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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFeb 9, 1976Official Proceedings Regular Meeting of the City Council City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota February 9, 1976 -44- Meeting was called to order at 8:04 p.m. Norberg, Hentges, Nawrocki-present Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Motion by Norberg, Seconded by Heintz to name Margo Emerson Secretary for the meeting. Roll Call: All Ayes Invocation was given by Rev. Merrill Gilbertson, First Lutheran Church MINUTES OF LAST REGULAR MEETING Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Logacz that the minutes of the last regular meeting of January 26 be approved as presented in writing and the reading be dispensed with. Roll Call: All Ayes PAYMENT OF BILLS Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Logacz that the bills as listed be paid out of their proper funds. Roli Call: All Ayes Griggs, Cooper & Co. Johnson Wine Co. Mc Kesson Liquor Ed Phillips & Sons Prior Wine Co. Twin City Wine Co. Indep. School Dist. #287 Paul Pfaff James Lord, State Treas. Payroll dames DeMars Derrick Warner NSP MN Distillers Inc. dohnson Wine Co. Quality Wine £o. Assoc. Sterling Films Bell & Howell Better Homes & Gardens The Bookmen Inc. Demco Doubleday & Co. Inc. E & L Corporation Elliot Film Company G - M Litho Inc. Heights Electric, Inc. Johnson Paper & Supply 623.78 161.84 317.57 32.22 230.42 629.04 45.00 26.00 4, O78.2O 68,792.87 6O .00 88.OO 3,121.15 7,259.92 205.59 589.92 21.77 372.00 13.68 10.36 91.40 47.96 164.60 26.09 45.3O 1.78 195.30 Josten's Library Books The Mythic Image Nelson's Office Supply Outdoor Life Book Club Quill Corporation Shoppers Charge Silver Burdett Company Tipp Novelty Co. The Viking Press Roland Anderson Daves Sport Shop Linda Hansen Kokesh Athletic Supplies David MacGregor Nelson Office Supply Sr. Men's Hockey League 3 M Business Products American Linen Supply Beverage Journal Bronner Exterminating City of C.H. Petty Cash Liquor City Beer Distributors Commissioner of Revenue East Side Beverage Co. Eberhard Candy & Tobacco Ganzer Distributors Hi Mount Inc. 1,112.16 5O .00 238.54 10.64 38.85 44.02 8.6O 22.40 31 .49 20. O0 54. O0 l l4.00 102.63 45.OO 31.8O 393. O0 47O .O7 123.47 5.00 12.00 33.13 17.01 3,191.30 6,016.14 292.55 2,468.30 330.71 -45- February 9, 1976 Home Juice Co. Jimbos Inc. Johnson Bros. Whlsl Liquor Clarence Larson Bob McLean & Assoc. Merrill Chapman Co. Midland Products Co. Betty Myers Pohle Sales, Inc. Joe Rak Rex Distributing Co. John Roach Ron's Ice Co. Royal Beverage Dist. Co. Scotsman Refrigeration South Side Distributing Thompson Trane Air Cond. Twin City Filter Service Me]'s Van 0 Lite Kuether Distributing Co. Pepsi Cola Bottling Richard Althaus Amer. Soc. for Public Admin. Apec:o Corp. Arsenal Sand and Grave] Gerald Arseneau Audio Electronics Auto Gear Co. Automotice Drive Line Badger Meter Inc. Bill Boyer Douglas Bolles Business Furniture Mildred V. Carlson Central Chrysler Plymouth City of Columbia Heights City Wide Locksmithing CNA Insurance Col.Hgts. Fire Department Col.Hgts. Fire Department Col.Hgts. Fire Department Coast to Coast Coast to Coast Commissioner of Revenue Commissioner of Revenue Construction Associates Inc. Cronstroms Htg. & Air Cond. Crown Auto Works Cy's Men's Wear Delegard Tool Co. Diamond Crystal Salt Co. 82.64 93.88 11.70 16.08 5.oo 35.85 8.5o 71.00 2,793.65 24.24 3,890.30 6.OO 87.00 23.32 37.92 33.00 136.33 3.30 4O.8O 3,318.45 96.80 25.OO 3O.OO 377 3O 369 06 87 O0 5O4 7O 5O 52 63 83 611 48 69 ll 25 O0 73 23 27 88 3 09 5O O0 33 90 73 08 45 O0 62 43 697 O0 70 61 23 oo 6 3] 1,603 70 60.00 216.50 lO0.O0 1.50 6.00 490.]4 Don's Air Conditioning H.E. Erickson Co. Chief Ron Fagerstrom Federal Laboratories, Inc. Fireside Office Supp;y, Inc. Fridley Hardware Marry Gavic Dick Gill's Carpet Cleaning Glenwood Inglewood Goodin Company Gopher State Oil Co. W.W. Grainger, Inc. Gross Industrial Services George M. Hansen Co. Hayden Murphy Equipment Co. Donald Hanson Jerry Hedlund Henn. County Public Works Homelite Arden Hov]and Int~1 Buss. Machines Todd Jones Keep Fill Products K Mart Robert J. Ko]b Lawco Company Labor Relations Assoc. Leag. of MN Municip. Lee Career Apparel Leef Brothers Inc. Lowry Lumber Co. Maintenance Experts Mars Industries Vicki Maternowsky Mel's Van 0 Lite Merrill Moen Metro. Waste Control Comm. Metro Printing Inc. The New Minar Ford Mincis Mp]s. Star & Tribune MN Personnel Department Moore Business Forms Nat'] Fire Protection Assoc. NSP N.W. Bell Telephone Co. Nott Company Olson's Plumbing Leonard Olson Ovshak Printing Richard "Tiny~' Ovshak 140.60 127.10 25.00 3O 53 163 22 219 95 202 O0 84 O0 64 70 152 32 352 35 15 7O 20 10 1,800 O0 2,960 oo 50 O0 39 72 3,959.36 ]8.09 4.50 675.99 25.oo 14.34 43.88 16.63 12.15 ]7.37 6O.OO 25.00 143.05 43.23 725.00 75.23 68.25 231.97 4O.OO 693.00 668.00 150.50 256.13 42.00 59.00 466.96 46.00 769.59 238.05 23.18 158.86 5O.OO 316.50 180.00 February 9, 1976 -46- Pannekoeken Huis 114.26 Power Brake Equip. Co. 425.30 Printers Service 12.75 Real Estate Research Corp.5,677.O0 Rogers 26.20 Vernon Rozmark 120.00 Eugene Salay 213.38 John Schedler 41.30 Shorty's Towing 30.00 Soil & Materials Engineers 995.00 Mister Steak 18.60 St. Paul Title Insurance 25.00 State Treas. St. Bldg. Insp.299.85 Stromberg Products Superior Products Twin City Bolt & Supply Uniforms Unlimited United Electric Corp. Warden's GTC Auto Parts Water & Sewage Works Water Products Co. Malcolm O. Watson Wayne Protection Agency 108.00 135.20 4.00 72O.35 4.36 75.63 20.00 395.35 104.07 224.0O A.Weisman Co. Welle Auto Supply White Construction Co. Williams Steel & Hardware Steve Wodziak Xerox Corp. Tim Yantos Ziegler, Inc. 88.O5 8O.O7 168.OO 51.83 38.70 155.20 34.25 216.84 Antler Corp. 15,328.84 Waldor Pump & Equip. Co.10,600.60 TOTAL BILLS $172,516.78 BIDS ON DOMESTIC ANIMAL CONTROL In regard to bids taken on the domestic animal control, Tim Yantos, Administrative Assistant, asked the sole bidder, Metropolitan Animal Patrol Service, Inc. (MAPSI) to speak as to why they did not comply to the specifications in all aspects. Mr. Larry Smieja from MAPSl spoke at this time. He pointed out that his bid was bid as bid in all other cities in the area. He stated that in 1975 Columbia Heights was the only bid based on a flat rate, whereas other cities had bids based on a per hour basis. He stated that it is impossible for his company to comply with the specification that the city will not be responsible for boarding fees on unclaimed animals. Other cities pay for the boarding of unclaimed animals. Mr. Yantos stated that major changes in the bid for 1976 were that the fee would be bid on a per hour basis on the base bid, and the city will pay for euthanasia fees of unclaimed animals. In addition, the contractor retains the charges collected from boarding fees and pick-up fees. The City Attorney was asked what alternatives the Council had in awarding a bid at this time. Mr. Kalina answered that apparently the only major deviation from the specifications was that the city would pay for boarding fees on unclaimed animals. He stated that the Council would be free to waive this one requirement as an informality since only one qualified bid was received. -47- February 9, 1976 Also, the Council could reject all bids and negotiate a contract with MAPSI. Mayor Nawrocki asked about any possible interest from any other animal control service in bidding on the contract. Mr. Yantos stated that one other bidder, Blaine Midway All Pets, had been present at the bid opening and stated that they could not make a bid at this time since they have problems with meeting specifications in the area of radio communications. A gentleman from Blaine Midway stated that he understood that no deviations could be submitted on the bids, so had not submitted a bid, but at this time he would be interested in discussing the possibility of his being considered. He asked if the Council would consider payment of a certain number of dollars per animal picked up rather than a fee per hour. Councilman Hentges asked how the Council would know where the animals came from, pointing out that an animal picked up in another city may be paid for both by that city and the City of Columbia Heights. The gentleman from Blaine Midway stated that there is an accounting procedure which will account for all animals picked up and makes it impossible to claim the same animal was picked up in more than one location. He also stated that the city would be welcome to audit his books at any time. Also, he stated that the city would have an account based on when the police dispatcher called for a pickup. Mr. Hentges asked if this meant that the service would only be in the city when the city calls and at no other time. He was answered that this is right and there would be one rate per animal on a twenty-four hour basis. The man from Blaine Midway stated that in Andover the charge is $13.00 per dog, which includes disposal and boarding and all other associated fees. Mr. Hentges asked if the service would pick up other animals they see whi]e in the city, even if it was not called in. He was to]d that they would. Councilman Heintz asked what happens if the city needs heavy patrolling in a particular area, how would the city pay for this service. He was answered that then a per hour fee could be established. Mayo~r Nawrocki pointed out that the City received no formal bids which were responsib]e to the specifications--one formal bid was on a different basis than the specifications allowed, and another potential bidder had not [)id because they could not meet the specifications. Mayor Nawrocki restated what the attorney had said, that the Council could accept the bid of MAPSI and waive the items that do not meet the specifications. The Mayor- stated that he had asked Mr. Yantos for some tabulation on the basis of patrolling of the previous year. He said that it would have cost the City $8,500 based on the prices in this proposal for 1976 from MAPSI. In 1975 the contract cost the City about $6,500. Councilman Hentges asked when the contract expires for 1975. He was told that the contract expired on February I but that MAPSI was doing the February 9, 1976 -48- patrolling according to the old contract until something is decided. Councilman Norberg questioned whether the City could take bids again and change the specifications so that they were more flexible and make it possible for both bidders to bid according to specifications. Mr. Kalina stated that this is a possibility, but that the City would have to be careful to have the criteria in the specification specific enough so that there would be no problem in determining who the Iow bidder was. Mr. Norberg stated his opinion that new bids should be taken. Councilman Hentges questioned how the city would be able to determine who the low bidder is if new bids are taken, when one would want to bid based on a per animal basis, and the other on an hourly patrol basis. Mr. Norberg stated that a common basis should be found that both can bid on, and we should rewrite the specifications accordingly. Councilman Logacz asked if it is necessary to reject the bids in order to negotiate a contract. Brief discussion. Mayor Nawrocki reiterated the alternatives the council has: 1. to waive the one item on MAPSI's bid and award the bid to them, 2. reject bids and readvertise. The Mayor asked if the Council can reject the bids and negotiate a contract. Mr. Kalina stated that this would not be possible if both potential bidders could qualify. Mr. Yantos asked the gentleman from Blaine Midway All Pets what other requirements of the specifications they would not be able to meet. The gentleman stated that they do not presently have the radio equipment as specified. He informed the Council that the FCC has his application, and until this application is aproved, his company uses telephone communication. Mr. Yantos asked him what other communities Blaine Midway handles. He was answered that they also handle Andover, Ham Lake, East Bethel, and Bethel. Mr. Yantos informed the Council that he sees a definite problem with the lack of radio communication to the driver of the animal control vehicle, pointing out particular problems related to a potential time delay. Councilman Heintz agreed with Mr. Norberg that the City should retake bids, leaving the specifications loose so that both companies can meet them. Larry Smieja from MAPSI reminded the Council that his bid is the same as he has with all other communities, including payment for regular patrolling on a per hour basis. Brief discussion between Mr. Smieja and the attorney on the problems which Mr. Smieja had in meeting the specifications. Mr. Kalina pointed out to the Council that both MAPSI and Blaine Midway find problems with the board fees. Mr. Smieja felt that the Council was asking Blaine Midway outright whether they could bid above or below MAPSI. -49'- February 9, 1976 Mayor Nawrocki stated that no decisions are being made, only general d i scuss ion. Mayor Nawrocki asked particular questions on the bid from MAPSI. He asked if the scheduling of patrolling is flexible as to time of day. Mr. Yantos answered that the schedule is a rotating schedule and allows patrolling any time of day. Mayor Nawrocki asked MAPSI to explain their charges on call outs on bite cases. Mr. Smieja explained that at any time a call for an emergency type situation, such as bite cases and injured animals, is made during regularly scheduled patrol hours, and between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., there is no extra charge made. On emergency calls answered at other times there is a flat rate of $9.00 per call. If a call is made that is not of an emergency type then there is a charge of SIO.O0 per hour. Mayor Nawrocki asked when the City must set the hours for patrolling. Mr. Yantos stated that it has been done once a month during 1975 and would be proposed to continue that way. Councilman Norberg aksed Mr. Yantos if he would have any problems in rewriting the specifications to apply to both potential bidders. Mr. Yantos stated that he saw definite problems in this. Councilman Logacz asked the attorney exactly what the Council would be waiving for MAPSI to receive the award of bid. The City Attorney answered briefly. Motion by Logacz, Seconded by Heintz to award the bid on domestic animal control to Metropolitan Animal Patrol Services, Inc. on the basis of the bid submitted by MAPSI and the Mayor and City Manager be authorized to enter into a contract for same, with the following items of the specifications to be waived: the board fees on unclaimed animals. Mr. Heintz asked what the board fees were for 1975 and Mr. Yantos answered tha, t they were $2.25, the same as is on the bid for 1976. He explained that waiving the board fee in the specifications would mean that the City will pick up the board fees on unclaimed animals, and the city receives no board fees as the contractor will retain same. Mr. Yantos further explained that the City gets the poundage fees collected, as well as license fees. Councilman Heintz asked what happens in the case of a ticket being issued. Mr. Yantos answered that this goes through the court system, but that not all animals receive tags. Councilman Norberg pointed out that with all the fees that the owner of an animal must pay if he picks the animals up, it seems like there will be many unclaimed animals. The Public Works Director questioned what the possibility was of the contractor picking up one dog and saying it came from more than one community. MAPSI explained the elaborate accounting system, and invited anyone interested to audit his books. February 9, 1976 -50- Councilman Norberg mentioned about a neighbor of his who had a cat picked up and when she got the animal back, it was sick. He asked Mr. Smieja how this can be stopped. Mr. Smieja explained the quarantine and sick section at his kennel for dogs. He also explained the use of separate stacked fiberglass cages for each cat and the good air turn-over of his building so that the animals have fresh air at all times. He explained that it is impossible for one cat to touch another one. Mr. Norberg asked what Blaine Midway has and was told that they have the same type of cages. Roll Call on Motion to award bid to MAPSI: Logacz, Heintz, Hentges, Nawrocki-Aye Norberg-Nay RESOLUTION #76-7 AUTHORIZING THE SUBMITTAL OF A PREAPPLICATION FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS Councilman Hentges began the discussion by saying that he feels that four separate resolutions should be considered because there are four separate applications for four separate activities. Mayor Nawrocki explained that there is only one application which includes all four activities. HUD considers only one application, not four separate ones. Councilman Hentges stated that he had discussed the application with Dean Otterson and that the items included in the application are not just those which were discussed at the public hearings. Also, Mr. Hentges stated that in the area of Iow income senior citizen housing, the application is noting many possible locations for such housing, and not just one. Resolution #76-7 was read, offered by Logacz, Seconded by Heintz Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Hentges, Nawrocki-Aye Norberg-Nay Resolution was adopted. WHEREAS, the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 provides a limited amount of Federal Funds to local governments for eligible activities that meet the needs of low and moderate income people, and, WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota, has reviewed the needs of the community as they relate to the provisions of the Housing and Community Development Act, and WHEKEAS, the City Council, after obtaining citizen input through two public hearings held on January 27, 1976, and February 2, 1976, has authorized the Planning Department, with assistance from the Housing and Redevelopment Authority, to prepare a pre-application for these Federal funds, addressing four priority activities: Rehabilitation of Housing, Acquisition of Land for Elderly Housing, Purchase of a Vehicle for the Transportation of Elderly and Handicapped, and Rehabilitation of the Commercial Business District, and WHEREAS, said Preapplication has been reviewed by the Council, -51- February 9, 1976 NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA THAT: The Mayor and City Manager be authorized to sign and transmit copies of a Preapplication for Community Development Block Grant Funds to the Metropolitan Council, the State Planning Agency, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development for their review and con- sideration of the activities for which Federal assistance is requested. The City Planner/HRA Director be instructed to periodically report to the City Council on the status of said preapplication, and represent the City in matters related to the content of the preapplication. Councilman Norberg stated that in the third paragraph of the resolution, where it states "Elderly Housing", this means low and moderate income housing as indicated at the meeting. Motion by Norberg to strike the fourth "Whereas" Section of the resolution died for lack of a second. Mr. Norberg expressed his displeasure in the fact that the Council has not in fact been able to fully examine the application in its entirety, having never seen the actual application since it was not yet written. PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION - Swimming Pool Variance, 1119-42~ Avenue Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Logacz to grant the 1.2 ft. side wall variance on the swimming pool location at 1119-42~ Avenue N.E. as recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission. Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Hentges, Nawrocki-Aye Norberg-abstained Councilman Norberg indicated that he abstained because he had questions to ask and did not get the chance prior to the vote. TRAFFIC COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION - Two Hour Parking Near Minneapolis Electric Steel Mr. Brown, City Engineer, explained where the two hour parking is recommended, and the reasons for this parking limitation as noted at the Traffic Commission meeting. Motion by Hentges, Seconded by Logacz to place "Two Hour ParkingI' along 5th Street, east and west side, just south of Mill Street, and along both sides of Lookout Place west from 5th Street as recommended by the Traffic Commission. Roll Call: All Ayes Councilman Heintz noted that along Mill Street employees from Minneapolis Electric Steel Castings Co. continue to park all day, and Mr. Heintz stated emphatically that something should be done to eliminate this all day parking. Councilman Hentges noted that at the Traffic Commission meeting a representative from Mpls. Electric Steel was present and noted that their company does not want their employees parking on the streets either, but rather in tine employee parking lot. A gentleman from Minneapolis Electric Steel was present and stated that this two hour parking limitation is for extra help and authority in trying to get their employees to park in the lot. He also noted that Mpls. Electric Steel tries to do whatever they can to expedite the parking in the employee lots as they do not want them parking on the street either. February 9, 1976 -52- HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REQUEST FOR FUNDS FOR S.A.C.A. Mr. Helgeson from the Human Rights Commission was present and briefly explained the request for a $500 allocation toward the Southern Anoka Community Assistance Program. Two women from the program were present to explain the program. They explained that this program benefits people in Columbia Heights, Fridley, and Spring Lake Park. They pointed out that presently this program is operating through the Community Assistance Program. The facilities for S.A.C.A. are located in St. Matthews presently, and the telephone is covered twenty-four hours a day. They stated that Fridley has donated $500 toward the program. The program helps families and individuals in need of help such as fire victims or people in financial difficulties who need food, clothing, or guidance. Motion by Logacz, Seconded by Norberg to allocate $500 to the Southern Anoka Community Assistance Program. Roll Call: All Ayes Councilman Norberg asked if it would be possible to get the telephone number listed in the Sun Directory when it is printed. The S.A.C.A. representatives stated that they presently do not have their own phone, but are working on an Anoka County telephone. Councilman Norberg then suggested that when they get a telephone, the number be listed in a city newsletter. Mayor Nawrocki asked if there are any legal problems with granting this allocation. Ronald Kalina stated that there is not, as long as the program does not duplicate efforts of Anoka County. RECESS CALLED at 9:30 p.m. MEETING RECONVENED at 9:45 p.m. LICENSES-AMUSEMENT MACHINES LICENSE APPLICATION Lengthy discussion on license application from Ernie Nelson to operate an amusement machine center at 3988 Central Avenue in the building formerly occupied by Danielson Drug. Mr. Nelson stated that the machines are installed through Hanson Amusement Company and includes pool tables, foosball, electronic games, pin ball, and he would also want to install ping pong tables in the basement area. Councilman Heintz questioned the parking availability. He pointed out that Mr. Nelson really only has street parking for this establishment which may prove to be insufficient. Mr. Nelson stated that he did not feel there would be any problems with parking, and that parking could be obtained in the Anoka County lot behind the Anoka County building next to his establishment, and also the Voss Parking Lot on Van Buren. The Council indicated that Mr. Nelson would have to verify that these parking lots would be available. Councilman Hentges spoke in opposition to the proposal. He stated that the city had an old pool hall many years ago which resulted in many problems including fights. He asked what the ordinance requires on this type of establishment, stating that no one under eighteen should be allowed in there. He stated that he feels that pinball machines are gambling and youngsters should not be able to operate these machines. He stated that he would vote against the license. -53- February 9, 1976 Attorney Kalina stated that he would like to find the applicable ordinance(s) and come back at the next council meeting to report on regulations which apply, particularly in relationship to the required distance from a school or church. Mr. Hentges stated that the city should enforce the 9:30 curfew, and this amusement center would encourage youngsters below age to stay out past curfew. Councilman Logacz asked Mr. Nelson if he would have any restrictions as to age. Mr. Nelson stated that he would not, but that adults would be present at all times. Mr. Hentges reiterated his feelings that there should be an age limit on the establishment. Mr. Nelson stated that he had not rea]ly wanted to have pin ball machines, but that these are a part of the package supplied by the machine company, so he would have to have them. Mr. Stachel, from the Human Rights Commission, spoke at this time stating that he sees that the pin ball machines at Apache Plaza are seldom used as the youngsters prefer foosball and similar games. He stated that the Council should not misjudge the "kids'l in that they can be responsible if given the opportunity. Mr. Hentges again stated that he objects only to the pin ball machines, and not foosball. Councilman Heintz stated that this item should be referred to the City Attorney for checking into the ordinance to see that the council makes Mr. Nelson comply by the ordinance and all is done legally. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Norberg to table further consideration of this license application for Mr. Nelson at 3988 Central Avenue to the next regular or special meeting for the purpose of getting additional legal information. Roll Call: All Ayes AUTttORIZATION OF PAYMENT OF FEES AND HONORARIUMS DUE IN POLICE CHIEF EXAMS Mayor Nawrocki read a letter from Gerry Herringer, Secretary of the Police and Fire Civil Service Commission, requesting payment of $200 to Mr. Jim Hill, Director of Public Safety at Frid]ey, for formulation and grading of the written examination for police chief; and $75 each to the three gentlemen who served on the oral interview panel for the position of police chief. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Logacz to authorize these expenditures as noted. Roll Call: All Ayes REQUEST TO PURCHASE SNOW PLOW FOR HEAVY DUTY SERVICE Public Works Director, Earl Gustafson, reported on informal quotations received for this heavy duty snow plow. Two bids were received, one from Hayden-Murphy for a Henke plow which meets all the specifications, for a total of $2,695.00. The other bid was from Itaska Equipment Comapny for a Wausau plow, but this plow does not meet specifications. Total bid on the Wausau plow was $2,335.00. Mr. Gustafson elaborated on why the Wausau plow does not meet specifications February 9, 1976 -54- including in the area of weight, moldboard thickness, reversing cylinders, and moldboard trip. He also stated that the Wausau plow does not include the Balderson female hitch which is estimated to cost approximately $450. Motion by Hentges, Seconded by Norberg to accept the bid of Hayden-Murphy Equipment Company for the Henke plow for a total of $2,695.00, based on low responsible bid, and the Mayor and City Manager be authorized to enter into contract for same. Roll Call: All Ayes LEGISLATIVE ACTION CONFERENCE Mayor Nawrocki noted that the annual Legislative Action Conference at the St. Paul Civic Center would be held February 18, 1976 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. with a buffet dinner reception for the Minnesota Legislators from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. He recommended that all those interested attend this conference. Motion by Logacz, Seconded by Heintz to authorize the expenses ($10.OO each) for the members of the City Council and up to three staff people to attend this Legislative Action Conference. Roll Call: All Ayes Mayor Nawrocki noted that he would be attending. AUTHORIZE NEGOTIATIONS FOR URBANIZATION EASEMENTS The Public Works Director referred the Council to the letter of recommendation from the City Engineer on easements to be obtained on the Central Avenue urbanization project. Mr. Gustafson showed the Council the map sections on these easements. The Council briefly discussed these easements with questions being raised. Councilman Norberg noted a letter from the Federal Highway Administration to the Commissioner of Highways informing him that his request for an excep- tion to the design noise levels was granted. Mr. Norberg asked what exceptions were being allowed, and noted that this should be investigated. Mayor Nawrocki spoke at length on his displeasure with the State Highway Department. He pointed out that the Highway Department seems to be delaying the project unnecessarily. He reminded the Council that in relation to the problems of the previous year in determining whether parking should be eliminated on Central Between 44th and 45th the Council had been told by the Highway Department that the decision had to be made, or else the project would be delayed indefinitely. Now, the Mayor pointed out, the delays are taking place and this should not have happened. He stated that the Council had made the decision on the parking in good faith because they did not want the project to be delayed. Mayor Nawrocki stated his feelings that the Highway Department is indifferent toward the City. He spoke further and then asked Mr. Gustafson if he knew what increase in costs were projected due to the time delay in taking bids. Mr. Gustafson stated that these are not available as of this time. Councilman Norberg ex- pressed his disgust that now besides being more costly, the project may be louder after it is completed, if the exceptions allowed are extreme. He pointed out that the project was suppose to result in quieter traffic movement. Mayor Nawrocki noted another item on which the highway department had mislead the council. He stated that the Council had informed the Highway Department that they would be in favor of sidewalk work that could be associated with the Urbanization Project, but the Highway Department had stated - 55- February 9, 1976 that this would have to be funded by the city. Now it is found that funding would be available to the city to help in sidewalk work. Motion by Norberg, Seconded by Logacz to grant request to negotiate easements for' the Central Avenue Urbanization Project. Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Hentges, Norberg-Aye Nawrocki-abstained Councilman Norberg noted that he had no problem with this motion since it is only a negotiation procedure and does not commit the Council. LATE REQUESTS LIBRARY BOARD LETTER John Schedler, Acting City Manager, read a letter from the Library Board stating that "the Columbia lteights Public Library respectfully declines the invitation to participate in any study of Anoka County and Anoka City Library operations since it would have little bearing on Columbia Heights Public Library. The Columbia Heights Public Library would be interested in a copy of the report if such a study is made". Councilman Norberg briefly elaborated on this action of the Library Board. Mayor Nawrocki spoke briefly on his reasons for wanting the Library Board to reconsider this action. He stated why he feels that this study may be important to the library of Columbia Heights, and for this reason the Columbia Heights Library should consider participating. Motion by Hentges. Seconded by Heintz to ask the Library Board to reconsider their action not to participate in a study of the Anoka County and Anoka City Library operations. Roll Cai]: Ali Ayes Mr. Schedler then read further in the letter which stated that the Library Board asked that the City Council back them on beginning negotiations now on the MELSA agreement. Motion by Norberg, Seconded by Hentges to confirm the Council's position regarding MELSA was later withdrawn since it was decided that no council action was necessary at this time. The Library Board was free to negotiate on their own. REPIJBLICAN CAUCUS Mr. Schedler noted that Mr. Kronstedt from the GOP requests that the fees be waived on the use of the Field House for precinct caucuses, the same as was done by the School Board for the DFL caucus. Motion by Hentges, Seconded by Norberg to approve this request subject to the approval of the Park Board was later withdrawn. Councilman Heintz noted that the Park Board can make this decision, and that he would bring the matter before the board at their next meeting. POSITION CLASSIFICATION AND PAY PLAN Mayor Nawrocki stated that he had met at great length the preceding Friday with the City Manager, Malcolm Watson, and Administrative Assistant, Tim Yantos, regarding the position classification and pay plan. At this time the Mayor stated that he feels that the City should February 9, 1976 -56- get the services of Mr. Cox from the League of Minnesota Municipalities, who originally presented the plan, for his assistance in possible needed changes. He suggested that Mr. Cox be contracted for services for three days. He noted that the cost would be $125 per day. Motion by Norberg, Seconded by Logacz to authorize the contracting of the services of Mr. Ted Cox for a period not to exceed three days. Roll Call: All Ayes LICENSES Lengthy discussion held on the license application of Mr. Alexander Minenko for a Secondhand Dealer license to operate at 3923 Central Avenue N.E. Mr. Minenko's son was present at the meeting and briefly explained their intentions. He pointed out particular problems with the Pawnbroker and Secondhand Dealer ordinance relative to the hours which they could be open. He stated that they would want to be open only on Friday night from 4:00 - 9:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 10:O0 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The ordinance does not allow operation on Friday evening or Sunday. Attorney Kalina had the ordinance with him and reviewed it briefly, noting that Mr. Minenko must have a bond posted with the City before any license can be issued. Mr. Minenko explained that his operation would be a 'lflea market" where outside dealers would come in. Councilman Norberg asked how the city would know that each dealer coming in was licensed with the city as they should be. Brief discussion. The City Attorney stated that the only way in which Mr. Minenko could operate on Friday evening and on Sunday would be by an amendment to the ordinance. At which point, Mr. Norberg stated that if the council were to issue the license at this time it would have to be on the basis of the ordinance as it presently exists and contingent on the posting of bond. Discussion held on the length of time it takes if an ordinance change is to be made, requiring a first and second reading and thirty days time before taking effect after second reading and passage. The Council then addressed itself as to whether they desired a change in the ordinance. Councilman Hentges stated that he does not want to change the ordinance. Councilman Norberg stated that the city needs traffic in the Central Avenue business area and this establishment would generate traffic. Councilman Norberg asked if a special kind of license could be granted to Mr. Minenko which would allow him to be open only on the weekends. The City Attorney stated that he was not certain that this would be something the council would want to do, pointing out that the ordinance had been passed originally so that these establishments would be closed on weekends, giving the city more control during the week. Councilman Hentges pointed out that this ordinance had been passed only a year ago and the purpose was for tighter control of such establishments. Now, the Council would be letting up and giving in little by little to less control. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Logacz that the licenses as listed, with the exception of the Secondhand Dealer License to Mr. Minenko, 3923 Central February 9, 1976 Avenue, and the Amusement Machines License for Ernie Nelson, 3988 Central Avenue, be approved upon payment of proper fees. Roll Call: All Ayes ORDINANCE #846 First reading held on Ordinance #846 Amending Ordinance #833 Relating to Pawnbrokers and Dealers in Secondhand goods or Junk NEW BUSINESS Councilman Hentges reported that the businessmen along Central Avenue are considering asking the City Council to remove the parking meters on the East and West side of Central Avenue between 40th and 41st, stating that: a two hour parking limit would be desirable though. Councilman Norberg stated his opinion that a petition should be circulated on this item. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Norberg to refer the matter of parking meters along Central Avenue, for permanent or temporary removal, to the Traffic Commission for their recommendation. Roll Call: All Ayes Councilman Norberg pointed out that the Human Rights Commission will be losing some more of its members, and he asked when the Council will hold interviews for appointments to the Commission. It was pointed out that no response has to date been received in the quest for applicants to the Commission. Mayor Nawrocki asked that the Sun Newspaper run a story in the paper noting the need for Human Rights Commission members. SET SPECIAL MEETING REGARDING POLICE AND FIRE CHIEF POSITIONS Councilman Norberg at this time moved that the Council schedule another public hearing to further investigate the possibilities offered by alternative organizations of the Police and Fire functions of the City. Second by Hentges. Mr. Norberg pointed out that on "the departure of two strong administrators from, the posts of Police Chief and Fire Chief, and the City's resulting search for replacement of these able men, have given the Council a better insight into the administrative and operational content of those positions. There seem to be indications that the division of administrative and operational responsibilities in some other way may suit our needs better." Brief discussion held by the Council regarding Mr. Norberg's suggestions. Mayor Nawrocki thereby called a special meeting for Thursday, February 26 at 7:00 p.m. POST OFFICE OPEN HOUSE Mayor Nawrocki noted a letter from the postal service inviting the Council to an open house on February 28 at the new post office from 10:OO a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with a program at 1:00. The letter noted that the Council, staff and their families are all invited to attend. Councilman Heintz asked whether the City has received a letter from Minneapolis Electric Steel Castings yet regarding the dirt spread by trucks from their establishment. The secretary noted that no response was received to date. February 9, 1976 -58- Councilman Hentges noted that in relation to the junk piled at the salvage company on 38th Avenue, a letter was received from them stating that it would be taken care of in six months. Mr. Hentges noted that this is too long a time, and it should be taken care of sooner than that. Mayor Nawrocki asked that a report be submitted on what the original agreement was in relation to the company's first moving in. LIQUOR OPERATION FUND YEAR END REPORT Councilman Norberg stated that all expenses in the report appear to be up by approximately 50% noting that anything gained in increased revenue was lost in other expenses. Mr. Schedler noted that much increased expenditures in this area were due to increased costs in paper and utilities, insurance premiums, etc. Councilman Norberg queried as to when these increases would stop, and Mr. Schedler noted that no one can really tell. Councilman Logacz stated that he felt that this was not the time to discuss the liquor stores, but that the Council should perhaps set aside one night to discuss the whole liquor operation. Mayor Nawrocki noted that he is waiting for a specific recommendation from the City Manager for implementation of the in-depth liquor store study. SIGN COMPLAINT Councilman Norberg noted that the U-Wash-It Car Wash just north of 49th Avenue on Central Avenue has flashing red lights and flashing sequence of lights, which is not allowable and is distracting to the drivers. Mr. Hovland, the Building Inspector, noted that he will look into this. CITY ATTORNEY REPORTS Mr. Kalina briefly outlined the contents of the Up Date of Municipal Attorneys course he had attended. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR REPORTS The Public Works Director, Earl Gustafson, noted that the Local 49 contract was settled this evening, and no strike would be held. He noted that the Council has received copies of the City's strike contingency plan in their folders this evening. Councilman Norberg had questions about a report on possible storm sewer installations near 49th and Monroe to alleviate flooding problems experienced by residents of this area. Mayor Nawrocki noted that he had requested such a report due to concern for the people who have the potential flooding problems. The Mayor noted that he had wanted information on costs as well as to how the city might take care of the problems. -59- February 9, 1976 Mr. Gustafson explained the conditions which exist in this area, and pointed out that in order to alleviate the problems at this location, the water run-off from Central Avenue must be taken care of. This is part of the Central Avenue urbanization project. Mr. Gustafson pointed out the delays in the Central Avenue project, stating that the Highway Department doesn't care about the problems of the people who have flooding. The Council discussed the report submitted by Engineering on possible alternatives to alleviate problems until the Highway Department work is finally completed. Councilman Hentges noted that the Hinneapolis Water works is hauling snow and dumping it in the Minneapolis Water works in Columbia Heights, which results in water being displaced into the City of Columbia Heights water shed. Brief discussion. Mayor Nawrocki noted that an informal meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 10 at 7:00 p.m. between the City Council and the City staff. Councilman Hentges noted that he has a meeting of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority that evening and would not be able to attend. Councilmen Heintz and Logacz stated that they would be at the meeting. Councilman Norberg was not sure if he would be able to attend. Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Hentges to adjourn at 12:14 a.m. Roll Call: All Ayes /// -~-ce G. Nawrocki, Mayor Sec r'et a,ry