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Home My WebLink AboutOctober 27, 2003OFFICIAL PROCEEDING CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 27, 2003 The following are the minutes for the regular meeting of the City Council held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 27, 2003 in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights, MN. Pastor Bill Hugo, St. Matthew Lutheran Church gave the Invocation. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL Present: Mayor Wyckoff, Councilmember Nawrocki, Councilmember Ericson, Councilmember Kelzenberg Excused: Councilmember Williams PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - recited ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA - none PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS Proclamations - none Presentations - Charter Commission membership update Clara Schmidt, second term member of the Charter Commission, asked for anyone interested in our government to apply to join the Charter Commission. She described the Commission and the Commissioner's duties, and the procedure to change statutes. Schmidt stated the need for citizens to help maintain the Charter in an updated manner. Nawrocki stated he has served on the Charter Commission, and commended Schmidt for her explanation of the Commission. He stated that State Statute has limited self-ruled Charter Cities, but it is good to learn what cities can and cannot do. Introductions - none Recognition - none CONSENT AGENDA City Manager Walt Fehst took Councilmembers through the consent agenda items. 1) Approve City Council Meeting Minutes for October 13, 2003 and Special Assessment Levv Hearing for October 8, 2003 a) Motion to approve the minutes of the October 13, 2003, regular City Council meeting as presented. b) Motion to approve the minutes of the October 8, 2003 Special Assessment Levy Hearing as presented. Nawrocki referred to page 7 of the October 13th minutes, which shouM have indicated the entire Council did not accept the motion. He reference comments' that petition signers were not aware of what they were signing because of the letter attached to the petition, so he read the top of the petition. Wyckoff stated that the petition is clear, but the accompanying letter dealt with other issues. Wyckoff stated the petition has been accepted. Nawrocki stated that it has not been accepted by the Council. City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 2 of 16 2) Accept Boards and Commissions Meeting Minutes a) Motion to accept the October 16, 2003 minutes of the Telecommunications Commission. b) Motion to accept the September 29, 2003 minutes of the Library Board/City Council budget meeting and Library Board of Trustees. c) Motion to accept the August 20, 2003 minutes of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority. d) Motion to accept the September 16, 2003 minutes of the Economic Development Authority. 3) Establish a Public Hearing date of Monday, November 10, 2003, at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, to permit interested persons an opportunity to express their views on the basic service programming and equipment rates and installation charges Comcast calculated in its February, 2003, rate filing. Motion to establish a Public Hearing date of Monday, November 10, 2003, at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, to permit interested persons an opportunity to express their views on the basic service programming and equipment rates and installation charges Comcast calculated in its February, 2003, rate filing. Fehst stated this Pubfic Hearing is required by law. Even though the rates have not increased since duly, Comcast was authorized to increase rates to the maximum allowable. Nawrocki stated that when the original franchise was granted for general service the charge was $10 per month. In 1995- 1996 Congress gave away local government's authority and gave companies the right to raise rates. Now the rates for the same service are almost $50 per month. Wyckoff referred to the different level; of service. Fehst listed the channel; available with basic service. 4) Adopt Resolution No. 2003-45, being a Resolution authorizing application to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development for Contamination Cleanup Grant Program - Removed Fehst indicated the appfication wouM be to fund Phase One clean up of the industrial area, requesting $1.8 million, with a twelve percent City match. 5) Adopt Resolution No. 2003-43, being a Resolution authorizing application to the Metropolitan Council for Tax Base Revitalization Account Funding - Removed 6) Adopt Resolution No. 2003-47, being a Resolution to certify delinquent utility and miscellaneous charges to Anoka County for collection with the property taxes payable in 2004 Motion to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2003-47, there being ample copies available to the public. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 2003-47, being a Resolution to certify delinquent utility and miscellaneous charges to Anoka County for collection with the property taxes payable in 2004. RESOLUTION NO. 2003-47 CERTIFICATION OF DELINQUENT UTILITY AND MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, that THE COUNTY AUDITOR be, and he is hereby directed, to levy delinquent utility and miscellaneous delinquent bills on the properties in the City of Columbia Heights as listed on page 2 of this resolution and filed in the Assessment Book for 2003 totaling $11,750.72. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the foregoing amounts shall be included in the individual property tax statements for the current year and identified thereon as "Special Assessments - Fund #83723. SAID CHARGES shall be enforced and collected in the manner provided for the enforcement and collection of State and City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 3 of 16 County taxes under and in accordance with the provisions of the general laws of the State. All delinquent utility and miscellaneous bills with penalties as indicated thereon paid to the County Treasurer shall belong to the City of Columbia Heights and shall be turned over to the City Treasurer in the manner provided by the City Charter and Ordinances. THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS shall accept payments on these utility and miscellaneous bills until October 23, 2004. Upon receipt of said payments, the City will remove them from the certification list sent to Anoka County. RESOLL!T!OI~ NO, R~nal8 V¢ccdem ~468, I, mo0~:n ~er' ~2:22 James R~de 12~SO ~61~ g~'e Ro:b¢t & Cyn~;l~ia ZCrshc~,~¢ 510~ 7th S~ Ant~,ew Wa~so~ 666 46 ~.¢2 Av~ ~E: ~4,63 O~g ~ A !on 4111 ';rig J~e Cadscn ~4:18 7~h ST NE Mary& ~ra~ms Weaver ~24 ~h St HE 291.T7 /.~de I~esimea~ ~!:2,9 ~th $7/4!00 4t;'~ ST 150;22 g.J. KincsdteCD,J, Hmj~ 4tM9 I,.mi~et~i~y d~s~pb Zappa 1032 - ~41~ A~ NE ~P~ 10;20 ,, 441h Ave NE 3~4.78 E8 F'raga~ I ~ C~rc!e Tecr ~d Fr'a~c~:e 13Cf2 Circle Ter~ ~l~d 577.22 baumie D Link 48E4, ~erv(,icr Bl~¢d I~f~k Kebs ~ 113 C&S~L~J AV~ NE 386.57 Robed & Cymhia Z~chek;~e 3823 Polk S~ NE 175,08 7) 8) 9) ]o) Establish a Public Hearing Date of Monday, November 10. 2003 for revocation or suspension of a rental property license at 4927 University Avenue and 4935 University Avenue NE Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of November 10, 2003, at approximately 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights at 4927 University Avenue & 4935 University Avenue N.E. Approve Rental Housing License Applications Motion to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for October 27, 2003. Approve Business License Applications Motion to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for October 27, 2003 as presented regarding the new licenses for 2003 and the renewals for 2004. 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 105472 through 105682 in the amount of $1,113,937.34. Nawrocki commented on check # 105569 to Aid Electric Service in the amount of $6,408for lighting in the Police/Fire Training Room and check # 105675for $ 775 to the University of Minnesota for three employees to attend a Public 147orks conference. In tough budget times, seeing these types of City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 4 of 16 expenditures bother him. Sending three people to the same conference is unnecessary, especially considering personnel costs for them being away from the office. Wyckoff questioned the lighting bill. Police Chief Tom Johnson stated that the Fire Department had two rows of lighting added to the Training Room as presenters wouM not come here because of the poor lighting conditions and our employees were forced to attend necessary training in other cities. Wyckoff indicated the University of Minnesota check was not for room or board, but for conference fees, which Council did agree upon. Wyckoff stated that employees need to have this incentive and avenue to grow in their positions. Motion by Ericson, second by Nawrocki, to approve the Consent Agenda items, with the exception of items number four and five. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Item #4 Adopt Resolution No. 2003-45, being a Resolution authorizing application to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) for Contamination Cleanup Grant Program Randy Schumacher, Community Development Assistant, indicated this application for $1.8 million is for clean up in Phase One of the industrial area. He indicated the required clean up is based on testing done this past summer with 85 test holes and five test wells, indicating a considerable amount of foundry waste with boron. Schumacher indicated the history of the City Council's high priority for this redevelopment project. Fun&for the testing were also received from DEED. The Metropolitan Council staff informed Schumacher today that our predevelopment application ranked in the top seven projects and will be recommended for approval to the full Met Council. The application meets the standards and requirements for the State andMet Council. Schumacher referred to the current low tax base of the site and the estimated redevelopment value of $35 million, for Phase One of the project. Contamination clean up for the overall site will be $4.6 million. As this cannot all be funded at one time, the State has requested we submit these appfications on a phased basis. An appfication can be submitted every six months. Nawrocki questioned if Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is part of the redevelopment plan. Schumacher stated not at this point; concentration is to do the clean up and ready the site for development. Nawrocki referred to the Kmart site, where it will be 16years before taxes are realized to support local services. He indicated that jobs are more important than long-range hopes for more taxes. Schumacher spoke of working with Mr. Schaffer regarding the area he owns. Nawrocki indicated that clean up should begin in the area west of 5th Street, jumping over University to 3rd Street from 37th to dOth. Schumacher described the Phase One location. Ericson indicated that long term plans for the area are not finalized, and that staff is only asking for authorization to submit grants for contamination cleanup. She encouraged the City to take advantage of the programs that are available. Motion by Ericson, second by Kelzenberg, to waive the reading of Resolution 2003-45, there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Ericson, second by Kelzenberg, to adopt Resolution 2003-45, being a resolution authorizing application to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development for Contamination Cleanup Grant Program.. Wyckoff agreed with the necessity to redevelop the parcel by University Avenue, but the study done shows a need for good housing. Nawrocki indicated that the decision to begin in this area is a staff decision. Schumacher stated the main reason this area is Phase One is because it has the highest possibility to be funded at this point and wouM give us a good track record to show we can do such a redevelopment project. City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 5 of 16 Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, aye; Wyckoff, aye. 4 ayes. Motion carried. Nawrocki voiced his reluctance to vote in the affirmative. RESOLUTION 2003-45 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CONTAMINATION CLEANUP GRANT PROGRAM WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights (the "City) has given their support to a master plan for redevelopment of industrial area properties; and WHEREAS, the City has found that there exists conditions of deterioration, blight, substandard structures, and environmental concerns, and there exists a need (due to blighting influences) for intervention by the City to prevent further deterioration and promote redevelopment of the industrial area; and WHEREAS, the City has recently identified and completed Phase I and Phase II assessments of all industrial properties in the industrial planning area in which various potential contaminants were identified, with the City submitting a Response Action Plan (RAP) to the MPCA for cleanup; and WHEREAS, the total legislative appropriation for this grant program for fiscal years 2004-05 is $4,362,000, and the DEED grant requires applicants to pay an amount equal to 12 % of the cleanup costs from unrestricted money available to the City. With the local match to be an internal loan from the Capital Improvement General Government Building Fund and to be repaid at a 5 % interest rate; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Columbia Heights acts as the legal sponsor for the Contamination Cleanup Grant Program to be submitted on November 1, 2003, and that Walt R Fehst, Executive Director, is hereby authorized to apply to DEED for funding on behalf of the City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Columbia Heights has the legal authority to apply for financial assistance, and the institutional, managerial, and financial capability to ensure adequate project administration; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the sources and amounts of the local match identified in the application are committed to the project identified; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Columbia Heights has not violated any Federal, State, or local laws pertaining to fraud, bribery, graft, kickbacks, collusion, conflict of interest or unlawful or corrupt practice; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon approval of its application by the state, the City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the above-referenced project(s), and that Columbia Heights certifies that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in all contract agreements; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Waker R. Fehst is hereby authorized to execute such agreements as are necessary to implement the project(s) on behalf of the applicant; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota has approved the Contamination Cleanup Grant Application submitted to the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). Item #5 Adopt Resolution No. 2003-43, being a Resolution authorizing application to the Metropolitan Council for Tax Base Revitalization Account Funding Schumacher indicated this is the same application, as it is ajoint funding process and these two groups would divide the total cost. Nawrocki reiterated his comments from the first Resolution. Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Ericson, to waive the reading of Resolution 2003-43, there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Ericson, to adopt Resolution 2003-43, being a resolution authorizing application to the Metropolitan Council Tax Base Revitalization Account Funding. Nawrocki questioned spending $2 million without a result. Schumacher referred to the grant from the County to do the land use study, which indicated housing with an option of industrial use on the foundry site. The Council did adopt the general land use plan. When the property is cleaned up, Council will start guiding staff, and reviewing consultant; and developers. 147yckoff indicated that nothing could happen until City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 6 of 16 the ground is cleaned up. Fehst stated that with our standing to be funded, this is a worthy commitment. Nclwrocki questioned if this wouM end up as subsiding housing. 14Zyckoff stated that has never come into the conversation. Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, aye; Wyckoff, aye. 4 ayes. Motion carried. Nclwrocki voiced his reluctance to vote in the affirmative. RESOLUTION NO. 2003-43 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION TO THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL FOR TAX BASE REVITALIZATION ACCOUNT FUNDING WHEREAS, the City of Columbia Heights is a participant in the Livable Communities Act Housing Incentives Program for 2003 as determined by the Metropolitan Council, and is therefore eligible to make application for funds under the Tax Base Revitalization Account; and WHEREAS, the City has identified a contamination clean-up project within the City that meets the Tax Base Revitalization Account's purpose/s and criteria; and WHEREAS, the City has the institutional, managerial and financial capability to ensure adequate project administration; and WHEREAS, the City certifies that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the contract agreements; and WHEREAS, the total appropriation for the Spring 2004 funding cycle is 2,550,000; and WHEREAS, the City Council of Columbia Heights, Minnesota agrees to act as legal sponsor for the project contained in the Tax Base Revitalization Account application submitted on November 1, 2003; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Manager is hereby authorized to apply to the Metropolitan Council for this funding on behalf of the City of Columbia Heights and to execute such agreements as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the applicant. PUBLIC HEARINGS - none ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION Other Ordinances and Resolutions 1) Second Reading of Ordinance No. 1463, being a Ordinance adopting the permit fee schedules for Building Construction, Plumbing/Gas Piping, Heating/Cooling, Fire suppression, Wrecking and Moving, Signs and other related construction work; providing for the collection of the State Surcharge Fee; and formally establishing a refund policy as required by the MN State Building Code. Wyckoff indicated this Ordinance is a State requirement and will not raise permit fees. Motion by Ericson, second Nawrocki to waive the reading of Ordinance No. 1463, there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Ericson, second by Kelzenberg, to adopt Ordinance No. 1463, being an Ordinance adopting the permit fee schedules for Building Construction, Plumbing/Gas Piping, Heating/Cooling, Fire suppression, Wrecking and Moving, Signs and other related construction work; providing for the collection of the State Surcharge Fee; and formally establishing a refund policy as required by the MN State Building Code. Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Ericson, aye; City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 7 of 16 Nawrocki, aye; Wyckoff, aye. 4 ayes. Motion carried. (Ordinance No. 1463 printed at the end of this document) 2) Adopt Resolution No. 2003-46, accepting the 2003-2004 Federal Law Enforcement Block Grant in the amount of $12,616 and appropriating $1,402 in matching funds to come from unexpended funds in the 2003 Police Department budget and to set November 10, 2003, as the date for a Public Hearing to review and approve the list of equipment to be purchased with this grant. Police Chief Tom Johnson indicated the Police Department has applied and qualified for this Block Grant every year since 1996. Available funds have been reduced by one-half since the program began. A $1,404 match wouM be required which wouM come from funds budgeted for two car safety dividers and two light bars that were in the budget and wouM be used toward this grant. Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Nawrocki, to Adopt Resolution No. 2003-46, accepting the 2003- 2004 Federal Law Enforcement Block Grant in the amount of $12,616 and appropriating $1,402 in matching funds to come from unexpended funds in the 2003 Police Department budget. Nawrocki commended the Pofice Chief for findingfunds for the required grant match. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Nawrocki, second by Kelzenberg, set November 10, 2003, at approximately 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, as the date for a Public Hearing to review and approve the list of equipment to be purchased with this grant. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. RESOLUTION 2003-46 BEING A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT EQUIPMENT BLOCK GRANT AND APPROPRIATING MATCHING FUNDS WHEREAS, the City of Columbia Heights Police Department has been granted $12,166 in an equipment block grant from the U.S. Department of Justice for the purpose of funding equipment, and; WHEREAS, a condition of the grant is that the City provide $1,402 in local match for this grant, and; WHEREAS, the City of Columbia Heights Police Department has provided the U.S. Department of Justice a proposal for implementation for this grant. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights that: 1. The City of Columbia Heights enter into a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice for the project entitled a "Local Law Enforcement Equipment Block Grant Program" for the period October 1, 2002, to September 30, 2004. 2. That $1,402 be appropriated from unexpended funds in the Police Department 2003 budget to pay the local match. Bid Considerations - none Other Business 1) Appointment to the Library Board (one) for the remainder of the term to expire April 2005; to the Park and Recreation Commission (two) for the remainder of the terms to expire on April 2004 and April 2006; and to the Human Services Commission (one) for the remainder of the term to expire April 2006. Mayor Wyckoff suggested tabling the Park and Recreation appointments, as there is one more candidate to interview and the commission does not meet again until the end of November. Nawrocki suggest tabling all appointment; until Councilmember Williams returns. Wyckoff indicated that he was not at the first interviews. City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 8 of 16 Motion by Nawrocki that appoints to the Boards and Commissions be tabled to the next regular Council meeting. Wyckoff indicated the desire to go ahead with the other two appointment,'. Wyckoff called for a second to the motion. Without a second, the motion was not considered. Motion by Nawrocki, second by Kelzenberg, to appoint Audrey Hyatt to the Library Board for the remainder of the term to expire April 2005, and to appoint Khaled Qamhieh to the Human Services Commission, for the remainder of the term to expire April 2006. Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, aye; Wyckoff, aye. 4 ayes. Motion carried. Wyckoff thanked all those that applied She acknowledged Rob Fiorendino as a strong and valuable candidate. Nawrocki suggested interviewing the last appficant at 6.'30 p.m. on Monday, November fid. Wyckoff instructed the Deputy City Clerk to schedule this interview. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Report of the City Manager Fehst indicated the Work Session on November 3~ wouM include a presentation by the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust on insurance claims, what liability insurance is, when they pay and when the City is liable for City issues. There will also be a presentation by the firm of Short/Elliott/ Nendrickson on the Utility Rate Study they have completed and the final departmental budget meetings. Councilmember Williams had requested discussion on the Design Guidelines, but Fehst indicated his desire to answer these questions prior to the Work Session. Report of the City Attorney - none CITIZENS FORUM Bridget Nansen, 4561 Chatham Road, submitted apetition with 220 signatures to save the deer on the Minneapolis Water Work; property. She stated that a task force has been established, but is afraid that resident; will not be kept informed As Minneapolis Water Works personnel have not suggested killing the deer, B. Nansen questioned the need to do this. Deer populations are normally only controlled if they are damaging public property, but these deer are in an enclosed area. B. Nansen stated residents are being told that the deer are starving. Resident; and people outside of the City feed the deer and they do not appear to be starving. B. Hansen stated there should be no intervention, and we should allow for natural "survival of the fittest". Elaine Feely, 4601 Chatham Road, indicated the same sentiment; as Ms. Hansen. Mayor Wyckoff suggested formally accepting the petition. Motion by Nawrocki, to accept the petition to save the deer. Second by Kelzenberg. Ericson stated that the City Attorney has indicated the Mayor may accept such a petition. Nawrocki indicated the petition should be accepted by the entire City Council as a courtesy. This does not indicate agreement with the petition. Ericson stated this is a question of procedure. Upon vote: All Ayes. Motion accepted. City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 9 of 16 Jane Anderson, 1402 Circle Terrace, stated she is a business owner, and understand; deer management. She indicated that the DNR states the number of deer recommended per acre would allow two deer for this site. Bow hunting was the DNR ' s choice for herd reduction, and will agree to what the City chooses to do. Anderson stated that many resident; do not want the deer killed and asked to look into management options such as zoo control, resource control, birth control, etc. Tony Relier, 4621 Chatham Road indicated the deer are not hurting anyone. Wyckoff stated if the deer do not have a proper diet they will get dizzy and die of starvation. Andrew Sosa, 4316 Arthur Street, indicated he has been going to see the deer since he was born, and that many people come to see the deer. They bring joy to the community, so why would you take that away. Kelly Faris, 4609 Chatham, a member of the task force, felt the task force would be better if it were a random pick of Columbia Height; resident,'. She stated that most members of the group are avid bow hunters. Faris felt she was not allowed to speak at the task force meeting and that some members tried to put a vote through when several members had already left. Wyckoff questioned the City Attorney as to what authority the City of Columbia Height; has in the Water Work; area. Hoefi stated that without knowing how to euthanize the deer, he would not speculate on authority. Wyckoff questioned a ,'harp ,'hooter and if the Water Work; could do anything with the deer without the City's approval. Hoefi referred to a past study regarding firearms, but never received a definitive answered Hoefi stated we could only support the City's ordinance. Nawrocki indicated displeasure that the Water Work; is not taking responsibifity in this issue, and the DNR is not being helpful. This problem is not unique to this area. A resident asked what the problem really is. Nawrocki stated that there are more deer in the Water Work; area than the property can handle, and the deer will die of their own accord The resident stated that would be preferable to people killing them. Discussion included the amount of vegetation required to adequately feed a deer and the necessary acreage requirement. Nawrocki stated the herd is looking thin and is estimated to have increased to 50 deer in this confined area. A resident indicted this would be like "shootingfish in a barrel". A resident indicated that there are only two reasons to dispose of animals, danger to public safety and public property. Nawrocki stated it would be inhumane to let them starve. A resident suggested letting "nature take its course ", as no one has proved the deer are starving. Faris indicated that the deer would overcompensate in reproduction to compensate for any loss of the herd Ericson acknowledged that resident; and people outside of the community love to come and see the deer. She encouraged everyone involved to get good information before taking any action. In the past there was a concern that deer droppings could contaminate the water, but was found not to be true. We need to sort fact from fiction and find out if this is or is not a problem. Para Johnson, 4316 Arthur, asked that any information received be passed on to the pubfic. Ericson stated that we must get good information and not base decisions just on what other cities do. Kelzenberg stated that the Water Works personnel have indicated problems with the deer setting off their security alarms. Wyckoff indicated that five years ago the City Council voted to have the deer destroyed because of cryptosporidium, which was found to not be true. Currently, the deer are too thin, and they are inbred City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 10 of 16 Wyckoff stated her concern with seeing deer lying in an open fieM in daylight hours, which is not normal. Two week; ago there was a security breach at the Water Work; and they sent a helicopter over with a heat sensor. This indicated 55 to 60 hot spots, which were deer. The task force was chosen from resident; on all sides of the Water Work; and the DNR. The Water Work; has agreed to keep more than two deer. The DNR suggest; killing the deer or letting them starve. If birth control were used the deer wouM have to be tagged but if they get out of the confined area, the public wouM have to be made aware of it. Wyckoff indicated concern about PETA involvement leading to possible damages to our water supply. Wyckoff stated her displease to do anything, and hopes to reach a compromise. There is standing water for the deer, but it is not good to feed them corn, as they need a more balanced diet. The deer population in this confined area is to high. Wyckoff stated that she does not know if bow hunting is the best way, but does not believe in ,'hooting them. It has been suggested to give the meat to the local food she/f, or possibly to an Indian group, but food ,'helves cannot accept meat that has not been inspected an approved Paris indicated that Native Americans would reject such an offer. A young resident suggested releasing the deer into the wild Wyckoffstated that the DNR wouM not issue a permit for this, as they wouM not survive the trauma. A resident asked if the Minneapolis Water Work; personnel raised the deer question. Wyckoff indicatedyes, they contacted our Public Work; Director. Pehst stated he knows this really bothers the Mayor to consider, but people from the area have asked what we are going to do. We do not want the unpleasantness of watching the deer starve to death. A resident asked if anyone couM attend the task force meeting. Wyckoff indicated everyone was welcome. Paris stated there is no proof as to the number of deer, nor that they are starving. The deer are out in the open areas because they are avoiding the construction work on the site. Anderson indicated the desire to see a veterinarian and the U of MAnimalManagementpresent at these meetings for their insight. Wyckoff indicated the desire to come up an alternative to Mlling the deer. She suggested that anyone with articles or contact; with expert; bring them to the task force meeting. Wyckoff indicated the next meeting of the task force wouM be Monday, November 3rd at 2.'OO p. m. COUNCIL COMMUNICATION Nawrocki · As the representative on the Suburban Rate Authority, concerned with money spent for a consultant report regarding Municipal Electric Utilities. However, the points made were interesting, as you do not need to own your own plant, and you can go on-line to buy your electricity. 124 cities are involved in their own electric utilities; there are also co-ops for groups to join together. In 2006 the freeze on Excel's ability to raise rates will expire and they will look for increases to fund changing their plants from coal to gas. He offered the report for review. · Letter from Anoka County indicating there would be an upcoming appointment to the Rice Creek Water Shed District. Anyone interested should contact Jim Kordiak. Referred to the Public Works budget review meeting indicating new sources of revenue to get money from residents in community through franchise fees, levy increases, HRA levy increases, and increases from Anoka County HRA if they take over our senior housing. · Requested information from the Recreation Department on the number of people that participate in the various programs, and the total number of people in programs, not counting if they are in City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 11 of 16 multiple programs. · Requested copy of the Planning and Zoning Commission special meeting agenda regarding the Kmart site, of October 28th. Ericson · Last Friday was Make a Difference Day. We were recognized for our involvement in the St. Paul Pioneer Press. Invited anyone interested to attend the next Rising to New Heights meeting on November 11, 2003. Nclwrocki stated that he asked to be part of the group when it was formed, but was tom the City couM not be involved Wyckoff indicated that has change& Ericson is involved, but is not on the Board 147yckoff also referred to a newspaper article where Adam Davis was quoted regarding the Rising to NewHeights promotion of Columbia Height,'. Wyckoff · Will not be able to attend the special Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, as she has a prior commitment to a meeting with the schools. · Referred to an article about the new company in Columbia Heights called "Nuture, Inc.", which handles volcanic ash products. All of their employees live in Columbia Heights. They had contacted our Community Development Department, who helped them find a business site in town. Listed where their products are sold and their web site address. Ericson stated that she has sampled their projects and is very impressed They will have a booth at the Taste of Heights. Wednesday, November 5th is Shop with the Mayor and ride the 801 Metro Transit Bus for free. This is to promote the 801 Bus that travels from Brookdale to Rosedale, because Metro Transit has indicated they would need to reduce availability if ridership does not increase. Meet at the Transit Hub at 10:30 a.m. for a photo opportunity. Senator Chaudhary and Representative Goodwin will be present. Kelzenberg · Still working to set up the 500 card games, which will be held in the senior room at Murzyn Hall. Games may possibly begin next month. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Wyckoff adjourned the meeting at 9:15 p.m. Patricia Muscovitz, CMC Deputy City Clerk/Council Secretary ORDINANCE 1463 BEING AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE PERMIT FEE SCHEDULES FOR BUILDING CONSTRUCTION, PLUMBING/GAS, PIPING, HEATING/COOLING, FIRE SUPPRESSION, WRECKING AND MOVING, SIGNS AND OTHER RELATED CONSTRUCTION WORK; PROVIDING FOR THE COLLECTION OF PLAN REVIEW FEES; PROVIDING FOR THE COLLECTION OF THE STATE SURCHARGE FEE; AND FORMALLY ESTABLISHING A REFUND POLICY AS REQUIRED BY THE MN STATE BUILDING CODE. City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 12 of 16 Section 1. Permit Fees. The issuance of permits and the collection of fees shall be as authorized in Minnesota Statutes 16B.62, subdivision 1. Therefore, Fees for Permits and Plan Reviews will be assessed in accordance with the attached Fee schedule that is being adopted by the City of Columbia Heights. In addition, a surcharge fee shall be collected on all permits issued for work governed by this MN State Building Code in accordance with MN Statute 16B.70. Section 2. Refund Policy. As required by the Minnesota State Building Code the following refund policy will be adopted as part of this Ordinance. The Building Official may authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent of the permit fee paid when no work has been done under a permit issued in accordance with the code. The Building Official may also authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent of the plan review fee when an application for a permit for which a plan review fee has been paid is withdrawn or canceled before any plan reviewing is done. The Building Official shall only authorize refunding of any fee paid when a written request has been submitted by the original applicant not later than 180 days after the date of fee payment. Section 4. Effective Date of Ordinance. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after thirty (30) days after its passage. First Reading: Second Reading: Date of Passage: October 13, 2003 October 27, 2003 October 27, 2003 BUILDING PERMIT FEES CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS Valuation $ 0 800 801 - 900 901 - 1,000 1,001- 1,100 1.101 - 1,200 1,201 - 1,300 1,301 - 1,400 1,401 - 1,500 1,501 - 1,600 1,601 - 1,700 1,701 - 1,800 1,801 - 1,900 1,901 - 2,000 2,001 - 3,000 3,001 - 4,000 4,001 - 5,000 5,001 - 6,000 6,001 - 7,000 7,001 - 8,000 8,001 - 9,000 9,001 - 10,000 10,001 - 11,000 11,001 - 12,000 12,001 - 13,000 13,001 - 14,000 14,001 - 15,000 15,001 - 16,000 16,001 - 17,000 17,001 - 18,000 18,001 - 19,000 Fee 35.00 35.70 38.75 41.80 44 85 47 90 50 95 54 00 57 05 60 10 63 15 66 20 69 25 83 25 97 25 111.25 12525 13925 15325 16725 18125 19525 20925 22325 23725 251.25 265.25 279.25 293.25 307.25 25,001 26,001 27,001 28,001 29,001 30,001 31,001 32,001 33,001 34,001 35,001 36,001 37,001 38,001 39,001 40,001 41,001 42,001 43,001 44,001 45,001 46,001 47,001 48,001 49,001 50,001 51,001 52,001 Valuation -26,000 - 27,000 - 28,000 - 29,000 - 30,000 - 31,000 - 32,000 - 33,000 - 34,000 - 35,000 - 36,000 - 37,000 - 38,000 - 39,000 - 40,000 - 41,000 - 42,000 - 43,000 - 44,000 - 45,000 - 46,000 - 47,000 - 48,000 - 49,000 - 50,000 - 51,000 - 52,000 - 53,000 Fee 401.35 411.45 421.55 431.65 441.75 451.85 461.95 47205 48215 49225 50235 51245 52255 53265 54275 55285 56295 57305 58315 59325 60335 61345 62355 63365 64375 65075 65775 66475 Ci~ Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 13 of 16 19,001 -20,000 20,001 -21,000 21,001 -22,000 22,001 -23,000 23,001 -24,000 24,001 -25,000 Valuation $ 59,001 - 60,000 60,001 - 61,000 61,001 - 62,000 62,001 - 63,000 63,001 - 64,000 64,001 - 65,000 65,001 - 66,000 66,001 - 67,000 67,001 - 68,000 68,001 - 69,000 69,001 - 70,000 70,001 - 71,000 71,001 - 72,000 72,001 - 73,000 73,001 - 74,000 74,001 - 75,000 75,001 - 76,000 76,001 - 77,000 77,001 - 78,000 78,001 - 79,000 79,001 - 80,000 80,001 - 81,000 81,001 - 82,000 82,001 - 83,000 83,001 - 84,000 84,001 - 85,000 85,001 - 86,000 86,001 - 87,000 87,001 - 88,000 88,001 - 89,000 89,001 - 90,000 90,001 - 91,000 91,001 - 92,000 92,001 - 93,000 93,001 - 94,000 94,001 - 95,000 95,001 - 96,000 96,001 - 97,000 97,001 - 98,000 98,001 - 99,000 99,001 -100,000 100,001 - 101,000 101,001 -102,000 102,001 -103,000 103,001 -104,000 104,001 -105,000 105,001 -106,000 321.25 335.25 349.25 363.25 377.25 391.25 Fee 71375 72075 72775 73475 74175 74875 75575 76275 76975 77675 78375 79075 79775 80475 811.75 81875 82575 83275 83975 84675 85375 86075 86775 87475 88175 88875 89575 90275 90975 91675 92375 93075 93775 94475 951.75 95875 96575 97275 97975 98675 99375 99935 1,004.95 1,010.55 1,016.15 1,021.75 1,027.35 53,001 - 54,000 54,001 - 55,000 55,001 - 56,000 56,001 - 57,000 57,001 - 58,000 58,001 - 59,000 Valuation 106,001 -107,000 107,001 -108,000 108,001 -109,000 109,001 -110,000 110,001 -111,000 111,001 -112,000 112,001 -113,000 113,001 -114,000 114,001 -115,000 115,001 -116,000 116,001 -117,000 117,001 -118,000 118,001 -119,000 119,001 -120,000 120,001 -121,000 121,001 -122,000 122,001 -123,000 123,001 -124,000 124,001 -125,000 125,001 -126,000 126,001 -127,000 127,001 -128,000 128,001 -129,000 129,001 -130,000 130,001 -131,000 131,001 -132,000 132,001 -133,000 133,001 -134,000 134,001 -135,000 135,001 -136,000 136,001 -137,000 137,001 -138,000 138,001 -139,000 139,001 -140,000 140,001 -141,000 141,001 -142,000 142,001 -143,000 143,001 -144,000 144,001 -145,000 145,001 -146,000 146,001 -147,000 147,001 -148,000 148,001 -149,000 149,001 -150,000 150,001 -151,000 151,001 -152,000 152,001 -153,000 Fee 1032 1038 1044 1049 1055 1060 1066 1072 1077 1083 1088 1094 1100 1105 1111 1116 1122 1128 1133 1139 1144 1150 1156 1161 1167 1172 1178 1184 1189 1195 1200 1206 1212 1217 1223 1228 1234 1240 1245 1251 1256 1262 1268 1273 1279 1284 1290 671.75 678.75 685.75 692.75 699.75 706.75 95 55 15 75 35 95 55 15 75 35 95 55 15 75 35 95 55 15 75 35 95 55 15 75 35 95 55 15 75 35 95 55 15 75 35 95 55 15 75 35 95 55 15 75 35 95 55 City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 14 of 16 Valuation 154,001 - 155,000 155,001 - 156,000 156,001 - 157,000 157,001 - 158,000 158,001 - 159,000 159,001 - 160,000 160,001 - 161,000 161,001 - 162,000 162,001 - 163,000 163,001 - 164,000 164,001 - 165,000 165,001 - 166,000 166,001 - 167,000 167,001 - 168,000 168,001 - 169,000 169,001 - 170,000 170,001 - 171,000 171,001 - 172,000 172,001 - 173,000 173,001 - 174,000 174,001 - 175,000 175,001 - 176,000 176,001 - 177,000 177,001 - 178,000 178,001 - 179,000 179,001 - 180,000 180,001 - 181,000 181,000 - 182,000 182,001 - 183,000 183,001 - 184,000 184,001 - 185,000 185,001 - 186,000 186,001 - 187,000 187,001 - 188,000 188,001 - 189,000 189,001 - 190,000 190,001 - 191,000 191,001 - 192,000 192,001 - 193,000 193,001 - 194,000 194,001 - 195,000 195,001 - 196,000 196,001 - 197,000 197,001 - 198,000 198,001 - 199,000 199,001 - 200,000 200,001 - 201,000 Fee 1,296.15 1,301.75 1,307.35 1,312.95 1,318.55 1,324.15 1,329.75 1,335.35 1,340.95 1,346.55 1,352.15 1,357.75 1,363.35 1,368.95 1,374.55 1,380.15 1,385.75 1,391.35 1,396.95 1,402.55 1,408.15 1,413.75 1,419.35 1,424.95 1,430.55 1,436.15 1,441.75 1,447.35 1,452.95 1,458.55 1,464.15 1,469.75 1,475.35 1,480.95 1,486.55 1,492.15 1,497.75 1,503.35 1,508.95 1,514.55 1,520.15 1,525.75 1,531.35 1,536.95 1,542.55 1,548.15 1,553.75 $100,001.00 to $500,000.00 $993.75 for the first $100,000.00 of valuation plus $5.60 for each additional $1,000.00 or fraction thereof up to and including $500,000.00. $500.001.00 to $1,000,000.00 $3,233.75 for the first $500,000.00 plus $4.75 for each additional $1,000.00 of value or fraction thereof to and including $1,000,000.00. $1,000,001.00 and up $5,608.75 for the first $1,000,000.00 of value plus $3.65 for each additional $1,000.00 of value or fraction thereof. Plan Review Fees 65% of Permit Fees Investigation Fees - Equal to and in addition to permit fee. Surcharge: Value x .0005 with minimum charge of $.50 HEATING/COOLING PERMITS Fees for Residential Mechanical Permits shall be calculated as follows on a per unit basis, with a minimum permit fee of $35.00. Surcharges shall be a flat $.50 per permit. Air Conditioner $25 Gas Dryer $10 City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 15 of 16 Air to Air Exchanger $15 Chimney liner $10 Ductwork $10 Fireplace (Gas or Wood) $50 Furnaces/boilers up to 125,000 btu input $50 Furnaces/boilers over 125,000 btu input $75 Gas Piping $10 Gas Range/Oven $10 Gas Grill $10 Pool Heater $10 Fees for Commerical/Industrial/Institutional Mechanical Permits will be based on total cost of work calculated by using the Building Permit Fee Schedule. The total cost of work shall include all labor and materials supplied by the contractor. The minimum Permit fee shall be $35.00. The surcharge shall be calculated by taking the value x .0005 PLUMBING/GAS PIPING PERMITS Residential Permit Fees shall be computed on the basis of the number of fixtures provided for in the permit in accordance with the following schedule: Residential is defined as single family, two family dwelling, townhouse unit and multi-family unit. Fees for Group ~A" fixtures at $10.00 each with a minimum fee of $35.00 Bathtub floor drain sink Gas Piping Bidet pool heater water closet Water supply-inside Backflow prev. laundry tray Washer Sewer repair-inside Dryer lavatory Water softener Water supply-outside Dishwasher shower Water Heater Sewer supply-outside Surcharges for all plumbing permits are a flat $.50 when there is a Permit Fee under $1,000. Fees for Commercial/Industrial/Institutional Plumbing Installations/Repairs will be based on the total cost of the work calculated by using the Building Permit Fee Schedule. The total cost of the work shall include all labor and materials supplied by the Contractor. The Minimum Fee shall be $35.00. The surcharge shall be calculated by taking the value x .0005 SEWER/WATER PERMITS Permits will be required for all installation, alterations, repairs of any domestic water or sewer lines, commercial water/sewer lines or any water line to be used for fire suppression systems. For any job requiring City crews to make a water or sewer tap, the Contractor must provide an OSHA approved trench box before City Crews will perform tapping operations. Fees will be $35 plus parts and tax when applicable. Surcharges will be a flat $.50 for all sewer/water permits when permit fee is under $1,000. PERMITS FOR WATER METERS The fees collected for the installation of water meters for residential, commercial, industrial, institutional installations will be calculated at 15% over the cost of the meter, plus sales tax. No surcharge will be collected. FIRE SUPPRES SION/SPRINKLER PERMITS Permit fees and surcharge will be figured by using the same fee chart as for Building Permits based on the cost of the job. DEMOLITION PERMITS Permit fees and surcharges will be based on same schedule as for a building permits, based on the cost of the job. MOVING PERMITS Fees for the moving or raising of any minor building such as a utility building or garage will be calculated at a fee of $50.00 per structure. Fees for the moving or raising of all other building will be calculated at a fee of $100 per structure. Permits will be require if passing through the City off of US Highways or County streets. Fees to be calculated at $50 per structure. INSTALLATION/REMOVAL of FLAMMABLE/COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE TANKS and LP GAS TANKS Fees for the installation, removal, or alteration of any above ground or below ground storage tanks or LP tanks will be City Council Minutes October 27, 2003 Page 16 of 16 calculated at $30 per tank. All installations must be approved by the State Fire Marshall and local Fire Dept. STREET EXCAVATION/DUMPSTER PERMITS Permits are obtained at the Public Works Dept. Fees will be charged for the permits, but no surcharge is collected. Please Sign This Petition to Save Our Deer!! lJ Please Sign This Petition to Save Our Deer!! /,>~- 0 ¢/"¢ff'-,.,~ .4/¢ Please Sign This Petition to Sa Deer! ! I I Please Sign This Petition to Save Our Deer!! Please sign .I Ills I'el;ItlUll tu ~ S ve Our Deer!! Please Sign This Petition to Save Our Deer!! .? ~Ple~ls.e ~This Petition to I~ Save Our Deer!! , , , I I I Please Sign This Petition to S ave Our Deer! ! D r'T~ r,;,