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HomeMy WebLinkAboutJuly 28, 2003OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL JULY 28, 2003 The following are the minutes for the regular meeting of the City Council held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2003 in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights, MN. Mayor Wyckoff indicated the meeting would not be broadcast live due to technical difficulties, but would be video taped and broadcast at a later time. Pastor Peter Law, Community United Methodist Church, gave the Invocation: CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL Mayor Wyckoff called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. Present: Mayor Wyckoff, Councilmember Williams, Councilmember Nawrocki, Councilmember Ericson, and Councilmember Kelzenberg. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA Mayor Wyckoffremoved item number four from the consent agenda, added a presentation item and a recognition item, and indicated the Fire Department would speak under Other Business. PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS A) Proclamations - none B) Presentation - Bob O'Brien, Law Enforcement Liaison - Minnesota Safe and Sober Police Chief Tom Johnson introduced Corporal Paul Bonesteel, the Columbia Heights' coordinator of the local Safe and Sober program. Corporal Bonestee/ indicated that the Columbia Heights' Police Department was chosen to receive a preliminary breath test machine. Bob 0 'Brien, Law Enforcement Liaison, presented the machine to Mayor Wyckoff. 0 'Brien listed statistics on reduced deaths in our City and complimented the Police Department on their success through education, enforcement, and media p/ay. He a/so stated the importance of po/itica/ support for these specia/ programs. Corporal Bonestee/ indicated this award makes it possible to have a preliminary breath test machine in each active patrol car. C) Introduction of New Employees - none D) Recognition Councilmember Williams introduced Shawn Brown, a family friend from Montego Bay, Jamaica, who will be spending time in our city. He stated that Mr. Brown's father is a highly decorated police officer in Jamaica and is a close friend of his family. Mr. Brown spoke briefly to the Council. Bruce Nawrocki referred to the passing of Pete Awsumb, a life-long resident of Columbia Heights'. CONSENT AGENDA Walt Fehst, City Manager, took the Councilmembers through the consent agenda. 1) Approve City Council Meeting Minutes for July 14, 2003 Motion to approve the minutes of the July 14, 2003, regular City Council meeting as presented. 2) Accept Boards and Commissions Meeting Minutes a) Motion to accept the June 17, 2003 minutes of the Economic Development Authority. b) Motion to accept the July 7, 2003 minutes of the Traffic Commission. c) Motion to accept the July 17, 2003 Minutes of the Telecommunications Commission. City Council Minutes July 28, 2003 Page 2 of 8 Nawrocki stated that the Telecommunications Commission accepted the annual report of the cable provider and a copy would be available at city hall for review. 3) Establish Work Session meeting date for Monday, August 4, 2003 Motion to establish a Work Session meeting date for Monday, August 4, 2003 beginning at 7:00 p.m. in Conference Room 1. Fehst indicated work session items for August 4, 2003: · Generator quotes · Flood Mitigation Measures from June 24/25 Storm Event · Capital Equipment Replacement for Parks Unit #218 - Ford 1-Ton Dump Truck · Surface Water Drainage report for Khyber and Cheery Lane rear yards · Renewal of Gas Franchise with CenterPointe Minnegasco and schedule first reading of the ordinance Nawrocki objected that the item indicated for the July 21st work session was not discussed and that other items discussed were not indicated when the meeting was set. Fehst stated that the meeting was posted as legally required. Nawrocki stated he did not question the legality, but the morality of not letting resident; know what is to be discussed. Fehst indicated that during the last Council meeting the discussion turned to the drainage problem, and did not get back to upcoming agenda items. Wyckoff indicated the desire that Councilmembers would be able to discuss various items at any time. Williams stated that Fehst was interrupted during his report and was not allowed to complete it. Nawrocki stated that Robert; Rules of Order require a specific agenda be set for any special meeting. Wyckoff stated there is a Council meeting every Monday night and the public is always welcome. 4) Authorize the purchase of two 2004 Ford Crown Victoria Police vehicles - removed 5) Establish a Hearing Date of August 11, 2003 for revocation or suspension of rental property license at 4500 Tyler Street, 3849 Edgemoor Place, 1222-1224 45 lA Avenue, 1133 45thA'Tenue, 4916 Tyler Street, 4040-4042 Cleveland Street, 1241-1243 Circle Terrace Blvd, 1206-1208 Circle Terrace Blvd. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 11, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Stanley Van Blaricom at 4500 Tyler Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 11, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Mario Valtierrez at 3849 Edgemoor Place N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 11, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Nathan Olson at 1222-1224 45 lA Avenue N.E. Motion Establish a Hearing Date of August 11, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Donald Woods at 1133 45th Avenue N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 11, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Elmi Abullahi at 4916 Tyler Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 11, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a City Council Minutes July 28, 2003 Page 3 of 8 License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Estate of Susan Loewenthal at 4040-4042 Cleveland Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 11, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Thomas Hofich at 1241-1243 Circle Terrace Blvd. N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 11, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Estate of Susan Loewenthal at 1206-1208 Circle Terrace Blvd. N.E. 6) Approve Business License Applications Motion to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for July 28, 2003 as presented. 7) Approve request for one-time Gambling Permit by MN 90 Lightning Hockey Club Motion to direct the City Manager to forward a letter to the State Charitable Gambling Control Board indicating that the City of Columbia Heights has no objection to a one-time bingo event to be conducted by the Minnesota 90 Lightning Hockey Club at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, 4030 Jackson street NE, Columbia Heights, on August 9 and 10, 2003; and furthermore, that the City of Columbia Heights hereby waives the remainder of the thirty-day notice to the local governing body. 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 104292 through 104481 in the amount of $2,225,359.97. Motion by Nawrocki, second by Williams, to approve the consent agenda items, with the exception of Item #4. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. #4 Authorize the purchase of two 2004 Ford Crown Victoria Police vehicles Wyckoff indicated the need for new police vehicles and following research on obtaining police vehicles with advertising for $1, stated that Chief Johnson sent donation request letters to many local businesses seeking funds to assist in purchasing these vehicles. Council requested a legal opinion regarding conflict of interest to extend the same offer to Jeff's, Bobby and Steve 's Auto World to which Councilmember Williams is associated and were assured there was no conflict found Johnson then extended the offer to Auto World Williams stated that he had offered to donate a vehicle with advertising one year ago, and would still do so at this time. He encouraged other businesses and resident; to also consider such donations. The key to our community is a strongpolice and fire department. Jeff Bahe of Auto World stated that serving people is the most important part of the business, and after 24 years in the community wishes to give back to the community. We have the best police department and they need the best equipment. A great relationship between businesses and the Police is important. Wyckoff asked the size of the advertisement. Babe indicated it wouM be on both sides of the vehicle, next to the 911 emblems, as recommended by the Chief of Police. Wyckoff stated her belief that this business would follow all City ordinances, and that she is very grateful for the donation. Nawrocki stated that he wouM agree with the donation ora vehicle, but that advertising on a pofice vehicle was inappropriate and would not be good public policy. Fehst indicated that some cities present catalog; with cost; of items, such as swing sets, that people can contribute toward which are City Council Minutes July 28, 2003 Page 4 of 8 recognized by plaques. Fehst encouraged this type of thinking for memorials or dedications. This idea is different as a commercial enterprise, but it is thinking outside of the box and has potential. Wyckoff indicated that donations are often recognized on a product, such as printing. One other local business seriously considered the donation of a police vehicle, but because of the current economic climate was unable to do so. Williams stated that the current pofice vehicles to be replaced are six years oM with 90, 000 miles of city driving. Nclwrocki questioned if the tax levy wouM be reduced by the dollar amount of the vehicle. Fehst stated these funds were budged for 2003 and wouM show as a fund balance. Ericson stated that the funds were already in place to purchase the two vehicles. This wouM be a creative way to purchase a vehicle through a donation and would be an advantage for the business to advertise. Because of this unique opportunity we are able to provide something we can all benefit from. Fehst stated that last year three vehicles were budgeted for replace, and only one was replaced, so purchases have been delayed due to budget constrictions. Motion by Ericson, second by Williams, to authorize the purchase of one 2004 Ford Crown Victoria police vehicle, along with a service manual, per the State of Minnesota bid, with funding to come from 431-42100-5150 in the amount of $22,674.91 including tax, and that the Mayor and City Manager are authorized to enter into a contract for same. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Ericson, second by Kelzenberg, to accept the donation from Jeff' s Bobby and Steve's Auto World to purchase one 2004 Ford Crown Victoria police vehicle, per the State of Minnesota bid, in the amount of $22,674.91 including tax, and that the Mayor and City Manager are authorized to enter into a contract for same. Motion to amend by Nawrocki, with language to preclude any advertising on the vehicle and indicating where the funds come from. With out a second, the motion was not considered. Motion to amend by Nawrocki, that $22,674.91 be transferred from this year's budget to next year's budget and to reduce next year's levy amount by the same. Second by Williams. Williams stated that there are citizens that cannot afford a tax increase, and this may bring others forward to help our residents. Ericson stated disfavor of the amendment, because of the budget cut forecasts from division heads, such as closing wading pools, reducing library hours and removing EMT service. This is a creative decision to be fiscally responsible. Kelzenberg stated this is a minute amount and wouM be willing to discuss this further. Nawrocki stated the need to stop talking about what we are losing, and talk about what we provide. We need to find ways to provide services more cost effectively. The final determination of services offered is up to the Council. Wyckoff stated that staff has not been spending money recklessly, and referred to how hard the employees work, and the limited space there is to work in. Williams indicated his pleasure that we are finding different ways to raise funds, but indicated that another police officer would be beneficial. City Council Minutes July 28, 2003 Page 5 of 8 Deb Johnson, 999 41st Avenue, felt this would set a dangerous precedent, and that State and business shouM be separate. Nawrocki stated that this came about as a letter from the Police Department and is a bad rrecedent coming from them, because enforcing laws and asking for donations put; people in an awkward spot. Fehst stated that the Fire Department does not give srecial favors to organizations that give to the defibrillator fund. Fehst thanked Councilmember Williams on behalf of the staff and stated his hope that other citizens wouM be willing to do similar things for our city. Wyckoff stated that Williams was asked, and did remove banners and coke signs that were displayed against code, but thanked him for the donation ora Police car. deff Bahe stated that Auto World allows the City to use their reader board to keep the community informed, which is a positive action for everyone. Lee Stanch, 755 Khyber Lane, stated his opposition to rubric advertising on rubric vehicles and stated that we already have too many Police vehicles. Ericson stated that we are replacing vehicles, not adding to them. Nawrocki stated this is not a donation, but the purchase of advertising on our squad car. Kelzenberg stated he is willing to have the advertisement with the donation of the car. Upon vote of the amendment: Kelzenberg, nay; Williams, aye; Ericson, nay; Nawrocki, aye; Wyckoff, nay. 3 nayes- 2 ayes. The amendment does not pass. Upon vote of the original motion: Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, aye; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, nay; Wyckoff, aye. 4 ayes - 1 nay. Motion carried. PUBLIC HEARINGS Wyckoff closed Public Hearings "A - H", as all properties have all been brought into compliance with the Residential Maintenance Code.. A) Public Hearing called for B) Public Hearing called for C) Public Hearing called for D) Public Hearing called for Avenue E) Public Hearing called for F) Public Hearing called for G) Public Hearing called for H) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4226 4th Street at 4616 Tyler Street at 4622 Tyler Street at 4441 University Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 5037-5039 Jackson St at 936 42nd Avenue 1635 49mAvenue at 4901 5th Street Nawrocki indicated that a resident of 4634 Tyler came to him prior to the meeting with a certified notice to be at this meeting, but it is not on the agenda. The property did come into compliance, but the tenant; were not notified to forget the previous notice. Fehst stated that this tenant had a copy of one of the three notices sent to the owner and he did not relate to the tenant that he had paid the fee. Nawrocki stated that if the City gives notification of possible eviction we shouM let tenant; know if it is taken care of. Fire Chief Charlie Thompson stated that it depend; when the owner settles the action. Two hearings scheduled for this evening were taken care of today, making notification to tenant; difficult. Wyckoff questioned how many apartment; there are in Columbia Height; and asked Captain Gorman to give a report on the housing maintenance program. City Council Minutes July 28, 2003 Page 6 of 8 Thompson stated that the number of apartments with 3 or more units' equals' 70 buildings or 1, 592 actual apartments'. The numbers of 1 and 2family rental dwellings are 621 (over 300 buildings). These structures equate to over 18 percent of our housing stock. Wyckoff indicated the need to keep these apartments' safe. Fire Captain Gary Gorman gave the history of the Housing Maintenance Code. In 1994 the Fire Department took over all rental property licensing and inspections. The single family home property inspections began in 2000, with the City divided into four quadrants'. Each year a new quadrant of single family homes has an external inspection for address numbers, outside storage, debris, weeds, long grass, scrub growth, peeling paint, or broken windows. This is the last year of the quadrant program. 75 to 80 percent of corrections are completed in 30 days'. Those that do not are sent several notices and a Si O0 re- inspection fee, as are rental property owners. For rental units' there is the option of license revocation to bring them into compliance. The exterior of rental units' and common areas of multi units' are inspected every year, and the interior is inspected every two years. Tenants' can call with concerns that will then be inspected. Any complaint on a single family home constitutes an inspection of the entire block. Wyckoff stated that a complaint was received from a resident whose block was inspected and received a letter that there was no violation found. Thompson stated those letters could be stopped. Nawrocki indicated resident concerns of why a uniformed officer was on their property. Gorman stated that residents' ora quadrant inspection are mailed a post card with requirements, so they are aware the inspection will take place. Residents' also receive compliance thank you letters. Staff will go out and talk to any one who does not understand what is required of them. In most cases, staff will grant time extensions for repairs. Wyckoff stated that inspections are secondary to any medical or fire call received. Gorman stated that inspection times vary because of other calls' received and most owners are very understanding. Our number of fire calls' to apartments' has gone down over the past 14 years because oft his inspection program and increased public education. Wyckoff indicated that Point of Sale Inspections have also been discussed Gorman spoke on the smoke detector program, where through a grant from the Department of Health the Fire Department received 300 smoke detectors to place in the homes of senior citizens or residents' who do not have a smoke detector, at no cost. 14/hen installing the smoke detector the Firemen will conduct a fire awareness survey. This program will save lives in our community. Wyckoff questioned types of fire extinguishers. Gorman stated that a professional shouM check extinguishers annually. Thompson indicated that Haylon extinguishers are not good for the ozone layer and do not work on all three types of fires (wood or ash, grease, electrical). An ABC chemical extinguisher is the best home product. Wyckoff commended our Firemen for keeping our residents' safe. Nawrocki asked how to get rid of an oM extinguisher. Thompson stated it couM be brought to the fire department and they wouM turn it over to All Safe. Thompson suggested purchasing extinguishers with a steel stem, which can be recharged. Problems with oM smoke detectors and the new types available were discussed. Nawrocki gave his history with the Housing Maintenance program and stated that the program has worked out well. Nawrocki asked why diseased tree notices are mailed with the Fire Chief's' name on them. Thompson will check on this. Nawrocki asked if residents would be notified when the tree removal for road maintenance will be done. Thompson stated this information would come from Lauren McClanahan. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION Other Ordinances and Resolutions - none Bid Considerations - none City Council Minutes July 28, 2003 Page 7 of 8 Other Business - none ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Report of the City Manager Fehst stated that the owner ora bar in Columbia Heights' has requested the City consider a 2:00 a.m. bar closing time. That has been the only request received and he has not yet spoken to the owner. Wyckoff referred to meeting with residents from the 4600 block of dohnson regarding construction work at the Minneapolis Water Works' plant. She complimented Kevin Hansen, Public Works' Director, on how the resident concerns were handled Concerns included trees and vegetation scheduled for removal and the proposed holding pond Report of the City Attorney - none CITIZENS FORUM Harvey Kowalzek questioned notification of this meeting for revocation of his rental ficense at 4226 4th Street. Fehst stated that hearing was closed as Mr. Kowalzek had corrected the items requested Kowalzek felt that rental property owners are held to a higher level of accountability than single family residences and questioned the re-inspection fees charged, which were reduced for him. Fehst encouraged anyone with questioned to call the Fire Department, and request a time extension, if necessary. COUNCIL CORNER Wyckoff · HRA/EDA meeting date changed to Wednesday, August 20th at City Hall, so the City Council can attend a joint meeting with the Fridley City Council on August 19th. Nclwrocki questioned why the HIM was to meet at City Hall. The HRA meeting will be to review Parkview Villa management. Fehst indicated that the Community Development Director requested this meeting be hem at City Hall. · Listed the Library Patrons of the Month: past Library Board members: Ed Carlson, Don Jolly, Richard Hubbard, John Hunter, David Larson, Thomas Madigan, Don Murzyn, Gale Nordberg. The Library Board meets once a month. · Councilmember Ericson will take her Bar Exam during the next two days. Nawrocki · Vacancy on the Planning and Zoning Commission. Requested copies of applications currently on file. · Received letter from the resident at 4455 5th Street regarding flowers behind shed, which he removed, and the need for a water sprinkler head to be lowered. Fehst stated the head wouM be lowered as it was raised during the street project. Wyckoff indicated that Mr. Clark shouM receive an apology, as he has a beautiful yard · When will Councilmembers finish the audit review? Fehst indicated the continuation of the audit review wouM be at the August 4th work session. · Expressed concern that the City Manager left town without notifying Councilmembers. Fehst indicated that members were notified in writing and by telephone, however he was unable to reach Councilmember Nawrocki personally. · City newsletter reference to the 2004 final budget preparation should indicate a 21 percent increase, not a 16 percent increase in property taxes and listed the statistics to validate the amount. Fehst referred to the article in the "green sheet"from the Finance Director on this subject. Took exception to the reference requiring a reduction of staff or services, as there are other options. Referred to an article on joint IT personnel services between Roseville and Falcon Heights and suggested this be considered. Fehst stated we currently share GIS services with Andover and Fridley. City Council Minutes July 28, 2003 Page 8 of 8 · The direct telephone number for the City Manager is 763-706-3608 and should be listed in the City newsletter. The newsletter should also indicate that if the bell outside of the Fire Department is not answered, it may be because the staff is out on a medical or fire call. Referenced newsletter indication of Councilmembers to receive budget information on August 29th, but the City Charter calls for these materials to be received by the second Council meeting in August, which would be August 25th. Questioned the number of vehicles used by the Police Department. · Received information that City crews working on a park project spent excessive time on breaks and left the work site for lunch. If all members of a crew are not being utilized, they should be working elsewhere. There is a need to be more cost effective in the Public Works Department. · When will reports be received on Cherry Heights and the sewage backups along Van Buren. Fehst indicated these items would be discussed at a work session. · Have results been tallied on the effectiveness of shut off valves installed in the past. Fehst stated that contact; are being made to collect this information. · Indicated the passing of Roger Jensen, who was on the Columbia Heights HRA and referenced an article on his career. Ericson · Reminded everyone that August 5th is National Night Out, and to call the Police Department to register neighborhood parties. The Mayor and Councilmembers will be out visiting at the gatherings. Nawrocki indicated that over 40 parties are already registered. Williams. · Referred to the Fall Heights Happening and encouraged residents to read the information on fix up funds. · Listed August employee birthdays and long time employee anniversaries. Nawrocki indicated that he has completed 35 years on the City Council. · Received a call from a Circle Terrace resident regarding debris in the area. Fehst indicated there have been large improvement; in this area and he check; the area several times a week. It is important to keep our city sparkling clean. · Wished Councilmember Ericson the best of luck · Continue to pray for the peace and prosperity of our City, and hopes that everyone will do their best for our City. Kelzenberg · Congratulated Joe's Baseball Team, which his son plays with, as they finished playing like professionals. · Fridley's ball fields are great and parents run the concession stand. We may look at doing this. · Will be out in our neighborhoods for National Night Out on August 5th. · There will be a Post Office employee versus Police and Fire Department employees softball game at Huset Park this Friday at 6:00 p.m. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Wyckoff adjourned the meeting at 9:57 p.m. Patricia Muscovitz, CMC Deputy City Clerk/Council Secretary