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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAugust 11, 2003OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL AUGUST 11, 2003 The following are the minutes for the regular meeting of the City Council held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 11, 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 Mayor Wyckoff called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Mayor Wyckoff, Councilmember Williams, Councilmember Nawrocki, Councilmember Ericson, and Councilmember Kelzenberg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS - none CONSENT AGENDA 1) Approve City Council Meeting Minutes for JuN 28, 2003 regular City Council meeting Motion to approve the minutes of the July 28, 2003, regular City Council meeting as presented. 2) Establish Work Session meeting date for Monday, August 18, 2003 beginning at 7:00 p.m. in Conference Room 1. Motion to establish a Work Session meeting date for Monday, August 18, 2003 beginning at 7:00 p.m. in Conference Room 1. · Khyber and Cheery Lane rear yard drainage issues · Gas Franchise Agreement with CenterPoint - Minnegasco · Resolution certifying proposed tax levy (needs to be adopted at the 8/25/03 or 9/8/03 meeting). · Disposal of Forfeiture Cars at City Auction. · Planning and Zoning Commission appointment (added by Wyckoff) · Chronic trash at apartment buildings (added by Williams) Nawrocki requested the meeting begin at 8:00p. m. Wyckoff asked for a guarantee that the meeting wouM end by l O: 30 p. m. Nawrocki indicated he couM not promise that. Wyckoff stated that the meeting time wouM remain at 7:00p. m. 3) Award replacement building generator quote to Cummins N Power - Removed 4) Approve transfer Safe and Sober funding from General Fund to Police Department O.T. Fund Motion to transfer $1,203.96; the total money received from the State of Minnesota for our efforts in the Safe and Sober program, from the General Fund to the Police Department 2003 budget, line 1020 overtime. 5) Approve transfer of funds from General Fund to Police Department Budget to reimburse Police O.T. Fund Motion to transfer $10,028.57, the total amount received from Unique Thrift Store, Summer Academy, CHHS All Night Party Committee, Columbia Heights High School, Islamic Center of Minnesota, and Central Middle School PTA for off duty security worked, from the General Fund to the Police Department 2003 budget, line #1020, Police overtime. City Council Minutes August 11, 2003 Page 2 of 11 6) Authorize the sale of forfeited, confiscated, found weapons by the Police Department - Removed 7) Authorize the Capital Equipment Replacement of Unit #218: Ford F350 4 x 4 one ton dump truck and Unit #218A: Western 8'6" snow plow Motion to authorize the replacement of Unit #218, with one (1) new Ford Super Duty 450 4 x 4 chassis from Superior Ford, Plymouth, MN in the amount of $29,701, plus sales tax. Funding shall be from the Park Capital Equipment Replacement Fund. Motion to authorize the purchase of the dump box and snowplow package from Aspen Equipment, Bloomington, MN in the amount of $15,465, plus sales tax. Funding shall be from the Park Capital Equipment Replacement Fund. 8) Approve additional sanitary sewer lining for 610 feet of eight inch lining on Van Buren Street between 42nd Avenue and 43rd Avenue. - Removed 9) Adopt Resolution No. 2003-33, being a Resolution calling for a public hearing on September 22, 2003 on the proposed adoption of a modification to the Downtown Central Business District (CBD) Revitalization Plan for the CBD Redevelopment Project and the adoption of a tax increment financing plan for the establishment of the K-mart/Central Avenue Tax Increment Financing District - Removed 10) Adopt Resolution No. 2003-32, being a Resolution adopting the 2004 Business License Fee Schedule as presented - Removed 11) Establish a Hearing Date of August 25, 2003 for revocation or suspension of rental property license at 4253 McLeod St., 3726 3rd St., 4000 Washington St., 3736 3rd St., 3819 Main St. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 25, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against John Steenroos at 4253 McLeod Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 25, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against John Stenroos at 3726 3rd Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 25, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Brian Bona at 4000 Washington Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 25, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Wade Klick at 3736 3rd Street N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of August 25, 2003 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Maria Duran at 3819 Main Street. 12) Approve Business License Applications - Removed 13) Accept Boards and Commissions Meeting Minutes Motion to accept the August 6, 2003 minutes of the Planning and Zoning Commission. 14) 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 104482 through 104662 in the amount of $965,093.25. City Council Minutes August 11, 2003 Page 3 of 11 Motion by Williams, second by Kelzenberg, to approve the Consent Agenda items (not including items 3, 6, 8, 9, 10 and 12). #3 Award replacement building generator quote to Cummins N Power Nawrocki stated Council shouM have discussed this topic prior to bids being taken. The recommended generator is oversized for emergency usage and wouM unnecessarily supply the entire city hall. The power has not been out for more than two hours at a time over the last 30 years. Fehst stated that the original comment was in the last seven years. Nawrocki indicated the generator shouM be re-bid with a smaller size. Fehst stated that a 50, 000 KW generator wouM only be St, t t 7 less than a tOO, 000 KW generator, as recommended Wyckoff indicated the need for a dependable backup generator, as this is where the public wouM gather during emergency situations. She asked the cost if this same generator were purchased prior to Y2K. Fire Chief Charlie Thompson indicated it wouM have been over $50,000. Fehst stated that the current generator emits toxins when in use. Ericson stated this was a budgeted item at $50,000, with an actual cost of $34, 000. A unit of only one-half the size would not be worth the savings of St, t t 7. Williams indicated that parts are no longer available for the current generator. Nawrocki indicated that the generator should have been ventilated at the same time as the gun range. Thompson described ventilation problems and repairs to the current generator. Motion by Ericson, second by Williams, to award the replacement building generator as quoted by Cummins N Power based upon their low, qualified, responsible quotation in the amount of $34,603, with funding from fund 431-42500-5180; and authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an agreement for the purchase of same. Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, aye; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, nay; Wyckoff, aye. 4 ayes -1 nay. Motion carried. #5 Approve transfer of funds from General Fund to Police Department Budget to reimburse Police O.T. Fund Wyckoff indicated her preference that these guns wouM be destroyed but that Chief Johnson convinced her they shouM be sold Nawrocki stated that surplus funds received shouM go to the General Fund and use of these funds by the Police Department wouM require special Council action, dim Hoefi, City Attorney, stated that our ordinance indicates such monies are put into the General Fund and this motion is a request to place them in the Police Fund Wyckoff stated the total value of the guns is $3,280. Ericson asked the Pofice Chief why this transfer was requested Chief Johnson that it was by the hard work of our Officers that the guns came to us, and some are our guns that wear out. These funds wouM aid in not having to ask for additional funds. Johnson stated that we try to have the best equipment to help keep officers in our City in this competitive market. Motion by Williams second by Kelzenberg, to authorize the sale of forfeited, confiscated, turned in, department owned or found weapons by the Police Department to Frontiersman Sports of St. Louis Park, Minnesota for $3,280; funds to be placed in the Police Department Forfeiture account #265-00-35210, to be used for future department equipment needs. Motion by Nawrocki to strike the line that "funds be placed in the Police Department forfeiture account". As no second was received, the motion was not considered. Upon vote of the original motion. Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, aye; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, nay; Wyckoff, aye. 4 ayes - 1 nay. Motion carried. City Council Minutes August 11, 2003 Page 4 of 11 #8 Approve additional sanitary sewer lining for 610 feet of eight inch lining on Van Buren Street between 42nd Avenue and 43rd Avenue. Wyckoff indicated that Change Order ~ 1 was a beginning step to the sewage backup problems on Van Buren Street. Fehst indicated that this is a continuing step in the process. Kevin Hansen, Pubfic Work; Director, indicated that the sanitary sewer fining contractor is in town working on the 2003 contract and could also do this critical area. This was discussed in 2000 during the Zone 5project. It was not completed at that time as the trunk fine, which took precedence, was done. This is one of many things staff is looking at for short term and long term help in this area. The contractor is allowing their 2001 pricing for the 8 inch piping. The contractor would be able to complete this work in the next two week,'. Williams indicated to citizens the importance that their sump pumps not drain into the sanitary sewer, but rather drain onto their lawns. He explained the difference between sanitary sewers and storm sewers. Williams suggested this information also be placed in the community newsletter and shown on the local cable station. He explained the expense involved to check each home in the community. Wyckoff indicated that the City Council viewed a power point presentation by the City of Golden l/alley on this subject. Ericson stated that the City is not sure there are illegal connections, because anyone with these connections would be ordered to disconnect them. If residents have questions, they may call staff Nawrocki suggested discussing other sanitary sewer fines that need refining. Hansen stated this would be presented at the next Council meeting. Nawrocki questioned if any word was received from the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust on their decision to cover claims from resident; with sewage backups. Fehst indicated that the claims have been denied. Wyckoff stated that MarkMcGowan contacted her and was upset that the City would not be held liable, so he intend; to clean it up, sell his house and move out of Columbia Height,'. Fehst stated that there is now a lot less flooding than there was previously. Nawrocki stated that City forces should help resident; with the clean up, as we did in years past. Wyckoff stated that we have been advised by our lawyers that when we help we are admitting guilt. Motion by Kelzenberg, second Williams, to approve Change Order No. 1 to Insituform Technologies for the 2003 Sanitary Sewer Lining Project #0208 in the amount of $16,409.00 with funds to be appropriated from Fund 652-50208-5130. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. #9 Adopt Resolution No. 2003-33, being a Resolution calling for a public hearing on September 22, 2003 on the proposed adoption of a modification to the Downtown Central Business District (CBD) Revitalization Plan for the CBD Redevelopment Project and the adoption of a tax increment financing plan for the establishment of the K-mart/Central Avenue Tax Increment Financing District Wyckoff indicated this Resolution is to estabfish a Pubfic Hearing for September 22, 2003. Bob Streeter, Community Development Director, suggested that a special joint City Council/EDA/Planning and Zoning Commission work session be held on Thursday, September 4, 2003 to view an update of the site plan and anticipated development, and review the developers request for public assistance. This resolution would schedule a Public Hearing for September 22nd to finafize and move forward to approve the plan to develop the Kmart site. City Council Minutes August 11, 2003 Page 5 of 11 Nawrocki questioned what area was to be rezoned. Streeter referred to the businesses only around the Kmart building. Nawrocki asked if there wouM be specific tax increment dollars and how they wouM be justified. Streeter indicated that Tax Increment Financing (TIF) wouM be recommended with the amount and purpose to be presented at the September 22 City Council meeting. Motion by Williams, second by Ericson, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2003-33, there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Williams, second by Kelzenberg to adopt Resolution No. 2003-33, being a Resolution calling for a public hearing by the City Council on September 22, 2003, beginning at approximately 7:00 p.m. on the proposed adoption of a modification to the Downtown Central Business District (CBD) Revitalization Plan for the CBD Redevelopment Project and the adoption of a tax increment financing plan for the establishment of the K-mart/Central Avenue Tax Increment Financing District. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. RESOLUTION NO. 2003-33 RESOLUTION CALLING FOR A PUBLIC HEARING BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON THE PROPOSED ADOPTION OF A MODIFICATION TO THE DOWNTOWN CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT (CBD) REVITALIZATION PLAN FOR THE CBD REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AND THE ADOPTION OF A TAX INCREMENT FINANCING PLAN FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE K-MART/CENTRAL AVENUE TAX INCREMENT FINANCING DISTRICT BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council (the "Council") for the City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota (the "City"), as follows: Section 1. Public Hearing. This Council shall meet on September 22, 2003, at approximately 7:00 P.M., to hold a public hearing on the proposed adoption of a Modification to the Downtown CBD Revitalization Plan for the CBD Redevelopment Project (the "Revitalization Plan Modification") and the proposed establishment of the K-Mart/Central Avenue Tax Increment Financing District (a renewal and renovation district) and the proposed adoption of a Tax Increment Financing Plan (the "TIF Plan") therefor (the Revitalization Plan Modification and the TIF Plan are referred to collectively herein as the "Plans"), all pursuant to and in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.124 to 469.134, and Sections 469.174 to 469.1799, inclusive, as amended, in an effort to encourage the development and redevelopment of certain designated areas within the City; and Section 2. Notice of Public Hearing, Filing of Plans. City staff is authorized and directed to work with Ehlers & Associates, Inc., to prepare the Plans and to forward documents to the appropriate taxing jurisdictions including Anoka County and Independent School District No. 13. The Deputy City Clerk is authorized and directed to cause notice of the hearing, together with an appropriate map as required by law, to be published at least once in the official newspaper of the City not later than 10, nor more than 30, days prior to September 22, 2003, and to place a copy of the Plans on file in the Community Development Director's office at City Hall and to make such copy available for inspection by the public. #10 Adopt Resolution No. 2003-32, being a Resolution adopting the 2004 Business License Fee Schedule as presented Nawrocki indicated that existing license fees shouM have been shown. Wyckoff stated the fees are not changing, but that next year Council will look at fee changes. Hoeft stated that the City Code indicates the fees shouM be adopted on an annual basis. Motion by Nawrocki, second Williams, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2003-32, there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Nawrocki, second by Williams, to adopt Resolution No. 2003-32, being a Resolution adopting the 2004 Business License Fee Schedule, as presented. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. RESOLUTION NO. #2003-32 ADOPTING 2004 BUSINESS LICENSE FEE SCHEDULE WHEREAS: Ordinance No. 853, City Code of 1977, pertaining to commercial licensing regulations provides for the establishing of annual license fees; and City Council Minutes August 11, 2003 Page 6 of 11 WHEREAS: The City has participated in a survey of metropolitan municipalities regarding business license fees charged by other commumties; and WHEREAS: The City is attempting to maintain business license fees which are comparable to other communities; and WHEREAS: The City annually reviews its business license fee schedule and has concluded that our fees are comparable to other communities in the metro area; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the attached proposed license fee schedule be adopted and effective January 1, 2004. #12 Approve Business License Applications Wyckoff felt that, in light of the acceptance of the Police vehicle donation two weeks' ago, it was bad timing for this beer license request, and questioned parking at a pump to go inside Auto World for food and a beer. No one under 18 could serve the beer and no later than 1:00 a.m. Hoefi stated the license restricts' sale and consumption of 3.2 beer to the Chevy Grill. Wyckoff was concerned with enforcement, as there is not a door between the grill and the convenience store area. She referred to an article by US Representative Sabo, which indicated that elected officials' are held to a higher standard Wyckoff suggested Auto World apply for a temporary beer ilcensefor their auto show. Ericson questioned parking requirements for a restaurant. Wyckoff stated the ordinance does not address this for a 3.2 liquor license, only for strong beer and wine. Nawrocki referred to the original approval of the gas station/grill/store activities; instead of adding up requirements for each use, the Council at that time combined uses. This grill was originally described as 'fast food" and if On Sale is added customers will be there longer and additional parking should be required Ericson asked how many people couM be seated in the grill. Tim Johnson, City Planner, estimated 40 people maximum. Ericson questioned the parking requirement for this number of people. Johnson stated the formula is typical one space per 300 square feet. Ericson asked if this request compiled with our zoning ordinance. Johnson stated that the use was not changed and did comply with our ordinance. Ericson asked Jeff Babe, Jeff's' Bobby and Steve's Auto World if beer was served at their other stores. Bahe indicated they do not. He stated that he personally appiled for this license, not Councilmember Williams, with the purpose for customers who come in for a hamburger or after a ball game can order a beer. Ericson stated that Perkins restaurants' now serve wine. Babe indicated that it is the estabilshment's job to make sure the beer is not served by anyone under age and that the beer does not go outside the grill. He reminded Councilmembers that since the station opened additional property was purchased and is used for employee parking and cars that have been serviced Ericson asked if this request violated the original conditional use permit. Johnson stated it did not. Ericson questioned the City's standard poilcy for ilquor ilcense appilcations. Johnson stated that a full ilquor ilcense request, such as for Tycoon Bar, required seating for 75 people and 25 parking spaces. Johnson stated that an appilcation for a 3.2 ilquor ilcense considers compilance with zoning, if it is a permitted use, existingparking, and if there is a use change. Ericson clarified that adding a 3.2 ilquor ilcense to an existing restaurant does not require any changes and under our ordinance we would have no basis to deny such a request. Wyckoff stated that Council has the discretion to deny any request. Hoefi stated that Council does have discretion and have appiled this in other situations, but would be difficult if all code requirements' are met. Ericson stated that if Councilmembers do not ilke this use we need to change our ordinance, but can not single out one business. City Council Minutes August 11, 2003 Page 7 of 11 Hoeft stated that if Council wishes to establish a license difference between a restaurant with 3.2 beer and without 3.2 beer, they wouM need to change the ordinance. Wyckoff felt this business's objective was cars, not to sell beer. Babe stated that if the application meets the requirements it shouM be approved. He did not want the business to received special treatment, but did not want treatment to go the other way either. Kelzenberg asked how the beer wouM it be served tap or can. Babe stated both wouM be served from behind the counter. Ericson questioned the hours of the grill. Bahe stated the grill is open Friday and Saturday - 24 hours and until 11:00 p.m. the rest oft he week. Fehst reminded him that the ordinance allows the sale of beer until 1 a.m. and not before noon on Sunday. Bahe stated that is currently followed for the 3.20ffSale in the store. Chief Johnson stated the ordinance requirement that no person, other than the owner and his employees, be on any licensed premises after 1:30 a.m. Hoeft stated that wouM require checking to see if they operate within the ordinance after the license is issued. Ericson stated that a portion of the ordinance cannot mirror State Statute as Perkins restaurants do this. Nawrocki indicated that the access to the restrooms would require going through the grill area and again referred to parking spaces required. Bahe stated that there is access to the restrooms from a hallway. Wyckoff indicated the desire to not give this business special treatment. The business has done everything required but she does not like the combination of cars and liquor. Deb Johnson, 999 4F't, stated "I toM you so" as following the vehicle donation, the City and Pofice Department must now justify every move made for this business. She questioned if Councilmember Williams wouM abstain from the vote. Jack Block, 4241 Tyler, questioned if this request would have been approved prior to the donation ora Police vehicle. This can be perceived as a bad relationship. Pastor Dave Briley, 3931 Tyler, stated that he lives next to this store, and believes that deff Bahe will do the best he can. He stated that if the business complies with the current ordinance, there is no choice even though the neighbors may not like it; but this may require more policing. Bob Buboltz, 4311 5th Street, stated that Williams shouM abstain from voting on this, because his name is on this [icense. Johnson again indicated that the use of the business has not changed. There are three types of food service: convenience, limited or full service. This would be convenience or limited based on square footage. Nawrocki again questioned the parking requirements. Ericson asked how many parking spots are available. Williams stated there have been 50 spaces added since the original approval. Johnson listed the three areas of parkingfor this site. Williams stated there is more than adequate parking and parking shouM not be an issue, but he could tear down the Dr. Good building and add parking. The store sells 3.2 beer now. He does not drink. William could not understand the problem, just because the business did something good for the city. He referred to Deb Johnson's comment following the election, which the County Attorney has confirmed he did nothing wrong. Williams referred to opposition from several current Councilmembers when the business was originally proposed. Williams indicated he would abstain from the vote. He stated that this should be a non- issue. Babe again indicated that he was the one who appfied for the ficense, runs the day-to-day business, and has done everything required to receive this license. Wyckoff stated that she was uncomfortable with the timing of the application. City Council Minutes August 11, 2003 Page 8 of 11 Nawrocki denied his opposition to this station, just opposition to expanding along Reservoir Boulevard and taking residential space. The previous building owner had wished to expand which he did support, but later regretted because of the qffect on residential homes. Nawrocki felt this was an expansion of the current use and parking needs will change. Ericson stated that one of the higher standards expected is that we need to depersonalize this situation, sometimes we make the rules and sometimes we apply our own rules, such as this. We need to be objective and see if the appfication qualifies, and if needed, we may revisit the ordinance. The decision tonight is black and white. If the City Planner and City Attorney state that this meets our ordinance and the standards that we evaluate permits on, it must be approved If we do not, we run the risk of being challenged on the decision. Williams stated that Auto World was fikely the only business in Columbia Heights that asked for no assistance from the City during development. Fehst indicated the only other business that did not request financial assistance was Washburn McReavy. Ericson again referred to the higher standards elected officials are hem to, and respectfully requested that Councilmember Nawrocki refrain from making comments under his breath, but rather make them into the microphone. Nawrocki stated that all Councilmembers should do the same. Hoefi stated that the background check done by the Pofice Department was routine. At the time the original station was built, all required parking was met, and no additional parking is required for On Sale of 3.2 beer. Hoefi recommended that Councilmember Williams abstain from the vote, as he has a financial interest in this business. Hoefi recommended approval of the Auto World request for a 3.2 beer ficense. John Hunter, 1009 42 ~ Avenue, indicated a double standard couM not be appfied, as civic organizations are recognized for their donations, such as the recreation party wagon. The City should help businesses, but step in if they do something wrong. Hunter stated this type of controversy might deter other businesses from wanting to come to our community. Nawrocki indicated that civic organizations do not require name recognition on their donations, as Auto World has, which qualifies it as advertising. Motion by Ericson, second by Kelzenberg, to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for August 11, 2003 as presented. Amendment to the Motion by Nawrocki to remove the item requesting a 3.2 license from the list. On the grounds it may jeopardize the other items from being approved Ericson asked Nawrocki to state the grounds referred to. Nawrocki again asked how many more parking spaces are required Hoefi stated that no more parking spaces were required Hoefi repeated his recommendation to approve the license. Without a second the amendment to the motion was not considered. Motion by Nawrocki to divide the question. As no second was received, the motion was not considered. Wyckoff stated she would vote to approve, but will ask the Pofice Chief to monitor and check the details of the ordinance. Hoefi stated that the Police Department should be asked to give this business the same scrutiny they give any other 3.2 beer license holder. Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, abstain; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, nay; Wyckoff, aye. 3 ayes -1 nay - City Council Minutes August 11, 2003 Page 9 of 11 1 abstention. Motion carried. Deb dohnson indicated that she to would have voted affirmative, as all requirements for the ficense were met. PUBLIC HEARINGS Wyckoff indicated that Public Hearings A - H would be closed in that the properties were either brought into compliance or sold. Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 1133 45th Ave. Mayor Wyckoff closed the Public Hearing for 1133 45th Avenue N.E. in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. B) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 1222-1224 45 lA Ave. Mayor Wyckoff closed the Public Hearing for 1222-1224 45-1/2 Avenue N.E. in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. ¢) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 3849 Edgemoor Place Mayor Wyckoff closed the Public Hearing for 3849 Edgemoor Place N.E. in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4500 Tyler St. Mayor Wyckoff closed the Public Hearing for 4500 Tyler Street N.E. in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. E) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4916 Tyler St. Mayor Wyckoff closed the Public Hearing for 4916 Tyler Street N.E. in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 1206-1208 Circle Terrace Blvd. Mayor Wyckoff closed the Public Hearing for 1206-1208 Circle Terrace Blvd in that the owner has sold the building. Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 1241-1243 Circle Terrace Blvd Mayor Wyckoff closed the Public Hearing for 1241 - 1243 Circle Terrace Boulevard in that the owner has paid the license fees and submitted a rental license application and scheduled an inspection. i-t) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4040-4042 Cleveland St. Mayor Wyckoff closed the Public Hearing for 4040 - 4042 Cleveland Street in that the owner has sold the building. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION Other Business 1) Approve proposed Comprehensive Plan amendment for the Kmart redevelopment site. Tim Johnson, City Planner, indicated this request is to amend the Comprehensive Plan with consideration of the Kmart site. The advisory committee has recommended a mixed use zoning combination. A draft redevelopment plan has been given to the Planning and Zoning Commission and they recommend approval to the City Council and Metropofitan Council. This site is 21 acres, currently commercial, but recommended for a mixed use concept as a transit oriented district. This allows for commercial and housing uses and is City Council Minutes August 11, 2003 Page 10 of 11 consistent with the goals' of the Comprehensive Plan. If the project were to not move forward, this would not affect what is currently in this area. Johnson stated these are floating districts' and can be designated to each parcel, depending on their fit. The NEI site is also zoned as transit oriented. Wyckoff stated that this is the first step to get this redevelopment off the ground. Nawrocki asked the definition of transit oriented. Johnson gave examples and stated this area applies as it abuts' Central Avenue. Nawrocki asked if there would be any transit stations. Streeter stated currently there is bus service, but no plans at this time. More information will be available at the September 4 work session. Nawrocki referred to tax breaks for property on a bus line and suggested contacting Anoka County. Streeter will contact them. Nawrocki asked if this action was premature. Streeter indicated this is to keep the project on schedule and is also appropriate zoning for the present usage. Motion by Ericson, second by Kelzenberg, to approve the City Comprehensive Plan amendment from Commercial to Transit-Oriented Mixed-Use Development, as the amendment is consistent with the City Comprehensive Plan goals and objectives, subject to Metropolitan Council review. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Report of the City Manager - none Report of the City Attorney- none CITIZENS FORUM George Linngren, 12000 3ra Street, Blaine and Columbia Heights' Pubfic Works' employee, responded to a comment at the last City Council meeting that Pubfic Works' employees were observed working only five or six hours a day. He requested that correct facts be obtained before making such statements, as this gives residents' a bad perception of City employees. Workers could be doing another job on the way back to the shop for break or doing another job before returning from break. There are many things that needing fixing that should have been approved for repair long ago. Workers looking into holes are doing so as a safety issue. Linngren referred to looking at Pubfic Works' to save money, but stated there are no complaints' when workers must plow snow from roads for twelve hours a day. He indicated he has not received a response to the requested cost effective suggestions he submitted. The department has 22 employees and four supervisors. Nclwrocki indicated that he requested a response be given to staff that submitted suggestions. He only passed along a report from residents' about time on and off the job. Nclwrocki indicated improvements' to the City during his 35 years on the Council. To reduce overtime, contracting out snowplowing duties was suggested over the years. Linngren indicated that he is tired of the attitude that Public Works' employees don't do anything, and hearing it reported on live TF instead of asking the foreman for correct information. Ericson indicated her sorrow that any member of the Pubfic Works' Department felt they are not appreciated, as she knows how hard they work. If there are concerns or an incident, it should be reported to the Department Head or City Manager. Williams stated that he received calls' on the negative comments' made and agreed with Councilmember Ericson's sentiment. He also referred to comments' at the National Night Out event that Councilmember Nawrocki is very hard on the City Manager. Williams asked that any such issues be discussed at a work session. Wyckoff stated regret for not responding to employees, but with the budget now under consideration employees may see these changes. We must promote and protect our staff, and give more compliments' than complaints'. City Council Minutes August 11, 2003 Page 11 of 11 Nawrocki stated his opinion that for the salary package City Manager receives, he is capable of doing more. We basically have good people working for the City, but not sure from a management standpoint that we utilize personnel as we should. Streeter requested Council hoM a joint work session on Thursday, September 4, 2003 beginning at 7:00 p.m,. with the EDA and Planning and Zoning Commissio, to discuss redevelopment recommendations for the Kmart area. Council will receive a technical memorandum around August 20th to allow them preparation time prior to September. Wyckoff asked if that wouM be the only work session hem that week. Fehst indicated it would. Nawrocki indicated that the HRA meeting scheduled for next week shouM be hem at the high-rise and not the City Hall conference room, as it deal; with the management services contract and possible rent increases. Ericson stated that as Chairperson of the HIM, felt it most beneficial to discuss the contract; as a body with representatives of the groups present. Nawrocki referred to openness in government. Ericson stated that the meeting would be open to the public. Kevin Hansen, Pubfic Work; Director, indicated that staff takes pride in their job, which precipitates their coming to the meeting, and stated he is also proud of what they do. Nawrocki stated that we do a good job, but we need to do better. Ericson stated that we would do better by keeping employees that do a good job. John Hunter compfimented Mr. Linngren and other employees. He referred to his contribution to building the gateway monument. Hunter suggested reminder lights for the Council table to ,'how predetermined time limits for discussion. Council should decide if every item should be bid or decided on an individual basis. COUNCIL CORNER Mayor Wyckoff indicated she would forego the Council Corner segment of this meeting, and proceeded to adjourn. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Wyckoff adjourned the meeting at 9:42 p.m. Patricia Muscovitz, CMC Deputy City Clerk/Council Secretary