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HomeMy WebLinkAboutNov 24, 1975Official Proceedings Regular Meeting of the City Council City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota November 24, 1975 -353- Meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Norberg, Land, Nawrocki-present Motion by Norberg, Seconded by Logacz to name Margo Emerson Secretary for the meeting. Roll Call: All Ayes Invocation was given by Rev. Henderson, People's Church. MINUTES OF LAST REGULAR MEETING Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Land to approve the minutes as presented in writing and the reading be dispensed with. At this time the Secretary indicated two corrections in these minutes; one was in regard to the noise meter bids reported by Councilman Norberg, where it should have stated that four bids were received under the lowest level of meter, rather than three. The other correction was to correct a name in the resolution adopting 1975 salaries for liquor store employees. Roll Call to approve the minutes as presented in writing with the corrections as noted: All Ayes PAYMENT OF BILLS Motion by Land, Seconded by Heintz that the bills as listed be paid out of their proper funds. Roll Call: All Ayes Mayor Nawrocki noted that this includes attorney's fees on the Glover Case. Asko, Inc. Payroll Account No. Amer. Life& Cas. Co. James Lord, State Treas. Famous Brands, Inc. H.B. Fuller Co. Griggs, Cooper & Co. Johnson Bros. Whsle. Liq. Johnson Wine Co. Minnesota Distillers Ed Phillips and Sons University of Minnesota Distillers Distributing Johnson Wine Co. Minnesota Distillers Prior Wine Co. Twin City Wine Co. American Library Assoc. A and R Book Co. Better Homes and Gardens The Bookmen, Inc. Bro-Dart, Inc. City of CH-Petty Cash- Library 331.25 79,964.95 2O8.8O 4,579.19 1,O03.39 40.99 572.60 796.83 957.29 3,482.47 3,184.28 5o.oo 241.54 195.39 2,722.45 I09.39 173.37 2O.OO 204.55 12.74 27.8O 197.10 19.91 Demco 89.35 Robert E. Diedrich 255.00 Discount Records 470.17 Doubleday & Co. Inc. 88.31 Educational Activities Inc. 34.97 Elliot Film Co. 29.07 G.K. Hall and Co. 74.46 The Instant It Happened 16.30 Josten's Library Books 1,233.24 Nelson's Office Supply 54.41 Outdoor Life Book Club 13.35 Postmaster 66.00 Prentice Hall, Inc. 6.93 Quality Books, Inc. 209.17 Howard W. Sams and Co. 10.08 Shoppers Charge 6.34 Silver Burdett Company 8.60 Wendell's 26.07 Writer's Digest 10.00 A & A Hardware 283.37 American Linen Supply 75.04 Automotive Drive Li. ne 25.92 Clayton R. Berg 25.20 Mary Blackstad 25.00 -354- November 24, 1975 Brand's Cameras Budd Broman Don Clhies Computer Election Systems Comstock and Davis, Ind. Continental Safety Equipment County of Anoka Data Dispatch Delegard Tool Co. Dunkley Surfacing Eklund Clothing Electric Service Co. Engine Parts Supply H.E. Erickson Co. Fireside Office Supply Flittie Redi Mix Genuine Parts Co. Glenwood Inglewood Gopher State Oil Co. Graphic Center Gross Industrial Serv. Gordon Harvey Royhl Hedbiad Heights Electric Inc. Heights Shell Service Arden Hovland Industrial Scientific Instr. Ronald Kalina Keep Fill Products Maxine Kerpin Koch Refining Co. Robert J. Kolb Lakeland Sign Co. Lampert Bldg. Center Lowry Lumber Co. Madison Bionics Int'l City Mgmt. Assoc. Vicki Maternowsky Medical Oxygen and Equip. Metro Dodge Metop. Animal Patrol Service Metro. Waste Control Comm. Midway Tractor & Equip. Co. Miner- Mc Alpin Agency Treasurer, City of Mpls. Treasurer, City of Mpls. Minnegasco Minn.. Safety Equipment Modern Service, Inc. Mobi!l Radio Engineering Nat"l Fire Protection Bruce Nedegaard Neptune Water Meter Co. 10.50 25.O0 125.00 502.OO 300.00 117.72 381.30 32.40 55 96 1,479 02 55 O0 930 O0 ]8 72 118 26 271.44 242.93 701.99 87.5O 48.43 684.80 15.60 25.OO lO.O0 428.50 4.OO 59.36 25.2O 1 ,675.00 61 03 25 O0 961 6O 400 ]06 50 25 65 374 31 538 62 105 OO 33.25 7.OO 7.31 526.00 13,756.94 92.83 4,086.00 24.75 17,833.64 766.51 27.36 17,942.20 49.60 7.20 495.00 487.4O Northern Sanitary Supply NSP No. Lexington Landscaping N.W. Be]] Telephone N.W. Be]] Telephone Dean S. Otterson Ovshak Printing Pannekoeken Huis Peterson and Ka]ina Robinson Landscaping Rogers Ross Intll Supply Co. Laura M. Rotegard Vern Rozmark John E. Schedler F.N. Shaffer Real Estate St. Anthony State Treas, St. Bldg. Insp. Charles H. Stevenson G.M. Stewart Lumber Co. Sun Newspapers Taft Marine Corp. Tasco Automotive Twin City Filter Service Twin City Testing and Engr. Uniforms Unlimited United Electric Corp. Warning Lites, Inc. Water Products Co. Wayne Protection Agency Welle Autp Supply Williams Steel and Hardware W.W. Generator Rbldrs. Wyatt Bros., Inc. Xerox Corp. Tim Yantos Zep Manufacturing Co. Gerald Arseneau City Beer Distributors City of CH-Liquor Bad Checks City V!ide Locksmithin9 Eberhard Candy and Tobacco East Side Beverage Co. Gold Medal Beverage Co. C.V. Hewitt dohnson Bros. Whsle. Liquor Kuether Distributing Co. Lakeland Sign Co. Liquor Control Commissioner Merrill Chapman Co. Betty Meyers Old Dutch Foods Rex Distributing 24.00 3,144.23 499.20 1,384.67 45.OO 533.12 43.50 82.25 8,126.67 467.50 148.06 283.08 25O.OO 50.66 22.01 1,237.50 1,O53.09 415.34 61.80 35.2O 232.64 27.35 73.97 6.60 347.65 195.60 17.24 36.00 156.50 273.00 13.26 402.48 53.40 321.58 763.58 5.OO 25.42 48.OO 44.01 868.63 15.00 457.70 9,976.72 328.85 43.30 ]5.80 5,096.37 24 OO 10 O0 14 40 14 20 2 30 4,956 96 November 24, 1975 -355- Ron's Ice Co. SevenUp Bottling Sunderland, Inc. Superior Products W. & G. Rehbein Bros. Inc. TOTAL 112.00 377.35 307.60 9.90 1,408.40 213,997.60 BILL FOR COLUMBIA ELECTRONICS Brief discussion held on this bill requiring separate action by the City Council because it is above the $500 limit of the City Manager. Mr. Watson indicated that this bill had been discussed informally with some members of the City Council at the retirement party held for Margaret Idziorek, explaining that this is for certain electronic pieces of sound equipment to fix up the sound system in the lounge in the municipal liquor store. Councilman Norberg expressed his disapproval that this informal discussion with some council members had constituted grounds for the purchases to be made without official approval. Motion by Logacz, Seconded by Heintz to authorize the payment of the bill from Columbia Electronics in the amount of $680.00, to authorize the City Manager to make this expenditure and also authorize the issuance of the check for same. Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Land, Nawrocki-aye Norberg-nay Discussion was then held on the legal costs involved for the Sullivan Lake area court case. Mayor Nawrocki expressed his opinion that the costs to date seem very much in line and he had no objection to the costs, but he did question the estimated additional $10,000 noted to be for clearing title on the land. The City Attorney explained that this also includes the completion of trial fees from November 1 to the end of the case and clearing up adverse interests. He stated that the title clearing would be estimated at $2,000.00. Councilman Norberg questioned the payment of Check 14961 designated for Bad Checks. The City Manager explained that this is for a two year period, and this is the way the auditor has suggested that the matter be handled. He also noted that there is approximately 50% of the total which was written by one man, and that man is presently in the Stillwater prison. HEARING ON ALLEY BETWEEN JACKSON STREET AND VANBUREN STREET, 42nd to 43rd The City Manager read the letter which had gone out to all the residents along this alley explaining the background on the calling of this hearing, and the alternatives as to what can be done to alleviate drainage problems in the alley. He pointed out that a storm drain should be installed on the south end of the alley to alleviate drainage problems. The conditions of the alley itself were discussed. Mr. Watson explained the costs estimated for the various alternatives to the work as follows: Storm Drain Concrete Paving $1.25 per foot 9.00 per foot 10.25 per foot November 24, 1975 -356- Storm Drain Bituminous Paving S 1.25 per foot 4.00 per foot 5.25 per foot Bituminous surfacing only: $5.00 per foot The assistant City Engineer, Clayton Berg, spoke against the bituminous surfacing without any storm drain installation as there could be no guarantee that the drainage problems would be alleviated. At this point Mr. Berg displayed a transparency on the overhead projector showing the grade of the alley and the proposed new grade and construction work proposed. One person from the alley asked how long the assessment would be spr,~ad over and the City Manager answered that normally alley surfacing of this nature would be spread over from five to ~ight years, and the storm drain would be spread over from three to five years. Mr. Berg rep,~'ted that the life expectancy on the bituminous surfacing would be about fifteen years, and the concrete surfacing would be expected at about forty to fifty years. Councilman Land asked whether the alley can be constructed so that the wa[er might drain down the alley without the drain installation. Mr. Berg pointed out that it might drain in a sense, but that puddles of water would stand. Mr. Brown, City Engineer, stated that the construction would conform with existing driveways elevations and will help drain lots, the yards, and the dr;veways. At this point the Mayor asked for questions from the people present interested in this item. One individual asked why the whole alley would have to pay for the storm drain if it is only on one end and will connect into 42nd Avenue. Mr. Watson pointed out how the relief of drainage on the south end will help drainage problems in the north end of the alley as well. This same individual pointed out that the water helps his garden when it stands in the alley. Anotiher gentleman stated that he presently has a problem with water drain into his yard, and he felt that if the al ]ey was upgraded even further, he would have a further problem, rather than a lesser one. Mr. Berg assured him that they had found no problems with meeting the grades of present driveways, but that this would have to be re-checked. One lady questioned whether this proposed construction would make the al ]ey cleaner, pointing out the problems of dirt washing down the alley. Mr. Berg explained that this is caused by y~rds which are not kept up, and the lack of blacktop or concrete driveways in some locations, from which the dirt washes into the alley. He pointed out that until all yards are taken care of, this problem of dirt washing ;nto the alley will not be stopped. The lady felt that if this dirt problem would not be stopped, then the construction would not help anything. Hr. Watson also explained that anything that washes from the yards to the alley wi]] still do so, even if the construction is done, but that a concrete alley would help in some way to hold the dirt problem down. November 24, 1975 -357- One man asked if the estimates presented were based on actual bids and how close the estimates might be to what the actual cost would run. Mr. Watson explained that the estimates were based on work done during the present year. Mayor Nawrocki explained that if the work is authorized, the work goes out for actual bids, and if the bids should come in considerably higher than the estimates, then the hearing would be reopened. Mayor Nawrocki pointed out that the estimates presented at this hearing were higher than the estimates included the hearing letter that went out to all the residences on the alley. Another individual asked why concrete would keep out the dirt better than blacktop and why it is better in general. In answer to this question, Mr. Watson explained that with concrete a tighter edge can be made, with a firm set form, whereas bituminous work is not necessarily done to a tight grade and is somewhat more ambiguous in its location. Another man pointed out that the alley is lower than the garages and driveways, and wondered if drainage couldn't be set with a "V" shape in the middle of the alley draining to the avenue. Mr. Brown explained that the alley as it stands is like a street and the water drains to the edge, and that there is not enough grade possible to make the drainage go to the center. The other man who felt that his driveway was lower than the alley stated that he felt that a re-survey should be made to ascertain whether or not his drainage problems will be alleviated, or increased. Discussion heid on the existence of a dirt hill along this alley and its contribution to the dirt problem. One gentleman spoke in favor of having the alley reconstructed, but stated that he felt that the storm drain was not needed, as he felt that the alley construction could be done so that the drainage would be taken care of. The other man who felt that his driveway was lower stated that he could go along with the alley construction, if he could receive some guarantee that he wouldn't get more water as a result of it. Mayor Nawrocki pointed out that the storm sewer is a small part of the overall cost on the work and stated that the decision must be made if to do anything at all and if something is to be done, then whether it should be concrete or bi tuminous. The Mayor then again reminded those present that the concrete outlasts the bituminous. He asked for a show of hands on whether or not the project should be done and two hands showed the affirmative. He then asked how many felt that nothing should be done, and again two hands were raised. Further discussion followed. Mr. Tony Maciasek, who lives on the end of the alley near 43rd pointed out that the people have been blacktopping their driveways to match the alley. He asked what the biggest problem is, the water problem or the need for a new surface on the alley. Mr. Brown explained that this is a combination of both, but that the poor surface has contributed to the poor drainage and viceIversa. November 24, 1975 -358- General discussion ensued with many questions being asked. One question was whether the old alley surface would be removed, and Mr. Brown stated that it would and the al ley would be completely regraded. Another man asked if this alley shouldn't have been sealcoated, and if it had been, whether this would have cut down on the deterioration of the al ley. At this point, Councilman Logacz stated that i,e could see that all the people present agree that there is a problem in the alley and so something should be done. Councilman Land spoke to the people stating that the hearing is held so that those directly involved can tell the City Council what they want :lone, and he said that the people must make it clear what they want so that the Council has something to base their ultimate decision on. Mayor Nawrocki pointed out that if the project is authorized, before the work is done, another survey would be done to be certain that all driveways and yards could be matched to the new alley. At this time the dispatcher relayed a telephone message from Mr. Glen Dexter, 4216 VanBuren Street, who could not be present at the hearing, that he (Mr. Dexter) wants the blackb~p work done on the alley. The question was raised as to how this discussion had begun in the first place and how hearings in general are called. Mayor Nawrocki stated that it happens both by the people in the particular area asking for the work, and by recommendations from the Engineering Staff that something should be done somewhere. Mayor Nawrocki stated that this particular al ley hearing had been called as a result of an individual on the alley coming :n and asking for it. Again, Mayor Nawrocki asked for a show of hands as to how many people felt the project should be done, and this time six hands were shown in favor of the work, and two hands were shown in opposition to the work. The majority favored that it be blacktopped, rather than concrete. No hands were shown in answer to the question whether or not the drain should be installed as well. Mr. Brown stated that it would be impossible to do the work by simply blacktopping, and be assured that the problems of drainage would be alleviated. He stated that if the; drainage problems continued, again the surface would deteriorate and break up and birdbaths would develop. Councilman Heintz pointed out that there is only 25¢ a foot difference between the bituminous work plus the storm drain, and the bituminous work only. November 24, 1975 -359- Discussion held on the storm drain particularly. The question was raised as to why the drain is proposed for the south end only and whether this will help the north end. Mr. Brown and Mr. Watson explained the design plan and how this storm drain connection will help the entire alley. Mr. Watson stated that on the north end the minimum grade can be made to help the water flow to the street drain on 43rd Avenue, but that this is not so on the south end, so the storm drain extension is proposed for this end. Motion by Norberg, Seconded by Logacz to authorize the City Manager to proceed with the project as proposed with the storm drain installation and bituminous paving in the alley between VanBuren and Jackson Street, 42nd to 43rd Avenue N.E. Roll Call' All Ayes RECESS at 9:37 p.m. RECONVENED at 9:51 p.m. LICENSES Mrs. Grace Job, 2217 Maiden Lane NE, and Anne Robinson, 4400 Madison Street, were present requesting Home Occupation permits to operate a beauty salon from their homes. Each of these women presented a petition signed by their neighbors stating that they have no objections to these proposed home occupation permits. These two petitions were made a part of the record of this council meeting. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Lo§acz that the licenses as listed be granted upon payment of proper fees. Roll Call: All Ayes SALE OF CITY PROPERTY AT 3755 CALIFORNIA STREET--FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE #842 City Manager Watson re~x~rted that two bids were received for the purchase of city property, including industrial building, at 3755 California Street. These bids were from Commers Soft Water Company, Inc. for $58,000.00 and from Doty and Sons, Inc. for $43,700.00. Mr. Watson further reported that the bid of Doty and Sons, Inc. was accompanied by a certified check in the amount of 5% of the bid. The bid of Commers Soft Water was accompanied by a cashier's check in the amount of $290, which should have been $2,900.00. He also stated that Commers Soft Water would use the building for warehousing in conjunction with present soft water business at 3801 California Street and possibly lease out in the future. They would honor the present lease of Artistic Screening Co. i)oty and Sons would use the building for storage and rental. Brief discussion ensued wherein the City Attorney was asked if the bid of Commers Soft Water Company could be accepted with its check in the incorrect amount. Mr. Kal ina stated that this is a discretionary item on the part of the City Council and the requirement for a certified check in the amount of 5~ of the bid can be waived. Mayor Nawrocki noted that the lot area was changed in the bid proposal form of Doty and Sons, and Mr. Watson indicated that this change was correct, and that Commers Soft Water Company was also aware of the change in lot area. Mr. Watson pointed out that the legal description was correct, but that the lot area which had been printed on the form i~cluded a lot which had been dedicated for park purposes. November 24, 1 975 - Mayor' Nawrocki asked how this sale of land had been advertised. Mr. Watson answered that it had been advertised in the Sun Newspaper, and also the bid notice and proposal form was mailed to people who had previously expressed an interest in the property. He indicated that two others had also received notification of the proposed sale. Mr. Watson recommended to the Council that they consider the bid of Commers Soft Water in the amount of $58,000.00 and authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into a purchase agreemer'.t. He indicated that a first reading of the ordinance for sale of land could be read at this time. Mayor Nawrocki asked the city attorney if a motion was needed to award the bid, and Mr. Kal ina answered that the first reading of the ordinance would be enough. Discussion was held on when the second reading could be held. Mr. Ka]ina stated that no publication was required of the ordinance prior to second reading and the second reading was set up for the next regular council meeting on December 8, 1975. FIRST READING HELD ON ORDINANCE //842 for Sale of 3755 Cal iforn~a Street to Commers Soft Water in the amount of $58,000.00. Mayor Nawrocki asked that the peop]e neighboring to this property be invited to attend the second reading. Mr. Watson stated that the people in the area would be notified. Mayor Nawrocki also had questions on how much property the city will retain, and expressed concern that there would not be any proper access to the park property to the south. Mr. Watson indicated that he felt that access would be available, and pointed out that California Street west of the Center] ine is vacated. Mayor Nawrocki asked for verification at the next council meeting of the access to the park. CALL FOR BIDS ON VARIOUS PIECES OF EQUIPMENT Mr. Gustafson listed the items which were being requested to be authorized to advertise for bids. These included: four pick-up trucks to replace three pick- ups in the Sewer and Water Department and one in the shop maintenance, one dump truck, a front end loader, and a tractor for the park department. The City Manager explained that prices on this equipment will be going up 6~ to 8% in January, and it would be wise to take the bids now in order to avoid the increased cost. Mayor Nawrocki asked where this information had come from. Tom Hosch, shop foreman, stated that Ford Company had indicated this fact and that other major manufacturers were also to have similar increases. Mr. Gustafson stressed the fact that this equipnlent would all replace old equipment. The dump truck would replace a 1963 dump truck. Mayor Nawrocki asked how this would be proposed to be paid. Mr. Watson indicated that all items were included in the 1976 budget, except he pointed out that the front end loader was included in the proposed capital outlay' in the bond issue. Mayor Nawrocki expressed his feeling that it is too early to place these orders before knowing what the end of the year totals would be for the ]975 budget. Also, he pointed out that the bond issue has not yet been levied, and nothing should be committed from that fund as of now. November 24, 1975 -361- Discussion held on the front end loader in particular. Mayor Nawrocki stated that this was to be used for snow removal, and was needed as the city presently does not have the equipment capable of this type of snow removal. Mr. Gustafson stated that it would also be equipped with a plow and wing, and yes, it would be used for snow removal purposes as well. He pointed out that this loader would enable the city crews to dump snow over into the Jackson Pond, over the fence, with ease. Mr. Gustafson stated that the plan is to trade in the D6 dozer for this loader. Mr. Gustafson stated that the old loader was also used for a blower, similar to what the new one would be used for. Mayor Nawrocki stated that it had been his impression that the city presently did not have a loader capable of this type of snow removal, and if in fact there is one, then the new one may not be needed at all. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Logacz to authorize the City Manager to advertise for bids to be opened December 15, with a report to the City Council at their meeting of December 22, for four pick-ups, 1 dump truck and 1 loader, and 1 tractor. Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Norberg, Land-Aye Nawrocki-Nay Mayer Nawrocki stated that he feels that it is premature to take bids at this time. He stated that he wants to know about the 1975 budget results before committing the 1976 budget. RESOLUTION #75-62 POLICE SERGEANTS' SALARY AND CONTRACT FOR 1975 Mr. Watson reported that the contract which is agreed upon by the sergeants, as stated by their business agent, is $130 above top patrol salary, with no other changes in the basic contract from that which the patrolmen received. Mr. Watson stated that this settlement was recommended by the Labor Negotiator, Cy Smythe. Mayor Nawrocki pointed out that this would amount to a 25% differential over the previous year, and stated his personal opposition to this large amount. He asked what the city would receive in return for granting this salary to the sergeants. Mr. Watson stated that sergeants on call would not receive pay, but other than that, there are no other changes. Councilman Heintz pointed out his opinion that this shows that the sergeants want to get paid supervisor wages, but still want to receive overtime. Mr. Heintz stated that no other supervisors receive overtime, and neither should the sergeants. Mr. Watson stated that Fridley recently settled at a $200 differential between top patrolman and sergeants, and all overtime compensation was eliminated. This includes longevity, education incentive, training time, hold-over, and court time. Councilman Heintz stated that he cannot agree on the salary unless overtime pay- ments are eliminated for the sergeants. Discussion held on what fringe benefits are received by the sergeants. Councilman Heintz asked whether a two year contract might be better, with elimination of overtime in the second year. Councilman Norberg agreed that a long term contract would be desired. -362- November 24, 1975 Councilman Land spoke in favor of granting the salary as agreed upon, and passing the resolution. He pointed out what the patrolmen received by going into arbitration, and spoke that the sergeants would probably fair just as well. He felt that the city has no choice but to accept the present agreement as presented. Councilman Norberg felt that the city did not have to accept this agreement as it stands. Mayor' Nawrocki stated that it is impossible for the sergeants to have a long term contract, without knowin9 what the patrolmen will receive in the next year, Mayor' Nawrocki also spoke against 9oin9 into arbitration. Councilman Heintz suggested that the sergeants receive the same percent increase as the patrolmen did, and not more. Mr. Watson indicated that this salary schedule proposed would give the city a good base from which to start negotiations for 1976. Mayor' Nawrocki pointed out that this proposal is based on the arbitration award given, to the patrolmen. RESOLUTION #75-62 Offered by Land, Seconded by Logacz Roll Call: Logacz, Land, Nawrocki-Aye Heintz, Norberg-Nay Resolution #75-62 was adopted. RESOLUTION #75-62 SETTING SALARIES FOR SERGEANTS OF THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FOR 1975 BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, that WHEREAS, negotiations have proceeded between the Police Sergeants, their Business Agent, the City Manager, and the City Labor Consultant representing the City Council, and said negotiations have resulted in an acceptable salary level at $130 per month over top patrol salary, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the contract agreements as negotiated in respect to economic considerations be, and the same are hereby established as the salary and fringe benefit program for 1975 for Police Sergeants of the Columbia Heights Police Department, with said contracts to be made a part hereof as though set forth in full, upon acceptance by the representatives of the Police Sergeants and the City Labor Consultant. RESOLUTION #75-63 STORM DRAIN BET~qEEN 1303 and 1309-45½ Avenue Offered by Norberg, Seconded by Logacz Roll Call: All Ayes Resolution #75-63 was adopted. November 24, 1975 -363- RESOLUTION #75-63 BEING A RESOLUTION ORDERING IMPROVEMENTS BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights, WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights by Motion on the 14th day of October, 1975 ordered notice of a hearing to be given to property owners, and WHEREAS, pursuant to a notice of hearing certain residents appeared at a Council Meeting on the lOth day of November, 1975, and WHEREAS, the Council determines to proceed with this local improvement, a portion of the cost being defrayed by special assessments under Charter provisions. NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED: 1. That the location and extent of such improvements is as follows: Storm Drain Installation and Appurtenances between 1303 and 1309- 45½ Avenue. 2. That the materials to be used are as follows: 10" plastic pipe and standard manhole materials. 3. That a careful estimate of the cost of the improvement has been made by the City Manager and the several lots and parcels of land fronting upon and adjacent to such proposed improvement, which he deemed benefited thereby, were properly notified of said hearings, and 4. That the City Manager shall also list the names and owners of the several parcels so improved as nearly as can be ascertained. 5. These improvements shall also be known as Project No. 707. One man from the area who was in opposition to this improvement, Mr. James Peterson, of 1300-46th Avenue, spoke about one property which he felt should also be assessed, but was not. Mr. Watson drew the area under consideration on the blackboard and a discussion followed. After explaining the drainage patterns in the area, the City Manager asked the City Attorney if the property which Mr. Peterson had mentioned should also be included. Mr. Kalina answered that this man does not benefit directly by the improvement. The improvement will not help water which runs naturally onto his property. The Council discussed this and agreed that this property should not be assessed. One gentleman on the east end of the 45½ Avenue cul-de-sac stated that he felt that this drain would put additional drainage into the system, and he pointed out that the line is already overloaded without adding more drainage. He stated that he feels -364- November 24, 1975 that the park area contributes to the drainage problem at his end of the street. Mr. Watson pointed out that if this has been checked in the past, he must get together with the people in the sewer department who checked it out and see what is wrong with the system, if indeed something is wrong. Mayor Nawrocki asked that the gentleman receive a letter explaining the circumstances, and that the council receive copies of this letter. The man stated his name as Desmond Zahn, 1321-45½ Avenue. Councilman Norberg asked how the City Council could have acted on the resolution without answers to certain questions raised. Mayor Nawrocki stated that the council is only formalizing authorization already given by motion in passing this resolution. He pointed out that if further investigations indicate that there would be a further drainage problem by the installation of this storm drain, then the hearing should be reopened. Discussion followed when Mr. James Peterson brought up the matter of easements needed for construction of this drain. Mr. Watson stated that a letter would be sent to all property owners on this improvement explaining that one property is not agreeing to give the necessary easements, and telling of the condemnation procedure which would be necessary to get the easement. He stated what increased costs this would lead to on the final assessments. Whereupon, Mr. Peterson stated that he is the p:roperty which is not giving the easement, and spoke against doing so. Mr. Watson explained the easement needs for this drain and associated work. Mr. Watson explained that in the past there had never been any problem in getting the necessary easements on a project of this sort, and this would be different in thinking about comdemnation proceedings, and associated costs. Motion by Norberg to reopen the hearing on the storm drain installation between 1303 and 1309-45th Avenue, if it is found that this will have a negative effect on the drainage on the cul-de-sac, dies for a lack of a second. Mayor Nawrocki pointed out that it would be expected that the city staff would come back and inform the council of this if it should be the case. RESOLUTION #75-64 ORDERING IMPROVEMENT, ALLEY BETWEEN JACKSON AND VANBUREN, 42nd 'to 43rd Offered by Norberg, Seconded by Land Roll Call: All Ayes RESOLUTION #75-64 BEING A RESOLUTION ORDERING IMPROVEMENTS BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights, WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights by Motion on the 27th day of October, 1975 ordered notice of a hearing to be given to propertyowners, and WHEREAS, pursuant to a notice of hearing certain residents appeared at a Council Meeting on the 24th day of November, 1975, and November 24, 1975 -365J WHEREAS, the Council determines to proceed with this local improvement, a portion of the cost being defrayed by special assessments under Charter provisions. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: 1. That the location and extent of such improvements is as follows: Bituminous Alley surfacing VanBuren Street to Jackson Street, 42nd to 43rd Avenue, including 75 ft. of storm drain on the 42nd Avenue end. 2. That the materials to be used are as follows: Asphaltic concrete and reinforced concrete pipe. That a careful estimate of the cost of the improvement has been made by the City Manager and the several lots and parcels of land fronting upon and adjacent to such proposed improvements, which he deemed benefited thereby, were properly notified of said hearings, and 4. That the City Manager shall also list the names and owners of the several parcels so improved as nearly as can be ascertained. 5. These improvements shall also be known as Project No. 710 CALL FOR 1975 AUDIT Motion by Norberg, Seconded by Land to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an agreement with George M. Hansen Company to do the 1975 audit. Roll Call: All Ayes Mayor Nawrocki pointed out that it is good practice to change auditing companies from time to time and pointed out that Columbia Heights might consider changing companies. The City Manager stated that it would be wise to have George M. Hansen at least one more time around since they are familiar with the accounting system and by that time Mr. Schedler, the City Clerk-Treasurer, will be settled in to the accounting of the City and it would be better to change at that time. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PROGRAM The City Attorney had presented a letter outlining certain changes to be made in the proposed Affirmative Action Program. Mr. Yantos stated that he had spoken with Bonita Helgeson, Chairman of the Human Rights Commission, and she asked that the Council meet with the Commission at the next regular meeting of the Human Rights Commission. Therefore, an informal meeting was set up with the Human Rights Commission for December lO at 7:30 to discuss the Affirmative Action Program. At this time Mr. Watson reported that an informal meeting had been set up with Bob Grignon of Real Estate Research on the recently completed liquor store study for December 9 at 7:00 p.m. -366- November 24, 1975 Mr. ~Vatson also reminded the City Council that the next regular council meeting would be December 8 and would be preceded by the assessment hearing at 7:00 p.m. SCHEDULE MEETING ON 1976 CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS The Public Works Department asked that an informal meeting be set for some time in January for the City Council and staff to meet and discuss proposed construction projects for the 1976 construction season. The meeting was set up for Wednesday, January 14 at 7:o0 p.m. CHANGE ORDER ON WATER TOWER This item had been discussed with the City Council and the Engineering staff at the informal meeting prior to the regular meeting, at which time, Mayor Nawrocki pointed out, a letter from the City Engineer had been reviewed regarding the desire to authorize a change order on the water tower to relieve Chicago Bridge and Iron fromthe restoration work on the site. Brief discussion held at this time. Mayor Nawrocki asked when the new tower would be installed, and asked if a ribbon ceremony is planned, pointing out that the City Council should be invited to see the tower when it is put in use. Regarding restoration work on the tower site, the City Engineer pointed out that if Chicago Bridge and Iron is made to do restoration work, the City will pay for the restoration work twice, since the contractor who is to do the removal of the ()Id tower must also do some restoration work. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Logacz to authorize the City Manager to make the iindicated deduct change order on the Chicago Bridge and Iron contract in the amount of $1,330, thereby releasing the company from restoration work on the site.. Roll Call: All Ayes HIGH SCHOOL CONCERT BAND WASHINGTON D.C. TRIP Brief discussion held on a letter from a representative on the high school concert band trip to Washington D.C. in May. It was pointed out that this is an honor to have a local high school band play at the White House during the Bicentennial celebrations. The letter indicated that the School Board had donated $2,500 toward the trip, which would cost an estimated $12,240. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Logacz to authorize a pledge of $2,500 to the High School Concert Band trip to Washington D.C. for the Bicentennial. Roil Call: All Ayes TYPEWRITER FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT Request received from Sgts. Hedblad and Lohse, Acting Police Chiefs, to purchase an IBM Correcting Selectric typewriter for the Police Department. It was pointed out that the additional clerical people in the dispatching room requires that another typewriter be added to the department. Councilman Norber9 stated that he felt that another less costly typewriter would serve the needs of the Police Department. Brief discussion. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Land to authorize the payment of $650 for a typewriter for the po]ice department. Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Land, Nawrocki-Aye Norberg-Nay November 24, 1975 -367- OLD BUSINESS--WATER TOWER CONTROLS Councilman Norberg asked if the Engineers were able to get the hermetically sealed conductors on the water tower controls and Mr. Berg stated that they would be. Councilman Norberg asked if the person who was sent to handle a dog problem at Mr. Norberg's home, where the dog was shut up in the garage and the dog catcher let the dog get away by opening up the garage doors, was still working for MAPSl. Mr. Watson read a report from Mr. Yantos on this item stating that the individual was just filling in on that particular day and was not a regular full-time employee. He was also a new employee at the time. Mr. Smeija of MAPSl apologizes to the City Council for this happening. XEROX Councilman Norberg asked for a breakdown on the costs of the old copy machine vs. the Xerox machine as he feels that the Xerox is much too costly and that its use is being overworked. Mr. Norberg spoke about the possibility of having Auditrons purchased for the Xerox. He explained that this is a system where each department has an Auditron, and in order to get the Xerox to work, they must "plug in" their their own Auditron, and a counter records how many copies that person runs. Motion be Norberg, Seconded by Heintz that the City Manager be instructed to investigate the possible use of Auditrons on the Xerox. Roll Call: All Ayes Councilman Norberg asked that the "Do Not Enter" sign on the alley just north of 4Oth Avenue on Monroe Street be moved so that it can be seen from 4Oth Avenue, as it is impossible to see the sign until the driver has already driven into the alley. Following discussion on this item, it was pointed out to Mr. Norberg that Monroe Street is a one way street heading south and that no one should be entering the alley anyway coming from the south heading north on Monroe. NEW BUSINESS Councilman Norberg said that he had received a complaint from someone on 52nd Avenue that his neighbors on both sides of him are throwing snow on his property, and Mr. Norberg asked what can be done about such a circumstance. The City Attorney stated that this is clearly "not a legitimate thing to do", but that it would be difficult to enforce. Mr. Norberg stated that he had spoken to Mr. Hovland, Building Inspector, about this matter and that Mr. Hovland had the details. Mr. Watson should §et the details from Mr. Hovland. DISPATCHING Councilman Norberg asked that the matter of the County Dispatching be placed on a future council agenda as he has received complaints and is aware of certain problems with the system. Councilman Heintz stated that he is on the Anoka County Jr. Law Enforcement Council and if Mr. Norberg has specific instances of complaints, then he should tell Mr. Heintz so that he can take it to the Law Enforcement Council for discussion. -368- November 24, 1975 Councilman Norberg stated that the problems have to do with slow response time and the lack of familiarity of the dispatchers at the county with the various municipalities, and the times that they have, as a result of this infamiliarity called the wrong city. Mr. Norberg stated that the Fire Chief can elaborate on specific instances for Mr. Heintz. INCREASED SEWER CHARGES Mayor Nawrocki pointed out that the sewer charges to the city from the Metropolitan Waste Control Commission are increasing for 1976 and wondered what plans there are to cover this increase. Mr. Watson stated that Mr. Doherty at the commission is getting the details and will make a report. Mr. Watson stated that this increase had not been anticipated at the time the budget was passed, and he and Mr. Schedler are looking at what might be done to cover the costs and make the sewer fund self-sustaining. CITY MANAGER REPORTS Mr. Watson again reminded that the next regular council meeting is December 8, with a public hearing on local improvements and assessments on projects completed in 1975 at 7:00. He estimated that the regular council meeting would begin at 8:30 p.m. Councilman Norberg asked the City Manager why the planning department, Dean Otters~ does not turn in a weekly report as do all the other departments. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR REPORTS Mr. G, ustafson stated that he and Mr. Berg have been inspecting all the sidewalks in the city listing those that are hazardous and need to be replaced. Fie stated that this would propose a sizable project for the coming year. He pointed out that about 90% of the damage to the sidewalks is caused by tree roots. Mr. Gustafson stated that there would be a demonstration of the root cutter Tuesday morning, November 25. Councilman Heintz asked what the requirement is for cleaning of snow off the side- walks, and asked that something be put in the newsletter the next time on cleaning side~alks. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Logacz to adjourn atll:yb a.m. ~Ro Bruce G. Nawrocki, Mayor 11 Call: All Ayes Secretary