample copies available to the public. Motion to adopt Resolution 2003-31, a resolution approving a lot split of the property at 4333 Washington Street NE. Motion to approve excavation work within the street and boulevard area to install water, sewer, and other utility services and a driveway opening for the south lot at 4333 Washington Street NE, provided the proper permits are obtained and the street and boulevard areas are restored in accordance with City ordinances. RESOLUTION NO. 2003-31 SUBDIVISION REQUEST JohnLund, Hereby requests a split of : PIN 35 30 24 12 0186 Legally described as: The West Half of Lot 10, Block 4, Rearrangement of Block A of Columbia Heights Annex to Minneapolis, Anoka County, Minnesota, and; The West Half of Lot 11, Except the North 55.00 feet thereof, Block 4, Rearrangement of Block A of Columbia Heights Annex to Minneapolis, Anoka County, Minnesota. THE DESCRIPTIONS HENCEFORTH TO BE: Parcel A: The South 60.00 feet of the West Half of Lot 10, Block 4, Rearrangement of Block A of Columbia Heights Annex to Minneapolis, Anoka County, Minnesota. Subject to any easements or valid restrictions of record. Parcel B: That part of the West Half of Lot 10 which lies north of the South 60.00 feet thereof and that part of the West Half of Lot 11 which lies south of the North 55.00 feet thereof, all in Block 4, Rearrangement of Block A of Columbia Heights Annex to Minneapolis, Anoka County, Minnesota. Subject to any easements or valid restrictions of record. Be it further resolved that special assessments of record in the office of the City of Columbia Heights as of this day, against the above described property, are paid. City Council Minutes July 14, 2003 Page 3 of 7 Any pending or future assessments will be levied according to the new split as approved this day. Any lot split given approval shall become invalid if the resolution, motion or other Council action approving the said lot split is not filed with the County Recorder within one (1) year of the date of the Council action. 4) Establish a Hearing Date of July 28, 2003, for revocation or suspension of rental property licenses at 4226 4m Street N.E.~ 5037-5039 Jackson Street N.E., 4616 and 4622 Tyler Street N.E., 936 42nd Avenue N.E., 4901 5th Street N.E., and 1635 49th Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of July 28, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Harvey Kowalzek at 4226 4th Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of July 28, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Bette Harlan at 5037-5039 Jackson Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of July 28, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Peter Hwang at 4616 and 4622 Tyler Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of July 28, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Merlin Garner 936 42nd Avenue N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of July 28, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Donald Woods at 4901 5th Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of July 28, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Abullahi Elmi at 1635 49th Street N.E. 5) Move to Close the Public Hearing Regarding the Revocation or Suspension of the Rental License at 5131 and 5141 University Avenue N.E. Motion to close the public hearing regarding the revocation or suspension of the rental license held by Lynde Investment Company regarding rental properties at 5131 University Avenue NE and 5141 University Avenue NE. Fehst stated that an agreement has been reached with the property owner on a time fine for required repairs. 6) Accept Boards and Commissions Meeting Minutes -Removed Nawrocki stated that the local VFW post requested rental fees for Murzyn Hall be waived for the annual Christmas party for their children. The Park and Recreation Commission has chosen to charge a minimal fee. He indicated that the minutes refer to the VFW's contribution orS1, 000. They failed to mention the VFW donation of $3,5OO for flags and banners and $2,500 to the Fire Department for defibrillators. It was also incorrectly stated that the VFW charges groups to use their facility, and they do not. Nawrocki stated that the VFW donates about $57,000 a year to Columbia Height; groups. A second group made the same request, that has never given a donation to this City, and they were given the same rate reduction. He felt this was an interesting way to treat a local civic group. City Council Minutes July 14, 2003 Page 4 of 7 Wyckoff asked that this item be removed from the Consent agenda. 7) Approve Business License Applications Motion to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for July 14, 2003 as presented. 8) Approve Payment of Bills Motion to approve payment of the bills out of the proper funds as listed in the attached check register covering Check Number 104118 through 104291 in the amount of $1,891,589.03. Motion by Williams, second by Nawrocki, to approve the Consent Agenda items, with the exception of item number six. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried Item #6: Accept Boards and Commissions Meeting Minutes Motion by Wyckoffto waive the Murzyn Hall rental fee for the VFW Christmas party. Ericson asked if there is a policy in place that the Park and Recreation Commission follows. Fehst stated there is a policy, and the Commission's concern is to cover more of the operating costs of the building. Fehst will have copies sent to each Councilmember. He stated that the FFW is being requested to pay a nominal fee because their event wouM require a having an employee open and remain in the building. Nawrocki stated that the employee would be part time and be paid the same rate per hour no matter when they work. Nawrocld stated that he appreciated the Mayor's motion, but wouM not support it. He brought this up as a matter of principle. Wyckoff indicated understanding that the other group wouM be charged a nominal fee, as was the Sister City committee for their fundraiser. She listed many of the various contributions the FFW makes to our community and felt they should not be charged alee. Nawrocki indicated that Murzyn Hall was built to be available for local groups. Ericson was concerned that if the fee were waived for one group, the Commission wouM have to decide which groups would be exempt. Kelzenberg stated that the Commission is only trying to recoup the fees for opening the building and the clean up. Ericson asked the amount of the regular fee. Fehst indicated that weekend day rentals are $600. Ericson felt it would put the Commissioners in a difficult position to decide between the donations we receive or to adhere to alee schedule. Wyckoff indicated that the Commission should be able to decide on an "exception to the rule ". Nawrocki stated that the fee structure should have a better distinction between community use and private use. Wyckoff asked for a second to the motion. Without a second, the motion was not considered. Motion by Williams, second by Kelzenberg, to accept the June 25, 2003, minutes of the Park and Recreation Commission and the July 1, 2003, minutes of the Columbia Heights Public Library. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION Other Ordinances and Resolutions 1. Adopt Resolution No. 2003-29, being a Resolution amending the City of Columbia Heights Bylaws of Procedures and Decorum City Council Minutes July 14, 2003 Page 5 of 7 Wyckoff asked to table this item, as she felt Councilmembers shouM discuss the entire document, item by item. Motion by Williams, second by Ericson to table consideration to amend the City of Columbia Heights Bylaws of Procedures and Decorum. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion tabled. Bid Considerations - none Other Business - none ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Report of the City Manager Fehst listed the upcoming Neighborhood Park Picnics hosted by the Police Department: · Huset Park- July 15, 2003 at 5:30 p.m. · Hilltop City Park- July 16, 2003 at 5:30 p.m. · Keys Park- July 17, 2003 at 5:30 p.m. Wyckoff asked for an update on the sewage backup problems discussed at the last Council meeting. Fehst stated that residents have filled out claim forms, which are submitted to our insurance carrier. His conversation with the insurance company indicated they wouM conduct an investigation prior to payment of any claims. The city has used due diligence to correct the problem. Fehst reminded everyone that the rainfall amount was over the chart for even 100 year storms. Staff continues to research manholes in the area for illegal connections to larger businesses that couM cause these backups. Nawrocki stated that he came to City Hall on Wednesday and was disappointed to find that we had not help residents with the clean up. The Public Works Director and the City Manager were both unavailable. He received a letter from a resident, which stated they did not get any help and he was disappointed. Nawrocki questioned the follow-up to find residents with check valves installed. Fehst stated a letter has been sent to see if anyone has these and to obtain any comments. Individuals were spoken to regarding filling out damage claims for our insurance company. Fehst indicated that an individual in the area tom him that many years ago, 17people took the City to court because of storm sewer problems, and the Court found the City not remise in their responsibilities. To research check valves that were installed it must be understood that some ownership has changed and that some owners chose to put them in and others did not. Nclwrocki stated that in speaking to an agent, found insurance coverage is possible through a homeowner's policy. Fehst stated that one person did have that protection. Nclwrocld restated his disappointment that we did not help with the clean up. Fehst stated that the Public Works Director contacted the League Insurance Trust and we were advised not to help. Mr. Clochie was helped to obtain a power washer and provided dumpsters. Fehst stated his appreciation of Council's support to pursue finding the problem. Wyckoff stated that staff did move some furniture for needy residents. Williams stated the need to find where the storm water is coming into the sewer system, and the need to satisfy these people. Fehst stated it is a costly program, and we will try all other obvious solutions first. The City of Duluth has gone through this process. Nawrocki indicated that private sump pumps and any water that flows to the floor drain goes to the septic system. Wyckoff stated that the local Shop and Save grocery store wouM be closing in a couple of weeks, and suggested that the Big Lots store, which is currently located at the Kmart proposed City Council Minutes July 14, 2003 Page 6 of 7 redevelopment site, move to this location. Fehst has spoken to the mall owner, who has shown interest, but stated there is currently another dollar store in his mall and that lease wouM need to be reviewed for any related clauses. Wyckoff praised the Big Lot store. Report of the City Attorney Wyckoff questioned the Heights Theater sign reference to lawyers, dim Hoeft, City Attorney, indicated he was unaware of the reason. CITIZENS FORUM Roger Strom, 690 47 ~ Avenue, thanked Councilmembers for the park bench that was placed by the Sullivan Park shelter, and requested three more benches be placed around the walking path. Fehst stated that Minnegasco currently has a $2,500 grant available for this type of purchase. Kelzenberg stated that five of the six new benches were donated. Strom stated that the Sullivan trail is three- quarters ora mile long. Strom requested that the street cracks on Monroe and 42 ~ Avenue be filled in so they do not get worse. Fehst stated that staff wouM check on sealcoating the cracks. COUNCIL CORNER Nawrocki · Letter from a resident regarding tree remove due to street repairs. Trees are also being removed from the Water Works facility. Wyckoff stated they are working around the oM oaks. · Stated concern regarding the City Manager using vacation days without informing Councilmembers in advance. · Regarding the budget: the staff estimate of a 16 percent property tax increase if allowed to charge back State Aid losses, is actually 20.2 percent, and listed his supporting figures. · Asked for the list of the eleven job position reductions. · Tired of hearing about service reductions because of the budget, we should talk about how to do better with what we have to work with. Ericson · Impressed with the visitors from Lomianki, Poland and with the Sister Cities Committee sponsorship of the visit. 14Zyckoff listed some of the events the visitors participated in during their eleven day visit. 14Zyckoff thanked members of the Sister Cities Committee for all their hard work. 14Zyckoff stated that Barb Karol arranged for the visitors to tour Children's Hospital. They now intend to become sister hospitals, and exchange ideas and possibly doctors. Nawrocki gave credit to Auto 14Zorld for raising funds to bring the visitors here, and Brother Milton for the use of their facility to offset the trip costs. Wyckoff · Council held a joint meeting with the School Board. A task force will be created to look at ways to consolidate and not duplicate services. Fehst indicated that Community Education and our recreation program couM share facilities andpeople for less money, and there was discussion of security in the middle school. It is vital for our City to have a successful school system, and vital for our schools to have our community's support. The task force would include seven people and meet about once a month. · Read a letter from Chief Johnson regarding cooperation of the Police and Fire Departments and referred an email from Captain Gary Gorham, regarding his appreciation for vital police assistance given during the fire at 4347 Tyler Place, which was necessary due to a dispatching error. Fehst stated his appreciation that our officers are more than helpful. He asked the Police Chief to make Anoka County aware of this error. City Council Minutes July 14, 2003 Page 7 of 7 Williams · Should adopt the attitude of doing more with less. · The meeting with School District was very good and it is important to work together. Acknowledged the need expressed by our citizens to have police in our middle school. Disheartened to find young people have a negative view of police. We need to show them the police are here to protect them and not to harm them. · The Audit Report was viewed as clean and we again received the GFOA award of excellence. Fehst stated that we have received this award for about the last ten years. Questioned the cost to implement Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). Fehst indicated there is extensive staff time required. He complimented Roxane Smith, Assistant Finance Director, for her excellent work in this area. Approximately $25,000 to $30,000 is required to do an audit and fulfill the requirements of the State. Fehst indicated that the State is looking into what businesses cities should be involved in, such as sewer, water, liquor, and other enterprises. · Challenged Larry Scott, Liquor Operations Manager, to continue increasing profits. Fehst stated that profits are up, which is an accomplishment considering the additional competition on Central Avenue this year. Mr. Scott is doing a super job. Wyckoff referred to the reduction in all resident's taxes because of the liquor store's revenue. Fehst stated that number couM be established when the audit is finalized. A letter will be sent to Council answering any final questions, and if not satisfactory an additional meeting wouM be scheduled for sometime in August. Complimented Ms. Smith on the great job she does. · Pray for the peace, prosperity and health of our city. · Would like to begin planting trees in City parks and has forwarded the request to the Park and Recreation Commission. Wyckoff stated it is best to plant trees in the fall. Black walnut trees were suggested. Wyckoff · Invited residents to open house of the new GMHC home on July 21st. A blighted house was removed and rebuilt, and will be owner occupied. Fehst will have the dated time and address put on the City's web page. He encouraged residents to call our Community Development Department to ask about available fix up funds and assistance from the Greater Minnesota Housing Corporation (GMHC) to purchase and upgrade homes. GMHC will provide help to any resident that has questions on maintenance type concerns. GMHC's intention is to replace 10 to12 more homes. The open house is from 4:30p. m. to 6:00pm., with a 5:00p. m. ribbon cutting ceremony. Kelzenberg · Will begin 500 card games this fall at Murzyn Hall, to help bring the community together. · Impressed with the joint School Board meeting. We need to look at creating a community center, possibly through a joint referendum. It should be on a general election ballot and should include a type of water feature. We need to provide this type of facility for our children and our community. Nawrocki asked if the card club wouM pay regular hall rental rates. The group would pay whatever the Park and Recreation Commission required. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Wyckoff adjourned the meeting at 8:25 p.m. Patricia Muscovitz, CMC Deputy City Clerk/Council Secretary