HomeMy WebLinkAboutSeptember 23, 2002OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 23, 2002
The following are the minutes of the regular meeting of the City Council held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday,
September 23, 2002 in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights,
Minnesota.
Heidi Albrecht, Youth Coordinator of Saint Matthew's Church, gave the invocation.
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmember Williams, Councilmember Wyckoff, Councilmember Nawrocki,
and Mayor Peterson
Absent: Councilmember Szurek
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA - none
PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS
Proclamations
1) Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Mayor Peterson read the Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation
2) Polish-American Heritage Month
Mayor Peterson read the Polish-American Heritage Month Proclamation.
Bernie Szymczak, Sister City Committee, accepted the Proclamation. He gave background on
the plane shot down in WI47II, which carried his brother. He stated that Dolores Strand and
Wally Logacz, Sister City Committee representatives, are now in Poland to commemorate
this event. During October there will be Polish Heritage displays' at the Library and the glass'
case at City Hall, Polish language classes held at the Library, a video has been created on
Polish History, and there will be a concert in the name of Chopin on October 20th at the First
Lutheran Church at 4:O0 p.m. He referred to Tony Belleski and his work with the plantings at
Murzyn Hall and Lomianki Park. He indicated the desire to bring the Mayors of Columbia
Heights' and Lomianki together.
Szymczak indicated information received at the Minnesota Sister Cities Conference
regarding the "Wheelchairs for Peace "project and the desire to look at creating such a
program. He asked that Councilmembers view a video on the program. Szymczak also
referred to an article on Youth Courtesy Cores distributed by Delores Strand.
B) Presentations - none
C) Introduction of New Employees - none
D) Recognition - none
CONSENT AGENDA
Walt Fehst, City Manager, took Councilmembers through the consent agenda items.
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 2 of 12
1) Minutes for Approval - September 9, 2002 regular meeting and September 11, Primary
Canvass
Motion to approve the minutes of the September 9, 2002, regular City Council meeting as
presented.
Motion to approve the minutes of the September 11, 2002 City Council meeting to Canvass
Primary Election Results
2)
Establish Budget - Work Session Meeting Dates and Central Avenue Special Assessment
Levy Hearing date
Motion to establish Budget-Work Session meeting dates for Monday, October 7, 2002; Monday,
October 21, 2002; Monday, November 4, 2002; and Monday, November 18, 2002 beginning at
7:00 p.m., in City Hall Conference Room 1.
Fehst indicated there would be minimal work session items for these agendas. The October ?th
work session meeting will include discussion on bonding for water and sewer utilities.
Motion to establish Tuesday, October 15, 2002 at 7:30 p.m. as the Public Special Assessment
Levy Hearing for City Project 2002-02, Zone 6A Street Rehabilitation, to be held in the City
Council Chamber and establish Tuesday, October 15, 2002, immediately following the previous
meeting as the Public Special Assessment Levy Hearing for City Project, #9912-A, Central
Avenue Streetscaping and Water Service Improvements, to be held in the City Council Chamber.
Fehst indicated the original date of October ]0th was not feasible, as there wouM be an election
debate that evening at Crest Fiew. There will also be an HRA/EDA meeting on October 15th from
6:00p. m. to 7:00p. m. at Parkview l/illa.
3)
Adopt Resolution No. 2002-60, being a Resolution designating elections judges for the 2002
General Election
Motion to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2002-60, there being ample copies available
to the public.
Motion to adopt Resolution No. 2002-60, being a Resolution designating election judges for
the 2002 General Election.
WHEREAS:
RESOLUTION 2002-60
BEING A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING ELECTIONS JUDGES
FOR THE 2002 GENERAL ELECTION
There is a scheduled election in the City of Columbia Heights and the State of Minnesota; and
WHEREAS: Pursuant to City Charter, Section 30, and M. S. S.204A, the Council shall appoint qualified
voters of each election district to be judges of election.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights does
appoint the following list of judges, by precinct, for the General Election to be held on November 5, 2002,
with an hourly remuneration of $10.00 for head judge, $9.50 for assistant head judge and $9.00 for an election
judge.
Precinct 1-Murzvn Hall
HJ Faye Cleasby
Charlotte Zarich
Mona Lundholm
530 Mill St.
Princinct 5 - First Lutheran Church 1555 40th
HJ Pat Weber
Nancy French
Irene Ricci
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 3 of 12
Fran Jensen
Wanda Heining
Darlene Bieljeski
Pauline Pafko
Mildred Peterson
Sandy Engquist
Robert Petty
Precinct 2-NEI 825 41st Ave
HJ Clara Shattuck
Mark Emme
Joann Kewatt
Martin Heining
David Szurek
Gerry Mrozka
Steve Iserman
Bradley Schmitt
Carol Lawler
Precinct $ -Parkview Villa 965 40th Ave
HJ Muriel Nichols
Laura Lindahl
Delores Jacobsen
Ruth Hillestad
Charles Helland
Otto Lausten
Lorraine Malisheski
Patricia Klimek
Barb Karol
Barbara Jean Black
Precinct 4-Itighland Elem School
HJ Marsha Stroik
Mavis Sibell
Cliff Pelton
Audrey Olund
Mabel Jackson
Judy Dettman
Stephen Iserman
Judy Schendel
Laurie Magee
1500 49th
Dolores Roman
Richard Miexner
Sharon Ruettimann
Lorrie Nalezny
Joan Kinde
Marion Bernard
Princinct 6 -ilighland Elem. School
HJ Judy Lee
LaVonne Seim
Barb Elrod
Delores Marquette
Kay Mayer
Eva Pelton
Marion Cellette
Joanne Nelson
Betty Koerner
Doris Sunheim
1550 49th
Precinct 7 - Valley View Elem 800 49th Ave
HJ Kay Handley
Ann Kronstedt
Rose Corbett
Donna Schmitt
Jeanette LeBlanc
Joan Fuhrman
Marlaine Szurek
Allison Rime
William Burgoyne
Precinct 8 -Valley View Elem 800 49th
HJ Pat Jindra
Mary Dowdle
Noranda Anderson
Ken Kronstedt
Ruby Hawkins
Dick Corbett
Margaret (June) Riley
Irene Sunt
Tom Howard
Carol White
4)
Approve payment of the 2002 League of MN Cities Membership Dues
Motion to authorize payment to the League of Minnesota Cities for 2002 membership dues
in the amount of $10,823.
5)
Authorization to purchase/install five circulation pc workstations at the Library
Motion to purchase and to install hardware and software necessary to replace five
circulations pc's at the Library from the Anoka County Library and Barcode Discount
Warehouse based on available State and County contract prices and obtained quotes; and
furthermore to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an agreement for the
same.
Nawrocki asked for the dollar amount. Wyckoff indicated the amount was $9, 715. Fehst
indicated the budgeted amount was $11,800.
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 4 of 12
6) Adopt Resolution No. 2002-58, being a Resolution authorizing execution of the grant
agreement supporting the "Buckle Up Teens" program through the Office of Traffic Safety,
Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Motion to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2002-58, there being ample copies available
to the public.
Motion to adopt Resolution No. 2002-58, authorizing execution of the grant agreement
supporting the "Buckle Up Teens" program through the Office of Traffic Safety, Minnesota
Department of Public Safety.
RESOLUTION 2002-58
AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF GRANT AGREEMENT
SUPPORTING THE BUCKLE UP TEENS GRANT PROGRAM
WHEREAS, a mission of the Columbia Heights Police Department is to ensure the safety and security
of our teens; and
WHEREAS, the Columbia Heights Police Department, in partnership with the Fridley Police
Department and the Spring Lake Park Police Department wish to increase seatbelt usage amongst teens
in our communities; and
WHEREAS, we will be challenging teens to buckle up and save lives; and
WHEREAS, various programs will be conducted at the High Schools in each community to promote the
use of seat belts; and
WHEREAS, teens will be able to earn plaques and cash rewards for Highest Seat Belt Usage, Most
Improved Seat Belt Usage, and Best Overall Campaign to increase seat belt usage.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Chief of Police of the Columbia Heights Police
Department be authorized to enter into a grant agreement with the Division of Traffic Safety in the
Minnesota Department of Public Safety for the project entitled "Buckle Up Teens! Project" during the
period from October 1, 2002, through September 30, 2003.
7)
Approve 2004-2005 Applications for the Columbia Heights After School Enrichment
Program (CHASE) and 21st Century Grant
Motion to authorize staff to apply for both the After-School Enrichment grant and the 21st
Century Grant.
Fehst indicated that we would apply for both grants.
8)
Authorize final payment for Sullivan Park Building Roof, Project 0106
Motion to accept the work for Sullivan Park building Roof, City Project 0106; and, to
authorize final payment in the amount of $350.00 to Superior Roofing Construction, Inc. of
Minneapolis, MN.
9)
Approve Change Order #2 and Final Payment for the Zone 5 Street Rehabilitation Projects
Motion to authorize final Change Order No. 2 for addition of water and sewer services,
Wargo Court retaining wall, sanitary sewer, water main, and storm sewer system
improvements and purchase of excess Class 5 to the Zone 5 Street Rehabilitation, City
Project 0017, 0018 and 0102, to Palda and Sons, Inc. in the amount of $42,590.06 to be
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 5 of 12
funded out of Private Funds - Community Development ($11,048.00), Water Utility Fund,
604-50102-5130 ($3,316.00) Storm Water Utility Fund, 604-50102-5130 ($6,000.00) State
Aid Maintenance Fund, 212-43190-5130 ($961.36), Street Department, 101-43121-2160
($1,500.00) and Sanitary Sewer Utility Fund, 602-50102-5130 ($19,164.70).
Motion to accept the work for 2001 Street Rehabilitation Projects in Zone 5, City Project
Numbers 0017, 0018, and 0102; and authorize final payment of $62,781.10 to Palda and
Sons, Inc. of St. Paul, Minnesota.
10) Adopt Resolution No. 2002-59, being a Resolution to establish city share and amounts of
special assessments on projects to be levied
Motion to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2002-59 there being ample copies available
to the public.
Motion to adopt Resolution No. 2002-59, being a Resolution establishing amount of City
share and Amount of Special Assessments on Projects to be levied.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002 - 59
BEING A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING AMOUNT OF CITY SHARE AND AMOUNT OF
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS ON PROJECTS TO BE LEVIED
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights by motion on the 26th day of August,
2002, ordered a special assessment hearing to levy the cost of improvements and
WHEREAS, the following projects will be specially assessed in October, 2002, and a portion of the
costs may be borne by the City,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 429.061, and City
Code 4.103, that the breakdown is as follows:
PROJECT ESTIMATED ASSESSED ESTIMATED
CITY PORTION PORTION TOTAL
Central Avenue Streetscaping & Water
Service Construction $446,000 $450,000 $896,000
Zone 6A Street Const. Project 99-12A $415,000 $431,000 $846,000
Zone 6A--General, Utility Funds $336,000 $ -0- $336,000
11) Authorize Call for Bids for Sale of 325 Summit Avenue
Motion to authorize staff to call for bids for the sale for 325 Summit Avenue.
Wyckoff asked what fund the purchase of this property came from. Fehst stated it was the
Special Accounts fund and will go back to that fund. Fehst indicated that a portion of this
property was subdivided off The minimum sale price would be $146,500. Nawrocki
questioned what would happen if the portion subdivided off did not sell. Fehst indicated that
the portion was part ora one acre parcel on University Avenue and should not be a problem
to sell. Nawrocki asked if three weeks' is enough time, as a bid bond is required. Discussion
included dropping the requirement ora bid bond, requiring earnest money at the signing of
the purchase agreement, rejection of bids, pre-qualification for mortgages, and extending the
bid opening date. Fehst stated the home would be shown on October 2, 6 and 9. Peterson felt
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 6 of 12
the timeline would be reasonable, dim Hoefi, City Attorney, indicated this property is owned
by the City and can be soM however Council chooses. Nawrocki indicated he wouM like to
make this a friendly process. Wyckoff stated that the notice has already been sent to the
newspaper.
12) Establish Hearing Dates for License Revocation of Rental Properties
Motion to establish a hearing date of October 14, 2002 for revocation or suspension of a
license to operate a rental property within the City of Columbia Heights against Dale Frenzel
at 3732 3rd Street NE.
Motion to establish a hearing date of October 14, 2002 for revocation or suspensions of a
license to operate a rental property within the City of Columbia Heights against Maurice
Weaver at 3725 Main Street NE
13) Approve Rental Housing License Applications
Motion to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for September 23,
2002
14) Approve Business License Applications
Motion to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for September 23, 2002
as presented.
Fehst indicated this includes the former Tycoon Bar, which has been sold Wyckoff stated it
wouM be called LaCaberna Bar and Grille. Chief Johnson indicated the new owners were
chefs at Planet Hollywood Mall of America.
15) 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 99875 through 100084 in the amount of $1,230,315.25.
Nawrocki questioned (Item ~ 10) if there were any changes in the amounts of special assessments
since the time of the initial hearing. Kevin Hansen, Pubfic Works Director, indicated there are no
changes for the Central Avenue project, and there is a 9 to 10 percent decrease on the Zone 6A
project.
Nawrocki questioned if an election judge was being added for the new assistant head judge
position. Patty Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk, indicated this is only designating an existing judge as
assistant head judge and wouM not add an additional judge.
Motion by Wyckoff, second by Williams, to approve the Consent Agenda items. Upon vote: All
ayes. Motion carried.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Public Hearing called for the Local Law Enforcement Equipment Block Grant
Motion by Wyckoff, second by Williams, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2002-56 there
being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried.
Motion by Wyckoff, second by Williams, to close the public hearing, adopt Resolution 2002-56,
and approve the list of equipment to be purchased with this grant.
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 7 of 12
Nawrocki complimented the Chief of Police for researching his question to include items on our
long term need list, and his finding that we could. Several items have been included on this list.
Williams indicated that the US Department of Justice is contributing $17, 241 and the local
match is $1,916.
Chief Johnson reviewed the fist of items which included: Simunition Gear, two Air Tasers, Varda
Alarm upgrades, DPMS .223 Cal Rifle, digital camera for investigations, replacement seat
caddies, transport belts, waterproof covers for squad car keyboards, and from the CIP fund-
two replacement light bars for marked squads' and replacement radars for marked squads'.
Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried.
RESOLUTION 2002-56
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 $17,241 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 $1,916 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 of funding for this grant.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights that:
The City of Columbia Heights enter into a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department
of Justice for the project entitled Local Law Enforcement Equipment Block Grant Program
for the period October 1, 2002, to September 30, 2003.
That $1,916 be appropriated from unexpended funds in the Police Department 2002 budget to
pay the local match.
Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4357 Tyler Place
Mayor Peterson to close the Public Hearing, as 4357 Tyler Place has been brought into
compliance with the Residential Maintenance Code.
Public Hearing called for Revocation Suspension of Rental Housing License at 1207-1209 Circle
Terrace Blvd NE
Mayor Peterson to close the Public Hearing, as the 1207-1209 Circle Terrace Blvd NE property
owner has corrected all deficiencies inside the building and has received an extension to
complete the work on the outside of the building.
ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
Other Ordinances and Resolutions
Continuation of Resolution 2002-55, being a Resolution approving a lot split of the property at
3906 Reservoir Boulevard NE
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 8 of 12
Peterson indicated this was tabled from the last Council meeting.
Dm Johnson, City Planner, explained the lot sprit for the property at 3906 Reservoir
Boulevard NE for a proposed twin home with a zero lot line, with a common wall. The homes
would be constructed at the same time but sold at separate times.
Johnson indicated there is a ten foot ingress/egress easement, which is not for parking and
has a carport that would have to be removed. Nawrocki asked if the setback would be 50feet
from the front property line and if the garages would be detached and in the rear. Johnson
indicated that they would. Peterson asked if the easement could be eliminated. Johnson
indicated the easement could still be utilized for its intended purpose.
Motion by Williams, second by Wyckoff, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2002-55,
there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: all ayes. Motion carried.
Motion by Williams, second by Wyckoff, to adopt Resolution No. 2002-55, being a
resolution approving a lot split of the property at 3906 Reservoir Boulevard NE. Upon vote:
all ayes. Motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-55
SUBDIVISION REQUEST
Terrell Berglund, Hereby requests a split of
PIN 36 30 24 33 0017 Legally described as:
Lot 36; Block 6, Reservoir Hills; Anoka County, Minnesota.
Subject to an easement for driveway and walkway purposes for ingress and egress to and
from Reservoir Boulevard and the alley in Block 6; Reservoir Hills in favor of Lot 35, Block 6,
Reservoir Hills over the southwesterly 10 feet of Lot 36, Block 6, Reservoir Hills.
Together with an easement for driveway and walkway purposes for ingress and egress to and
from Reservoir Boulevard and the alley in Block 6, Reservoir Hills over the Northeasterly 3 feet
of Lot 35, Block 6, Reservoir Hills
THE DESCRIPTIONS HENCEFORTH TO BE:
Parcel A:
The Northeasterly 28.10 feet of Lot 36, Block 6, Reservoir Hills, according to the map or plat
thereof on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Anoka County,
Minnesota.
Tract B:
Lot 36, Block 6, Reservoir Hills, EXCEPT the Northeasterly 28.10 feet thereof, according to the
map or plat thereof on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Anoka
County, Minnesota;
Subject to an easement for driveway and walkway purposes for ingress and egress to and from
Reservoir Boulevard and the alley in Block 6, Reservoir Hills in favor of Lot 35, Block 6, Reservoir
Hills over the Southwesterly 10 feet of Lot 36, Block 6, Reservoir Hills.
Together with an easement for driveway and walkway purposes for ingress and egress to and from
Reservoir Boulevard and the alley in Block 6, Reservoir Hills over the Northeasterly 3 feet of Lot
35, Block 6, Reservoir Hills.
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 9 of 12
Be it further resolved that special assessments of record in the office of the City of Columbia Heights as
of this day, against the above described property, are paid.
Any pending or future assessments will be levied according to the new split as approved this day.
Any lot split given approval shall become invalid if the resolution, motion or other Council action
approving the said lot split is not filed with the County Recorder within one (1) year of the date of the
Council action.
Bid Considerations - none
Other Business
Authorize counter proposal number one for property at 4849 Central Avenue NE
Peterson stated that he spoke to a lot of people about the need for a new liquor store.
Peterson requested more information before proceeding. He suggested a public hearing so
people can express their concerns.
Motion by Peterson to table action on 4849 Central Avenue indefinitely, until information is
received to justify purchase of property intended for a liquor store. Second by Williams.
Nawrocki questioned the City Attorney if this motion failed on a two to two vote, if it couM be
discussed dim Hoeft, City Attorney, indicated it could
Wyckoff indicated that she wouM be in favor of buying property on University Avenue for a
liquor store, but not at 49th and Central Avenue. The new manager at Rainbow had indicated
the fuel center has been put on indefinite hold She wouM not like to see the Rainbow close
and asked that staff help them to stay at the current location and talk to the owner of the site.
Fehst indicated that the City worked with and authorized the owner to buiM an additional
9, 000 square feet of retail center.
Williams indicated that there is a school looking to move into the current Walgreens site,
near our current fiquor store. Fehst indicated that an alternative learning center is
negotiating for this space. They were advised of the need for a conditional use permit.
Nawrocki indicated that parking must be addressed if there were to be a large number of
students'.
Deb Johnson, 4638 Pierce Street, stated that it takes an election to bring out backpedafing.
Upon vote: Williams, aye; Wyckoff, aye; Nawrocki, aye; Peterson, aye. 4 Ayes. Motion
carried.
Fehst indicated there is a financial analysis in process and agreed with tabfing the topic until
the analysis is complete.
Nawrocki indicated he would not support the purchase now or in the future. He was
concerned about committing city resources to expand the liquor operation when there are
other concerns such as updating the industrial area. He indicated this also applies to the
University Store.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Walt Fehst, City Manager reported:
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 10 of 12
· There are two openings on the Park and Recreation Commission, and stated the inability
to hold meetings for lack ora quorum. There are five or six interested persons and
encouraged Council to set an interview date
· Fehst referred to the Pubfic Work; Director regarding discussion of the corner of 40th
and Central
Hansen indicated that additional streetscape enhancement has been discussed for the
northeast corner on dOth and Central on the mall property. He presented three drawings,
which included a wrought iron moniker display, a two sided clock and a four sided clock.
The clock; would be about 18feet high. Landscaping would be added around this. The
two sided clock could have a name or moniker added. The drawings will be displayed at
the Library and City Hall for comment; to bring back to Council. The cost to put in
electric and a clock would be about $15,000 and the ornamental wrought iron would be
about $20,000. Peterson asked if they could be installed yet this year. Hansen indicated it
would be about 8 to 12 week,'.
Nawrocki questioned required maintenance for a clock and suggested a low key sign for
the mall. Williams indicated this wouM be a great asset here or possibly at 3 7th and
Central. Williams questioned the warranty. Hansen stated it is one year. Wyckoff asked if
this wouM raise taxes for property owners on Central. Peterson indicated that the funds
couM be raised privately and that it wouM be an asset to the community, referencing the
clock in New Ulm. Wyckoff noted that there is abeady a scrolling clock across the street
at the bank and suggested stained glass or something saying "Columbia Height; ".
Fehst suggested this be referred to the Image Committee or the Building Guidefines
Committee. Peterson also suggested the Historical Committee.
Wyckoff referred the petition received from Sullivan Lake resident,'. Hansen stated a
letter was sent today to the person responsible for the petition. Wyckoff indicated that
resident; want the cattail; cleaned up. Hansen stated that Sullivan Lake is a DNR water
control area and we wouM have to contact them for direction. Nawrocki referred to the
summer neighborhood picnic and comment; he passed on regarding aeration to clear the
area. Hansen stated that probably wouM not be supported by the DNR.
Williams stated that the DNR is very protective of cattails. Fehst stated that we would
help pursue this with the DNR. Nawrocki indicated the City's obligation to the petitioners
to further discuss this with them.
Fehst stated that Bonding for Sewer and Water Utifities wouM be discussed at the
October 7, 2002 work session.
Report of the City Attorney - none
GENERAL COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
Minutes of Boards and Commissions
· Meeting of the Park and Recreation Commission held August 28, 2002
· Meeting of the Economic Development Authority held August 20, 2002
· Meeting of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority held August 20, 2002
· Meeting of the Public Library Board of Trustees held September 3, 2002
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 11 of 12
CITIZENS FOR[IM
Jen Kuppe, 4022 Central Avenue, stated that the new sidewalk in front of her building was higher
than her entrance. After pointing this out to the project manager, her concrete entrance was cut into
and "very badly" replaced without even telling her. She stated that she has called staff and received
no result,'. Koopie wanted the entrance replaced and indicated that if it was not done in the next
couple of weeks she would contact an attorney.
Hansen stated he has met with the project manager on the issue and a survey was recommended.
Koopie indicated that the slab must be taken out and the sidewalk fixed. Hansen stated his intention
to meet with her to determine what need; to be done and a time to do the work. Hansen indicated
that there are other building owners with concerns, and asked for their patience. He stated he would
meet with her on site at the end of the week or early next week. Peterson indicated that he would
meet Mrs. Koopie Tuesday at 9:30 a.m., possibly with the project manager. Williams asked if it
encroached on her property. Hansen indicated it did.
CO[INCIL CORNER
Nawrocki
· The Historical Society meeting time is 7:00 p.m.
· Request follow up to budget process - to have a financial analysis comparing the County
handling special assessments to a City employee doing so.
· Questioned a review of our legal fees.
· Suggested combining the two local cable channels to save money, as there is a duplication of
information and programming.
· Actions speak louder than words, practice what you preach.
Wyckoff
· Asked the number and condition of cobblestones retrieved from Reservoir Boulevard.
Hansen stated that there are quite a few, but they are not in great shape. Oil has penetrated
them and they would need to be cleaned. The area was 20 x 100 feet.
· When will Reservoir Boulevard be complete. Hansen stated in about two weeks.
· Thanked the two City employees who helped rescue a cat from a tree in the Minneapolis
Water Works. She relayed the details of the event.
· The Columbia Heights Historical Society will meet on September 26th, at 7:00 p.m., Murzyn
Hall, and plan to finalize the photos for the 2003 calendar.
Williams
· Read quotes from Bits and Pieces.
· By our words we are justified, by our words we are condemned.
Referred to the challenge by Deb Johnson on the legality of the letter sent to residents sharing
his views and opinions, indicated that his lawyers stated it was fine. He referred to legal
questions from the last election.
City Council Minutes
September 23, 2002
Page 12 of 12
· Pray for the peace and prosperity of our City.
Peterson
· It was a privilege to be at the dedication of the Habitat for Humanity home at 3913 Polk
Street, to see the appreciation of the new owner following all their hard work. A broken
down garage was turned into a "like new" garage. A scout working for his eagle scout badge
did the landscaping at the home. There will soon be a dedication for the home at 44th and
Quincy.
Regarding the resident comment on "back pedaling" he stated his right to rethink an issue. It
was never stated that a decision had been made, and after talking to people has decided to
hold off. He referred to the deer issue and changing his mind on that subject.
· Everyone had the same concerns for the stranded cat. He suggested the cherry picker, and the
rescue was a team effort.
He spent time at the auto show last weekend to see if there were any problems. There were
112 beautiful cars, and many wonderful people. There were close to 100 employees present,
and a lot of youth from our community. The noise may have inconvenienced some neighbors
for a few hours, but indicated the event is only once a year.
· The price one pays for hating other people is liking oneself less. Don't let trivial things
bother you.
· Don't take yourself to seriously, enjoy live, love your neighbor, and God Bless.
Mayor Peterson adjourned the meeting at 9:10 p.m.
Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk