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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMay 2, 1977OF?ICIAL PROCEEDINGS SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA MAY 2, 1977 The meeting was called to order at 8:05 p.m. by Mayor Nawrocki. Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Norberg, Nawrocki - Present Hentges - Absent Mayor Nawrocki noted that Councilman Hentges was at the Traffic Commission meeting and would be arriving later. Motion by Norberg, Seconded by Heintz to appoint Vicki Maternowsky Secretary for the meeting. Roll Call: All Ayes Approximately 20 residents were present for the hearing. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE OF MEETING Mayor Nawrocki noted that this special meeting was called for the purpose of conducting a public hearing for sidewalk repair. He stated that this year's work is the balance of sidewalk repair not done during last year's sidewalk repair project. At this time, Mayor Nawrocki asked the Engineering Department to proceed with their presentation. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT PRESENTATION The slide-sound presentation by the Engineering Department consisted of the following information. During 1976 approximately 18,000 square feet of hazardous sidewalk was replaced, and this year it is anticipated that approximately 26,000 square feet will be repaired. Excessive cracking, vertical separation, or spalling are the conditions that determine which sections of sidewalk are hazardous and in need of repair. With regard to excessive cracking, sections that are cracked both transversely and horizontally can cause a problem with cleaning resulting in an icing con- dition during the winter. Excessive cracking can occur without any vertical separation. Unstable sub-base, tree roots and heavy equipment such as moving vans driving over sidewalks can cause excessive cracking. Although not the most hazardous condition, it can cause greater problems in the future and therefore must be repaired. Vertical separation is the most common cause necessitating repairs and is also the most hazardous. Sections that have a vertical separation of ½ inch or greater must be removed and replaced. Sidewalk settlement and tree roots can cause vertical separation. Tree roots are the most common cause for vertical separation and are responsible for approximately 55% of the neces- sary repairs. Prior to construction, the City is intending to sever the roots on either side of the sidewalk with a root cutter which will greatly reduce the chances of this condition from reoccurring. Spalling is the deterioration of the surface of the concrete which leaves a very rough and dirty surface and creates a problem with cleaning. Replace- ment would not be required if spalling is limited to a small area. This is the least common hazardous sidewalk condition. May 2, 1977 If homeowners wish additional work done within the street right-of-way, they may do so by making a written request to the City Engineer. Cleanup and backfill of disturbed areas will be done by the contractor, and it's recommended that sodding or seeding of the disturbed areas be done by the homeowner. Where a sidewalk is replaced through a driveway, restoration will be done with the same type of material that previously existed. Finishing the sidewalk with a broomed typed finish rather than a smooth troweled finish will give the sidewalk an anti-slip characteristic. The estimated cost for this construction is $2.00 per square foot. All repairs on street frontage would be assessed in total to the abutting ben- efited properties. Repairs on avenue footage would be assessed 1/3 of the cost to the abutting benefited properties with the remaining 2/3 paid by the City. Sidewalk at intersections beyond the property line extensions will be paid by the City. Homeowners may do the work themselves, if qualified, or by their own con- tractor. To do this a $2.00 permit must be obtained prior to June 17, 1977. Following the presentation, Mr. Berg of the Engineering Department informed the audience that even though they received a notice, it did not necessarily mean they had sections of sidewalk in need of repair. The list of hazardous sidewalk found in 1975 is what is being proposed for repair. If not on the list, chances are there is no need for repair. However, changes could have occurred within the last couple of years so even though an address is not listed, a person cannot be 100% sure that the sidewalk does not need repair. GENERINL DISCUSSION Mr. Blahut, 3842 Quincy Street, wanted to know if the homeowner does the work himself, will the City take care of the root cutting. He noted that at the time when he had a sidewalk section repaired, the roots were not removed. That section is now heaving because of the roots. Mr. Berg stated that although he does not know what the schedule is for root cutting, it will be done by the City. Mr. Blahut further stated that the tree is very large and is about two inches from the sidewalk and would recommend that it be cut down by the City since the tree is on that part of City property. He felt this should have been taken care of before the last sidewalk was put in. Because of that tree, he now has to pay an additional cost to have the sidewalk repaired. Mr. Watson noted that the City only removes those trees that are diseased. Since he is doing the work himself and since he has to purchase a permit by June 17, Mr. Blahut wanted to know when the roots would be cut and when the sidewalk has to be repaired. Mr. Watson stated that by taking out the permit, he is showing his intention to have this repaired during this construction season which would mean that the work should be done by this fall. Mayor Nawrocki noted that the primary intention for setting a deadline on the permit is so the City will know who will be doing the work independently and who will be included as a part of the City bid. He further noted that the root cutting is done prior to the sidewalk repair. Brief discussion on method of root cutting. Mayor Nawrocki asked that since this tree is so big and close to the sidewalk, this be investigated and a letter sent to ltr. Blahut within seven to ten days explaining what will be done. May 2, 1977 Councilman Norberg asked if it is possible to cut roots after the sidewalk has been placed. It was noted that root cutting must be done first. Councilman Heintz suggested that in some cases it might be wise to take the tree down prior to construction particularly those that are extremely large and are heaving both the curb and sidewalk. Mr. Volkman, 525 Mill Street, stated that if the roots from the extremely large tree on his property are cut, then the first big wind storm would knock the tree down. Councilman Logacz stated that in view of the fact the City does not have a program for this type of removal, these trees should not be taken down. He further felt that cutting the roots would not increase the chances of it going down during a storm unless it was damaged or diseased. There are enough roots all over the area to substantially anchor the tree. Mr. Volkman disagreed with Councilman Logacz in that when you dismember a tree close to the trunk you destroy all the roots to the outside. With regard to his tree, the roots would have to be cut on both sides. Council- man Heintz further clarified that it is the one main root that would have to be cut which would then sever every artery beyond that. Mr. Blahut commented that when you have a good tree that is pushing the curb and sidewalk out, it becomes a tree that is of no value. Mr. Volkman stated that he is willing to pay for this repair only one time, but if the City wants the tree to stay, then they will be responsible for maintaining the sidewalk. Mr. Martin of 4032 Washington spoke against tree removal. He stated that it is terrible to see a tree go because of disease, but it is much worse to remove a healthy tree just because it is heaving the sidewalk. In es- sence, he felt that nobody can predict whether a tree will or will not fall if the roots are cut. He further stated that bad sections of side- walk should definitely be replaced. Mr. Jenson, 5141 6th Street, stated there are two beautiful trees on the boulevard, and he would not like to see the roots cut if it meant losing the trees. Mr. Jenson asked why the whole section is replaced and not just part of it. Mayor Nawrocki stated it would be more costly to replace just part of it. Brief discussion on cost of this repair in comparison to the low cost for the residents of Minneapolis. Mr. Jenson then asked if next summer the trees were to become diseased and had to be removed, would the sidewalk be disturbed. Mayor Nawrocki stated the intent would be not to disturb the sidewalk, but there could be no guarantee that it wouldn't. Mr. Volkman asked if all his sidewalk needs to be replaced. The Engineering Department stated there is 320 square feet of removal which is pretty close to being all of it. Mr. Lund, 5021 4th Street, asked how much of his sidewalk needs to be re- paired. He was told 80 square feet due to heaved tree roots. Mr. Lund then went on to say that about two years ago, he complained about tree roots, but he now thinks that maybe the cause of the problem is storm sewer settlement rather than tree roots. If that is the case, then would it still be his responsibility? Mayor Nawrocki asked that this be investigated May 2, 1977 and a letter sent to Mr. Lund within seven to ten days on what was found. Councilman Heintz, 503 Mill Street, stated that there is a natural dip in the sidewalk along Mill, and therefore, a water ponding problem. He per- sonally would like to see the whole sidewalk replaced, and therefore asked what a private contractor would charge for something like this. Mayor Nawrocki stated the only way to find that out would be to call a contractor and get an estimate. He then asked if the Engineering Department would set a grade that would assure a continuous grade downhill to 5th Street. Mr. Berg stated the Department would do that should someone request it. Mr. Lund reported that it appears the storm drain in the alley has dropped and asked that the Engineering Department check this in addition to the sidewalk. Mrs. Roedel, 3812 Jackson Street, asked when the City will be doing the work. Mayor Nawrocki stated that work will begin after specifications have been prepared and a contract has been awarded. She then asked if a homeowner does not obtain a permit, will the City know they are waiting for them to do the work? To that, Mr. Berg replied yes. Mr. Jenson asked who pays for the cost of root cutting. Mr. Berg stated this cost is paid by the City under tree maintenance. At this point, Mr. Berg explained how the Engineering Department would be marking the sidewalk for removal. The woman from 3964 Van Buren Street asked why Gould Avenue is not included for repair. Mr. Watson stated that this year the City is finishing the sidewalk repair on the west side of Central. Next year the sidewalk on the east side of Central will be done. By keeping the repairs concentrated in one area, it helps keep the cost down. Mr. Molinaro, 5041 5th Street, asked what square footage is listed for him. It was noted there is 32 square feet but was classified as not hazardous. Mr. Molinaro stated he noticed there is some heaving; however, it is heaving uniformly. To this, Mr. Berg stated that unless there is a problem with trapping water, it probably would not have to be replaced. Mayor Nawrocki asked if it would be safe to assume that the markings for removal would be completed by the end of May. Mr. Berg stated it should be done by then. Mr. Martin asked why this marking wasn't done the first time the survey was made. Mr. Berg stated the markings would have been worn off if they had done it when the survey was made. He then asked how much square footage would be replaced for 3962 5th. He was told 160 square feet. Mr. Violet, 4152 Monroe Street, asked about his property. He was told there is 32 square feet which is cracked. Mrs. Kortz, owner of 3950 Lookout Place, asked about that property. She was told 60 square feet and 100 square feet for the driveway. She went on to say that she felt the reason for the sagging in part of the sidewalk May 2, 1977 was because when the City put in the water main it broke. Mayor Nawrocki asked that this matter be investigated and a letter sent to Mrs. Kortz at her residence at 4332 Leander Lane. She also commented on the lack of cooperation she receives from the City whenever she has a problem regarding her property. Mr. Ostrander, 4157 Jackson Street, wanted to know how much replacement would be on his property. He was told there would be no replacement. Mr. Arnston, 519 Mill Street, asked the same question, and he too was told there would be no replacement. Mrs. Roedel asked how the financing is done on this project. Mayor Nawrocki explained the procedure and added that if actual costs exceed the estimate given tonight by roughly 10 percent, then the hearing would be reopened. If not, then all costs will be explained at the assessment hearing usually held in November. From that point a resident has 30 days in which to pay for it in full or else have it assessed at eight percent interest for a period of two years. A question was asked on how the City obtains a contractor. The competitive bidding process was explained by Mayor Nawrocki. The gentleman from 521 Mill Street asked about his property. He was told there was 100 square feet of cracked sidewalk to be replaced. Mr. Michelich, 604 40th Avenue, asked if the contractor will be bonded and if the residents are notified as to the time period of the bond should there be problems after the sidewalk is completed. The reason for this is because in 1970 after the paving was completed, he had problems with his entry way which was not corrected at that time. It was noted that the contractor is bonded for one year after final acceptance of the,project. Mr. Martin asked if the sections of sidewalk across from the Fire Station would be replaced and if this project includes the sidewalk on the west side of Central Avenue. It was noted that the answer to both questions was yes. One lady asked if any curbing would be done. Mr. Berg stated that curb replacement will be included for miscellaneous curb repairs where there was damage to the curb from a water break, from rebuilding a hydrant, etc. She specifically wanted to know if handicap provisions would be made at the intersections. Mr. Berg stated that unless there is new construction, no plans have been made at this time to do that under this project. Mayor Nawrocki stated that if you are working at the sidewalk intersection you are going to almost have to replace the curb because the handicap provision is in both the sidewalk and the curb and also because there is a law, regarding handicap provisions at intersections. Mr. Watson stated that as a matter of policy, it would be a good idea to include the handicap provision when a section of sidewalk at the intersection is being replaced. The lady from 3974 5th Street requested an alley light be installed in the alley. Mayor Nawrocki explained the procedure for obtaining special alley lighting. May 2, 1977 Councilman Norberg suggested that another hearing be held after the marking has been done because the reaction of the people might change. Those who prior to tonight's meeting thought their sidewalk was in good condition might find they are going to have their sidewalk replaced and therefore might have some questions. Mr. Berg noted that when they mark the sidewalk, they will leave a card with the homeowner explaining that repairs will be made, and if they have any questions to call the City. RESOLUTION #77-26 BEING A RESOLUTION ORDERING IMPROVMENTS 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 March, 1977 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 2nd day of May, 1977, 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: 2nd Street N.E. from 38th Avenue N.E. to 40th Avenue N.E.; 2~ Street N.E. from 37th Avenue N.E. to 38th Avenue N.E.; Mill Street N.E.; Lookout Place N.E.; 5th Street N.E. from 39th Avenue N.E. to 40th Avenue N.E.; 40th Avenue N.E. from Main Street N.E. to Central Avenue N.E.; The area bounded by Jefferson Street N.E. and Central Avenue N.E. between 37th Avenue N.E. and 45th Avenue N.E.; and The area bounded by University Avenue N.E. and Monroe Street N.E. between 45th Avenue N.E. and 53rd Avenue N.E. 2. That the materials to be used are as follows: Concrete Sidewalk 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 bene- fited 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. May 2, 1977 5. These improvements shall also be known as Project No. 720. Passed this 2nd day of May, 1977 Offered by: Logacz Seconded by: Norberg Councilman Norberg asked the City Attorney if this resolution is specific enough in that it does not mention all of the individual properties. The City Attorney stated this resolution was adequately referenced. Roll Call on Resolution: All Ayes Motion by Heintz, Seconded by Norberg to adjourn the meeting at 9:28 p.m. Mayor Bruce G. Nawrocki Secretary