HomeMy WebLinkAboutDecember 13, 1999 OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
~ECEMBER 13, 1999
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Peterson at 7:00 p.m.
Councilmembers Szurek, Jolly, Wyckoff and Hunter.
Present were Mayor Peterson, and
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA
The City Manager asked that Item 4 (8) be removed from the Consent Agenda and Item 4 (20) be
removed from the Consent Agenda.
CONSENT AGENDA
(These items are considered to be routine by the City Council and will be enacted as part of the Consent
Agenda by one motion. Items removed from consent agenda approval will be taken up as the next order
of business.)
Motion by Councilmember Wyckoff, seconded by Councilmember Szurek, to approve the
Consent Agenda as follows:
1)
Minutes for Approval
The Council approved the minutes of the November 22, 1999, Regular Council Meeting
as presented.
The Council approved the minutes of the November 15, 1999, Levy Heating as
presented.
The Council approved the minutes of the December 6, Truth in Taxation Hearing as
presented.
2)
Establish Dates and Times for Council Work Sessions
The Council scheduled a work session for Monday, January 3, 2000 at 7 p.m.
3)
Resolution No. 99-99, Pertaining to Establishing Seasonal and Temporary Employee
Wage Rates for 2000
The reading of the resolution was waived there being ample copies available for the
public.
This resolution establishes wage ranges for non-unionized temporary part-time Library
positions, seasonal Public Works positions, seasonal/temporary Recreation positions,
and Bike Patrol Officer.
RESOLUTION 99-99
ADOPTING CHANGES IN WAGE RANGES AND ESTABLISHING WAGES FOR
TEMPORARY PART-TIME LIBRARY POSITIONS,
SEASONAL PUBLIC WORKS POSITIONS,
SEASONAL/TEMPORARY RECREATION POSITIONS,
AND BIKE PATROL OFFICER
Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 2
WItEREAS, the City of Columbia Heights adopted a Wage Compensation Program for Non-Unionized
City Employees effective January 1, 1980 (Resolution 80-47), which indicated that on an annual basis, changes
will be adopted in Wage Ranges, based upon reliable survey data.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Columbia Heights establishes wage
ranges for non-unionized temporary part-time Library positions, seasonal Public Works positions,
seasonal/temporary Recreation positions, and bike patrol officer, an indicated on Schedule I, II, III, and IV,
which are on file in the office of the City Manager; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that such schedules be effective January 1, 2000.
Passed this 13th day of December, 1999.
Offered by: Wyckoff
Seconded by: Szurek
Roll Call: All ayes
Mayor Gary L. Peterson
Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk
4) Resolution No. 99-100, Accepting Public Safety Grant for Overtime Expense
The reading of the resolution was waived there being ample copies available to the
public.
This grant will involve no expense to the City of Columbia Heights.
RESOLUTION NO. 99-100
RESOLUTION OF A COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF
PUBLIC SAFETY FOR A COPS OVERTIME GRANT
WHEREAS, the Columbia Heights Police Department has been granted $10,000 in a grant from the State of
Minnesota Department of Public Safety for a grant entitled COPS Overtime Grant, and,
WHEREAS, the Columbia Heights Police Department has been successful in obtaining this grant for the period
of January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2000.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Columbia Heights enter into a cooperative
agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for the project entitled COPS Overtime Grant for
the period from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2000, that the City Manager and the Mayor are hereby
authorized to execute such agreements and amendments as necessary to implement the proj eot on behalf of the
City of Columbia Heights.
Passed this 13th day of December, 1999
Offered by: Wyckoff
Seconded by: Szurek
Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 3
Roll Call: All ayes
Mayor Gary L. Peterson
Patficia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk
5)
Authorize Acceptance of Juvenile Accountabili _ty Block Grant from State
The Council authorized the Mayor and the City Manager to accept a grant from the State
of Minnesota Department of Economic Security/Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block
Grant in the amount of $10,444 with a match of $1,160, with the match to come from
unexpended funds in the 1999 Police Department budget.
This grant will pay the City share of Project Safety Net and the supervisor salary for the graffiti cleanup
program.
6)
Resolution No. 99-104, Regarding Adopting Snow and Ice Control Policy
The reading of the resolution was waived there being ample copies available to the
public.
Changes in this policy lower sand to salt ratio from 5-1 to 4-1, will provide different
plowing routes for alleys, and allow the police department use of a 4 x 4 pickup in Kaess
of emergency.
RESOLUTION NO. 99-104
RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE 1999/2000 SNOW AND ICE CONTROL POLICY
WltEREAS, a Snow and Ice Control Policy has been developed and recommended by City staff; and
WItEREAS, adoption of said policy has been determined to be in the best interest of the City of Columbia
Heights,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights that said
Snow and Ice Control Policy is hereby approved and adopted.
Dated this 13th day of December, 1999.
Offered by: Wyckoff
Seconded by: Szurek
Roll Call: All ayes
Gary L. Peterson, Mayor
Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk
7)
Resolution No. 99-95, Waiving Permit Fees for Municipal Projects
The reading of the resolution was waived there being ample copies available for the
Minutes of Council Meeting
t~" December 13, 1999
Page 4
public.
Fees would be waived on City construction projects, eliminating payment to itself.
RESOLUTION NO. 99-95
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL FROM THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS AUTHORIZING
THE CITY MANAGER TO WAIVE BUILDING PERMIT FEES FOR PROPERTH~S OWNED
BY ~ MUNICIPALITY
WHEREAS, the fees are included in the bid price,
WHlr~REAS, policy transfers revenues from one municipal department to another,
Wl:[E. REAS, in essence, the City is charging itself the fees.
FINDINGS OF FACT
Currently there is no written policy on the matter of charging and paying permit fees for City owned and operated
buildings. Due to the lack of policy, it is recommended that the City Manager be authorized to make the decision on
~"'"' whether or not a permit fee is required for building permits issued to contractors that have received contracts from the
City to conduct work on municipal properties. It is advised that this policy be confirmed by resolution.
Therefore, be it resolved staff concludes that charging the City permit fees for its own properties is not the intent of
Ordinance 1344 establishing permit fees. Through interpretation of the Minnesota State Building Code by the Building
Official, this process is not the intent of the Building Code.
Waiving of the permit fees shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation
of the provisions of the State Building Code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
Order of Council
It is not the intent of Ordinance 1344 that the City charge itself building permit fees.
It is not the intent in the adoption of the Minnesota State Building Code that the City charge itself permit
fees.
Passed this 13th day of December, 1999.
Offered by: Wyckoff
Seconded by: Szurek
Roll Call: All ayes
Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk
Mayor Gary L. Peterson
Minutes of Council Meeting
t~" December 13, 1999
Page 5
9)
10)
11)
Resolution 99-97, Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit - 4849 University Ave.
Removed from Consent Agenda and discussed later in meeting.
Conditional Use Permit - 5060 Central Avenue NF,
The Council approved the Conditional Use Permit to allow a wine license in the Retail
Business Zoning District at 5060 Central Avenue NE, subject to the following
conditions.
1. All required state and local codes, permits, and inspections including, but not
limited to building permits, fire code, and health department regulations will be
met and in full compliance.
2. A minimum of 75 seats shall be maintained in the restaurant.
Variance and Conditional Use Permit - 500 40th Avenue NE
The Council approved the variance of 10 parking spaces at 500 40th Avenue NE because
the shape and size of the lot create a hardship.
The Council approved the Conditional Use Permit to allow a nonintoxicating 3.2 bar and
grill and a dwelling unit on the second floor of the building at 500 40th Avenue NE,
subject to the following conditions:
1. All required state and local codes, permits, and inspections including, but not
limited to building permits, fire code, and health department regulations will be
met and in full compliance.
2. City Council approval of the 10 space parking variance.
3. At no time shall any space directly associated with the dwelling unit occupy
the first floor of the building. This shall include, but not be limited to, kitchens,
restrooms, and bedrooms.
4. The parking lot shall be striped and signed in a manner that is consistent with
applicable regulations.
5. All proposed siguage must be submitted on the City prescribed application
form and must fully comply with the Zoning Ordinance.
Conditional Use Permit - 4757 Central Avenue NE
The Council approved the Conditional Use Permit to allow the operation of a day care
center at 4757 Central Avenue NE, subject to the following conditions:
1. All required state and local codes, permits, licenses and inspections will be met
and in full compliance.
2. All proposed siguage must be submitted on the City prescribed application
form and must fully comply with the Zoning Ordinance.
3. The two parking spaces immediately in front of the public entrance to the day
care center be clearly marked and identified as parking for the day care center.
4. A curb or bollards shall be installed around the playground to protect it from
vehicle traffic.
Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 6
12)
Resolution 99-98, Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit - 3989 Central Avenue NE
The reading of the resolution was waived there being ample copies available to the
public.
RESOLUTION 99-98
BEING A RESOLUTION OF THE COLUMBIA HF~IGHTS CITY COUNCIL APPROVING A CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT AND SPECIAL PERMIT TO ALLOW THE INSTALLATION OF SPRINT WIRELESS
TELEPHONE ANTENNAS TO THE COLUMBIA HEIGHTS BUSINESS CENTER AT 3989 CENTRAL
AVENUE NE
WHEREAS, Loucks and Associates on behalf of Sprint has applied for a Special Permit and a Conditional Use
Permit to install Sprint wireless telephone antennas to the Columbia Heights Business Center at 3989 Central Avenue
NE; and,
WltF~REAS, Section 9.116(16)(a) of the Columbia Heights Zoning Ordinance states that "heights in excess of
those allowed under this section shall be permitted only by a special permit granted by resolution of the Council
determining that such structure would not be dangerous and would not adversely affect the adjoining or adjacent
property"; and,
WltEREAS, the subject property is currently zoned CBD, Central Business District, and a Conditional Use
Permit is required for public utility structures in the CBD; and,
WlW~REAS, the Columbia Heights Planning and Zoning Commission has reviewed the proposal and has
recommended that the City Council approve the request subject to the following conditions: (1) All required state and
local codes, permits, licenses and inspections will be met and in full compliance; (2) The installation of additional
ballast mounts in the future will require a separate Special Permit and Conditional Use Permit; (3) The antennas shall be
designed in a manner that blends in with the building and surrounding uses; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council determines that the proposed Sprint wireless telephone antennas will not be
dangerous and will not adversely affect the adjoining or adjacent property.
NOW, TI~EREFORE BE IT RESOLVED TItAT the Columbia Heights City Council hereby approves the
Special Permit and Conditional Use Permit to allow the installation of Sprint wireless telephone antennas to the
Columbia Heights Business Center at 3989 Central Avenue NE, subject to the following conditions: (1) All required
state and local codes, permits, licenses and inspections will be met and in full compliance; (2) The installation of
additional ballast mounts in the future will require a separate Special Permit and Conditional Use Permit; (3) The
antennas shall be designed in a manner that blends in with the building and surrounding uses.
Passed this 13t~ day of December, 1999.
Offered by: Wyckoff
Seconded by: Szurek
~'-,Roll Call: All ayes
Mayor Gary L. Peterson
Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk
__ Minutes of Council Meeting
,~-"~ December 13, 1999
Page 7
13)
2001 Rental Rates for Murzyn Hall
The Council approved the 2001 rental rates for Murzyn Hall at the recommendation of
the Park and Recreation Commission.
This increase would include 5% on Saturday rentals, with no increase for Sunday through Friday rentals
(with Friday rentals beginning at 9 a.m.), premix to $21 per canister, custodial charge to $15 per hour,
and CO2 system to $20.
14)
Payment of 2000 North Metro Mayors Association Annual Membership Fee
The Council authorized payment for the 2000 North Metro Mayors Association Annual
Membership Fee in the amount of $8,619.00.
15)
Resolution No. 99-101, Desi ~ating Depositories for Funds of the City of Columbia
Heights
The reading of the resolution was waived there being ample copies available to the
public.
RESOLUTION NO. 99-101
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING OFFICIAL DEPOSITORIES AND
SAFE DEPOSIT ACCESS FOR THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, that Northeast State Bank and Norwest Bank are hereby designated as
depositories of the funds of this corporation.
IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED, that checks, drafts, or other withdrawal orders issued against the funds of this
corporation on deposit with said banks shall be signed by the following:
Mayor
City Manager
Clerk-Treasurer
and that said banks are hereby fully authorized to pay and charge to the account of this corporation any checks,
drafts, or other withdrawal orders.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Northeast State Bank and Norwest Bank as designated depositories
of the corporation be and it is hereby requested, authorized and directed to honor checks, drafts or other orders
for the payment of money drawn in this corporation's name, including those drawn to the individual order of any
person or persons whose name or names appear thereon as signer or signers thereof, when beating or purporting
to bear the facsimile signatures of the following:
Mayor
City Manager
Clerk-Treasurer
and that Northeast State Bank and Norwest Bank shall be entitled to honor and to charge this corporation for all
?~..,, Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 8
such checks, drafts or other orders, regardless of by whom or by what means the facsimile signature or
signatures thereon may have been affixed thereto, if such facsimile signature or signatures resemble the
facsimile specimens duly certified to or filed with the Banks by the City Clerk or other officer of his
corporation.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any and all resolutions heretofore adopted by the City Council of the
corporation and certified to as governing the operation of this corporation's account(s) with it, be and are hereby
continued in full force and effect, except as the same may be supplemented or modified by the foregoing part of
this resolution.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all transactions, if any relating to deposits, withdrawals, re-discounts and
borrowings by or on behalf of this corporation with said banks prior to the adoption of this resolution be, and
the same hereby are, in all things ratified, approved and confirmed.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any bank or savings and loan located in the State of Minnesota may be
used as depositories for investments purposes so long as the investments comply with authorized investments as
set forth in Minnesota Statutes.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any brokerage firm located in the State of Minnesota may be used as a
depository for investment purposes so long as the investments comply with the authorized investments as set
forth in Minnesota Statutes.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the signatures of any one of the following named City employees are
required for access to safe deposit boxes:
Finance Director
City Manager
Assistant Finance Director
Accounting Coordinator
Passed this 13th day of December, 1999
Offered by: Wyckoff
Seconded by: Szurek
Roll Call: All ayes
Mayor Gary L. Peterson
Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk
16)
Continuation of Worker's Compensation Insurance Coverage w/St. Paul Companies
The Council authorized the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an agreement to
continue worker's compensation coverage with St. Paul Companies under standard
premium plan.
This would be an increase of $8,000 from last year.
/~,, Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 9
17)
Resolution No. 99-96, Amending Hardship Special Assessment Deferral
The reading of the resolution was waived there being ample copies available to the
public.
RESOLUTION NO. 99 - 96
BEING A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING SENIOR CITIZENS OR RETIRED
AND DISABLED PERSONS HARDSHIP SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DEFERRAL
Whereas, immediate payment of special assessments or installments on special assessments cast an undue hardship on some persons owning
homestead properties who are 65 years of age or older or retired by virtue of a permanent and total disability for whom it would be a hardship to make
payments, and
Whereas, Minnesota Statutes ~435.193 - 435.195 makes it possible for a home rule charter city to pass a resolution establishing standards and
guidelines for determining the existence of a hardship and for determining the existence of a disability.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS:
1. This deferral procedure shall apply only to assessments which are payable in five or more annual installments.
2. This deferral procedure shall apply only to property owned and occupied by the eldedy, retired, or disabled applicant. Ownership and
occupancy must be of the same nature as would qualify the applicant for a homestead exemption for tax purposes.
3. This deferral procedure shall apply only to homestead property owned by a person 65 years of age or older or retired by virtue of a permanent
and total disability for whom it would be a hardship to make payments. Permanent and total disability shall have the same definition for
purposes of assessment deferral as is used for social secuflty purposes.
This deferral procedure shall not be construed as to prohibit the determination of hardship on the basis of exceptional and unusual
circumstances not covered by the standards and guidelines herein so long as determination is made in a nondiscriminatory manner and does
not give the applicant an unreasonable preference or advantage over other applicants.
5. In order to obtain a deferral of an assessment, the homeowner must make application on the forms prescribed by the City of Columbia
Heights Assessment Clerk.
6. In granting a deferred assessment, the Council shall determine in its resolution approving the assessment roll the amount of interest, if any,
to be charged on the deferred assessment.
7. The option of the homeowner to defer the payment of special assessments shall terminate and all amounts accumulated plus applicable
interest shall become due and payable upon the occurrence of any of the following events:
a. the death of the owner, provided that the spouse is not otherwise eligible for benefits hereunder;
b. the sale, transfer or subdivision of the property or any part thereof;
c. if the property should for any reason lose its homestead status; or
d. if for any reason the City shall determine that there would be no hardship to require immediate or partial payment.
No deferral may be granted unless the homeowner makes application to the City Assessment Clerk within thirty (30) days after adoption of
the assessment by the Council.
The deferral shall apply to only 50% of the annual installment payment. If the 50% is not paid in a timely manner, the balance of the annual
installment along with all future installments shall become immediately due and payable.
No deferral shall be granted to any owner who has a gross annual household income from all sources in excess of $t7,700.00.
No deferral may be continued from year to year unless the owner shall file a renewal application before September 15th of each year.
No special assessment may be deferred for a pedod longer than the time set by the Council as the time over which the project is to be
assessed.
10.
11.
~'"' 12.
13.
Interest on deferred assessments shall be at the rate set by the Council in its resolution adopting the assessment roll, and such interest shall
be added to the amount deferred and shall be paid in accordance with Minnesota Statute ~435.195 and this Resolution.
Passed this 13th day of December, 1999.
ff..~ Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 10
Offered by: Wyckoff
Seconded by: Szurek
Roll Call: All ayes
Mayor Gary L. Peterson
Patricia Muscovilz, Deputy City Clerk
18)
Resolution No. 99-102, Increasing Income Guidelines for Senior Citizen Reduced
Refuse/Sewage/Disposal and Water Supply Utili _ty Rates.
The reading of the resolution was waived there being ample copies available to the
public.
In answer to a question, staff indicated renters who pay their own water bill and meet income
requirement would receive the same discount.
Laura Sharbo, 4616 Tyler, asked Council if a landlord does not keep up the property and the license is
revoked if the landlord is responsible to pay moving cost. The Assistant Fire Chief indicated the City
does not force renters to move without offering assistance, but suspects moving costs would be a civil
matter between renter and landlord.
RESOLUTION NO. 99-102
RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING SENIOR CITIZEN ELIGIBILITY STANDARDS FOR
REFUSE, SEWAGE DISPOSAL AND WATER SUPPLY UTILITY RATES
WHEREAS, the City Council has previously established eligibility standards for senior citizens for Refuse
Service, Disposal, and Water Supply; and
WHEREAS, It has been the City's practice to maintain uniform eligibility standards whenever possible:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City of Columbia Heights as follows:
That anyone over 62 years of age with a maximum household income of $17,700 will be
eligible for reduced rates.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the above eligibility standard be effective January 1, 2000.
Passed this 13th
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll Call:
day of December, 1999
Wyckoff
Szurek
All ayes
Gary L. Peterson, Mayor
Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk
~. Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 11
19)
Designate Focus News as Official Newspaper for 2000
The Council approved designating Focus News as the official City newspaper for 2000
and to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an agreement with Focus
News for required publications.
Staff indicated the City is required by law to advertisement in a "weekly" newspaper. It is
possible in the future the City may be allowed to advertise on the internet.
20) Resolution No. 99-103, Adopting the Year 2000 Budget
Removed from Consent Agenda and discussed later in meeting.
21)
Public Works Administrative Assistant to attend Software Training on Fleet
Maintenance
The Council approved the attendance of the Public Works Administrative Assistant for a
3-day Fleet Maintenance software training workshop to be held January 24-26, 2000 in
Greensboro, North Carolina, provided by DP Solutions and that all related expenses be
reimbursed from funds in 701-49950-3105 and 701-49950-3320.
22)
Purchase of Pipeworks Infrastructure Management Software
The Council approved the purchase of one license of Pipeworks Infrastructure
Management Software from SEH of St. Paul, at a cost of $8,300 plus tax split equally
from the Sewer and Water Department funds 601-49430-5170 and 602-49450-5170.
This software is for the GIS program in the Public Works Department.
23)
Proposal from Integrated Loss Control, Inc. for support services for a Safety
Management Program for Public Works
The Council accepted the proposal for Safety Management support services for the
Public Works Department from Integrated Loss Control, Inc. in an amount not-to-exceed
$7,092; and, furthermore, to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an
agreement for the same.
Staff indicated this is money well spent to help avoid even one costly avoidable accident.
24)
Purchase of replacement for Unit #38 Vermeer Brush Chipper
The Council approved the purchase of (1) one new Brush Bandit Brush Chipper, Model
200+XP from Aspen Equipment of Bloomington, Minnesota, under the State of
Minnesota Purchasing Contract in the amount of $16,839 plus trade-in and sales tax,
with costs to be appropriated from the Capital Equipment Replacement Fund 431-
46102-5180.
25)
Change Order No. 1 to US Filter for the Water Meter Replacement Program
The Council authorized Contract Change Order No. 1 for 3/4 inch and 1 inch water
meter replacements in the amount of $12,000.00 to US Filter with funding out of the
Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 12
Water Meter Replacement fund, 651-49460-5130.
This Change Order is replacement in-kind for meters in excess of 5/8".
26)
Change Order No. 1 and Authorize Final Payment for Miscellaneous Concrete Project
#9900
The Council authorized Change Order No. 1 for additional work added to the contract by
the City to Ron Kassa Construction, Inc. in the amount of $8,236.11 with funding out of
the appropriate funds.
The Council accepted the work for the 1999 Miscellaneous Concrete Repairs and
Installations, City Project #9900 and authorize final payment of $755.21 to Ron Kassa
Construction, Inc. of Elko, MN.
27)
28)
Final Payment for Re-Roof of Ostrander, Silver Lake Beach, and Keyes Park Buildings
The Council accepted the work for City Projects #9814 Ostrander, #9815 Silver Lake
Beach and #9816 Keyes park buildings; and to authorize final payment of $3,412.00 to
All American Roofing-Remodeling of Blaine, MN.
Extension of Memorandum of Understanding between the Ci_ty of Columbia Heights and
Real Estate Equities Development Company
The Council approved the extension of the Memorandum of Understanding (Preliminary
Agreement) between the City of Columbia Heights and Real Estate Equities
Development Company for the LCDA Transition Block redevelopment project for up to
an additional seven months to June 9, 2000 for start of construction, and furthermore, to
authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an agreement for the same.
This seven month extension of the Memorandum of Understanding with Real Estate Equities
Development Company was recommended for approval by the EDA.
29)
Resolution 99-105, a Resolution adopting Taxi Cab Rates
The reading of the resolution was waived there being ample copies available to the
public.
RESOLUTION 99-105
RESOLUTION SETTING TAXI CAB RATES
IN THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA
BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of Columbia Heights, Minnesota, that rates for all licensed
taxi cab companies operating in the City of Columbia Heights, be set at:
$2.00 the first 1/8 of a mile
$.20 each additional 1/8 of a mile
$21.00 per hour of waiting time including time lost in delays
ff..~Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 13
to be effective December 14, 1999.
Passed this 13th day of December, 1999.
Offered by: Wyckoff
Seconded by: Szurek
Roll Call: All ayes
Gary L. Peterson, Mayor
Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk
30)
Dissolution vote for the Columbia Heights Chamber of Commerce
The Council of the City of Columbia Heights directed the City Manager to vote in the
negative on the dissolution of the local Columbia Heights Chamber of Commerce at the
December 15th Chamber meeting.
31)
Resolution Closing Unused Funds and Transferring Fund Balances
The reading of the resolution was waived there being ample copies available to the
public.
This resolution was recommended by the City Auditor.
RESOLUTION NO. 99-106
RESOLUTION CLOSING UNUSED FUNDS AND TRANSFERRING FUND BALANCES
WItEREAS, Over the years the City of Columbia Heights has established several special purpose funds and,
WItEREAS, These funds are no longer needed for operational or accounting purposes:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the following funds and fund balances be closed out with
the fund balances being transferred as listed below:
Fund To Be Closed Out
Remaining Fund Balance Transfer Balance To Fund
Federal Police Grant: Fund 272
Fast COPS Grant: Fund 273
Water Surface Management: Fund 403
Capital Improvement Fund: Fund 408
CDBG: Fund 202
$ 31,791.81
496.84
18,787.75
19,875.36
306,427.79
General Fund: Fund 101
General Fund: Fund 101
Storm Sewer Fund: Fund 604
Infrastructure Fund: Fund 430
HRA Loan: Fund 299
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the funds transferred from the CDBG Fund to the HRA Fund be
designated for loan use only and that appropriation or use of these funds requires City Council approval.
Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 14
Passed this 13th day of December, 1999
Offered by: Szurek
Seconded by: Jolly
Roll Call: All ayes
Gary L. Peterson, Mayor
Patricia Muscovitz, Council Secretary
32)
Purchase and Installation of Rooftop Heating/Air Conditioner
The Council awarded the purchase and installation of a Bryant 4 ton, 100,000
BTU rooftop heating and air conditioning unit to Suburban Air based upon their
Iow, qualified, responsible bid in an amount not to exceed $4,650 with funds to
be appropriated fi.om 101-41940-5120; and furthermore, to authorize the Mayor
and City Manager to enter into an agreement for the same.
33)
Purchase of workstations and office fumishing~q
The Council awarded the purchase of workstations and office furnishings to
Office Depot based upon their low, qualified, responsible bid in the amount of
$5,584.00, plus tax, with monies to be appropriated fi.om proper funds; and
furthermore, to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an
agreement for the same.
34)
Cancellation of December 27, 1999 City Council Meeting
The Council authorized the Mayor and City Manager to post cancellation of the
previously scheduled December 27, 1999 City Council meeting
35)
License Applications
The City Council approved the items as listed on the business license agenda for
December 13, 1999 and to waive the fees for the Columbia Heights Lions Club.
36)
Hearing Dates Re: License Revocation or Suspension of Rental Properties at
4610-4612 Fillmore St., 3718 Central Ave., and 4514-4516 Fillmore
The Council established a Hearing Date of January 10, 2000 for Revocation or
Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of
Columbia Heights against Mohsen Dessouki at 4610-4612 Fillmore Street NE.
The Council established a Heating Date of January 10, 2000 for Revocation or
Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of
Columbia Heights against Heidi VonHeideman at 3718 Central Avenue NE.
The Council established a Hearing Date of January 10, 2000 for Revocation or
Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of
Columbia Heights against Joe Bazzett at 4514-4516 Fillmore Street NE.
Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 15
37)
Payment of Bills
The Council approved payment of bills as listed out of proper funds.
Roll Call on Consent Items: All ayes.
The Council then addressed and the two items which had been removed fi:om the consent agenda.
Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit - 4849 Universi _ty Ave. NE
This request is fi'om the property owner of Universal Auto Body and US West Wireless to construct an
approximately 90 foot tall monopole tower on this property. The Planning & Zoning Commission
recommended approval with three conditions. It was suggested soil samples be taken. Commissioners
would like to see a plan for the future, fi:om companies in this business, within our community. Staff
indicated it would not be unreasonable to ask these providers for their future plans. Discussion
included setting a six month moratorium on further antenna placements and adding a restrictive zoning
ordinance. The City Attomey suggested tabling this request, looking into language for a moratorium,
and possibly including this item in the Comprehensive Planning and Zoning Code designating certain
allowable areas. It was noted that these companies are under FCC regulations which can precede local
regulations.
Motion by Jolly, second by Szurek, to table the US West Personal Communication Services Monopole
tower at 4849 University Avenue NE. All ayes.
Adopting the Year 2000 Budget
The City Manager requested this item be tabled until Wednesday, December 15, 1999 at the Election
Canvassing meeting.
Motion by Szurek, second by Hunter, to table Adoption of the Year 2000 Budget until the Wednesday,
December 15, 1999 meeting. All ayes.
PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS
Ao
Proclamations - None
B. Presentations
1999 National League of Cities Innovation Award for A Planbook for Post World War
II Houses.
The Community Development Director gave a history of the Planbook, which was a joint project with
15 other communities with a similar type housing stock. This Planbook is available for $10 to residents
and $15 to non-residents. Staff listed other awards received for this project. Councilmember Hunter
presented the award to the Mayor. This award will be displayed in a Murzyn Hall trophy Kaess.
Introduction of New Employees - None
D. Recognition - None
Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 16
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Ao
Second Reading of Ordinance No. 1395, Being an Ordinance Amending Chapter 5A of
Ci_ty Code of 1977.
MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Ordinance No. 1395, there being ample copies
available for the public.
The Assistant Fire Chief briefed Councilmembers on the history of the Chapter 5 - Housing
Maintenance code. Harold Hoium, resident, asked the City Attorney to read the ordinance. The Mayor
indicated ample copies of this extensive document were available at City Hall and the Library. He
indicated the purpose of this code is to provide safe and comfortable homes for renters.
A1 Berg, 2627 Taylor, voiced concerns regarding the Housing Maintenance Code and the meeting that
was held for landlords. He questioned procedures for license revocation and shortened time limitations
on repairs. Staff indicated changes are intended to upgrade the housing stock and not an attempt to
make life more difficult for any one in particular.
Doug Jones, a landlord in Columbia Heights, was present with Ryan Kaess, a member the MN
Multiple Housing Committee. Mr. Jones was initially opposed to this ordinance but has seen a lot of
good come from it. He suggested repair deadlines needed more specific guidelines for different
possible situations.
On license revocation, Mr. Jones commented that by the Columbia Heights' process an individual is
assessed before he has the change to appeal the revocation. He felt the fee should be after a license is
revoked - not before.
Ryan Kaess, 803 Old Cedar Ave, Bloomington, 55123, expressed concerns by the Minnesota Multi-
housing Association regarding 5A.5051 allowing revocation fees to be assessed before or during
license revocation. He also questioned reducing repair time limits and the need for codified extension
standards.
Assistant Fire Chief Alexon indicated the intent is to bill revocation expenses within 30 days of this
action. Actual billable amounts are available before revocation. If revocation is canceled, it would be
the intent of the City to charge only administrative fees.
Staff indicated establishing a 60 day time frame for repairs would be in line with commercial
properties. Extensions are granted for just about any reason a land lord has, and have been very liberal.
Councilmembers asked the Assistant Fire Chief to work with Mr. Kaess on these two issues only.
Staffwill establish a meeting date with the MN Housing Association and notify every landlord in
Columbia Heights of this date to discuss these two issues.
Motion by Jolly, second by Szurek to table the adoption of Ordinance No. 1395 pertaining to the
Residential Maintenance Code and Licensing Rental.
Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 17
7. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
Ao
Other Ordinances and Resolutions - None.
Bid Considerations - None.
Other Business - None.
1. Tobacco/Cigarette Sales Application - 4259 Central Ave. NE, Holiday Station
Motion by Hunter, seconded by Wyckoff, to approve the request for a license to
allow the sale of tobacco/cigarette products at the Holiday Station Store, 4259
Central Avenue; however, the applicant is cautioned to observe the age
requirements of cigarette/tobacco sales as their license to continue such sales
could be in jeopardy if further violations occur.
Police Chief Johnson ask Councilmembers to issue a strong message to these license applicants to not
sell tobacco or alcohol products to minors.
Upon vote, all ayes.
Upon vote, all ayes.
Tobacco/Cigarette Sales Application - 5011 University Avenue NE., Hot Market
Motion by Wyckoff, seconded by Szurek, to approve the request for a license to
allow the sale of 3.2 Beer Off Sale and tobacco/cigarette products at the Hot
Market, 5011 University Avenue; however, the applicant is cautioned to observe
the age requirements of cigarette/tobacco sales as well as beer sales as their
license to continue such sales could be in jeopardy if further violations occur.
Upon vote, all ayes.
Tobacco/Cigarette Sales Application - 5257 Universi _ty Avenue NE, Universi _ty
Texaco
Motion by Szurek, second by Jolly to approve the request for a license to allow
the sale of tobacco/cigarette products at the University Texaco, 5257 University
Avenue; however, the applicant is cautioned to observe the age requirements of
cigarette/tobacco sales as their license to continue such sales could be in
jeopardy if further violations occur.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Report of the City Manager
The City Manager reminded residents to vote on the $4.95 million referendum for a new Community
Center with amenities. He commented on negative literature, filled with general inaccuracies, which
was sent out over the weekend. He stated that staff has held meetings and kept the public informed on
this process over the last year and one half. The City Manager gave accurate figures of costs incurred
for the election, financial advisors, and to have a public information packet drawn up concluding what
the public requested in a Community Center.
~Minutes of Council Meeting
December 13, 1999
Page 18
He also gave estimated tax increase amounts for a $60,000, $90,000 and $120,000 home. The City
Manager indicated if this information was mailed to all household, the person(s) responsible would be
in violation of the $2,000 advertising limit and should be reported to the City Finance Director.
Report of the City Attorney - None.
o
GENERAL COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
A. Minutes of Boards and Commissions
1) Meeting of the November 23, 1999, Park and Recreation Commission
2) Meeting of the November 15, 1999, Planning and Zoning Commission
10.
CITIZENS FORUM
(At this time, citizens have an opporttmity to discuss with the Council items not on the regular agenda.
The citizen is requested to limit their comments to five minutes. Please note, the public may address
the Council regarding specific agenda items at the time the item is being discussed.)
Bob Williams, JeWs, Bobby and Steve's Autoworld, 4047 Cleveland Avenue NE, came to thank the
City for supporting their service station. He referred to an advertisement placed by his company
supporting the Community Center referendum.
Harold Hoium, 4321 5th Street NE, indicated some people are complaining he does not have a parking
pad. He stated the reason for this is he can not find anyone to do the job.
Karsten McCarthy, 4213 5th Street, referred to the referendum vote and wanted a guarantee there would
not be an over mn in costs.
Matt Dobolos, Suzalaz Allie, and Avery Johnson from Mr. Galuska's 9th grader Civics Class were
present at the meeting. Mr. Dobolos suggested Abe Verbugge would be a good name for the
Community Center if the referendum passed.
Mayor Peterson encouraged everyone to get out to vote tomorrow, December 14, 1999, regarding the
proposed Community Center.
Mayor Peterson explained the "Light Up The Heights" decoration contest and encouraged residents to
nominate homes in the community, by calling Jean Kuehn at 782-2800 for an application.
Councilmember Jolly, referencing his last name, wished all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Each Councilmember and the Mayor did likewise.
~ 11. ADJOURNMENT
The Council Meeting was adjourned at 9:17 p.m.
P '~ia~, D~ep~k