HomeMy WebLinkAboutOct 2, 1978OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA
OCTOBER 2, 1978
The meeting was called to order at 8:10 p.m.
Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Norberg, Hentges, Nawrocki - present
Mayor rlawrocki noted that this was a continued session of the regular meeting
of September 25.
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Councilman Norberg left the meeting.
RESOLUTION 78-42
WHEREAS, Councilman Gayle R. Norberg has or may possibly have a financial
interest in the following companies and whereby the City of Columbia Heights
has obligated itself to pay bills in the following amounts to those
companies as listed below:
Eastman Kodak $1,083.20
N. W. Bell 2,075.96
N. W. Bell 53.55
and, WHEREAS, the Council has determined that the contract price for each of
the above listed bills is as low or lower than the price at which the
commodity or service listed could be obtained elsewhere the City Council of
the City of Columbia Heights hereby resolved the above listed bills be paid
out of their proper funds upon the filing of an affidavit with the city
clerk in accordance with Minnesota Statute 471.89, Subdivision 3, by
Councilman Norberg.
Offered by: Heintz
Seconded by: Logacz
The Mayor asked if these were in fact the lowest obtainable prices. Councilman
Hentges stated that he thought it would be easier for Councilman Norberg to
sign his stocks over to his wife than for the Council to go through this
process every meeting.
Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Nawrocki - Aye
Hentges - Nay
Councilman Norberg rejoined the meeting.
Mayor Nawrocki stated that the City Manager was ill and that Tim Yantos, Administra-
tive Assistant, was filling in for him.
ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS:
1. Ordinances Pertaining to Regulation of Residential
Structures in Commercial Zone
Mayor Nawrocki noted that the five ordinances listed were all options of an
October 2, 1978
Page 2
ordinance pertaining to the regulation of residential structures in commercial
zones. The City Attorney noted that as a result of discussions and suggestions
by the Council, he had put together these five alternatives. Since putting
these together and having a first reading, Councilman Norberg suggested another
possibility. This is being submitted as ordinance #899. The City Attorney
explained each of the five alternatives and how they differed. Discussion
followed on the ordinances.
Counc:ilman Heintz stated that the Planning and Zoning Commission had recommended
ordinance #897. It is very simple and easy to understand. Councilman Logacz
stated his concern with the point system outlined in ordinance #899 and didn't
think: it could be easily resolved. The determination of points would be
complicated. He stated he believes ordinance #897, which would give the
Planning and Zoning Commission the opportunity to make judgements, is the best
option.
Councilman Norberg stated that the City should try to keep the edges of
commercial and residential zones from being very sharp. He stated he believes
that #897 delegates too much authority to the staff. Ordinance #899 is
designed to be totally objective. Discussion continued on the proposed
ordinance #899 and its provisions.
Ordinance #897 had a second reading.
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll Call:
Heintz
Logacz
Logacz, Heintz - Aye
Norberg, Hentges, Nawrocki
Nay
Ordinance fails.
Councilman Norberg asked that Councilmen Logacz and Heintz indicate if there
were any of the other proposed ordinances they would vote for. They both said
there were no others they would consider.
Motion by Norberg, seconded by Logacz, to refer proposed ordinance #899 to the
Planning and Zoning Commission for their consideration and comment.
Mrs. Johnson, 4905 Central Avenue, stated that something has to be done with
the property at 49]1 Central, which is next door to hers. It has been a breeding
place for trouble. She added she would rather have the building used for
commercial purposes which would be controlled than left the way it is now.
Councilman Norberg stated that ordinance #899 would permit that property to be
used as a commercial structure.
Roll Call: Norberg, Hentges - Aye
Logacz, Heintz, Nawrocki - Nay
Hotion fails.
October 2, 1978
Page 3
OLD BUSINESS:
1. Arnold Kramer - Conditional Use Permit
Barbers at 4911 Central - Proposal
City Attorney Kalina stated that the business can operate on the property
as long as they conform to the present ordinances. A1 Carlson, Assistant
Planner, explained that the Planning and Zoning Commission had approved the
conditional use permits. They also recommended a 12' rear yard variance and
a 5' side yard variance.
Councilman Heintz noted that even if a conditional use permit is granted, the
ordinance won't allow any construction.
Motion by Norberg to approve the conditional use permit for the property at
4911 Central and deny the request for a rear yard variance of 12'
Motion dies for lack of a second.
Mayor Nawrocki commented that the reason he voted against ordinance #897 is
that the community is not enhanced by development of this type. With limited
amounts of commercial and industrial land available in Columbia Heights, he
would be opposed to anything that would make it easier to allow development
that is not good for the community.
Mr. Marshall Tannick, attorney for The Barbers, stated that The Barbers is a
well established, respectable business and not some fly-by-night operation.
The Mayor suggested that the Council defer further consideration of this
matter until the next regular meeting which would be next Tuesday. Councilman
Heintz stated that the people concerned should be told tonight what will be
done and the Council should not string them along.
Motion by Norberg that the Council find that the proposed change in the use of
this property, in the absence of the rather basic structural changes in the
structure of the building, would be detrimental to the City of Columbia Heights.
The City Attorney stated that this shouldnlt be the basis of refusing the permit.
Councilman Norberg withdrew his motion.
Mayor Nawrocki declared a recess at 9:45 p.m.
Reconvened at 9:50 p.m.
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Logacz, to continue with the present agenda.
Mayor Nawrocki stated that, in effect, this would mean that no action would be
taken on the matter before the Council.
Councilman Hentges stated that there are other ordinances which could be
discussed. He thinks the ordinances should be resubmitted to the City Attorney
to be rewritten and added that he believes the community needs a good commercial
business such as this. Mr. Tannick asked for some direction tonight. Councilman
Norberg stated he agreed and would vote against the motion.
October 2, ]978
Page 4
Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Nawrocki - Aye
Norberg, Hentges - Nay
COMMUNICATIONS:
1. Letter from Minnesota Enerqy Agency
The Mayor noted that members of the League of Women Voters were present as
well as Mr. Davis from the Minnesota Energy Agency to discuss the matter of
forming an energy committee in the City of Columbia Heights. Mr. Davis stated
that the Energy Agency is interested in providing assistance to the committee
which would work as an advisor to the Council on energy matters. He stated he
would like to meet with the Council to discuss the finer points of the proposal
and its benefits to the community. Trudy Rider of the League of Women Voters
read a statement in support of the energy committee.
Mayor Nawrocki stated that if the Council would agree, he would solicit interest
from other groups in the community. Councilman Norberg stated he would volunteer
to be the Council's representative.
Discussion followed on the activities of the committee and the cost to the City.
The Mayor stated that the Council will discuss the question and get back to
the League of Women Voters with a decision.
RESOLUTION APPROVING 1979 BUDGET AND LEVYING TAXES
The Mayor asked if the Council would like to spend time on this tonight or hold
an additional informal or formal meeting before next Tuesday's Council meeting
to discuss the budget further. It was decided to read the resolution.
RESOLUTION 78-43
ADOPTING A BUDGET FOR THE YEAR 1979 AND LEVYING TAXES
BE IT RESOLVED BY TIlE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS as follows:
Section A. The General Fund budget for the City of Columbia Heights for the
year 1979 is hereby approved and adopted with appropriations for each of the
departments as follows:
GEIIERAL FUND
Mayor-Council $ 70,665
Executive 74,OO0
Finance-Assessing-Elections 141,290
General Buildings 57,465
Legal 57,820
Planning 30,835
Public Safety 1,127,300
Public Works 586,345
Sanitation 248,860
Library 127,930
Parks 318,985
Unallocated and Transfers 237,290
$3,078,785
October 2, 1978
Page 5
Section B. The estimated gross revenue of the City of Columbia Heights from
all sources, including general ad valorem tax levies as hereinafter set forth
for the year 1979, the same being more fully detailed in the City Manager's
official copy of the 1979 budget, are hereby found and determined to be as
follows:
GENERAL FUND
$3,078,785
REVENUE SHARING
$ 187,5OO
Section C. There is hereby levied upon all taxable property in the City of
Columbia Heights a direct ad valorem tax in the year 1978 payable in 1979 for
the following purposes and in the following amounts:
PURPOSE AMOUNT
General Fund
(Including Recreation)
Police Pension
Fire Pension
Bond and Interest
$1,261,108
78,5OO
47,000
245,000
$1,631,608
Provision has been made in the General Fund for payment of the City's
contributory share to Public Employees' Retirement Association in the amount
of $91,140. Provision has also been made in the General Fund revenues for
receipt of the State Sales and Excise Tax local government aid distribution.
Section D. A certified copy of this resolution shall be transmitted to the
County Auditor.
Passed this 2nd day of October, 1978.
Offered by: Logacz
Seconded by: Heintz
Motion by Norberg, seconded by Hentges, to reduce the levy by $80,000.
Discussion followed on where in the resolution to reduce the levy.
Roll Call: Norberg, Hentges - Aye
Logacz, Heintz, Nawrocki - Nay
Motion fails.
Mayor Nawrocki suggested that it would be desirable to get all or most of the
Council to support a budget and renewed his suggestion to have an informal
meeting between now and the next regular meeting to discuss any particular
feelings. Councilman Logacz stated that the Council has spent many nights
discussing the budget already. He believes the Council has had plenty of time
October 2, 1978
Pa9e 6
to come to a decision and some compromises should be made. Councilman Norberg
stated he would like to arrive at an amount of levy reduction the Council could
accept. Discussion fo]lowed on whether the levy could be certified without
passing the budget.
Motion by Norberg, seconded by Hentges, to reduce the levy amount by $40,000.
Motion by Hentges to amend the motion to read S125,000.
Motion to amend dies for lack of a second.
Roll Call on motion: Norberg, Hentges Aye
Logacz, Heintz, Nawrocki
Nay
Motion fails.
Roll Call on resolution: Logacz, Heintz, Nawrocki - Aye
Norberg, Hentges - Nay
COMMUNICATIONS:
2. City Hall Addition
Tim Yantos stated that the matter of the installation of items in the pistol
range will be handled by Sheehy Construction per the specs.
3. City's Comprehensive Plan
Since A1 Carlson sent the Council a memo concerning the City's application for
a Local Assistance Grant, he has received information from the State that the
amount of the grant will be increased to approximately $7,500 from the original
$3,634. He is preparing another memo to the Council which will update the
matter.
4. 208 Areawide Plan/Development of Wastewater Management Quality Management
5. Analysis of Alternatives of Wastewater Management in the Twin Cities Area
Tim Yantos stated that copies of both of these reports are available in the
City Manager's office.
6. MTC Shelter Project
The MTC is considering new sites to be included in their next shelter project.
Mayor Nawrocki asked if the Council had any suggestions as to future locations.
Councilman Norberg suggested 44th and Jefferson. Councilman Hentges suggested
in front of City Hall at 40th and Mill Street.
OLD BUSINESS:
2. Progress Report on 5th St. Project
A report has been made by Earl Gustafson, Public Works Director, which the
Council received copies of. The City Manager has asked that any discussion on
this matter be held at the next meeting when he could be present.
October 2, 1978
Page 7
3. Park Board Recommendation on Waiving License Fees
The Park Board has presented a recommended list of service organizations and
churches eligible for the waiving of fees. Councilman Norberg stated that he
thinks the Council should set some criteria for acceptance of license fee
waiving and thought the Islamic Center at 41st and Washington should be
included in the list.
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Norberg, to concur with the list of civic
organizations presented to be eligible for fee waiving, including the Islamic
Center.
Roll Call: All Ayes
Motion by Norberg, seconded by Logacz, to request the Park Board to draft
proposed criteria for the adding and removing of names from that list.
Roll Call: All Ayes
4. Change Orders on City Hall Addition & Remodeling
This change order was discussed at the Council meeting on July 24 and funds
were appropriated at that time. This is for the additional accoustical tiles,
mill work and doors to be added to the remodeled assessing and inspection
departments.
Motion by Logacz, seconded by Norberg, that the change order, in the amount
of $1,995, be granted.
Roll Call: All Ayes
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Sale of Tax Forfeit Property
5020 7th Street
The City Manager has received an appraisal on the 10' strip of land south of
5020 7th St. of $1,600, and an appraisal on the 8' strip of land north of
5020 7th St. of $1,400. Special assessments and back taxes on the land total
$528.60.
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Norberg, to table this until the next meeting for
additional information.
Councilman Hentges asked that neighbors on either sides of both strips be
notified that the land is available for sale.
Roll Call: All Ayes
2. Appointment of Acting City Manage.r..
Motion by Norberg, seconded by Hentges, that during the absence of the City
Manager, October 16-20, Stu Anderson be appointed Acting City Manager.
Roll Call: All Ayes
October 2, 1978
Page 8
Insurance Settlement on Water Damage to City Ha]]
A claim was sent to Leverette Weekes' insurance company, Home Insurance, in
the amount of $7,062 for water damage resulting from heavy rains in June. This
amount included replacing accoustical tile and carpet that was damaged. The
insurance company offered $630 to clean the carpeting and replace some ti]in9.
The City Manager recommends accepting a settlement in the amount of $4,44] from
Town and Country Claim Service acting for Home Insurance.
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Norberg, to table this until the next regular
meetin9 so the City Attorney can be consulted.
Roll Call: All Ayes
Other Old Business:
Semaphores on Central Councilman Logacz asked for a projected date for the
completion of the semaphore on 40th and Central. Councilman Norberg stated that
two residents have called him about the lights on 45th and Central; that it is
impossible to walk across Central before the light changes. Tim Yantos was
requested to get a report to Councilmen Logacz and Norberg.
Garbage Cans - Councilman Heintz asked if rubber garbage cans could be used in
the City. He has been told about a new kind and questioned if they may be
strong enough to be rodent resistant. The question was raised as to whether
they could withstand the cold without breaking. Tim Yantos was asked to look
into 'the matter.
Johnson Pro__p?rt¥ - The City Manager is requesting permission From the Council to
proceed with the negotiations on the Johnson property on Mill St. The asking
price is $47,500. The City Manager has meetings set up with two other property
owners on Mill St. for some time this week.
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Logacz, to authorize the City Manager to negotiate
for the sale of the Johnson property on Il]Il St.
Roll Call: All Ayes
TRAFFIC COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. Handicapped Parking
Stu Anderson, Police Chief, requested that the emergency parking on Mill St. be
changed to handicapped parking and the remaining spaces be signed For one hour
parking.
Notion by Hentges, seconded by Logacz, that two handicapped parking spaces be
authorized for Nil] St. by City Hall adjacent to the elevator on the recommendation
of the Traffic Commission.
Roll Ca]i: All Ayes
October 2, 1978
Page 9
2. Lincoln Terrace Reflector Poles
Some of the traffic at the corner of Lincoln Terrace and Pierce Terrace has
been going up over the curb onto the boulevard and ruining the lawn there.
The Traffic Commission proposes putting reflector posts on the corner.
Motion by Logacz, seconded by Heintz, to authorize the placing of 4 or 5
relfector posts at 1498 Lincoln Terrace based on the recommendation of the
Traffic Commission.
Roll Call: All Ayes
CIVIL DEFENSE RECOGNITION NIGHT
The Civil Defense Recognition Night has been set for October 14 at the
Chanhassen.
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Logacz, that expenses for the Civil Defense
Recognition night be authorized.
Roll Call: All Ayes
Discussion followed on recognizing members of committees and boards with the
same awards as proposed for the employee awards program.
LICENSES
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Norberg, to approve license applications as listed
upon payment of proper fees.
Roll Call: All Ayes
The applicant at 1308 42½ Avenue, Delson Plumbing, should be instructed that his
license is granted on the condition that his material not be stored outside of
the building.
PAYMENT OF BILLS
The Mayor noted that the four required affirmative votes were not received to
pay the bills earlier in the meeting, only three ayes were received and therefore
the bills have not been approved.
Councilman Norberg left the meeting.
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Heintz, to reconsider the payment of bills to
pay the three bills to Northwestern Bell and Eastman Kodak which were withheld
at the last meeting.
Roll Call: All Ayes
Councilmen Heintz and Hentges stated that this was the last time they would pass
the bills unless something was resolved by Councilman Norberg in the matter of
his stock holdings.
October 2, 1978
Page 10
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Logacz, to approve the resolution.
Roll Call: All Ayes
Councilman Norberg rejoined the meeting.
The Mayor noted that the Metro Clean Air committee is working with the State
Pollution Control Agency in informing people of the clean air act. They are
asking for a few minutes at a Council meeting to make a presentation on this.
He asked that this be at the next Council meeting.
He a'lso noted a memo to the Council from Dave Schaaf requesting a meeting with
them on issues of interest to Columbia Heights which will be coming before the
legislature during the next session. It was decided to have an informal
meeting with Senator Schaaf.
The Mayor indicated that he had received a package of flood insurance rate
maps from the federal government.
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Hentges, to adjourn at 11:45 p.m.
Roll Call: All Ayes
--~ouncil Secret'~'~-y
Br~'~--e ~. ~awrocki~ Mayor