HomeMy WebLinkAboutMay 27, 1980OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA
MAY 27, 1980
The meeting was called to order at 8:00 PM by Councilman Norberg.
Roll Call: Logacz, Norberg, Hentges -- present
NAMING OF SECRETARY
Motion by Logacz, seconded by Hentges to appoint Bonnie Jewett as secretary
pro-tem for this meeting. Roll Call: All Ayes
INVOCATION
The invocation was given by Councilman Norberg.
Councilman Heintz joined the meeting at this time.
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Logacz to approve the minutes of the May 12th
Continued Board of Review Meeting as presented in writing and that the reading
be dispensed with. Roll Call: All Ayes
ORAL PETITIONS
1. Dick Hetland of Dick's Sanitary Service, Inc. presented a request to the
City Council with regard to a fuel allowance for the duration of the con-
tract.
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Logacz to table this item until the next
City Council meeting on June 9, 1980. Roll Call: All Ayes
Judy Shackle of 1023 44½ Avenue presented a complaint on the quality of
her driveway after the 44½ Avenue Street project. The City Manager was
instructed to discuss this subject with the Public Works Department and
the Engineering Department on its current status. After the City Manager's
research, he will relate the data to Judy Shackle.
Energy Conservation Week, June 22-28
Mr. Dave Regel of the Columbia Heights' Jaycees presented a preliminary
outline to the City Council on the Energy Conservation Week. The Jaycees
are requesting the City Council's support for police assistance at the
crossings of the major intersections during the Jog-A-Thon, and that a
rescue squad be available in case of an emergency. The means of communi-
cating with the present rescue squad was discussed. The Police Chief
responded to some of Mr. Regel's questions, however, the Fire Department
also needs to be contacted.
Motion by Norberg, seconded by Logacz to table this item until the next
City Council meeting on June 9, 1980. Roll Call: All Ayes
May 27, 1980
Page 2
Mr. Hans Severson approached the City Council with concerns regarding
the pension of the retired volunteer firemen. The City Council and
administrative staff urged Mr. Severson and other retired volunteer
firemen to attend the Volunteer Firemen Pension Plan Meeting which wit1
be held Wednesday, May 28, at 4 PM in the Police Training Room. The
results of this meeting will be presented to the City Council on June 9.
ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
Motion by Norberg, seconded by Logacz that the formal reading of
Resolution 80-21 be dispensed with since ample copies are available
for the public. Roll Call: All Ayes
RESOLUTION 80-21
WHEREAS, Councilman Gayle R. Norberg has or may possibly have financial
interest in 3M Company and the City of Columbia Heights has purchased
Scotchal letters and numbers from the 3M Company for $52.80, said amount
not requiring the taking of informal bids.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS HEREBY RESOLVES that
the $52.80 be paid out of the proper funds upon the filing of an affidavit
with the City of Columbia Heights in accordance with Minnesota Statutes
471.89, Subdivision 3, by Councilman Norberg.
Passed this 27th day of May, 1980.
Offered by: Logacz
Seconded by: Hentges
Roll Call: All Ayes
The City Manager read the resolution as presented to the City Council.
RESOLUTION 80-22
BEING A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE SALARY FOR THE CITY MANAGER
BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
establish the salary for the position of City Manager at a rate of $36,300
per year, and that this rate be effective as of April 1, 1980.
Passed this 27th day of May, 1980.
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll Call:
Logacz
Norberg
Logacz, Heintz, Norberg -- Ayes
Hentges -- Nay
There was discussion by the councilmen regarding City Managers' salaries
in surrounding communities and existin9 Federal guidelines. The Council-
members reviewed the City Manager's performance and conclude that his
performance has been satisfactory.
Councilman Norberg questioned the City Attorney on a proposal for petition-
ing for the idea of initiative and referendum. This item will be discussed
at the next City Council meeting on June 9, 1980.
May 27, 1980
Page 3
COMMUNICATIONS
Report on Unused School Buildings
The City Manager requested the City Council to review this report and
set a work session date to discuss the unused school buildings in more
detail. Before adjournment of tonight's meeting, a work session date
will be set.
Mayor Nawrocki joined the meeting at this time.
Cable TV - Joint Powers Agreement
The draft of the Joint Powers Agreement relative to the Cable TV franchise
of Columbia Heights and Hilltop was discussed by the councilmen in great
detail. Items discussed included: revised membership regulations, terms
of service with or without compensation, establishment of how expenditures
will be incurred, regulation of Council member being appointed to this
board, the original purpose of the board, how the board will or can be
terminated at the appropriate time, why the formality of an agreement is
needed, and the legal standpoints of the board.
Motion by Norberg, seconded by Logacz to table the Cable TV - Joint Powers
Agreement at this time. Roll Call: All Ayes
Mayor Nawrocki suggested that the proposed franchise ordinance stage and
public hearing process be continued as we have been proceeding to at this
point of time and also that we would certainly accept their "fair share"
of this consultant cost.
PROCLAMATIONS
1. Mayor Nawrocki read the following proclamation:
WHEREAS, Stanley Fudro will be retiring from office this term after
serving the citizens of this area for twenty-four years as a member of
the Minnesota House of Representatives, and
WHEREAS, Stanley Fudro has shown a general concern for the impact of
legislation on the citizens of Columbia Heights during his many years as
a legislator, sending periodic reports to the citizens and the City Council
on matters affecting them, and
WHEREAS, among his many accomplishments, Mr. Fudro worked successfully to
resolve the problems regarding the Fire and Police Department pensions, and
WHEREAS, of particular service to Columbia Heights, Mr. Fudro worked to
provide the Central Avenue Urbanization Project for the City, and success-
fully obtained an agreement from the Minnesota Department of Transportation
to pay costs on that project above and beyond what had been originally
proposed.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Bruce G. Nawrocki, Mayor of the City of Columbia Heights,
do hereby recognize and commend Stanley Fudro for his years of dedicated
service to the City of Columbia Heights and its people.
S/Bruce G. Nawrocki, Mayor
Mr. Fudro thanked the City Council for establishing this proclamation and
still will be very much involved with the City of Columbia Heights.
May 27, 1980
Page 4
2. Mayor Nawrocki read the following proclamation:
PARKS AND RECREATION MONTH
WHEREAS, by virtue of the authority vested in the Governor of Minnesota
by the Constitution, June has been proclaimed Parks and Recreation Month,
a major statewide event which would both celebrate and seriously consider
the role of leisure in the "life, liberty and pursuit of happiness" of
Third Century AmericansI' and
WHEREAS, all citizens can fulfill their potential in the use of their
leisure time through the varied individual and group opportunities pro-
vided by Parks and Recreation; and
WHEREAS, suitable and positive leisure experiences are vital to good
physical and mental health and enhances the quality of life for all
people; and
WHEREAS, all the citizens of Columbia Heights can enjoy leisure time
self-renewal in the out-of-doors through green spaces, facilities and
programs and take advantage of the parks and recreation system;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Columbia Heights City Council through
action by its Mayor, does hereby proclaim June, 1980, as Parks and Recrea-
tion Month.
S/Bruce G. Nawrocki, Mayor
OLD BUSINESS
1. Tax Forfeit Parcel on 40th Avenue and Jefferson Street
Motion by Logacz, seconded by Hentges that the Mayor and City Manager be
authorized to execute the appropriate agreement to provide for the sale of
the tax forfeit property (Plat 33365, Parcel 5242) to Mr. Patrick Grady
of 636 40th Avenue NE for the amount of $1.
The councilmen discussed the proper or correct way of disposing or trans-
ferring property and the costs involved.
Motion to amend by Logacz, seconded by Hentges that the Mayor and City
Manager be authorized to execute the appropriate agreement to provide for
the sale of the tax forfeit property (Plat 33365, Parcel 5242) to Mr.
Patrick Grady of 636 40th Avenue NE for the amount of legal costs. Roll
Call: Logacz, Heintz, Hentges, Nawroci~i -- Ayes
Norberg -- Abstain
Discussion followed on the probability of asking the property owner to
combine the lots and sell as one. The City Attorney responded that the
property owner cannot be binded by agreement to do this.
Wayne Protection Agency -- Additional Payments
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Logacz to concur with Park Board's recommenda-
tion that Wayne Protection Agency be compensated for court appearances at
their present rate.
May 27, 1980
Page 5
There was further discussion and the motion was amended by Norberg,
seconded by Hentges to recommend that Wayne Protection Agency be compensa-
sated at a rate of 75% of the hourly rate for court appearance purposes.
Roll Call on Amended Motion: Norberg, Hentges -- Ayes
Logacz, Heintz, Nawrocki -- Nays
Motion fails.
Roll Call on Main Motion: Logacz, Heintz, Nawrocki -- Ayes
Norberg, Hentges -- Nays
Chair will rule that the motion prevails based on City Attorney ruling of
three-fifths vote.
Discussion followed regarding voting regulations and powers by the City
Council in terms of three-fifths vote and four-fifths vote.
RECESS: lO:O0 PM
RECONVENE: 10:15 PM
The meeting was recalled to order by Mayor NawrocI~i.
Record should show that monies cannot be taken from general unallocated
funds, but can be taken from other funds. All councilmen agreed upon
this matter.
Preparation of Plans and Specifications for Electrical Wiring of the
Emergency Generator
The City Manager reviewed with the City Council the bids for the emergency
generator circuits.
Motion by Norberg and seconded by Logacz to authorize the City Manager
to retain Bob Diedrich, Architect & Engineer, for the purpose of preparing
the bid, specifications, and to provide the inspection for wiring of the
Police and Fire Departments to the emergency generator circuit. Such
costs are not to exceed $400. Roll Call: All Ayes
There are drawings available to contractors of the addition of the City
Hall as regards the wiring. Because Diedrich was previously familiar with
the pre-wiring, he was the low bidder.
4. Public Hearing on Arby's Restaurant Proposal
There was discussion by the City Council on this item. The public hearing
had been scheduled for June 9; however, the City Council wishes to set a
hearing date after the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Engineering
Department have made their recommendations to the Council.
The City Manager reminded the Council that they had been advised of the legal
notice. The first public hearing notice will appear in the Sun Newspaper on
May 28, 1980. The City Manager will cancel the second ad and ask that a
notice be published stating that the public hearing will not be held until
a future date.
May 27, 1980
Page 6
NEW BUSINESS
1. Setting Public Hearing Dates for Alley Assessment Projects -
The reconstruction and bituminous overlay on the alley located off Chatham
Road and on the alley located between 37th and 38th Avenue was previously
discussed by the City Council. The reconstruction and bituminous overlay
between 40th to 41st and between Madison and Monroe Street had been brought
to the attention of Mayor Nawrocki at a "Tell It To The Mayor" session.
The City Manager requested a preliminary report from the Engineering Depart-
ment regarding this area. The City Council and staff discussed the recom-
mended alternatives and costs.
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Norberg that a public hearing be called for
June 30, 1980, to consider the following projects:
a) Reconstruct and bituminous overlay on the alley
located off Chatham Road (petition on file)
b) Reconstruct and bituminous overlay on the alley
located between 37th and 38th Avenue and 2½ and 3rd
Street (petition on file)
c) Reconstruct and bituminous overlay between 40th to
41st and between ~adison and Monroe Street
Roll Call: All Ayes
Request to Purchase Pager Units
Motion by Logacz, seconded by Hentges to authorize the City Manager to
expend funds to purchase two Motorola Pagers with chargers for a total
price of $520, based on low, informal quotations received. Roll Call:
AT1 Ayes
The City Council and staff discussed the pros and cons of pagers with
chargers or with batteries.
Bids
a. Tree Planting
There was general discussion on the bid specifications published for
the supplying and planting of trees on public and private property.
Discussion continued on the two low bidders.
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Norberg to table decision until further
consideration could be given to the bid and specifications. Roll
Call: All Ayes
Bid specifications do allow for individual citizens to purchase trees
at the City's contract price.
The trees which were purchased last year need to be inspected and those
that have died, replaced.
b. Concrete Work
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Norberg to authorize the Mayor and City
Manager to enter into a contract in the amount of $7,546.30 with
Halvorson Construction for miscellaneous concrete work, based on low,
formal bids received. Roll Call: All Ayes
May 27, 1980
Page 7
o
Removal of Tennis Court Coloring from Keyes and McKenna Hockey Rinks
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Logacz to authorize the Mayor and City
Manager to enter into contract with Slama Brothers for the removal of
the color coating at Keyes and McKenna Hockey Rinks by profiling, in
the amount of $2,878.50; based on low, informal bid received. Roll
Call: All Ayes
Establishing a Park Department Separate from Public Works
The City Manager reviewed and updated the City Council with the knowledge
relating to this item which he was aware of. The City Council and staff
members raised numerous concerns and questions regarding the establishment
of a separate Park Department.
Motion by Logacz, seconded by Norberg that the City Council meet with the
Park Board to discuss the letter of May 7th in further detail. This
meeting will take place at the next regular Park Board meeting on June 18
at 6:30 PM.
Motion to amend by Norberg, seconded by Hentges to include the Park Board
supplying background information at the next regular Park Board meeting.
Roll Call on Amended Motion: Norberg, Hentges -- Ayes
Logacz, Heintz, Nawrocki -- Nays
Motion fails.
Roll Call on Main Motion: Logacz, Heintz, Hentges, Nawrocki -- Ayes
Norberg -- Abstain
New Hires - Police Department
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Heintz to approve the monthly rate of
Ms. Joyce Fisk, Police Technician, at $890 per month. This would be
equivalent to Range 12, Step A. Roll Call: All Ayes
The Suburban Police Recruitment System was discussed briefly along with
the Police Department positions which are currently vacant.
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Heintz to waive the ll:30 PM adjournment
rule and continue the meeting until the agenda is completed. Roll
Call: Logacz, Heintz, Hentges, Nawrocki -- Ayes
Norberg -- Nay
Review of Preliminary Plans for Reconstruction of 37th Avenue
Plans and specifications prepared by the City of Minneapolis staff members
were reviewed in detail with the City Council by staff members as regards:
sidewalk, curb and gutter; the width of the street; signal lights; the
location of the crown and middle line; Cargill frontage; landscaping
features; and costs-assessment/state aid.
A work session was scheduled for June 14, at 9 AM in the Council Chambers.
The Minneapolis engineer will be will be contacted to participate in this
work session.
June 30, 1980, has been set for a public hearing, with the proposal being
subject to further refinement at the time of the hearing.
May 27, 1980
Page 8
Minimum Qualifications for Administrative Assistant to the City Manager
Position
City Manager Bocwinski reviewed the changes in the minimum qualifications
for the Administrative Assistant position with the City Council.
Present Qualifications-
Training & Experience:
A combination substantially equivalent to post secondary training in
business or public administration or related fields and some experience
involving public contact in an inspection, investigative or enforcement
capacity.
Requested Revision-
Training & Experience:
A combination of training including successful completion of a college
degree, a bachelor's degree preferred, in public administration, business,
or related field and experience in a related area; two years responsible
administrative experience preferred.
The City Council and City Manager discussed the current duties and responsi-
bilities of the Administrative Assistant compared to when the position was
first approved.
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Logacz to authorize the City Manager to estab]isF
the above requested revision in the minimum qualifications of the Administra-
tive Assistant to the City Manager. Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Nawrocki
-- Ayes; Hentges -- Nay; Norberg -- Abstain
10. Columbia Heights Float
Motion by Hentges, seconded by Logacz to authorize the City Manager to ex-
pend additional funds for the major overhaul of the Columbia Heights Float
in the amount of $300. Roll Call: Logacz, Heintz, Hentges, Nawrocki -- Ayes;
Norberg -- Abstain
REPORTS
1. The City Manager report had been read by the City Council. Mayor Nawrocki
had questions relating to:
a. The cost of the spring clean up in 19797 -approximately $6,500
b. The need for rewelding of the seams on the water tank; shouldn't
this have been done from the original quality of work? This matter
will be discussed at the June 9th City Council meeting after the
staff has reviewed the specifications which were published.
c. What was the mileage on the vehicles auctioned by Hennepin County?
-mileage on all three vehicles was in the 90,O00's. Could more money
have been made by selling them outright? The City Manager reported
that past experience in 1978-79 proved this untrue.
Additional items to the City Manager's Report were the Fire Department letter
regarding a publishing company falsely representing Minnesota Fire Fighters
and the St. Jude Medical, Incorporated Environmental Assessment Worksheet
being withdrawn. The City Manager will keep the City Council advised to any
future changes by St. Jude Medical, Incorporated.
May 27, 1980
Page 9
Report of the City Attorney
The City Council should be prepared to make a recommendation on the
value set for the park donation regarding Arby's.
All other items had previously been covered in the City Manager's Report
and brought to the attention of the City Council.
LICENSES
Motion by Heintz, seconded By Logacz that licenses as listed be granted upon
payment of proper fees, with the exception of the Columbia Heights Jaycee
Women license fee being waived. Roll Call: All Ayes
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Motion by Logacz, seconded by Heintz to pay the bills as listed out of their
proper funds. Roll Call: All Ayes
WORK SESSIONS - Unused School Buildings, Pay Plan
Tuesday, June 3, 9 PM
Thursday, June 5, 9 PM
OTHER BUSINESS
The Mayor and Councilmen briefly discussed appointments needed to the
Commissions and Boards. This matter will be discussed at a future Council
meeting.
Motion by Heintz, seconded by Hentges to adjourn the meeting at 1:35 PM. Roll
Call: All Ayes
Secretary P r o-T/e~J
~a~r Bruce G. Nawrocki