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HomeMy WebLinkAboutJanuary 10, 2005OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 10, 2005 The following are the minutes for the regular meeting of the City Council held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 10, 2005 in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights, MN. Oaths of Office were administered to Mayor Gary Peterson, Councihnember Bruce Nawrocki, and Councihnember Bobby Williams by Deputy City Clerk Patty Muscovitz. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/INVOCATION Present: Mayor Peterson, Councihnelnber Nawrocki, Councihnember Williams, Councihnelnber Ericson, Councihnember Kelzenberg Pastor Tim Roehl, Cln-istlife Evangelical Church, gave the Invocation. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - recited ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA Mayor Peterson gave each Councilmember an opportunity to speak to begin the new year. Kelzenberg congratulated Peterson, Nawrocki, and Williams on their election. He stated Councihnembers intent to get along better, move the City along, and to come together to make a better community. Willimns stated that Councihnembers have committed themselves to each other and our community, agree to disagree, will work hard to be examples to our city, and have a positive image for our city. He congratulated Peterson and Nawrocki and thanked those who voted for him. Residents were told to call him if they have any questions. Peterson congratulated Williams and Nawrocki and indicated the desire to work with them for the co~mnunity. He stated that last Thursday the community lost beloved 95 year old citizen, A1 Naegele. Peterson listed the many organizations and activities that Mr. Naegele participated in. He thanked the former Mayor and Nawrocki for conducting a video interview with Mr. Naegele last year, for historical purposes. Peterson indicated his vision for the City Council to work together, with respect, in a more profession manner to bring back Heights pride. He indicated that some actions from his last term were counter projective, and apologized. Ericson stated that this is an exciting time for our city, with exciting projects. The City is in a period of redevelopment. We have a wonderful staff, and she sees great things happening in Columbia Heights in the next couple of years. Ericson invited everyone to become involved. Nawrocki indicated Peterson's co~mnents were well stated. Councihnembers have learned from past controversy, and have discussed working together for the betterment of the City. Nawrocki described the handling of the property on 40th Avenue and Peterson's and Williams' attempt to develop the property for the good of the City. Their limited liability partnership was filed prior to the time indicated at the last meeting. He stated that Mr. Peterson withdrew his offer because of public discussion, despite the funds he had invested. The big loser in this is the City Columbia Heights as the property remains vacant and we have funds tied up property acquisition. Nawrocki referred to connnents received during campaigning that were favorable and suggestions made. He stated his belief that there is room for improvement. He does not apologize for being assertive and City Council Minutes January 10, 2005 Page 2 of I 1 aggressive, but will remain open minded. Though discussions with the Mayor, he will be able to pursue his points of discussion, but will do better to work with other Councilmembers. Members can disagree without being disagreeable. Nawrocki stated that the City Manager could provide better alternatives for city business. He expressed great concern about city finances. We have good people working for the city, but need to make the effort to use city resources in the best way we can. A voter suggested that the City Manager bring to Council a list if items he will work on in the following months, with follow up reports. Nawrocki suggested renegotiating fees for legal services. He also suggested that each department place two percent of their budget into a reserve or contingency to help us to do more with less. Nawrocki indicated that city staff should support the city business district, not talk against them. Nawrocki referred to the December 2nd letter to the editor indicating his inability to work with women and described many instances where he has worked with and supported women. He indicated his belief that Councihnembers will have differences, and his hope that the differences are handled in a respectful manner. Nawrocki also refen'ed to the death of A1 Naegele and gave an example of his outstanding character with a stoW from his youth. PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS Introduction of New Employee - Lan-y Pepin, Building Official Peterson invited Mr. Pepin to speak. Pepin listed his background and experience and stated his pleasure to work for Columbia Heights, as there are many exciting possibilities. He stated that this would become the place to live; a convenient and growing community. Recognition - Ted Yehle, former Charter Connnission and Planning and Zoning Commission melnber. The Mayor introduced Ted Yehle and thanked him for his service to the connnunity. Yehle colnmended the Council for the outlook they have to work together. He indicated that he wanted to ad&ess the Council and the public, as he has moved to another cmmnunity, and stated his pleasure to have lived and worked in this colmnunity. He stated his home for continued redevelopment. CONSENT AGENDA Walt Fehst, City Manager, took Councihnembers through the consent agenda. 1) Approve City Council Meeting Minutes for December 13, 2004 regular City Council meeting Motion to approve the minutes of the December 13, 2004, regular City Council meeting as presented. 2) Accept Boards and Cmrnnissions Meeting Minutes Motion to accept the EDA minutes of November 16, 2004 Motion to accept the Park and Recreation Commission minutes of November 23, 2004 Motion to accept the Traffic Commission minutes of December 6, 2004 Motion to accept the Library Board minutes of December 7, 2004 3) Establish Work Session meeting date for Tuesday, January 18, 2005, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in Conference Room 1. Motion to establish a Work Session meeting date for Tuesday, January 18, 2005 beginning at 7:00 p.m. in Conference Room 1. Fehst stated that to accmmnodate the needs of Councihnembers for alternative meeting nights, the EDA/HRA, which meets on the third Tuesday of the month, would change to the fourth Tuesday. This would allow the second work session of the month to be held on the third Tuesday instead of the third Monday. This will begin on Tuesday, January 18th, in Conference Room 1. Fehst listed items to be discussed at this work session: water quality complaints, lead water services, City Council Minutes January I0, 2005 Page 3 of 11 street rehabilitation for Zone 7B, planning permit fees modification, colranunity center demand analysis, housing maintenance license rates, and purchase of 800 MHz radios. 4) Appoint Commissioners to the Economic Development Authority (EDA) Motion that the Mayor appoint Nawrocki, Williams, and Peterson, with City Council approval, to fill the vacant EDA Commissioner positions. 5) Appoint Co~mnissioners to the Housing and Redevelopment AuthoriW (HRA) Motion that the Mayor appoint Nawrocki and Williams, with City Council approval, to fill the vacant HRA Colmnissioner positions. 6) Adopt Resolution No. 2005-02, being a Resolution to extend the term of the Southern Anoka County Colmnunity Consortium Joint Powers Agreement for payment of the annual fees for FY 2005- and 2006. - Removed Fehst stated this expenditure was approved in the 2005 budget. This is a two year resolution to extend the joint powers agreement. Fehst handed out the first Values First newsletter. 7) Authorize staff to obtain price quotes for printing and mailing of the 2005 "Heights Happenings" Ci_ty Newsletter Motion to authorize staff to obtain price quotes for printing and mailing of the 2005 "Heights Happenings" City Newsletter. Fehst stated that this would be in the same format as in the past, working with local printers. Nawrocki asked for an impartial budget presentation in the newsletter and requested to see it prior to printing. An article should be included on utility rate increases and accepting applications for Board and Commission openings. 8) Establish John P. Murzyn Hall rental rates for 2005-2006 Motion to adopt the 2005-2006 Murzyn Hall rental rates as outlined by the Park and Recreation Commission at their meeting of November 23, 2004. Fehst indicated that information requested on the ICnights of Columbus and Mermaid facility rates were distributed to Councihnembers with their mail. Nawrocki stated that the number of rentals at Murzyn Hall has decreased. In comparing rates, we could do a better job giving our resident a price break. 9) Establish a Heating Date of January 24, 2005 for revocation or suspension of rental property_ license at 4824 Stinson Blvd., 1133 45th Ave., 1407-09 Circle Ten'ace, 3849-51 Central Ave. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of January 24, 2005 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Alicia Anderson at 4824 Stinson Blvd. N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of January 24, 2005 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Donn Woods at 1133 45th Avenue N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of January 24, 2005 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Chris Cornelius at 1407-09 Circle Terrace N.E. Motion to Establish a Hearing Date of January 24, 2005 for Revocation or Suspension of a City Council Minutes Januat3, 10, 2005 Page 4 of I 1 License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against F.C. Celtic LLC at 3849-51 Central Avenue N.E. 10) Approve Business License Applications Motion to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for January 13, 2005 as presented. 11) 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 110966 through 111325 in the mnount of $4,165,719.36. Ericson asked for clarify on who would be appointed to the EDA and HRA. Peterson stated that the two reappointed Councilmembers would be placed on the EDA and HRA and he would be placed on the EDA. Motion by Ericson, second by Williams, to approve the Consent Agenda items, with the exception of#6. #6. Adopt Resolution No. 2005-02, being a Resolution to extend the tenrt of the Southern Anoka County Community Consortium Joint Powers Agreement for payment of the annual fees for FY 2005- and 2006. Nawrocki stated that because of the City's financial situation, the $7,500 should be used for more direct purposes. Fehst stated that County Cmmnissioner Jim Kordiak encouraged continuance in this program. Fehst listed the purpose of this group, and stated that without financial support we would not be allowed a vote. Fehst suggested continuing support for the coming year, with review prior to the next budget proceedings. Motion by Nawrocki to not renew membership in the SACCC. Second by Willimns. Ericson stated this has been discussed, with the Police Chief speaking passionately in favor of this program. Ericson read from an article indicating this and referred to the programs and the affect they have. It tells youth that we care. She felt that, given the amount of money asked for this program, it would be sad to not continue. Kelzenberg agreed, stating the need to invest in out' children. This is not a large amount and the more help the children get, the better off they will be. Williams stated that he is for helping our children, but in this hard budget time, maybe we should use our funds elsewhere. Peterson stated he would like to support this progrmn for another year, with periodic reports on their activities. He also indicated that the Police Chief strongly believes in this program. We have to reach out to the youth of our community. Fehst stated that we are not the only city to considered dropping financial support, as Fridley considered it last year, but the community wanted to continue in the progrmn. Nawrocki cmmnented that we know what the program is about. He stated that during the budget process he advocated dropping this program and using the funds toward a second police officer, with the rational to have them also work for the school. Upon vote: Kelzenberg, nay; Williams, aye; Ericson, nay; Nawrocki, aye; Peterson, nay. 3 nays - 2 ayes. Motion failed. Motion by Ericson to waive the reading of the resolution and to Adopt Resolution No. 2005-02, to extend the ternq of the Southern Anoka County Community Consortium Joint Powers Agreement for payment of the annual fees for FY 2005. Second by Williams. City Council Minutes January 10, 2005 Page 5 of 11 A resident stated that the more we do for our children now, the less they will be in the system later. Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, aye; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, nay; Peterson, aye. 4 ayes - 1 nay. Motion carried. RESOLUTION NO. 2005-02 EXTENDING THE TERM OF THE SOUTHERN ANOKA COUNTY COMMUNITY CONSORTIUM JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT WHEREAS, in June of 1985, a Joint Powers Agreement established the Southern Anoka County Community Consortium consisting of Anoka County, and the Cities of Columbia Heights, Fridley, and Hilltop and Independent School Districts #13 and #14; and, WHEREAS, the general purpose of this Joint Powers Agreement is to allow each party to jointly and cooperatively coordinate the delivery of services, maximize the use of resources, avoid redundancy, encourage public, private community partnerships, and to develop and £md programs to promote the general community health and safety in the territory of the cities herein; and, WHEREAS, a very successful example of this joint, cooperative effort is the establisinnent of the community values program kmown as Values First which has been recognized throughout the country as a model for promoth~g core values consistently across all sectors of the community so that youth and adults have a common, inclusive foundation upon which to operate. NOW, THEREFOR, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Columbia Heights supports the efforts of the Southern Anoka County Community Consortium and does hereby renew and enter into the aforesaid Southern Anoka County Community Consortium Joint Powers Agreement (Contract #950154A) until December 31, 2005, unless earlier terminated or extended under the terms hereof. PUBLIC HEARINGS A) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4800 4th St. Mayor Peterson closed the Public Hearing Regarding the Revocation or Suspension of the Rental License Held by Edgar Letran Regarding Rental Property at 4800 4th Street NE in that the Property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. }3) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 1230-1232 Circle Terrace Blvd Mayor Peterson closed the Public Heating Regarding the Revocation or Suspension of the Rental License Held by Jeffrey Ambrose Regarding Rental Property at 1230-1232 Circle Terrace Blvd NE in that the Property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. c) Public Heating called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 3813-3815 Pierce St Mayor Peterson closed the Public Heating Regarding the Revocation or Suspension of the Rental License Held by Sheila Henry Regarding Rental Property at 3813-3815 Pierce Street NE in that the Property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. Public Heating called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4420-4422 Monroe St Mayor Peterson closed the Public Hearing Regarding the Revocation or Suspension of the Rental License Held by Duncan McClellan Regarding Rental Property at 4420-4422 Monroe Street in that the Property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. E) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4618 Polk St Mayor Peterson closed the Public Hearing Regarding the Revocation or Suspension of the Rental License Held by Ird~alid Mansour Regarding Rental Property at 4618 Polk Street NE in that the Property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. F) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 1162-1164 Cheery Ln Mayor Peterson closed the Public Hearing Regarding the Revocation or Suspension of the Rental License Held by Kathy Crosby Regarding Rental Property at 1162-1164 Cheery Lane in that the Property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. City Council Minutes January 10, 2005 Page 6 of 11 G) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 3726 3rd St Mayor Peterson closed the Public Hearing Regarding the Revocation or Suspension of the Rental License Held by T J2 Properties Regarding Rental Property at 3726 3rd Street NE in that the Property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4205 Jefferson St Mayor Peterson closed the Public Heating Regm'ding the Revocation or Suspension of the Rental License Held by Frank Magadance Regarding Rental Property at 4205 Jefferson Street NE in that the Property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. I) Adopt Resolution No. 2005-03, being a Resolution for Rental Housing Revocation at 1401-1403 Parkview Lane Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Williams, to waive the reading of Resolution No.2005-03 there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Williams, to adopt Resolution No. 2005-03, Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights Approving Revocation Pursuant to Ordinance Code Section 5A. 408 (1) of the Rental License held by Molly Hobb s Regarding Rental Property at 1401 - 1403 Parkview Lane. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. RESOLUTION 2005-03 Resolution Of The City Council For The City Of Columbia Heights Approving Revocation Pursuant To Ordinance Code Section 5a.408(1) Of That Certain Residential Rental License Held By Molly Hobbs (Hereinafter "License Holder"). Whereas, License Holder Is The Legal Owner Of The Real Property Located At 1401-1403 Parkview Lane, Columbia Heights, Mim~esota, And Whereas, Pursuant To Columbia Heights Code Section 5.104(1)(A), Written Notice Setting Forth The Causes And Reasons For The Proposed Council Action Contained Herein Was Given To The License Holder On November 18, 2004 Of A Public Hearing To Be Held On January 6, 2005. Now, Therefore, In Accordance With The Foregoing, And All Ordinances And Regulations Of The City Of Columbia Heights, The City Council Of The City Of Columbia Heights Makes The Following: FINDINGS OF FACT 1. That on or about May 1, 2004 a relicensing application was sent by regular mail to the owner of the property at the address listed on the rental housing license application. 2. That on July 1 2004, the Fire Department inspection office staff, sent notice that the Fire Department had not received the rental license application and that the annual interior inspection had not been scheduled. Notices were sent by regular mail to the owner of the property at the ad&ess listed on the Rental Housing License Application and copies of the notice were sent to the tenants. 3. That on July 16, 2004, the Fire Depam~aent inspection office staff sent notice that the Fire Department had not received the rental license application and that the annual interior inspection had not been scheduled. Notices were sent by certified mail to the owner of the property at the address listed on the Rental Housing License Application. This notice was returned with inforn~ation from the postal service that the owner no longer lived and the address listed on the Rental Housing License Application. Numerous notices were sent to the old owner in an attempt to get the property licensed with no response. In November of 2004 inspection office staff found that the property had been sold and once again numerous notices have been sent to the new owner with no response. 4. That based upon said records of the Enforcement Officer, the following conditions and violations of the City's Housing Maintenance Code were found to exist, to-wit: A. FAILURE TO SCHEDULE A RMC INSPECTION B. FAILURE TO SCHEDULE A RMC INSPECTION FOR 2004 5. That all parties, including the License Holder and any occupants or tenants, have been given the appropriate notice of this hearing according to the provisions of the City Code Section 5A.306(1) and 5A.303(1)(d). CONCLUSIONS OF COUNCIL 1. That the building located at 1401-1403 Parkview Lane. is in violation of the provisions of the Columbia Heights City Code as set forth in the Compliance Order attached hereto; 2. That all relevant parties and pat'ties in interest have been duly served notice of this hearing, and any other hearings relevant to the revocation or suspension of the license held by License Holder. 3. That all applicable rights and periods of appeal as relating to the license holder, owner, occupant, or tenant, as the case may be, have expired, or such rights have been exercised and completed. City Council Minutes January 10, 2005 Page 7 of 11 ORDER OF COUNCIL 1. The rental license belonging to the License Holder described herein and identified by license number FU1401A is hereby revoked/suspended (cross out one); 2. The City will post for the purpose of preventing occupancy a copy of this order on the buildings covered by the license held by License Holder; 3. All tenants shall remove themselves from the premises within 60 days from the first day of posting of this Order revoking the license as held by License Holder. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION Other Ordinances and Resolutions First reading of Ordinance No. 1480, being an Ordinance amending Chapter 2, Section 15, of the Charter pertaining to Official Bonding Charter Colrunission Chairperson Mike Hartel described a proposed change to the City Charter to bring it in line with how the City currently operates regarding bonding requirements. He read the current ordinance, which has not been followed since at least 1981, and the proposed changes. Fehst stated that we pay $14,070 for insurance against theft. According to our insurance broker, it could cost more to itemize per individual because of background research. The current bond is $300,000 for all of our employees. Nawrocki questioned the current insurance bonding requirements for employees and asked when we began to ignore bonding of the City Manager, City Clerk and other officers. Motion by Ericson, second by Nawrocki, to waive the reading of Ordinance No. 1480, there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Ericson, second by Williams, to schedule the second reading of Ordinance No. 1480 for Monday, January 24, 2005, at approximately 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Other Business Adopt Resolution No. 2005-01, being a Resolution authorizing application for 2005 Co~mnunity Development Block Grant Funding through Anoka County Pat Smith, City Planner, indicated that the CDBG grant request to Anoka County would be for $51,927 to remove bad soil at the Burger King site. Applications are due this Friday, with notification of disbursement after July 1, 2005. Peterson questioned where the bad soil is. Smith stated this area was an old dump site and the estimated clean up is $103,000. Nawrocki gave the history of the area. Harold Hoium, 4315 5th Street, stated that the removal of dirt should go beyond five feet. Peterson stated that the soil borings would dictate the depth of removal. Williams stated that is Phase One and would not include borings. Hoium suggested that a City crew removal the soil. Nawrocki stated that the major cost is hauling to an approved landfill. Nawrocki stated that tearing down this property is premature, until we lmow what we are going to do here. Other parts of the property have the same kind of fill. He suggested consideration of other potential uses for the CDBG funds. Smith stated that the fill material is based on interviews with people familiar with the site and there will be testing before excavation. Unused funds could go to other City projects. Fehst stated that we would also apply for 2003 excess funds. City Council Minutes January 10, 2005 Page 8 of I 1 Ericson stated that the resolution only requests to apply for the block grant, and we are not cmrnnitted to do this. Peterson questioned the time period to use the funds. Smith was not sure, but indicated that the site would be ready for contamination clean up this smmner. Peterson stated that we might be getting ahead of ourselves, as a developer may need to remove the fill. Peterson stated that the connnent that a developer won't tear down a site is erroneous, as the I<hrtart developer did so. Peterson agreed to apply for the funds, but we should not be in a hurry to use them and should not dig without a long range plan. Fehst referred to the upcoming Ehlers seminar on redevelopment, and their reco~mnendation that it is better to clear the land. He stated that any money not spent would be left over and turned back. Lee Stauch, 1155 Khyber Lane, stated that there was also a gas station in this area and contamination removal should go down at least 15 feet. Motion by Williams, second by Kelzenberg, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2005-01 there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Williams, second by Kelzenberg, to adopt Resolution No. 2005-01, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights, Mim~esota authorizing application for 2005 Anoka County Co~mnunity Development block Grant (CDBG) Funding, for the purpose of removing slum and blight in the amount of $51,927 for soil con'ections at 3939 Central Avenue NE; and furthermore, to submit said application to Anoka County. Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, aye; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, nay; Peterson, aye. 4 ayes - 1 nay. Motion carried. RESOLUTION 2005 - 01 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR 2005 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDING THROUGH ANOKA COUNTY WHEREAS, the City has purchased the Burger King property, with the end result of achieving redevelopment and enhancing economic development activities; and WHEREAS, the City has determined that the Burger King building is distressed and meets slum and blight standards; and WHEREAS, the Phase I Environmental Site Assessment report has concluded that the Burger King site was previously used as a dump; and WHEREAS, the use of CDBG grants for soil corrections at the Burger King site is consistent with the program's national objective of aiding in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Columbia Heights acts as the legal sponsor for the 2005 Conununity Development Block Grant Program to be submitted on January 12, 2005; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Columbia Heights has the legal authority to apply for fmancial assistance, and the institutional, managerial, and financial capability to ensure adequate project adnfinistration; 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 Walter 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, Mim~esota has authorized staff to submit an application for $51,927 for soil corrections at 3939 Central Ave NE. Appoint 2005 Council President and Approve 2005 Council/Staff Liaison Assignments Motion by Williams to nominate Nawrocki for 2005 Council President. Second by Kelzenberg for purpose of discussion. City Council Minutes January 10, 2005 Page 9 of 11 Kelzenberg indicated his respect for Nawrocki and his longevity, but stated his respect for Ericson and his wish to avoid the "good old boys" perception. He indicated he could not support Nawrocki. Peterson stated that any one of the Councilmembers was very qualified to take the position. He indicated his desire to not let this fi'acture the Council, and that duties of the Council President are to takeover in the absence of the Mayor. Peterson gave his support to Nawrocki based on his knowledgeable and active participation in groups such as the League of MN Cities, Association of Metropolitan Municipalities, delegate to the Suburban Rate Authority, and member of the Telecommunications Commission. Upon vote: Kelzenberg, nay; Williams, aye; Ericson, nay; Nawrocki, aye; Peterson, aye. 3 ayes - 2 nays. Motion carried. Peterson listed the 2005 Council/City staff assigmnent recommendations. Peterson described the Neighborhood Watch group activation, and stated that Officer Okerstrom would spearhead the group. Peterson described the CERT program and the desire to train and educate ten percent of our population in a 20 hour crisis training course. Motion by Willimns, second by Nawrocki, to approve the established 2005 Council Staff Liaison Assignments. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Nawrocki indicated that Council should act to fill the vacancy on the Police and Fire Civil Service Commission. Peterson indicated that all applicants were very qualified candidates. He indicated his desire that they consider serving on other City Commissions. Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Williams, to appoint Pastor Dave Briley to the Police and Fire Civil Service Co~mrfission. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Report of the City Manager Fehst passed on congratulations fi'om staff and himself to the newly elected officials. He stated his appreciation for the well-meaning format on Council cooperation. This will be the staff's intent as well. Report of the City Attorney Jim Hoeft, City Attorney, extended his congratulations to Mayor Peterson and Councilmembers Williams and Nawrocki. CITIZENS FORUM Elaine Feeley, 4601 Chatham Road, stated that the transportation of the deer from the Water Works facility has been held up because the DNR permit is too restrictive. She read an article from the Star-Tribune, which indicated that the wildlife farm owner removed himself from the deal because he could not use the deer for photography as planned. Feeley indicated the agreement that was reached on inconspicuously tagging the deer. The Deer Task Force will meet at 6:00 p.m. on January 13, with a public meeting beginning at 7:00 p.m. Fehst suggested that the one doe be removed and then let nature take its course. He stated that geese at the facility create a bigger mess and safety issue. Nawrocki expressed disappointment in the actions of the DNR. He commended the Minneapolis Water Works for their no cost solution that would have provided an ideal home for the deer. City Council Minutes January 10, 2005 Page 10 of I 1 Willimns stated that we should go to the lneeting with a positive attitude that we can change the DNR's decision. Hoium described an accident that took place on 40th and Central Avenue and his perception of the long response time. Nawrocki stated that Mr. Hoium's negative comments on our fire and police services were not born out by fact. He referred to the mutual aid service given to Ramsey following a building explosion. COUNCIL CORNER Nawrocki The next Anoka County Elected Officials meeting will be Monday, January 31, at Majestic Oaks. Article in the Tribune indicated the condominium construction boom is more than the metro market can bear. Concerned with industrial park project. Has seen construction by this developer in Rochester and is not impressed, hnportant to follow the quality of construction closely. The chine watch program and CERT program will be great. Colmnended the Mayor for talcing an active part as head of the Police Department. Offered his copy of the LMC 2005 City Policies for review. Citizens League annual report on taxes indicates we have one of the lowest assessed valuations and are on the low end of average income. In 18 cities in Anoka County we have the second highest tax rate for city purposes in 2003 and 2004 and fourth highest total tax rate taxes for 2004. Requested a report on building inspection costs, i.e. loaded personnel rate, and vehicle cost; and be evaluated and compared to the contracted price thi'ough New Brighton. · We have not finished dealing with homes that had sanitary sewage backup. · Offered to take the required Board of Review training on February 7th. Ericson Indicated that Becky Loader, Library Director, is the 2004 Employee of the Year. Read the relative article from the Library newsletter, and congratulated her. Loader has been an employee for 30 years. Williams Thanked Fehst for his attitude and encouragement to Council. Skating rinks are being maintained with parent volunteers manning the wanning houses. Suggested that anyone interested in joining the Citizens Watch group contact the Mayor, Officer Okerstrom or himself. · We must find the cause ut wut~ supply proulcms at 47th and o,~I'e, so~.~ ~,,sL stated tkds would be discussed at the January 18th work session. · Continue to pray for the health of our citizens. Kelzenberg Read the green sheet article regarding Officer Johnson's astute Police work resulting in an arrest for auto theft and controlled substances. This is just an example of the excellent work of our Police force. Hoped that everyone had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Peterson Referred to the excellent response time and quality care given to our citizens fi'om our Fire and Police services. Thanked everyone who cared about our community and ran for office, as it is not an easy thing to do. Invited citizens to call him or other Councihnembers with their concerns. We cannot respond if we have not been contacted or made aware. He listed his phone numbers for contact. The holiday season is tough and has attended more than his share of funerals. There are no guarantees in life. Enjoy life - it is a blessing. Don't take ourselves to seriously. City Council Minutes January 10, 2005 Page 11 of 11 ADJOURNMENT Mayor Peterson adjourned the meeting at 9:45 p.m. ~tet~i:~ ~i Ut~ c~it Zrlc~cCo uMnCci1 S ecreta{ry