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HomeMy WebLinkAboutJanuary 24, 1994 RegularAGENDA FOR THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
MONDAY, JANUARY 24, 1994, 7:00 PM
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, 590 40TH AVENUE NE
Auxiliary aids for handicapped persons are available upon request when the request is made at least 96
hours in advance. Please call the City Council Secretary at 782-2800, Extension 209, to make
arrangements.
1. ¢~11 to Order and Roll Call
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Consent Agenda
(All items listed with asterisks [***] are considered to be rout:-ne by the City Council and will be enacted
as part of the Consent Agenda by one motion.)
Minutes of Previous Meeting(s)
Open Mike/Proclama~i0ns/Presentations
(Open Mike is an opportunity for residents to address or raise any issue to the City Council. However,
the City Council asks that the resident provide their name, address, and a statement of the item. The
matter will be considered by the City Council or referred to staff for a future response. In order to
expedite business, residents will be allotted five minutes to present their statement or issue.)
a. Presentation by Jim Kordiak, Anoka County Commissioner on Solid Waste Tipping Fees
b. Medtronics Grant Presentation
6. Public Hearings/Ordinances & Resolutions
a. Public Hearing for Basic Cable Rates
b. Public Hearing on Utilization of 1994 CDBG Entitlement
c. Resolution 94-__.; Being a Resolution Designating Depositories for Funds of the City of Columbia
Heights
d. Resolution 94-__.; Being a Resolution to approve Submittal of Variance Request for T.H. 47 from
37th Avenue to 53rd Avenue
e. Second Reading of Ordinance No. 1280; Being an Ordinance Amending Chapter 5, Sections 35 through
46 of the Charter of the City of Columbia Heights Pertaining to the Referendum and Referendum
Petitions
f. Other Ordinances and Resolutions
7, Communications
a. Request for Temporary Signage by Boxseat, Exclusive Sports Bar and Grill
b. 1994 AMM Legislative Priority
c. Other Communications
8. Old Business
a. Other Old Business
9. N~w Business
***a. Approve Attendance of the Finance Department Staff at the Annual GFOA Conference
***b. Authorization to seek bids for 1994 Street and Parking Lane Striping
***c. Authorization to seek bids for catch basin manhole replacement
***d. Establish Date for Public Improvement Hearing on LaBelle Park East Bank Project
***e. Establish Date for Board of Review Meeting
***4.
5.
f. Other New Business
10. Reports
a. Report of the City Manager
b. Report of the City Attorney
**'11. Licenses
**'12. Payment of Bills
Adjournment
94/3
Pat Hentges
City Manager
January 18, 1994-
The following is the agenda for the regular meeting of the City Council to be held at 7:00 PM
on Monday, January 24, 1994, in the City Council Chambers of City Hall at 590 40th Avenue
NE, Columbia Heights, Minnesota.
The City of Columbia Heights does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the
admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or
activities. Upon request, accommodation will be provided to allow individuals with
disabilities to participate in all City of Columbia Heights' services, programs, and
activities. Auxiliary aids for handicapped persons are available upon request when the
request is made at least 96 hours in advance. Please call the City Council Secretary at
'/82-2800, Extension 209, to make arrangements. (TDD/'/82-2806 for deaf only)
1, ¢411 to Order and Roll Ci~ll
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Consent Agenda
(All items listed with asterisks [***] are considered to be routine by the City Council and
will be enacted as part of the Consent Agenda by one motion.)
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adopt the consent agenda items as indicated with
an asterisk (***)on the Regular Council Agenda.
4, Minutes of Previous Meeting(~)
*** RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adopt the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting
of January 10, 1994; as presented in writing, and such reading be dispensed with.
5. Open Mike/Proclamations/Presentations
(Open Mike is an opportunity for residents to address or raise any issue to the City
Council. However, the City Council asks that the resident provide their name, address,
and a statement of the item. The matter will be considered by the City Council or referred
to staff for a future response. In order to expedite business, residents will be allotted five
minutes to present their statement or issue.)
a. Presentation by Jim Kordiak, Anoka County Commissioner on Solid Waste Tipping
Fees.
COUNCIL AGENDA
Page 2
Council Meeting of January 24, 1994
b. Medtronics Grant Presentation
Public Hearings/Ordinances ~4 Resolutions
a. Public Hearing for Basic Cable Rates
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to continue the public hearing regarding the rates established
for basic cable service and all equipment required to receive basic cable service for Columbia Heights
and Hilltop to February 28, 1994, at 7:00 PM.
b. Public Hearing on Utilization of 1994 CDBG Entitlement
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve the attached schedule as the 1994 Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program for the City of Columbia Heights with the HRA
Executive Director authorized to prepare and submit application for such funds.
c. Resolution designating Depositories for Funds of the City of Columbia Heights
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Resolution 94-__
copies available to the public.
, there being ample
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adopt Resolution 94-
depositories for funds of the City of Columbia Heights.
, being a resolution designating
d. Resolution to approve Submittal of Variance Request for T.H. 47 from 37th Avenue to 53rd Avenue
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to waive the reading of the Resolution, there being ample copies
available to the public.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adopt Resolution No. 94-__ directing the City Engineer
to proceed with the submittal of a variance request to the Commissioner of Transportation for T.H.
47 from 37th Avenue to 53rd Avenue.
Second Reading of Ordinance No. 1280; Being an Ordinance Amending Chapter 5, Sections 35
through 46 of the Charter of the City of Columbia Heights Pertaining to the Referendum and
Referendum Petitions
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to table indefinitely the second reading of Ordinance No. 1280;
Being an Ordinance Amending Chapter 5, Sections 35 through 46 of the Charter of the City of
Columbia Heights Pertaining to the Referendum and Referendum Petitions.
f. Other Ordinances and Resolutions
Communications
a. Request for temporary signage by Boxseat, Exclusive Sports Bar and Grill
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve the request of Boxseat, Exclusive Sports Bar and
Grill, 4005 Central Avenue, for temporary signage.
COUNCIL AGENDA
Page 3
Council Meeting of January 24, 1994
b. 1994 AMM Legislative Priority
This material is provided for informational purposes only, no formal action is required.
c. Other Communications
8. Old Bu~ino$s
a. Other Old Business
9. New Business
***a. Approve Attendance of the Finance Department Staff at the Annual GFOA Conference.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to authorize the attendance of William Elrite, Finance Director
and June Johnston, Assistant Finance Director at the Annual Government Finance Officers
Association Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from June 5-8, 1994; and furthermore, that
related expenses be reimbursed.
***b. Authorization to seek bids for 1994 Street and Parking Lane Striping
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to authorize staff to seek bids for the 1994 Street and Parking
Lane Striping contract.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to authorize staff to seek bids for the replacement of four catch
basin manholes located west of 455 37th Avenue.
***c. Authorization to seek bids for catch basin manhole replacement
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to authorize staff to seek bids for the replacement of four catch
basin manholes located west of 455 37th Avenue.
d. Establish Date for Public Improvement Hearing on LaBelle Park East Bank Project
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to establish a Public Improvement Hearing for F~bruary 28,
1994, at 7:00 P.M. in the City Council Chambers.
*** e. Establish Date for Board of Review Meeting
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to establish special meeting for Board of Review for April 18,
1994, at 7:00 P.M. in the City Council Chambers.
f. Other New Business
10. Reports
a. Report of the City Manager
b. Report of the City Attorney
COUNCIL AGENDA
Page 4
Council Meeting of January 24, 1994
11. Licenses
*** RECOMMENDED MOTION:
proper fees.
Move to approve the 1994 license applications as listed upon payment of
12. Payment of Bills
***RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to pay the bills as listed out of proper funds.
Adjournment
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adjourn.
PH:CB
94/..
Attachments
Pat Hentges
City Manager
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
590 40th Avenue N. E.
Columbia Heights, MN 55421-3878
(612) 782-2800
Mayor
Joseph Sturdcvant
Councilmembers
Donald G. Jolly
Bruce G. Nawrocki
Gary L. Peterson
Robert W. Ruetlimann
LINDA MAGEE' '
ASSISTANT 'TO ciTY NANAGER
January 18, 1994-
The following is the agenda for the regular meeting of the City Council to be held at 7:00 PM
on Monday, January 24, 1994, in the City Council Chambers of City Hall at 590 40th Avenue
NE, Columbia Heights, Minnesota.
City Manager
Patrick Hentges
The City of Columbia Heights does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the
admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or
activities. Upon request, accommodation will be provided to allow individuals with
disabilities to participate in all City of Columbia Heights' services, programs, and
activities. Auxiliary aids for handicapped persons are available upon request when the
request is made at least 96 hours in advance. Please call the City Council Secretary at
782-2800, Extension 209, to make arrangements. (TDD/782-2806 for deaf only)
'~ C~II ~0 Order and Roll Call
,~. Pledge of Allegiance ...,. tn?! ,-"~'
, q'¢ . .,,---- , ~
Consent
A~,enda
'
(All items listed with asterisks [***] are consideredto be routine by the City Council and
will be enacted as part of the Consent Agenda by one motion.)
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adopt the consent agenda items as indicated with
an asterisk (***)on the Regular Council Agenda.
"4 .~in~tqs of Previous Meeting(s)
**'*~RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adopt the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting
of January 10, 1994; as presented in writing, and such reading be dispensed with.
?
O~en Mil~/Procl~mations/Presentations '~* ~"
./--"
'~ (Open Mike is an opportunity for residents to address or raise any issue to the City
..~, i ~ ' Council. However, the City Council asks that the resident provide their name, address,
~ .~'" ' ~ and a statement of the item. The ma~er will be considered by the City Council or referred
~~ ~" K ~k to staff for a future response. In order to expedite business, residents will be allo~ed five
~,., ~ '~' ~ ,~ ~.~ -' &> . ~,. /min~s to present their statement or issue.)
. j', ~'"' ~. ~ ~'; r~ sentation by Jim Kordiak, Anoka County Commissioner ~n Solid Waste Tipping
.' k '
"'~ ....'~,,~ ', ,~ ~.. h'SERVlCE IS OUR BUSINE~" EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYE,R
COUNCIL AGENDA
Page 2
tronics Grant Presentation ~/(l¢ ~ '
Publfc H~arinis/Ordinances & Resol i~ons
~~~i;b' Hearing for Basic Cable al[~; ~ ~ ~y '~c ~ ~i ~''
DED MOTION' lic heating regarding the st shed
f~ basic cable service and aB e~uipment required to receive basic ~ble service for Columbia Heights
ad Hilltop to February 28, 19~, at 7:00 PM.
~COMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve the attached sched~,~;
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program for th~ City ~f~l~~ightsi~ with the H~
Executive Director author~ed to prepare and submit applicat~~ch fun~s.
~~lution designatingDepositoriesforFundsoftheCityof m~jights th
~ECOM~ENDED MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Re~ ut' - , ' g P
L~opies~ailable to the public.
/
~MMENDED MOTION: Move to adopt Re~lution 94- , being a re~lution designating
p~itories for funds of the City of Columbia Heights.
d/~esolution to approve Submittal of Variance Request for T.H. 47 from 37~A~enue to 53rd Avenue
~..~E~yMENDED MOTION: Move to waive the reading of~e Re~ there bein~ample copies
'~vailable to the public. ~,~"
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adopt Re~lution No. 94-~ directing
to proceed with the submit~l of a variance request to the Commis~r of Transportation ~or T.H.
om 3~th Avenue to 53rd Avenue.
d Reading of Ordinance No. ~280; Being an Ord~ Amending Chapter 5, Sections 35
gh 46 of the Cha~er ~f ~the Ci~ of Columbia He~ Pe~aini~ to the Refereadum and
RtCO~fN ION' ~ov~o t~bl~ iad~i~it~l~ t~ i~ad r~l~ ofOr~i~ c . ;
Columbia Hei~eaining to the R~e~dum and ~Petitions.
~~ther Ordinances and Re~lutions .
' TRequest for t,mporary signage ~, Boxs,at, Exclusive Sports B:;.a~ G rill ~ .~"
COUNCIL AGENDA
Council Meeting of January 24, 1994
~X 1994 AMM Legislative Priority
~ent ~;f
and June Johnston, Assistant Finance Director at the Annual Government Finance Officers
~,"\ Association Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from June 5-8, 1994; and furthermore, that
/.~. ~%! /elated expenses be reimbursed.
N ~ **~ Authorization to seek bids for 1994 Street and Parking Lane Striping
'J / r et and Park~n
~ ~ ~'REcoMMENDEDMOTION: Move to authorize staff to seek bids for the1994 St e ' g
// ~ne Striping contract.
k~'l ~ r h
~,J / ~RECOMMENDED MOTION: Mov~ ~o authorize staff to seek bids for the replacement of fou cate
nholes located west of 455 3~h Avenue.
~s~blish Date for Public Improvement Hearing o~L~el~ ~ark ~st ~ank Project '
~~ 5'~.~. m 'orF'br ar 2S
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to es~blish a~bliclmprovem~t ~ear' ig ,~ rul y ,
~ at ~p,M, . in the ~ty Council Chamber~) (~'~',_~. .~_~~ ~~ /
vX~ ~7~ )~~stablishDat, for Board of Review M,e~n, , ~,,
"~ECOM ENDED MOTION Move to e speCial 'meeting for Board of Review for April 18,
~4, at ~P.M. in the City Coun~9~~.
~ Other New Busin,ss
~& Report of the City Attorney
COUNCIL AGENDA
Page 4 /' ,j~,
Council Meeting of January 24, 1994
**~COMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve the 1994 license applications as listed upon payment of
proper fees.
, .~Pa~ment of Bills I\ -
*~RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to pay the bills as listed out of proper funds.
Ad_jourument
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adjourn.
PH:CB
94/..
Attachments
Pat Hentges
City Manager
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 1994
The Council Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Council
President Nawrocki.
The Oath of Office was administered by the City Clerk to Mayor
Sturdevant, Counci]member Nawrocki and Councilmember Jolly.
1. ROLL CALL
Jolly, Nawrocki, Ruettimann, Peterson, Sturdevant - present
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were addressed by the Council on the
Consent Agenda:
Handicapped Parking Request - Immaculate Conception Church
The Council approved designating the west side of Jackson
Street "gandicap Parking" from the north parking lot entrance
to 75' snuth of the centerline of 41st Avenue Northeast and
designating the east side of Jackson Street "No Parking
Saturday 4PM to 6PM and Sunday 6AM to Noon" from the north
parking lot entrance to 41st Avenue Northeast.
Installation of Light at Keyes Park
The Council authorized staff ~o have a light instal]ed in
Keyes Park to facilitate sledding with funds from Fund ]01-
45200-5130, based on a recommendation of the Park and
Recreation Commission.
Renewal of Membership in Association of Metropolitan
Municipalities
The Council authorized payment of $4,909 to the Association of
Metropolitan Municipalities for payment of the City's 1994
membership dues with such funds to come from Fund 101-41110-
4330.
Renewal of Membership in North Metro Mayors' Association
The Council authorized payment of $12,295 to the North Metro
Mayors' Association for payment of the City's 1994 membership
dues.
Establish Date for Public Improvement Hearing
The Council established a Public Improvement Hearing for
Monday, March 21, 1994 at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council
Chambers.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, ]994
PAGE 2
Payment of Bills
The Council approved the payment of the bills as listed out of
proper funds.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Nawrocki, second by Ruettimann to approve the
Consent Agenda items discussed. Roll call: All ayes
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
Motion by Nawrocki, second by Ruettimann to approve the
minutes of the December 27, 1993 Council Meeting with the
inclusion of Counci]member Nawrocki's statement regarding the
City Manager's performance evaluation. Roll call: All ayes
Counci]member Nawrocki also noted that the corrections he had
requested for the December 8, ]993 Council Meeting minutes
should have been copied for members of the Council.
OPEN MIKE/PRESENTATiONS
a. Pla~ue Presentation to Edward Carlson
Mayor Sturdevant presented a plaque to Edward Carlson in
recognition of his six years of service as a Counci]member and
two years of service as Mayor.
b. Appeal of Denial of Taxi Cab License
Randy Ziemann, whose application for a taxi cab driver's
license was denied, is appealing the Council's decision. He
addressed his histcry in involvements in community affairs and
also addressed his history of violations. Me did not recall
the 1990 misdemeanor when he filled out his application.
Councilmember Nawrocki recalled the Council had granted a
temporary license under similar circumstances. This situation
required a six month monitoring period by the Po]ice
Department with a report every 30 days regarding any
violations.
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Jolly to grant a six month
supervised driver's license for a taxi cab to Randy Ziemann
with thirty day interval reports from the Police Department
and if there is any illegal activity by Mr. Ziemann the
license will be revoked immediately and none will be issued in
the future. Roll call: All ayes
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 1994
PAGE 3
PUBLIC HEARINGS/ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS
a. Resolution No. 94-01; Council Committee Orqanization
Motion by Nawrocki, second by Ruettimann to waive the reading
of the resolution there being ample copies available for the
public. Roll call: All ayes
Councilmember Nawrocki stated that the appointment to the
Charter Commission is made by the District Chief Judge and the
HRA appointment is made by the Mayor. He requested these two
appointments be removed from the Exhibit. Also, Councilmember
Nawrocki wanted Councilmember Gary Peterson recognized as
Council President Pro-Tem in the Exhibit.
RESOLUTION NO. 94-01
BEING A RESOLUTION PERTAINING TO COUNCIL 1994 COMMITTEE
ASSIGNMENTS
WHEREAS:
After each municipal election, the Council reviews
its organizational structure relative to boards,
commissions and committees; and
WHEREAS:
This reviewal process was done at
Council work session; and
the recent
WHEREAS:
Members of the City Council concurred on the
representative appointments as presented in the
attached Exhibit
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the representatives to
various boards, commissions, and committees be set forth as
stated in the attached Exhibit.
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll call:
Nawrocki
Ruettimann
All ayes
Mayor Joseph Sturdevant
Jo-Anne Student, Council Secretary
Motion by Nawrocki, second by Ruettimann that authorization be
given for expenses for Councilmember Nawrocki to attend League
of Cities meetings. Roll call: 'All ayes
REGUi,AR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 1994
PAGE 4
b. Resolution No. 94-02; Beinq a Resolution Orderinq
Midblock Light Improvement
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Peterson to waive the reading
of the resolution there being ample copies available for the
public. Roll call: All ayes
RESOLUTION NO. 94-02
BEING A RESOLUTION ORDERING IMPROVEMENTS
BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the City of Columbia Heights by
motion on the 27th day of December, 1993 and on the 22nd day
of November, 1993 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 27th day of December,
i993, and
WHEREAS, the Council, by motion, determined to proceed with
this local improvement, a proper portion of the cost of such
improvement to be especially assessed against each lot or
parcel of land is the amount as billed annual]y by Northern
States Power plus and administration fee under Charter
provisions.
NOW, THEREFORE, iT IS HEREBY RESOLVED:
1. That the location and extent of such improvements is as
follows:
Alley midblock ]ight located in the alley between Tyler
Street and Polk Street, 37th Avenue to 39th Avenue.
The instalolation of one (1) high pressure sodium street
light in the alley on the existing pole btween 3850 and
3854 Polk Street.
2. That a careful estimate of the cost of the improvements has
been made by the City Manager and the several lots and parcels
of land fronting upon and adjacent to such proposed
improvement, which be deemed benefited thereby, were properly
notified of said hearing, and
3. That the City Manager shall also list the names and owners
of the several parcels so improved as nearly as can be
ascertained.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 1994
PAGE 5
4. These improvements shall also be known as P.I.R. ~677-23-
Project 9325.
Passed this 10th day of January, 1994.
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll call:
Ruettimann
Peterson
All ayes
Mayor Joseph Sturdevant
Jo-Anne Student, Council Secretary
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Peterson to call for a Levy
Hearing to adopt the alley midblock light, P.I.R. 677, area
23, Project 9325, Levy Resolution on February 14, 1994 at 7:00
p.m.
Counci]member Nawrocki felt the Council should review the
proposed revised assessments because of the variations in the
shape of the lots involved. The Public Works Director stated
he could supply the Council wit}] copies of the revised
assessments later in the meeting.
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Peterson to table this matter
until later in the meeting. Roll call: All ayes
c. Resolution No. 94-03; Beinq a Resolution Requestinq the
Co~nissioner of Transportation Set the Maximum Safe Speed for
Circle Terrace Boulevard
Motion by Peterson, second by Ruettimann to waive the reading
of the resolution there being ample copies available for the
public. Roll call: All ayes
If this speed reduction is approved, Councilmember Nawrocki
felt it may become a real headache as many other residents may
make the same request. He also felt it would pose enforcement
problems.
The Public Works Director noted this issue was also discussed
at the Traffic Commission. He felt the 30 MPH speed limit will
probably remain.
RESOLUTION NO. 94-03
REQUESTING THE coMMISSIONER OF.TRANSPORTATION SET THE MAXIMUM
SAFE SPEEED FOR CIRCLE TERRACE BOULEVARD
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY i0, 1994
PAGE 6
WHEREAS, the Commissioner of Transportation is responsible for
setting speed limits throughout the State; and
WHEREAS, the Commissioner's Office will conduct an engineering
and traffic study for a municipal street and based on said
study wi]] set the "maximum" safe speed;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City
of Columbia Heights:
That the Commissioner of Transportation conduct a study for
Circle Terrace within the City of Columbia Heights for the
purpose of setting the maximum safe speed.
Dated this 10th day of January, 1994.
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roi] call:
Peterson
Ruettimann
ayes
Mayor Joseph Sturdevant
Jo-Anne Student, Council Secretary
ATTEST:
I hereby certify that the aforegoing resolution is a true and
correct copy of the resolution presented to and adopted by the
City Council of the City of Columbia Heights, at a duly
authorized meeting thereof held on the ]0tb day of January,
]994, as shown by the minutes of said meeting in my
possession.
Jo-Anne Student
Deputy City Clerk
d. Resolution Establishinq Guidelines on the Cable Castinq
of City Council Meetinqs
Councilmember Nawrocki felt the resolution was an overreaction
to the Council discussion regarding cable casting of meetings.
He suggested it would not make sense to cable cast some
meetings but there should be some meetings cable cast because
of their importance.
Coancilmember Ruettimann suggested staff look at what would be
practical. He also recommended that the agenda for each board
and commission meeting be put on cable with dates and
locations of the board or commission meeting.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 1994
PAGE 7
The City Manager said he will have the agendas for board and
commission meetings placed on cable right away.
Councilmember Jolly advocates utilizing cable as much as
possible. He suggested that each board and commission be
featured at least one time on cable so residents could become
familiar with who serves and what their charge is.
Motion by Nawrocki, second by Peterson to table this item for
additional information which is to include the opinions of the
persons who serve on the City's boards and commissions about
cable casting in general and an annual cablecast specifically.
Roll call: All ayes
Levy Hearing - Midb]ock Light Improvement (continued)
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Peterson to remove this issue
from the table. Roll call: Ail ayes
The Public Works Director distributed copies of the revised
assessments for the midblock light improvement project. These
figures were for the estimated annual parcel cost and the
assessment cost breakdown.
The previously moved motion is as follows: Motion by
Ruettimann, second by Peterson to call for a Levy Hearing to
adopt the alley midb]ock light, P.I.R. 677, Area 23, Project
9325, Levy Resolution on February 14, 1994 at 7:00 p.m. Roll
call: All ayes
e. Resolution No. 94-04; Authorizinq the Purchase of Various
Residential Properties Located in the Sheffield Neighborhood
A copy of the revised purchase agreement was distributed to
the Council.
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Peterson to waive the reading
of the resolution there being ample copies available for the
public. Roll call: All ayes
Councilmember Nawrocki requested an explanation of the
differences in the revised purchase agreement. The City
Manager gave these explanations noting that most of them were
clarifications.
Councilmember Jolly inquired as to the condition of these two
buildings. He was advised that one is in relatively good
condition and the second needs some work.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY ]0, 1994
PAGE 8
Counci]member Nawrocki again expressed his concern with
acquiring properties without holding a public hearing or
having a plan. He inquired if either property is currently
licensed. The City Manager responded that one is currently
licensed.
Counci]member Ruettimann felt a plan could be developed around
what you have and it is prudent to acquire this property now.
Counci]member Peterson agreed and felt these acquisitions were
an investment in the conmmunity.
Councilmember Nawrocki observed that money to make these
purchases is being borrowed from a fund on a temporary basis
and the Council does not know how the money is going to be
paid back. Counci]member Jolly shared this concern.
The City Manager advised that the owners are anxious to
complete the sale as they cannot keep these properties
indefinite]y. The properties are vacant and are generating no
~ncome. He also felt the City had an advantage in that no
tenants, ]eases nor incumbrances need to be dealt with.
Counc]]member Jolly questioned the possibility of the owners,
Anthony and AGnes Yurkew, keeping the properties and joining
ir: with the p]an for the area. He also wou]d like to see some
of the present owners of property in the area join in the
revitalization of the neighborhood.
RESOI,UTION NO. 94-04
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COI, UME!A
HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA, AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF VARIOUS
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES LOCATED IN THE
SHEFFIELD NEIGHBORHOOD
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights (the
°'City") and the Housing and Redevelopment Authority in and for
the City of Columbia Heights (the "Authority") have been
workin~ jointly to prepare a Redevelopment Plan for the
Sheffield Neighborhood entitled "The Sheffield Neighborhood
Revitalization Pro~ram" (the "Redevelopment Plan"); and
WHEREAS, the City and the Authority have found within the
Sheffield Neighborhood there exists conditions cf
deterioration, substandard residentia] s~ruc~ures, residential
units in need of compulsory repairs which are in violation of
~he City Housing Code and City Ordinances and there exists a
need for intervention by the public sector to prevent further
deterioration of the area; and
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, ]994
PAGE 9
WHEREAS, the City has an option to acquire 2 such non-owner
occupied duplexes located at 4637 - 4639 Fillmore Street and
4613 - 4615 Fillmore Street pursuant to that certain Purchase
Agreement by and between the City of Columbia Heights and
Anthony and Agnes Yurkew (the "Sellers") and the Purchase
Agreement was signed by the Sellers on January 3, 1994, and is
provided herewith; and
WHEREAS, the City and the Authority are working jointly to
finalize a budget and a source of permanent funds to acquire
the real property to be conveyed by the Sellers to the City
according to the terms of the Purchase Agreement:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City
of Columbia Heights that:
l. The City Council hereby approves the terms of the Purchase
Agreement and authorizes the Mayor and City Manager to sign it
on behalf of the City.
2. The City Council hereby authorizes the City Manager to
handle all the requirements and conditions in order for the
City to complete the transaction contemplated in the Purchase
Agreement.
3. The City Council approves an interim source of funding from
Capital Improvement Fund 410 in the amount of $112,000, with
an interfund loan from the Retained Earnings Fund 652, Sewer
Construction Fund, so the City may acquire the real property
as provided in the Purchase Agreement.
4. The City Manager is authorized to work jointly with the
Authority to identify a permanent source of project financing.
5. The Interim Sources will be repaid at such time when
sources of permanent financing for the costs identified in the
Redevelopment Plan have been received by the City.
Passed this 10th day of January, 1994.
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll call:
Ruettimann
Peterson
Nawrocki, Ruettimann, Peterson,
aye
Jolly - abstain
Sturdevant -
Mayor Joseph Sturdevant
Jo-Anne Student, Council Secretary
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY ]0, 1994
PAGE 10
o
COMI~UNiCATIONS
a. P]anninq and Zoninq Commission
Minutes of the January 4, 1994 Planning and Zoning Commission
meeting were inc]uded in the agenda packet. No Council action
was required.
b. Traffic Commission
Minutes of the January 3, 1994 Traffic Commission meeting were
~ncluded in the agenda packet. No Council action was required.
League of Minnesota Cities' 1994 Leqislative Policies
The Council received copies of the ]994 legislative policies
adopted by the membership of the League of Minnesota Cities.
The City Manager felt this information would be an effective
tool and resource when meeting with the City's legislative
delegation.
Counci]member Nawrocki felt that state aid to cities ~s a
priority item for Columbia Heights, He noted tkat the Governor
had wanted to abo]ish this aid which could have beer:
devastating.
Counci]member Jolly inquired if the list of priorities of the
North Metro Mayors' Association (NMMA) was in concert with the
pc,}icies of the League.
T?~e Ci t y Manager respop, ded t ha t t he NMMA~ea' '- ] s more w] +~., ~,
cities w?~o have some characteristics in coramo,~ w?:ereas the
i,eague takes a broader perspective.
d. Notice Fro~ Anoka County on Solid Waste Charq.e
In December the Anoka County Board of Commissioners reduced
the tipping fee at the Elk River Resource Recovery Facility.
This action was taken to compete with out of state landfills.
This reduction immediately impacts on the maintenance of the
waste system. As a result of this action the garbage rates for
Columbia Heights residents wi]] be raised.
Councilmember Ruettimann observed that the Council had worked
very di]igent]y on keeping tax increases quite modest. Now he
feels that the County is mandating a tax which in effect wipes
out any savings to residents which may be ge:]erated by the
reduced tipping fee.
FEGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 1994
PAGE 11
Councilmember Nawrocki explained that a court decision made on
the federal level affected where haulers can take waste.
Counties are responsible for having sites for waste. Anoka
County reduced its tipping fees to be competitive with out of
state landfills. He also noted that the City's contract hauler
has indicated appropriate reductions will be made to
residents.
Councilmember Ruettimann noted that the hauler has not
indicated how much will be returned to residents. He also felt
the County Board should have used some discretion in the
$36.00 charge.
Councilmember Nawrocki felt the County Board was probably in
a time bind as this information had to be printed on the
property tax statements.
Councilmember Ruettimann noted he has a problem with what
appears to the City's residents being penalized by being very
good recyc]ers. He felt the City Council should issue a
statement regarding its ]ack of knowledge of this matter and
the exact dollar amount involved.
The City Manager advised he can provide additional information
regarding recommended fee adjustments after the January 18th
meeting with landlords in the City.
Councilmember Jolly felt the Council should make a statement.
Councilmember Nawrocki observed that with the adverse decision
regarding flow control the City is attempting he does not know
for sure the amount, the County is imposing on the homeowner is
entirely fair.
He also noted that the contract with BFI allows for an
increase if the tipping fee is increased but not for a refund
if it decreases. The City has no right to challenge the dollar
amount returned for the reduction as well as having no way to
verify the funds returned to the hauler.
The Assistant to the City Manager advised that BFI has
indicated it's willingness to amend the contract to allow for
a decrease. She also inquired if the City Council wants its
official position regarding the Board's action brought to the
Commissioner's Meeting on January llth.
Councilmember Ruettimann felt the Council should make some
statement as he views the County's action as one of penalizing
citizens who have done a very good job of recycling.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JA~fUARY 10, 1994
PAGE 12
Councilmember Nawrocki requested that an analysis of the
charges from the County and BFI proposa! be brought back to
the Council. He also asked that the rate structure is
reviewed, the impact of recycling also be reviewed.
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Jolly that the Mayor and City
Manager present a letter to the Anoka County Board of
Commissioners stating the City Council concerns which include
how residents have been effected for good recycling and that
the residents should not be assessed any more than the hauler.
Roil call: Ail ayes
OLD BUSINESS
a. Close Out of Special Accounting Funds
The Ci t y Manager resp¢.nded to a previous quest ion of
CouncJ ]member Nawrock i's regarding reserves for Parkview
Vi]ia. ~e advised that the F~RA E>:ecutive Director noted t?~ere
]sa separate account with a total of $]92,000 for a reserve
fund to be used for work done on Parkview Vi lis. This fund was
created in ]992 by the HRA and has retained the fund reserve
Motion by Nawrocki, second by Peterson to close out Fund 404,
Senior Housing Project, and transfer the balance to Fund 376,
Tax Increment Debt Service. Roll call: Alt ayes
b. City Attorney Opinion Re~arding Proposed Charter Chanq~
Councilmember Nawrocki had previously inquired why the C~ty
Attorney bad changed the position taken by his office
regarding the proposed charter change relative to Initiative
and Referendum.
The City Attorney explained that the opinion was drafted by
another attorney and it was incorrect.
c. Comments Relative to Adoption of 1994 Budqet
Councilmember Nawrocki wanted the record to reflect that the
comments he made at the December 8th Special Council Meeting
relative to the adoption of the budget was not
"grandstanding."
Ne noted that it had been ar: election issue for him and he
supported no tax increases feeling it was not necessary to
increase taxes but. to reduce expenditures.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 1994
PAGE 13
He made several motions to eliminate items from the budget
which would have resulted in no increases in taxes. They all
failed to gain a second. He does not apologize for offering
these motions. He also noted that decisions are not made in
work sessions.
¢. CORE Commission Report
Councilmember Nawrocki distributed copies of a study
commissioned by the State and compiled by the CORE Commission.
The study was to look at reform and efficiency in government
with specific emphasis on the cost of municipal services.
The survey for the report was sent out t6 over 200
communities. Columbia Heights did not complete the survey and
was not included in the study.
Six areas of local government and their services were focused
on. Co]umbia Heights appears to be spending generally above
what is necessary for basic services in five of the six areas.
Councilmember Nawrocki felt the important issue is whether the
service supplied to the residents is being done as cost-
effectively as possible. He suggested the report should serve
as a call to re-look how City revenue is being spent.
Councilmember Ruettimann observed that it is difficult to
compare services rendered as many of the services come from
different sources. He did not fee] there was an accurate
"apples to apples" comparison in the report.
9. NEW BUSINESS
a. Private Storm Sewer Easement - Industrial Steel
Councilmember Nawrocki questioned the wisdom of granting an
easement which may restrict future development, particularly
without any compensation. He understood it would be more cost-
effective for the builder to go across City property but it
does restrict future use.
The City Manager reviewed the reason for the request and is of
the opinion that it will have minimal impact on the future use
of the ]and. He felt this was an efficient way to resolve the
situation.
Counci]member Nawrocki disagreed and stated that the original
intent in acquiring the property was for industrial
development and this easement may represent a serious
disadvantage for the future use of the property.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 1994
PAGE 14
10.
The Public Works Director advised that the owner of Industrial
Steel will have a private storm line which he will have to
maintain and clean. It is also anticipated that the owners of
the envelope company will not want this pipe emptying onto
their property and it will have to be relocated.
Motion by Jolly, second by Peterson to authorize the Mayor and
City Manager to grant a private storm sewer easment on the
property at 500 38th Avenue N.E. to Steven G. Jonak. Roll
call: Jolly, Peterson, Sturdevant - aye Nawrocki - nay
Ruettimann - abstain
The City Manager wi]] contact Mr. Jonak regarding
compensation.
b. December's Financial Report
Councilmember Nawrocki noted in the December financial report
property tax revenue is less than what was budgeted. The City
Manager advised this wi]] always be the case because of
delinquencies.
Councilmember Nawrocki also noted that full credit of proceeds
was given to the Library. He questioned why the Library did
not share the decreases like all of the other departments. He
recalled that the Library wanted to have a separate fund but
when it comes to being treated like a separate fund it is not.
Councilmember Nawrocki inquired as to the Liquor Operation
profitability. He was advised the profits are down.
c. Legal Service Bills
Councilmember Nawrocki has observed that there has been no
good way to audit the legal bills. Me has received information
on a compan~ who examines legal bills and makes
recommendations. Me will pass on this company's name for the
City Manager to evaluate.
REPORTS
a. Report of the City Manaqer
The City Manager's report was submitted in written form and
the following items were discussed:
C.D.B.G. Funding: The City Manager suggested these requests
for funding from C.D.B.G. monies be on the January lSth
Council work session for review.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 1994
PAGE 15
December 9th Anoka County Court Arraignments: A resident had
inquired why no City attorney had been present at four court
appearances on December 9th which pertained to the City. The
City Manager will advise this resident these appearances were
for arraignments and prosecutors do not appear at
arraignments.
City Manaqer's Secretary Appointment: The City Manager has
appointed Carole Blowers to serve in the position of City
Manager's Secretary.
Status of Stauch Property Acquisitions: All of the thirteen
purchases have been completed.
Award of Financial Reporting Achievement: Councilmember
Ruettimann mentioned the recognition the City received from
the GFOA. He noted that this award was earned by the efforts
of the Finance Director, Assistant Finance Director and the
Finance Department staff and they should be commended.
Councilmember Nawrocki felt the recognition was somewhat se]f-
serving as the organization sets up its own standards. He
questioned what this really did to inform residents on the
financial status of the City.
The City Manager noted this recognition does enhance the City
in the market for its capabilities for a rating.
Heiqhts Pride Committee Meetingt Counci]member Nawrocki
attended the recent meeting of the Heights Pride Committee.
The focus of this committee is a month long series of
activities which will commence on Arbor Day, April 30th and
end with a community picnic on May 22nd. Some of the
activities will include a clean-up of areas in the City,
individual property owners clean-up, beautification of certain
areas in the City and other uses of volunteers.
The Committee is requesting the City Council to concur with
its mission. Also of concern to the Committee is insurance
coverage for programs which relate to the use of volunteers.
It is the Committee's hope that the City has an insurance
umbrella which will cover these activities.
The City Manager will discuss this matter with the City's
Volunteer Coordinator.
b. Report of the City Attorney
The City Attorney had nothing to report at this time.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 10, 1994
PAGE ! 6
LICENSE APPLICATIONS
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Peterson to approve the
license applications as lis%ed upon payment of the proper
fees. Roll call: All ayes
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Nawrocki
meeting at ]0:05 p.m. Roll call: All ayes
to adjourn the
Mayor Joseph Sturdevant
Jo-Anne Student, Counci! Secretary
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
DATE:
MAYOR, COUNCILMEMBERS & CITY MANAGER
COUNCIL SECRETARY
CORRECTED/AMENDED MINUTES
JANUARY 19, 1994
Attached are the corrected minutes for the December 8, 1993
Special Council Meeting and the additions made to the minutes
for the December 27, 1993 Regular Council Meeting.
The corrections to the December 8th meeting are highlighted
and underlined.
The additions made to the December 27th meeting are
highlighted and include the additions to the City Manager's
~v]auation regarding inclusion of the prepared statement of
Councilmember Nawrocki.
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 1993
The Special Council Meeting was called to order at 8:]0 p.m. by
Mayor Murzyn.
o
ROLL CALL
Nawrocki, Clerkin, Ruettimann, Peterson, Murzyn - present
o
PURPOSE OF MEETING
To consider adoption of the 1994 budget and establish tax
levies.
Councilmember Nawrocki questioned why this meeting was not
being cablecast. He felt it would have been appropriate as the
topic for discussion was important.
The City Manager responded that he had received indications
from only one member of the Council that cab]ecasting was
desirable.
Councilmember Ruettimann recalled that the budget meetings had
never been cab]ecast and observed there were very few people
in attendance at this meeting.
CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION
The City Manager referred to other handout information
distributed at this meeting. They were a summary of changes in
the fund balances, cash balances in major funds as of October
31, 1993, the packet from the first tax hearing, and a list of
six position changes being proposed for 1993/1994 with
associated costs. The positions are the Volunteer Coordinator
position, a datl processing position, a fire part time housing
clerk, election judges (no additionaI positions added), a
recreation coordinator and a full time maintenance position at
Murzyn Mall.
Councilmember Nawrocki noted that Anoka County held the line
on taxes and the School Board taxes decreased. He supports
there being no increase in City taxes. To accomplish this, he
recommends there be no additional personnel.
Motion by Nawrocki that the Volunteer Coordinator position be
dropped from the budget. Motion dies for lack of a second.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 1993
PAGE 2
Motion by Nawrocki to drop the data processor position. Motion
dies for lack of a second.
Motion by Nawrocki to not add hours to the Fire Department
budget for a part time housing clerk position. Motion dies for
]ack of a second.
Motion by Nawrocki to not increase the work hours of the
Recreation Coordinator to make a full time position. Motion
dies for lack of a second.
Councilmember Nawrocki inquired what the source of funding
will be for 1994 for the Volunteer Firefighters. The City
Manager advised he intends to go to the Legislature to
authorize funding. If this is not authorized he would propose
using funds from the General Fund reserves or levy for the
funding.
Councilmember Nawrocki inquired what the costs have been for
the Recreation Department and Community Education since the
the Department was split. Councilmember Ruettimann noted the
costs have increased. The City Manager will provide this
information.
Motion by Nawrocki to remove the $20,000 budgeted
carpeting. Motion dies for lack of a second.
for
Motion by Nawrocki to remove $10,000 budgeted in the building
and improvements of streets. Motion dies for lack of a second.
It was noted that the $10,000 for a picnic shelter at Silver
Lake Beach had already been removed from the proposed budget.
Motion by Nawrocki to remove $240,000 for the Mill Street
project. He noted this funding will be from State Aid funds
but it was still taxpayers' money. He also felt the street
could be improved for much less money.
Councilmember Ruettimann observed that if Columbia Heights
doesn't use all of its State Aid money it will go back to the
State and be used by some other entity.
Motion by Nawrocki to eliminate from the budget $25,000 for a
microfilm reader/printer. Motion dies for lack of a second.
Motion by Nawrocki to eliminate from the budget $9,000 for a
compact car for the Engineering Department.. Motion dies for
lack of a second.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 1993
PAGE 3
o
Motion by Nawrocki to remove $75,000 from the Street
Department budget for a Ford F750 dump truck. Motion dies for
lack of a second.
It was noted that the GMC Sierra Crew Cab for the Park
Department and the phone generator had already been removed
from the budget.
Motion by Nawrocki to remove $20,000 for carpeting and tile at
Liquor Store #1 from the budget. Motion dies for lack of a
second.
Notion by Nawrocki to remove the $]0,000 for sealing and
repair of the Central Garage floor from the budget. Motion
dies for lack of a second.
Councilmember Nawrocki felt the proposed increases are not
justified nor needed. He also noted that no provisions have
been made for the possible loss of LGA and HACA funds.
Councilmember Clerkin inquired what the decreases have been in
]~q,~or operation profits from ]992 to 1993. The Finance
Director responded there has been approximate}y a $]00,000
decrease but there has always been a profit realized in the
Liquor Fund.
The City Manager advised that department heads' projections of
replacement needs for three years are fairly close to what is
actually being needed. This type of planning is believed to be
very good.
Councilmember Nawrocki noted that a priority for residents is
the Sheffield Neighborhood and there is currently no budget
planned for this.
COUNCIL ACTIONS
a. Housing and Redevelopment Authority 1994 Budget and Tax
Levy.
Motion by Murzyn, second by Peterson to receive and file the
City of Columbia Heights' Housing and Redevelopment Authority
proposed 1994 budget and tax levy providing that the tax levy
of $71,040 is used exclusively for the Sheffield Area. Roll
call: All ayes
b. Resolution No. 93-64~ Being a Resolution Adopting 1994
Budget and Tax Lev~
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 1993
PAGE 4
Councilmember Ruettimann noted that the City Council did not
allow for $131,000 increase in salaries in 1994. He felt this
was regressive. He also stated that the Council should not
continue to draw down on its reserves.
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Murzyn to remove the following
items and associated costs from the City Council's portion of
the budget:
Training and educational activities - $1,925
Local travel expense - $600
Out of state travel - $2,000
League of Minnesota Cities dues - $8,950
Association of Metropolitan Municipalities dues - $5,000
Suburban Rate Authority dues - $2,000
City Council Contingencies - $]5,000
for a total of $35,475 reduction in the $85,000 proposed
increase and to earmark the $50,000 remaining to hire a police
officer in the first two months of next year to work in the
Sheffield Neighborhood or whatever area is designated by the
Po]ice Department.
Mayor Murzyn suggested that the police officer position could
be designated to work in conjunction with the Anoka County
Drug Task Force.
The City Manager suggested that adding a police officer at
this time may not be warranted. An application has been
submitted to the federal government for funding for one more
police officer. The results of this application may not be
known for six months. He also suggested there is considerable
benefit realized from the City's association with the LMC and
the AMM.
Councilmember Nawrocki advised there has been considerable
economic benefit realized by residents through the City's
participation in the Suburban Rate Authority..
Councilmember Ruettimann removed the elimination of dues paid
to the LMC, the AMM and the SRA from his motion leaving a
total of $19,525.
Councilmember Ruettimann, with Mayor Murzyn's concurrence,
withdrew his motion.
Councilmember Ruettimann proposed adopting the budget as
presented with the proposed $85,000 levy with $50,000 to be
designated to the City Council's Contingency Fund to be used
for the potential hiring of an additional police officer and
the remainin~ $35,000 would .be used to reduce the fund
contributions.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 1993
PAGE 5
Counci]member Nawrocki noted that a commitment bas been made
for partial funding with regard to the grant application.
The City Manager stated that twenty-five percent of the
funding, which is about $50,000 over a two year period, was
the commitment.
Councilmember Nawrocki felt that if the grant was not approved
this funding could be designated for another officer.
Counci]member Ruettimann noted the fund source was the Genera]
Fund.
Resolution No. 93-64; Beinq a Resolution Adopting Budget and
Setting Tax Levy Collectable for the Year ]994
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Murzyn to waive the reading of
the resolution there being ample copies available for the
public. Roll ca]]: All ayes
Counci]member Ru~ttimann re-stated that the change is adding
$50,000 to the City Council contingencies to hire a police
officer.
Mc, ticm by RuettJmann, second by Hurnyn to adopt Resolution
93-64.
b?,tion to amend by Nawrocki that a priority item for 1994 is
to have staff review legal costs to the city and suggest ways
to reduce legal costs. Motion to amend dies for lack of a
second.
Councilmember Peterson felt this staff directive shou]d be
made by the City Council next year. Councilmember Ruettimann,
maker of the motion did not accept the amendment but stated he
would support this idea next year. The seconder of the motion
also did not accept the motion to amend.
RESOLUTION NO. 93-64
BEING A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A BUDGET FOR THE YEAR 1994 AND
SETTING A TAX LEVY COLLECTABLE FOR THE YEAR 1994
BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of
Columbia Heigts as follows:
Section A. The budget for the City of Columbia Heights for the
year 1994 is hereby approved and adopted with appropriations
for each of the funds as follows:
COUNCIL MEETIN~
DECEMBER 8, 1993
PAGE 6
.Expense
General Fund
Para Transit Fund
State Aid
Cable Television Fund
Library
Dare Project
Community Police
Project Pride
Capital Improvements Fund
Infrastructure Fund
Capital Equipment Replacement Funds:
General Fund
Water Fund
Sewer Fund
Central Garage Fund
Central Garage Fund
Liquor Fund
Water Utility Fund
Sewer Utility Fund
Refuse Fund
Water & Sewer Construction Funds
Energy Management
Data Processing
Debt Service Fund
Total Expense including
Interfund Transfers
6,756,905
177,971
56,867
182,026
425,407
4,965
48,027
959
401,550
0
0
641,310
1,540
910
0
341,04]
7,374.430
1,190,612
1,172,502
1,521,568
226,000
267,399
77,714
16,642,547
37,512,250
Section B. The estimated gross revenue to fund the budget of
ihe City of Columbia Heights for all funds, including general
ad valorem tax levies as hereinafter set forth for the year
1994.
Revenue Available
General Fund
Para Transit Fund
State Aid
Cable Television Fund
Library
Dare Project
Community Police
Project Pride
Capital Improvements Fund
Infrastructure Fund
Capital Equipment Replacement Funds:
Genera] Fund
Water Fund
Sewer Fund
6,756,905
177,971
56,867
182,026
425,407
4,965
48,027
959
401,550
0
641,310
1,540
910
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
DECEI~BE~ $, 1993
PAGE 7
Centra] Garage Fund
Central Garage Fund
Liquor Fund
Water Utility Fund
Sewer Utility Fund
Refuse Fund
Water & Sewer Construction Funds
Energy Management
Data Processing
Debt Service Fund
Total Revenue Including
Interfund Transfers
0
341 041
7,374 430
1,190 612
],172 502
1,52I 568
226 000
267 399
77
16,642 547
37,512,250
Sectior~ C: The fo]lowing sums of money are levied for the
current year, co]]ectab}e in ]994, upon the taxable property
iH said City of Columbia Heights, for the fol]owin~ purposes:
Genera] Fund 3,614,078
Bond & Interes~ 0
Total
Less H.A.CoA.
Less Equalization Aid
3,614,075
964,991
65,388
Certified Levy
2,583,699
The City Clerk is hereby instructed to transmit a certified
copy of this resolution to the County Auditor of Anoka County,
Minnesota.
Passed this 8t~ day of December, 1993.
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll call:
Ruettimann
Murzyn
Clerkin, Ruettimann, Peterson, Murzyn - aye
Nawrocki - nay
Mayor Donald J. Murzyn, Jr.
Jo-Anne Student, Council Secretary
~PECIAL COUNCIL MEETIN~
DECEMBER 8, 1993
PAGE 8
Councilmember Nawrocki indicated he could not support the
budaet because of the tax increase included in the budget and
is feeling there should not be an increase at this time.
6. ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Ruettimann, second by Murzyn to adjourn the~Special
Council Meeting at 10:35 p.m. Roll call: All ayes
Mayor Donald J. Murzyn, Jr.
Jo-Anne Student, Council Secretary
.D. EGU'LAR COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 27, 1993
PAGE 7
He felt requesting this information each year shou]d not be
necessary if there have been no changes. He had sent a letter
some time in the past suggesting how to set up a data base to
address this information gathering.
Rol] ca]]: All ayes
d. Resolution Changing Name of Southwest Park
Counci]member Nawrocki inquired if this matter had been
brought before the Park and Recreation Commission for its
consideration. He also felt it should be discussed at a
neighborhood meeting for comment.
The request was made to the Mayor and City Manager by the
Sister City Committee. A representative of the Committee
stated she had been ]ed to be}ieve all that was necessary to
change the name had been done.
Motion by Nawroc:ki, second by Ruettimann to refer this matter
~o the Park and Recreation Commission and to hold an informal
meetinu with ares neighbors for comJnents. Roll call: All ayes
CC, M M UN I CAT I ON S
Notification on iRO Rating Protection Class
iFO Commercia! ~isk Services, Inc. surveyed the City's water
system and the Fire Depariment. As of March 1, ]994,
City's rating will change to Class 4.
A memo from the Fire Chief explained the affect this change
will have on City properties. No council action was required.
b. City Manager's Evaluation
Councilmember Nawrocki prepared a statement addresssing the
City Manager's performance evaluation after six and twelve
months of employment specifically regarding compensation
adjustments. The statement is as follows and was read by Mayor
Murzyn:
Resolution No. 93-11 setting forth conditions of employment
for Patrick Rentges as City Manager, called for performance
evaluations after six and twelve months of employment, with
consideration of possible compensation adjustments. The C~ty
Council and Manager did perform the six month's evaluation at
a work session on Monday, December 20th, as an item of
business on the agenda, as per the posted notice for the work
session.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 27, 1993
PAGE 8
The review discussed various aspects of the City Manager's
performance. While no formal actions were taken, Genera]
comments of the Councilmembers were that the City Manager has
performed well for his first six months with the City,
particularly considering the heavy workload he faced.
No compensation adjustments were considered, and it is
expected that such considerations will be part of the first
year performance review for the City Manager.
OLD BUSINESS
a. City Attorney's Opinion on Charter Change
The City Manager is waiting for the City
explaination on the reversal of his original
regarding a proposed charter change.
Attorney's
position
NEW BUSINESS
a. Authorization to Seek Bids for LaBelle Pond Restoration
Motion by NawrockJ, second by Clerkin to authorize staff to
seek bids for the LaBe]]e Pond Restoration, Pro~ect #9312.
Roll call: All ayes
b. Final Payment for Municipal Project #9300 (1993
CouncJlmember Nawrocki noted tha~ there was question whether
the reco~]'~ended source of funding f~ad enough remaining funds
to make this payment. He suggested additional language for the
motion.
Motion by Murzy~, second by Peterson to accept the work for
Municipal Project #9300 (1993 Miscellaneous Concrete) and to
authorize final payment of $6,075.25 to Advanced Concrete,
Inc. of Burnsville, Mn. from Fund 401-59300-5300 subject to
said fund having the money to make the payment. Roll call: All
ayes
c. Close Out of Special Accounting Funds
Councilmember Nawrocki felt that some of these funds being
closed out should have been part of the budgeting process. He
specifically identified the funds which should have been
transferred as the Clean-Up Fund, Senior Housing Fund, and
Capital Improvement Fund.
CITY COUNCIL LETTER
Meetin§ of : January 24, 1994
AGENDA SECTION: PRESENTATION ORIGINATING DEPT.: CITY MANAGER
NO: 5 CITY MANAGER'S APPROVAL
ITEM: PRESENTATION OF SOLID WASTE BY: V. Gifford
NO: TIPPING FEES
5A DATE: January 21, 1994
At the January 11, 1994, Anoka County Board meeting, the Commissioners
considered and passed Ordinance $94-1, pertaining to the Solid Waste
Management Charge. The Commissioners received the letter from the City of
Columbia Heights protesting the charge and it was entered into the record.
The Ordinance is attached as background information.
Anoka County Commissioner, Jim Kordiak, will attend the Janaury 24th
Columbia Heights City Council meeting to discuss the fee.
COUNCIL ACTION:
CHILD SUPPORT ID:612-$23-6050 JAN 14'g4
I I II III ....
ORDINANCE II94-.1
10:26 No.O02 P.02
COUNTY OF ANOKA
Anoke County, MlnneeMa
ANOKA ~OUNTY BOUD WABTE MANAGEMENT CHARGE ORDINANCE
The Anolm County BoArd of Commlsslonem doe. ordain:
1.01
PurDoeg. The purpose of this ordinance Is to establish solid waste management charges to
fund environmental progrm,ns which protest the hearth and welfare of Anoka County citizens
pursuant to State mandates governing solid wute management. The ordinance Includes: the
establishment of solid waste management charges for the County of Anoka, procedures for
letting and modifying the amounts of the Iolid waste management chargel, payment and
collection mothodl, and est~bllihmant of an appeall proce~.
1.02 Authorltv. This ordinance Is adopted pursuant to Minn. 8t~t. §§ 375,51, 400.08, and
473.811,
2.00 DEPINmON~
2.01
Deflnt~lpne. For the purpose of this ordinance, the terms defined In this section shall have
meanings ~en them, unless the context clearly Indicates otherwise.
"County Administrator" Is the person appointed as county administrator for Anoka
County or his or her designee.
"County Assessor' is the person appointed to the office of the county assessor for
Anoka County.
"County Auditor' is the person elected or appointed to the office of the county
auditor for Anoka County.
D. "County Board' Is the Anoka County Bom'd of Commissioners.
· Dwelling Unit" Is a single unit of housing, whether freestanding or within & building
containing other dwelling units, providing Independent, living faollifles for one or more
persons, Including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and
sanitation.
"Non-Realdenfls] Property' Is all Improved real property In Anoka County containing
Improvement~ other than a dwelling unlt and cluslfled by the county assessor ~m
commercial, Industrial, numlng home, service ~tatlon, utility, railroad or tax exempt
property.
"Ordlnlnce" Is Anoka County Ordinance 94-1, Solid Waste Management Charge
Ordinance, &s amended from time to time.
'Pemon' Includes, but Is not limited to: an Individual, bueiness, public or private
corporation, partnership, Joint venture, usoclatlon, trust, unincorporated u.ociation,
government or agency or political subdivision thereof, any other legal entity, and any
receiver, trustee, a~slgnos, agent, or other legal representative of any of the foregoing.
'Residential Properb/' is ail improved real property in Anoka County that contains
one or more dwelling unite or mobile home pads.
"Solid Walta Management Charge" or 'Solid Welte Management Chargee' are
the ohs:gee established by the County Board, payable by persons who own Improved
real property in Anoka County for solid waste management services available to the
property,
"Solid Wa~ta Management Services" Include ali activltle$ provided by the county or
by parsons under contact with the county which support the county's solid waste
management programs and responsibilities, described In Minnesota Statutes §§
115A.01 etaeq, and 400.08 and chapter 473, Including but not limited to rec'yoling and
waste reduction services, collection, processing and dWposal of Iolld waste, closure
and post~losure care of a solid waste facility, and response to releases from a solid
wests f~olllty or closed solid waste facility,
IIII ,. - .... III _ __ II III
CHILD SUPPORT ID :612-323-6050
ORDINANCE
Page 2
a.00 GENERAL PROVISIONS
JAN 14'94 10:27 No.O02 P.03
a.0/---~dmln,lattatlo.~...Thl~_ordl~.ence shall be qdmlrdMered by the Anoka County Public Services
Division, with the assistance of the Anoka County Property Records and Taxation Division.
Admlnletratlv_e Pro_ctdureq. The provislon~ of the Anoka County Administrative Procedures
Ordinance, Ordinance No. 70-I, as amended from time to time, shall not apply to this
ordinance.
4.00
4.01
SCUD WASTE MANAGEMENT CHARGE - ESTABLISHMENT AND AMOUNT~
Eet!bllehment of Solid Waste Meneaement.Gheroe. The county hereby Imposes solid
waste management charges on pemoM who own Improved real property In Anoka County.
The solid waste management charges shall be for solid waste management aervlces available
to the property. The owner of the property shall be responsible for payment of the Iolid waste
management charge knpo~ed In the manner eat forth by the County Board.
Rates for So!Id Wa!te_Mineoement Charatt. The solid waste management charges
payable In 11194 and In each sutmequent year, unless revised by resolution of the County
Board, shall be as follows:
Amounts for. Residential Prooertle.=, Owner~ of r~idential property shall pay solid
waste management charges for each dwelling unit and each mobile home pad Io~ated
on the residential property. The solid waste management charges for residential
properties ara as follows:
Cateootv I Realdenc..es~, The solid waste management charge shall be $36,09
for each dwelling unit within single family home~, townhousas, condominiums,
duplexes, double bungalows, triplexes, quad homes, seasonal recreational
property, and other residential property with one to three dwelling units,
Cateoow I! Residences. The solid waste management charge for property
classified by the county assessor as a mobile home park shall be $28.87 for
each mobile home pad,
_Cate,ow III Resldenpel~. The solid waste management charge for property
olasslfled by the county assessor as an apartment with four or more. dwelling
units shall be $23,46 for each dwelling unit,
Amounts for Non:Rpsldentlal Prooertle_a=
Owners of rasJ property shall pay m solid waste management charge for each parcel
of non-rasldentleJ property. The solid waste management charges for non-residential
properties are as follows:
Cateoory_l.No_n-Resldentlal Prooerty. The solid waste management charge
shall be $79.97 for each parcel with an estimated market value of $25,000 but
less than $200,001, excluding the estimated market value of the land, as
determined by the county useseor,
_~lteoorv II Non-Residential property. The solid waste management charge
shall be $269.72 for each paroel with an estimated market value of $200,001
but lees than $500,001, exeludlng the estimated market value of the land, as
determined by the county assessor,
.C, ate<3ory_ll_l Non-Residential P~p_erty. The solid waste management charge
shall be $$84.21 for each parcel with an estimated market valUe of $500,001
but less than $1,000,001, excluding the estimated market value of the land, as
determined by the county assessor.
Cetecmrv IV Non-Re~ldentialP..roperty, The solid waste management charge
shall be $2,047.71 for each pan=at with an estimated market value of
$1,000,001 or more, excluding the estimated market value of the land, a~
determined by the county assessor.
8Diet Clualficetlons. The owner of a parcel of read property Classified as both
residential and non.residential property shall pay solid waste management charges
pursuant to both Subdivisions A and B.
CHILD SUPPORT ID:612-$25-6050 JAN 14'94 10:28 No.O02 P.04
! I II
ORDINANCE #94-1
Page 3
4.0:3
Procedure for Revising ~he Solid Ws~te Msnsnement Ch.me. The County Bored may
revise by r~olution the solid waste m,~.n~gement charges following a public hearing, ~1 shall
state the effective date for the enactmeqt of the ,qvWed solid wute management charges,
~UD WA~T~ MANAGEMENT CHARGE- BILLING AND COLLECTION
6.01
~911setlon. The county shall bill the solid waste management charges on the
county property tax statements u a separate Item and shall be due, payable, and collected
in the ume manner as real property taxas end subject to the ease pemdtles end Interest as
overdue reid property taxes,
5,02 Unoald theresa.' The county may recover amounts due underthla ordinance in any manner
authorized by law, Including but not limited to the following:
Certiflc.~tion to__Gountv ^udltor, On or before October 15 of each year, the county
board may certify to the county ~dltor,dl unpidd out~tanding solid wute management
charges, and a description of the lends against which the solid waste management
charges aro~e. It shall be the duty of the county auditor, upon order of the county
board, to extend the assessments, with Interest not to exceed the Interest rate
provided for In Minnesota Statutes 1 27g.C)3, Subd. 1, upon the tax rolls of the county
for the taxes of the year In which the assessment is filed. For each year ending
October 15, the assessment with Interest shall be carried Into the tax becoming due
and payable In January of the following yeor, and shall be enforced and collected in
the m~nner provided for the enforcement and collection of real property taxes In
~cord~nce with the prov]Blonl of the laws of the State, The charges, If not pidd, shall
become delinquent and be subject to the same penalties end the same rate of Interest
u the taxes under the general law~ of the 8tats,
CIvil A~ion. in addition to each and every other remedy available to the county,
unpeld solid waste management chm'ges, penalties, end Interest may be recovered
in a civil action In the name of ~e county,
~ecoyerv of Costs, The county may recover costs, Including attorney fees, staff and
other related costs, Incurred to enforce compliance wlth the provisions of thW
ordinance.
8.01
APPEALS
Admlnll~tr~It!ve A~_ees~. A person who owns real property may appeal the amount of the
solid waste management charges billed by the county by subml~ng a written request to the
county administrator for ~d]ustment before May 15 of the year In which the solid waste
management charges are payable. Submission of a request for an appeal ehidl not relieve
· property owner of the duty to pay the solid waste management charge by the due date.
Procedures -nd Crlteri.a..for .Adluetment of Solid Weete_M~nsglement Char. gap. The
county may, from time to time, adjust the amount of solid waste management charges In
accordance with procedures and criteria e~tal)lished by the county board by resolution.
7,01
SEVERABIUTY
~eversb!~ltv. It Is hereby declared to, be the intention of the Anoka County Bom'd of
Commissioners that the provisions of this ordinance are separable in accordance with the
following:
V~lldity...of Provisions. If any court of competent Jurisdiction shell rule that any
provision of this ordinance Is Invidld, other provisions not speclfloidly Included in said
Judgment shall not be affected.
As~DIIoatlon .to Particular Per, on or Prose?b/. If any court of competent Jurisdiction shall
rule that the application of any provision of thl~ ordinance ia Invidld to a particular
PeaCh or property, such Judgment shall not affect the application of sidd provision to
any other per, on or property not specifically Included In the Judgment.
ORDINANCE
Page 4
S.O0 J~IOVIEIONS ARE (~UMUI~TIVE
1.01
Provisions Are Cumuletlvl. Th~ provlaiorm In this ordlnence we cumulative .~ncl ire
· ddltion~l Ilmltation~ upon ill other lows end ordinances oovering any aubJeot matter In this
ordinan~.
~.00 EFFEC ,TlrE
9.01 ~.~L~. This ordinance shall be In full fores end effect upon passage by the county
board.
Passed by the Board of County Commisaionem of Anoka Oounty this 11th day of January, 1994.
s;A; O/' B/ kL SO;, ) ss "" ' - ""
COUNTIf OF ANOKA )
I, John "Jay" McUnden, County Administrator, Anoki County, Minnesota, hereby cerlJfy that
I hive oompared the foregoing copy of the minutel of the County Board of laid County web the
origlnaJ record thereof on file In the Administration Office, Anoka County, Minnelota, ii stated In the
minutes of the prooeedings of Mid County Board at i meeting duly held on January 11, 1994,
that the lime il i true and correct copy of said or~glnai reoord and of the whole thereof, and that said
Motion wa* duly paued by said Board at said meeting,
VVltnes. my hand and seal this 11th day of danumT, 1994.
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
Public Works DeparUnent
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
DATE:
PATRICK HENTGES
CITY MANAGER
KATHY YOUNG ~Ox
ASSISTANT CITY ENGINEER
MEDTRONIC GRANT
JANUARY 21, 1994
The Medtronic Foundation, represented by Ms. Dan'flu Lindholm, is presenting a $4,oo0 grant
to the City of Columbia Heights. The grant is to purchase supplies for the City-wide Catch Basin
Stenciling Program. The actual stenciling will be done by volunteers. The stenciling program
will begin in May, coinciding with the "Month of Caring".
The total estimated cost of purchasing supplies for the Catch Basin Stenciling Program is $8,820.
A grant request for all or part of this amount was presented to Medtronic in November.
The Medtronic Foundation was very impressed that the City had both a Senior Citizen and
Volunteer Coordinator.
KKY:jb
94-053
CITY COUNCIL LETTER
Meeting of: January 24, 1994
AGENDA SECTION: ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS ORIGINATING DEPT.: CITY MANAGER
NO: 6 CITY MANAGER' S APPROVAL
--
The public hearing of December 13, 1993, held to receive comments from staff and the public
regarding the rates established for basic cable service and all equipment required to receive
basic cable service for Columbia Heights and Hilltop was continued to January 24, 1994.
Information requested from the cable company has only been partially received, and thus, final
analysis of the rate information by City staff, the City's cable attorney, and the accountant
has not been completed. Thus, staff is recommending that the public hearing be continued to
Monday, February 28, 1994, at 7:00 P.M.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to continue the public hearing regarding the rates established for
basic cable service and all equipment required to receive basic cable service for Columbia
Heights and Hilltop to February 28, 1994.
COUNCIL ACTION
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
Meetinq of: January 24, 1994
AGENDA SECTION: PUBLIC HEARINGS ORIGINATING DEPT.: HRA CITY MANAGER
~PROV/~
ITEM: FISCAL YEAR 1994 COMMUNITY BY: DON SCHNEIDER B~
DEVELOPI~NT BLOCK GR3d~IT PROGR/~ DAT..~I: ~/~IUARY 20~/ 1994
Annually the City is allocated federal Community DE ~nt Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement
funds through the Anoka County CDBG Entitlement PrOgram. Approximately $250,000 to
$280,000 are expected to be allocated to the City of Columbia Heights for Fiscal Year 1994.
The exact amount is not known yet but is expected to be similar to the FY1993 amount of
$255,644.
A proposed program for the use of the funds has been prepared based on City Council work-
sessions and HRA Commissioners meetings input. The HRA Commissioners have reviewed and
recommended City Council approval of the proposed program (attached as Exhibit "A").
Prior to City Council approval of a program for the use of the FY1994 CDBG funds, a public
hearing must be held and any other public input must be heard and considered. As per City
Council approval, a hearing has been scheduled for January 24 at approximately 7:15 p.m.
A copy of the official published notice in regard to the scheduled public hearing is
attached a Appendix "B". Also attached are a copy of the "Current CDBG/HOME Program
Status" (Appendix "C"), information on 1989 thru 1993 Public Service grants(Appendix "D"),
a copy of the Anoka County 1994 CDBG Work Schedule (Appendix "E"), and a copy of a portion
of the FY1994 CDBG Application(Appendix "F").
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Conduct public hearing and approve 1994 CDBG Program and preparation
and submission of formal application to Anoka County.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to approve the following schedule as the 1994 Commuity
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program for the City of Columbia Heights with the HRA
Executive Director authorized to prepare and submit the formal application for such funds:
PROJECTS TO BE FUNDED WITH FY1994 CDBG GRANT FUNDS.
A. Neighborhood Revitalization with Priority
Use of Funds in Sheffield Neighborhood
$140,000 to $160,000
Housing Rehabilitation with Priority
Use of Funds in Sheffield Neighborhood
93,890* to 102,890'*
C. Public Service Grants 17,110 to 17,110
1. Senior Outreach Program for Col. Hts. - $11,030
(Anoka County Community Action Program)
2. Alexandra House ($3,000 if SACA is not - 1,500
funded)
3. Hot Meals for Shut-Ins (Meals on Wheels) - 3,080
for Columbia Heights
4. Southern Anoka Community Assistance, Inc.- 1,500
(to fund SACA, one or all of the other Public Service
grants should be reduced)
to
D. TOTAL ~251r000 ~280r000
If funding is less than $251,000, the amount reduced would be taken off the
amount for Housing Rehabilitation.
If funding is more than $280,000 the additional amount would be added to the
amount for Housing Rehabilitation.
Includes approximately $30,000 to $35,000 for Columbia Height's share
of the County-wide CDBG/HOME Program allocation for housing rehabilitation.
COUNCIL ACTION:
Housing & Redevelopment Authority
of Columbia Heights
Comml#ioner~
Euael~ Hetn~z
Pall~cle Jlndm
Richard Due~ln
Dm~id d. Mur~n. Jr.
590 N.E. 40th Avenue, Columbia Heights, MN 55421
Fax: (612) 782-2857. (612) 782-2854
PROPOSED
1994 COI~UNZTY DEVELOPHENT BLOCK GR~,NT (CDBG) PROGR~
FOR
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
FISCAL YEAR (FY) 1994 GRANT
AMOUNT EXPECTED $250,000 TO $260,000
(Received $255,644 for FY 1993)
PROJECTS PROPOSED FOR FUNDING WITH FY1994 CDBG GRANT FUNDS.
A®
Neighborhood Revitalization
with Priority Use of Funds
in Sheffield Neighborhood
$140,000
to $160,000
Ce
Housing Rehabilitation
with Priority Use of Funds
in Sheffield Neighborhood
Public Service Grants
93,890* to 102,890'*
17,110 to 17,110
Senior Outreach Program - $11,030
for Columbia Heights
(Anoka County Community Action Program)
Alexandra House
(Columbia Heights)
3,000
Hot Meals for Shut-Ins - 3,080
(Meals on Wheels) for Columbia Heights
D. TOTAL
$251,000'**
280,000***
CDBG
If funding is less than $251,000' the amount reduced would be taken
off the amount for Housing Rehabilitation.
If funding is more than $280,000 the additional amount would be added
to the amount for Housing Rehabilitation.
Includes approximately $30,000 to $35,000 for Columbia Height's share
of the County-wide CDBG/HOME Program allocation for housing
rehabilitation.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal Housing Opportunity Agency
Mmfle, apoa~ and mm,,gh
AmodaM, K 3433 Oak~ccd Hill PMImey. p. O. Box
', I PUOU~ ~
~ J~4, 1~
J~ 11.1~
J~ 18, ~
~"~ Ci~ of Columbia Heigh~
~ ~E OF ~B~ H~
~ ~ ~ h~ g~ ~ t~ C~ C~I ~
to ~ fufld~ u~de~ the C~I 1~ A~oka
The C~ ant~at~ ~t ~ ~ fe~e
program year. Thil hearing will be held i~
C~I C~. C~ ~ ~ Av~ N.E.
C~u~ ~ MI~ ~ ~.
All ~ ~ ~ ~ I~ t~ ~
when Ihe request il ~dl II lel~ g6 houri
f~ui~ a f~e~ ~fl ~g~ iflt~
~ ~n ~ ~ 7~-2~.
P~t~ W. ~
(Pu~l~ In mi J~ 4, I~ Co~ He~htl
' ' Edi~ ~ ~ ~ ~f)
~ C~ ot ~olumbia Hieigt~
~CE ~R BIOS
COL~BIA H~GHTS MU~PAL
~M REHABIUTARON OF ~ ~ND
~ ~o ' Sealed bids will be recaived by the
Colu~ H~Ms in the C~f~ ~ ~ the
t~ th~ ~1 ~ ~ ~ r~ a~ f~ the fum~ing
~ of all labor, materil~ and ~uipme~ to ~dorm
~ ,a~at~. ~g the fo~o~g ~f and
fM leek M a #eond.
Mmlo~ by Nm~edd te etimi~me from ~
S0.~0 for a compact car for the Engineering
~ ~ ~M to ~e ~5,~
~1~ ~ Na~ to rede the $10.~ for
Councilmember Nawrocki felt the
Council~mbet Clerkln inquired ~hat the
~ C~ Man.er ~ ~at ~nt
~ ~ r~ fl~ for tN~ ye~s are
C~S~r ~ ~ that a p~ f~
5. COU~IL AC~ONS
~. Hauifle a~ R~t Authfl~
~d file ~e C~ of C~ Ho~h~' Hou~flg
R~evelo~flt Authori~ prop~ed 1994 buret
and t~ I~ ~ov~ t~t t~ t~ ~ ~ $71,~
u~ ~c~MeN f~ tho Shoff~ Area. R~ ~J~ Al
ay~
b. R#oiut~n No. 9~; Being a Re~lut~fl
Ado~g 1 ~
Bu~m and T~ Law
Couflcii~m~r Rueffi~flfl fl~ that tho
Focus New~Tue&, Januan/4, 1994
fund~ Inciudk~ general mi vadMem tax ~ a~
(3enemJ Fund 6.7ra~.006
Para Tran~l Fund 177.071
Stat~ Aid ,6~.867
~ T~ Fu~ 1 ~.~
~a~ 4~.~7
C~ P~ .- ~.~
P~ ~ O~
Copil~i Equi~'l~tt Rel~aCe~ Fund"'
Gef~ Fund 641,310
Water Fu~ I.~
Sew Fu~ 910
C~trll Garde Fu~ 0
L~ Fu~ 7.374.~
R~ Fund 1.521.~
W~ & Se~ C~ F~
Data Pr~ ~.714
37.512.2~
He~htg. f~ t~ fol~g pur~
GenerN Fund 3.614.078
Bo~ & Intor~
T~al 3.614.078
L~ Equal~at~ A~
Ce~if~ LeW
~ef~ ~: Ru~flfl
S~nd~ ~ Munn
Mu~n - aye. Ni~ - nay
Housing & Redevelopment Authority
of Columbia Heights
Comml~lonem
Eu#bk~ Helmz
P~tc/Jlndm
Richard Du~dn
Den~d J. Murzyn, Jr.
590 N.E. 40th Avenue, Columbia Heights, MN 55421
Fax: (612) 782-2857 · (612) 782-2854
CURRENT CDBG/HOME PROGRAM STATUS
12/31/94
1. 1993 CDBG/HOME PROGRAM (7/1/93 to 12/31/94)
PRO-~
JECTI
NAME
CDBG
HOME
I
I
328 IPublic Service 41,244
330 INeighborhood ', ,'
'Revitalization I 34,3001
331 I/Lrchitectural '~ ',
'Barrier Removal 1125,9051 0
353 IHousing ,' ** ',
'Rehabilitation I 54,1951 70,000
I
I
I
~TOTALS
0
0 I
I
I
AMOUNT
I I
HRA ' TOTAL ' USED ~BALANCE
I I
0 I 41,2441 22,397 15,499
t I I ;
1 I I
I I I
' 0 I 34,300', 152 34,148
I 123 125,782
0 1125,905,
17,5001141,695I~ 0 141,695
I I
, I I
I I I
I I I I I I
'255 644' 70 000117 5001343 144' 22 672 1317,124
Includes Alexandra House Capital Drive participation of $13,500 and
Alexandra House public service general program allocation of $3,500.
** Includes $27,300 from City CDBG Entitlement and $26,895 from Anoka County
Country-wide allocation of CDBG Entitlement Program Rehabilitation funds.
2. 1992 CDBG/HOME PROGRAM (7/1/92 to 12/31/93)
I I I
PRO- ~ ~ ~
JECTI NAME ~, CDBG ~ HOME
I
I
228 [Public Service
230 INeighborhood
~Revitalization
I
I
231 IHandicapped
IAccessibility
253 IHousing
'Rehabilitation
I
1
I
I
~TOTALS
I
I
124,4451
I
I
I
98,495]
0
0
57,838
26,900
0
32,000
I
I
I
I
207,678~, 32,000,
HRA
0
0
0
' AMOUNT
,
TOTAL ~ USED
24,445
98,495
24,445
78,183
57,838 168
58,900I 58,900
I
I
I
I
239,6781161,696
BALANCEI
20,312
57,670
0
' 77,9821
CDBGHO
Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal Housing Opportunity Agency
Housing & Redevelopment Authority
of Columbia Heights
590 N.E. 40th Avenue, Columbia Heights, MN 55421
Fax: (612) 782-2801 · (612) 782-2854
February 22, 1993
TO:
FROM:
RE:
Applicants for Public Service Funding
Grant Fernelius, Columbia Heights HRA
1993 PUBLIC SERVICE GRANT AWARDS
On Monday, February 8, 1993 the Columbia Heights City Council
held a public hearing to consider the amount of funds to be
awarded for public service activities.
The City Council approved the following projects:
Orqanization
Anoka County Community Action Program, Inc.
Alexandra House
Award
$10,744
$3,500
Central Center for Family Resources
$2,500
Community Education Department
Meals on Wheels
$4,000
$3,000
Southern Anoka Community Assistance, Inc.
$4,000
$27,.744
The funds will become available on July 1, 1993. Prior to that
time, the County will conduct an informational meeting to discuss
program requirements. In addition, all organizations will need
to execute a funding agreement with the City. More information
will be provided in the coming months.
In the meantime, if you have any questions, please feel free to
call me at 782-2856.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal Housing Opportunity Agency
C~t~ o£ Coltmb~a ~e~qhts
Public ~erv~ce Funding ~992 - ~984
3.992
Alexandra House
(Emergency Housing for Battered Women and Children)
Anoka County Community Action Program, Inc.
(Senior Outreach Program)
ARC of Anoka County
(Pilot program called "Community Connections" to
assist young people with developmental disabilities)
Early Childhood Family Education
(Assistance with transportation costs for part-
cipants in ECFE programs)
Hot Meals for Shut-Ins
(Meal program for seniors and disabled adults)
1991
Anoka County Community Action Program, Inc.
(Senior Outreach Program)
Central Center for Family Resources
(Bridgeview Club Transportation)
Courage Center
(Program in conjunction with Way to Grow House to
provide parent education and support)
Friends of the Library
(Reading materials for Children's Reading Program)
Hot Meals for Shut-Ins
(Meal program for seniors and disabled adults)
Little Voyageur's Montessori School
(Benches, Picnic Tables and Other Outdoor Equipment
for Intergenerational Daycare Program)
Lutheran Social Service
(Transitional Housing Program)
Southern Anoka Community Assistance
(Computer equipment)
Page I of 5
3,500
10,956
2,500
2,760
3,000
$22,716
6,864
1,500
2,000
1,500
3,000
1,652
4,500
~,000
$23,016
%
Cit~ of Columbia Heights
Public Servioe Funding 1992 - 1984
1990
Alexandra House
(Outreach .Program for Battered Women)
Anoka County Community Action Program, Inc.
(Senior Outreach Program)
Central Center for Family Resources
(Transportation Support for Bridgeview Club)
Early Childhood Family Education
(Assistance with transportation
cipants in ECFE programs)
costs for part-
Judicare of Anoka County
(Legal Services to Low-Income Persons)
Page 2 of 5
3,500
10,000
2,000
1,624
996
$18,120
I g 8 g
Anoka County Community Action Program, Inc.
(Senior Outreach Program)
Amhearst Wilder Foundation
(Parent Befriender Program)
ARC of Anoka County
(Program to Provide Family Support Services)
Central Center for Family Resources
(Transportation Support for Bridgeview Club)
Shiloh Bethany Presbyterian Church
(Fire Safety Equipment for. Daycare Program)
6,889
2,500
3,000
1,811
4,500
$18,700
AMENDED
" ANOKA COUNTY
1-994 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK
WORK SCHEDULE
GRANT
Through December 31
January 1 -January 31
Initial discussions among local staff/elected officials conCerning
new projects,
City/County discussions about new projects. Clime to resolve
eligibility, etc.}
December 1 - FebrUary 1 8
Any local public hearings. ALL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICES
MUST INCLUDE STATEMENT OF AVAILABILITY OF
FOREIGN~SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER.
February 25
CITY APPLICATIONS DUE AT COUNTY.
Any adiustments necessary to accommodate percentage
limitations for planning, public service and slum/blight activities
will be made at this point. Any communities submitting after
this date will be limited by the percentages left in these
categories.
March 1 - March 11
County assists cities/towns to refine project application requests
(gathering local data, supporting material, etc.)
March 11
County delivers final grant request to Intergovernmental
Committee of County Board including all city/town project
requests, goals, objectives, and budget.
March 24 - April 12
Complete final grant writing and submit for publishing.
April. 12
County Board Public Hearing.
April 15
May 10
Publish proposed Statement of Community
Objectives and Projected Use of Funds.
County Board reviews final Application of Funds.
Development
May 11
uly 1
Submit grant request.
1994 CDBG funding available for commitment/expenditure.
(Cities may complete any necessary environmental reviews and
notices during April and May to allow for immediate use of
project funds in July.)
I:~CDBG~MISC~94-SCHED
CITY OF COLUMBI~ HEIGHTS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPHENT BLOCK GR~a. NT PROGRAM
1994 ~PPLIC~TION FOR FUNDING
FEBRURAY 1994
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
1994 APPLICATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
TITLE
List of Projects
Neighborhood Revitalization Program
(Acquisition and Clearance of Deteriorated Properties)
Single-Family/Duplex-Family Housing
Rehabilitation Program
Public Service Grants
a. Senior Outreach Program
b. Alexandra House
c. Hot Meals for Shut-Ins
d. Southern Anoka Community Assistance, Inc.
Public Hearing Documentation
SECTION
1
2
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
1994 APPLICATION FOR FUNDING
LIST OF PROJECTS
PROJECT
TOTAL PROJECT
FUNDING EXPENSES ADMINISTRATIC~
Single-Family/Duplex Housing
Rehabilitation
Acquisition and Clearance of
Deteriorated Properties
Public Service
-Senior Outreach Program (Anoka County Community Action Program, Inc.)
-Alexandra House (Shelter for Abused Women)
-Hot Meals for Shut-Ins
-Southern Anoka Community Assistance, Inc.
$ 93,890 $ 87,300 $6,590
$140,000 $137,000 $7,000
11,030
1,500 (or $3,000 if SACA is not
funded.)
3,080
1,500 (or "0" if Alexandra House
receives $3,000.)
TOTAL FUNDING = $251,000
CDBGAPP
SECTION 1
;-2
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
1994 APPLICATION
I. PROJECT NAME: Acquisition and Clearance of Deteriorated Properties
PAGE 1
II.
PROJECT ACTIVITY:
This activity involves the acquisition and clearance of deteriorated properties. To
be considered, a property must be uninhabitable due to building conditions which are
detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of its occupants. In addition, a
property must be 1) either vacant or have a willing seller, and 2) be difficult to
condemn under the hazardous building section of the Uniform Building Code of the State
of Minnesota. Acquisition would comply with the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real
Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended, and by the HRA's Real Property
Acquisition Policy.
Properties will be identified by HRA Staff in cooperation with the City's Building
Department. Owners will be contacted by HRA Staff and inspections will be conducted.
An evaluation will be made of the property's physical condition, feasibility of
rehabilitation and potential marketability. The HRA Board of Commissioners will be
responsible for making a final determination of the properties to be acquired under
this program except during the first 12 months of the program. During the first 12
months, use of funds will be restricted to the Sheffield Neighborhood (as defined below
in paragraph # VIII). During the first 12 months of the program, any acquisitions must
be approved by the City Council before the property is acquired by the HRA under this
program.
This activity will be carried out by the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of
Columbia Heights under a program known as the "Neighborhood Revitalization Program".
If the Fiscal Year 1994 funds are not all used in the Sheffield Neighborhood, remaining
funds will be used on acquiring property on a City-wide, spot acquisition basis.
III. PROJECT DURATION:
This activity is part of a continuing effort by the HRA and City to acquire substandard
and deteriorated properties which are considered blighting influences in otherwise
stable neighborhoods.
IV.
PREVIOUS FUNDING:
A grand total of $246,920 in CDBG funds have been used for this program since 1988.
Six properties have been acquired, and one vacant lot redeveloped into a single-family
home and one other lot is in the process of being developed with a new house and garage
by Habitat for Humanity.
1988 ..................................... $ 91,585
1989 ..................................... $ 34,000
1990 ..................................... $ 43,000
1991 ..................................... $ 0
1992 ..................................... $ 98,495
1993 ..................................... $ 34,300
$301,380
SECTION 2
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS/CDBG
PAGE 2
VI.
COMMUNITY PROBLEMS ADDRESSED:
This activity will help the City address the problem of vacant, substandard housing
which represents not only a blighting influence on surrounding properties, but also a
hazard to the general public. According to the 1990 Census, the City had 209 vacant
housing units (7,950 total units). The City and HRA Staff have conducted several
-windshield" surveys of the City and found more than 70 properties which are
substandard.
The City has found that the Sheffield Neighborhood (as defined in # VIII) is in need
of a concentrated housing rejuvenation effort. From July 1, 1994 through June 30,
1995, funds from this Fiscal Year 1994 project will be used exclusively in the
Sheffield Neighborhood. Please see enclosed Sheffield Neighborhood Revitalization
Plan.
This activity is considered eligible under CDBG regulations found at 24 CFR Part
570.201 (a & d) "Acquisition and Clearance Activities" and meets CDBG National
Objectives found at 24 CFR Part 570.208 (b) (2) "Activities to address slums or blight
on a spot basis."
FUNDING SUMMARY:
Total projected funding for Fiscal Year 1994 .................. $140,000
The funds will be expended as follows:
Project Expenses ...................... $137,000
(Acquisition, Demolition and Clearance)
City/HRA Administration ................. $7,000
(Time spent by City and HRA Staff identifying
properties to be acquired, negotiating purchase,
coordinating demolition and clearance and marketing
properties for redevelopment.
VII. COST DETAIL:
See Above.
VIII. PROJECT AREA:
The overall project is contiguous with the boundaries of the City of Columbia Heights
and will be carried out on a spot basis except during the first 12 months when efforts
will be concentrated in the Sheffield Neighborhood. As mentioned in Section V., the
City of Columbia Heights has 7,950 housing units; of this number, 5,400 were owner-
occupied, 2,301 were renter occupied and 209 were vacant. In terms of structure type,
the breakdown is as follows:
Single-Family ................................... 5,609
Multi-Family .................................... 2,280
Mobile/Trailerhome .................................. 5
Other .............................................. 56
SECTION 2
PAGE 3
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS/CDBG
The priority project area, the Sheffield Neighborhood is defined as the area within the
following boundaries:
-South Boundary: 45th Avenue between Easterly edge of Keyes Park and Central Avenue.
-East Boundary: Johnson Street (rear property lines of Easterly properties) and
Easterly edge of Keyes Park.
-West Boundary= Central Avenue between 45th and 47th Avenues.
-North Boundary= 47th Avenue between Johnson Street (rear property lines of Easterly
properties and Central Avenue).
The above defined area is hereinafter referred to as the -Sheffield Neighborhood".
The Sheffield Neighborhood includes a concentration of low income families in blighted
type duplex and multiple unit housing. There are 518 dwelling units in the Sheffield
Neighborhood and of those, there are 119 single family units, 184 are part of duplex
units (92 actual duplexes), 56 are part of four-plexes (14 actual four-plexes), and 159
are part of multiple unit apartment buildings (1 six-plex, 4 seven-plexes, 2 eight-
plexes, 3 eleven-plexes, 1 sixteen-plex and 3 twenty-plexes). There are also 6
commercial properties in the Sheffield Neighborhood. Over 45% of the residential
properties are rental in nature.
The goal of the Sheffield Neighborhood Revitalization Plan is to -Restore the balance
of Housing (rental versus owner occupied) of the Sheffield Neighborhood to a level more
typically found in lower density residential districts throughout the City". Included
in this goal/plan is redevelopment/reutilization of residential properties in the area
of moderate income housing and redevelopment of the commercial area so as to establish
clear delineations or buffers between Central Avenue commercial development and the
housing units along Tyler Street.
IX.
Xe
XI.
LARGER EFFORT:
This activity is part of a larger effort by the City and HRA of Columbia Heights to
tandard housing within the City and improve neighborhoods. Other
eliminate sub~ .......... : .... ~ ~omeownershiu assistance (i.e. first-time
activities incluae housing renaD~u=u~* ~..~ .. ~
homebuyers program).
See Single-Family/Duplex-Housing Rehabilitation section for additional information.
CONTACT PERSON:
This activity will be carried out by the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of
Columbia Heights. Questions concerning the program should be directed to Don Schneider
at 782-2854 or 782-2855.
REIMBURSEMENT AUTHORIZATION:
The following persons are authorized to sign payment vouchers:
- Donald R. Schneider, Executive Director
- Angela Schlender, Housing Coordinator
SECTION 2
offers the following as a guide to continuing discussion and ongoing studies.
THE AMM SUPPORTS JURISDICTIONAL REASSIGNMENT OR TURNBACK OF ROADS ON A PHASED BASIS BASED ON FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION AND OTHER APPROPRIATE CRITERIA SUBJECT TO A CORRESPONDING MECHANISM FOR ADEQUATE FUNDING OF ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS AND CONTINUING MAINTENANCE SINCE CITIES DO NOT CURRENTLY HAVE THE FINANCIAL CAPACITY OTHER THAN SIGNIFICANT PROPERTY TAX INCREASE TO ABSORB THE ADDITIONAL ROADWAY RESPONSIBILITIES WITHOUT NEW. FUNDING SOURCES. THE EXISTING MUNICIPAL TURNBACK FUND IS NOT ADEQUATE BASED ON CONTEMPLATED TURNBACKS.
V-G TRANSPORTATION UTILITY
Many cities are experiencing aging infrastructure, especially streets which are in need of replacement but because of few funding options continue to deteriorate. Chapter 429 bonds issued without election require a minimum of 20 percent assessment. However, the courts require a benefit proof that the assessment has actually increased the property value by the assessment value. For street replacement this is nearly impossible. Strict levy limits have prohibited full levy for the cost but further a general levy for full cost of street replacement might be very unfair to non benefiting property as well as higher valued classes of property. A general referendum to replace streets in one aging neighborhood would undoubtedly not pass in an entire city. The only remaining option is to legislatively establish a new funding mechanism that creates fairness. The best model available is a utility district similar to one the created for stormsewers which allows assessment annually for shared use on a volumn basis.
THE AMM REQUESTS THE LEGISLATURE TO ESTABLISH A TRANSPORTATION UTILITY AUTHORITY FOR CITIES TO USE FOR STREET MAINTENANCE AND RECONSTRUCTION SIMILAR TO THE EXISTING STORM SEWER UTILITY.
V-H 'JC' TRANSPORTATION PLANNING PROCESS OFFICIALS ROLE OF ELECTED
The transportation planning process in the Twin city Metropolitan Area has been developed in response to a variety of federal and state laws and regulations. The Metropolitan Council (MC) was formally designated by the Legislature in 1974 (1974 MRA) as the agency responsible for the administration and coordination of said planning process. Included within this designation is the responsibility for long range comprehensive transportation planning commonly referred to as the 'JC' process (continuous, comprehensive, and cooperative). Federal law and regulations required that principal elected officials of general purpose local governments be part of the planning process. When the Legislature designated the MC as the transportation planning agency for the
-58-
metropolitan area, it also mandated the establishment of an "advisory body" to assist the MC, and Metropolitan Transit commission (MTC), and the Regional Transit Board, in carrying out their responsibilities. This advisory body is the Transportation Advisory Board (TAB) and contains 17 local elected officials among its membership of about 30 officials. The Federal Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991 again establishes the need for local elected officials in the JC planning process.
The current elected official participation and 'JC' process has worked reasonably well in this Metropolitan Area.
THE AMM SUPPORTS THE CONTINUATION OF THE CURRENT U>CAL ELECTED OFFICIAIS INVOLVEMENT IN THE 'JC' PROCESS THROUGH THE TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY BOARD TO MEET REQUIREMENTS OF THE FEDERAL INTERMODAL SURFACE TRANSPORTATION ACT OF 1991.
V-I PRESERVATION OF RAILROAD RIGHT-OF-WAY
Minnesota's system of railroad grades is rapidly shifting to a national trunk-line carrier with few branch lines as one line after another is abandoned. Minnesota has witnessed the abandonment of over one-half its rail system since the 1930 peak of 9,360 miles. Two thousand miles have been abandoned in the past 15 years ..
These railroads played an important part in our transportation history. The abandonments now represent an equally significant opportunity for future generations. Light rail usage, vegetation reserves of scientific interest, transmission corridors, bicycle and snowmobile trails, access roads to remote natural resources, future highways, pipeline corridors are just a few roles for these abandoned grades.
Because some of the most desirable abandonments are no longer available to the public, vigilance is needed regarding the remaining opportunities.
THE AMM STRONGLY URGES THE LEGISLATURE TO ENSURE THAT ALL ABANDONED RAILROAD GRADES BE EXPEDIENTLY PRESERVED UNTIL SUCH TIME THAT THE FUTURE PUBLIC USE CAN BE DETERMINED.
V-J CITY SPEED LIMITS
A bill has been introduced which would grant cities the authority to set speed limits on city roads and streets. This policy of local authority for free standing rural or out state cities may be feasible but could be extremely dangerous and confusing in the metropolitan area. The seven county metropolitan area is made up of 140 contiguous cities and a number of townships. Because of
-59-
the compactness of cities in this area, it is often impossible to determine w�en one has crossed a boundary from one city to the next. If one city changes its limits, its neighbor would either have to also change or post many additional signs on each street crossing a boundary. This system would be costly, extremely confusing to individuals, and might cause some legal problems in case of accidents. Therefore,
THE AMM SUPPORTS SPEED LIMIT CONTROL OF CITY ROADS AND STREETS AS CURRENTLY PROVIDED BY LAW AND OPPOSES CHANGES TO GRANT GENERAL SPEED LIMIT CONTROL TO INDIVIDUAL CITIES.
V-K TRANSPORTATION INCENTIVES/DISINCENTIVES
The AMM supports the development of a comprehensive system which will facilitate an increase in the occupancy level of cars and enhance the use of transit within the Metropolitan area. The state legislature is encouraged to consider exclusion from gross income the value of commuter transportation benefits provided by an employer and provide a tax deduction and tax credit for employers who provide commutor transportation benefits to Eimployees.
AMM SUGGESTS THE DEVELOPMENT AND PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION THAT INCWDES A COMMUTER TRIP REDUCTION PROGRAM AND CREATES A SERIES OF TAX INCENTIVES AND/OR IMPACT FEES THAT ENCOURAGES MULTIPLE OCCUPANCY TRANSIT USE.
V-L REGIONAL TRANSIT SYSTEM
The purpose of a Transportation system is to provide mobility for people and accessibility to and for economic development and services. The most effective system will make maximum use of all transportation alternatives and strategies where they are most appropriate, thus, creating a truly integrated system. Exclusive reliance on only freeways is imprudent and possibly cost prohibitive primarily due to social and economic upheaval of established neighborhoods for right of way acquisition. Transit improvements are imperative, but even with implementation of various load increasing strategies, the capacity is finite and will reach unacceptable saturation limits within the forseeable future. The AMM supports more coordination and integration of Transit and Highway planning and implementation.
THE REGIONAL TRANSIT SYSTEM SHOULD BE A COMBINATION OF INTEGRATED TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND BE INCWDED IN ALL PLANNING DOCUMENTS AT ALL LEVELS INCWDING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT STUDIES.
THE SYSTEM COMPONENTS SHOULD INCWDE HOV LANES, EXPRESS BUSES, AND THE LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEM WHICH SHOULD BE BUILT WHEN IT IS
-60-
APPROPRIATE AND FINANCIALLY FEASIBLE IN EACH CORRIDOR OF THE AREA TO CONNECT RESIDENTS TO JOB, RETAIL, AND COMMERCIAL CENTERS.
THE SYSTEM SHOULD ALSO INCWDE A VARIETY OF TRANSIT MODES, INCWDING A TAXI SYSTEM, BUSES, PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE FACILITIES, AND PARK AND RIDE FACILITIES, ADEQUATE TO CONNECT THE REGIONAL CENTERS, MAJOR TRIP GENERATORS AND COMMUNITIES, BOTH URBAN AND SUBURBAN.
BUS SYSTEMS AND ESPECIALLY LRT SYSTEMS SHOULD INCWDE AMPLE REGIONAL PARK AND RIDE FACILITIES FOR AUTOMOBILES, MOTORCYCLES AND BICYCLES, WITH EASY ACCESS, CONSISTENT WITH THE PLANNING OF A REGIONAL ENTITY TO ACCOMMODATE THE NEEDS OF THE PUBLIC. FEEDER SYSTEMS SHOULD BE A MAJOR CONSIDERATION FOR BUS PARK AND RIDE AND LRT STATIONS. PLANS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED TO USE VAN POOLS AND BICYCLES AS WELL AS WALKING TO FEED THE PARK AND RIDE FACILITIES FOR EXPRESS BUSES AND LRT.
ALL TRANSIT MODES AND TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM MANAGEMENT POLICIES SHOULD BE GIVEN EQUAL CONSIDERATION NOW AND IN THE FUTURE IN ORDER TO PROVIDE THE BEST TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM POSSIBLE TO THE METROPOLITAN AREA.
THE FINANCING FOR THE REGIONAL SYSTEM SHOULD BE BORNE IN PROPORTION TO THE BENEFIT OR SERVICES RECEIVED.
V-M MSA SCREENING COMMITTEE
The Metropolitan Highway Districts 5 and 9 were combined in 1989/90 administratively �o form one Metropolitan Highway District within the MNDOT structure. By law the MSA screening committee consists of one member from each Highway District and first class city. Technically, the combining of Districts 5 and 9 reduces the membership by one from the metro area. This was not intended by MNDOT. Therefore;
THE AMM REQUESTS THAT THE STATUTES BE MODIFIED TO PRESERVE TWO SEATS ON THE MSA SCREENING COMMITTEE FROM THE METROPOLITAN HIGHWAY DISTRICT.
V-N METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION TAX
The AMM membership feels that transportation needs and funding are at a critical point in the metropolitan area and cannot be fully met within current financial or tax resource constraints. Higher occupancy transit systems such as LRT, buses, and other transit facilities must be examined in the context of a total transportation system in need of added resources. A new metro source of funds should not be a signal for reduced current or future state allocations, should be related to use, should be imposed as broadly as possible and to the greatest extent possible
-61-
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS/CDBG
PAGE 4
XII.
DEMOLITION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING:
In an effort to minimize displacement and the destruction of affordable housing, the
City, to the extent possible, will limit its list of properties to those which have
been vacant for at least one year prior to acquisition. The purpose of this activity
is to eliminate blighting conditions and encourage new development. The housing to be
constructed will, in most circumstances, be market-rate. Therefore, sites to be
identified will be exempt from the one-for-one replacement requirement.
CDBGAPP
SECTION 2
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
1994 APPLICATION
I.
II.
PAGE i
PROJECT NAME: Single Family/Duplex Family Housing Rehabilitation Program
PROJECT ACTIVITY: This activity involves the rehabilitation of owner occupied single
family and duplex residential properties. The funds are awarded to eligible
homeowners in the form of a 50% grant/50% deferred loan. The 50% grant portion would
not have any interest charge and would not have to be paid back if the homeowner
remains in the rehabilitated property for a period of ten years.
The 50% loan portion would have no interest charge and would be paid back only upon
the sale, change of use or moving from the property.
Should the recipient sell, move or otherwise convey the property during the ten year
term, the grant portion would have to be repaid in the following manner:
Within 1st Year .................................... 100% of Grant Amount
Within 1st to 2nd Year .............................. 90% of Grant Amount
Within 2nd to 3rd Year .............................. 80% of Grant Amount
Within 3rd to 4th Year .............................. 70% of Grant Amount
Within 4th to 5th Year .............................. 60% of Grant Amount
After 5th Year thru 10th Year ....................... 50% of Grant Amount
Grants/Deferred Loans of up to $11,000.00 are awarded. The funds may be used to
make basic repairs and improvements, such as those which will correct structural,
electrical or plumbing defects. In addition, work can be done to improve a
dwelling's energy efficiency.
To qualify for a grant/deferred loan, a person must meet the following
criteria:
1. Own and live in the property to be improved.
2. Have an adjusted gross income at or below the limits listed below,
which are based on household size.
Household Preference Non-Preference
Size Income Limit Income Limit
1 $ 9,668.00 $17,350.00
2 $12,644.00 $19,850.00
3 $15,620.00 $22,300.00
4 $18,832.00 $24,800.00
5 $22,044.00 $26,800.00
6 $25,260.00 $28,750.00
7 $28,472.00 $30,750.00
8 $31,684.00 $32,750.00
These limits are subject to change during the course of the program.
For program purposes, Adjusted Gross Income is calculated by subtracting $750.00
for the first and second resident over age 18, and $500.00 for each additional
resident, from Gross Annual Income. The income from all residents is included in
the calculation.
3. Have total net assets of $25,000.00 or less, excluding "personal" property and the
property to be improved (if less than 2 (two) acres).
SECTION 3
??
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS/CDBG
III ·
IV.
PAGE 2
4. The property cannot contain more than 2 (two) dwelling units, one of which must
be owner-occupied. In addition, the property must be used for residential
purposes; no more than 15% of the habitable floor area can be used in a trade or
business.
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-serve, limited preference basis
throughout the year. No eligible applicant will be rejected on the basis ofjudgements
as to personal character or life-style.
Waiting lists will be maintained for those families with incomes in the -Preference
Income Limit" and ..Non-Preference Income Limit" categories. Due to concentrated
housing redevelopment activity in the Sheffield Neighborhood, eligible owners in that
area will receive preference during the first 12 (twelve) months of the 1994 program
over other eligible applicants for funds from the 1994 program. As of July 1, 1995,
any funds remaining from the 1994 program will be allocated to eligible applicants
based on a first-come, first-serve basis with first preference to those with incomes
in the -Preference Income Limit" category with the exception that applicants who have
applied and are faced with emergency housing conditions as certified by the City
Building Inspector or Assistant City Building Inspector may be given priority over
others on the waiting lists.
PROJECT DURATION:
This activity is part of a continuing effort by the City to improve its housing stock.
Funds for Fiscal Year 1994 include $57,300.00 from the City's share of the Anoka
county CDBG Entitlement Program Fund and $30,000.00 from the Anoka County CDBG
rehabilitation fund pool.
PREVIOUS FUNDING:
This activity has been funded since 1978. A breakdown of the total funding and number
of grants/deferred loans awarded is shown below:
FY YEAR FUNDED ~_ FY YEA~.
1978 $150,667 51 1987
1979 $40,100 8 1988
1980 N/A N/A 1989
1981 $71,843 16 1990
1982 $23,568 6 1991
1983 $29,020 5 1992
1984 $23,535 5 1993
1985 $28,325 5
1986 $17,395 3 TOTALS:
FUNDE~ ~--
$25,145 4
$12,195 3
$54,980 8
$53,735 6
$51,376 8
$58,900* 8
$141,695'* l(tO date)
$982,479 133
* Includes $32,000 of Federal HOME
Program Funds.
** Includes $70,000 of Federal HOME
Funds & $17,500 of local match funds.
COMMUNITY PROBLEMS ADDRESSED:
This activity will help address the problems with the City's aging housing stock.
Much of the City's housing stock was built before World War II and is in need of
repairs (i.e. roofs, furnaces, windows and doors, etc.). This activity will assist in
the preservation of the housing stock.
SECTION 3
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS/CDBG
PAGE 3
The Sheffield Neighborhood (area between 45th Avenue on South, Johnson Street (rear
of Easterly properties) and Easterly edge of Keyes Park on East, 47th Avenue between
Johnson Street (rear of Easterly properties) on the North, and Central Avenue between
45th and 47th Avenues on the West) is an area in need of concentrated housing
renovation. In this 16 block area, there are 518 dwelling units of which 119 are
single family units, 184 are part of duplex units (92 actual duplexes), 56 are part of
four-plexes (14 four-plexes), and 159 are part of larger multiple unit buildings (1
six-plex, 4 seven-plexes, 2 eight-plexes, 3 eleven-plexes, i sixteen-plex and 3 twenty-
plexes). The majority of the single family and duplex units were constructed in the
late 1950's and early 1960's and are in a deferred maintenance state. The City has
developed a Sheffield Neighborhood Revitalization Plan which includes redevelopment and
renovation in the neighborhood. These CDBG funds will be used to assist single and
duplex property homeowners in upgrading their properties. If funds are not used for
eligible projects in this neighborhood by July 1, 1995, then applicants from the
waiting list from other neighborhoods citywide will be funded.
This activity is considered eligible under CDBG regulations found at 24 CFR Part
570.202 "Eligible Rehabilitation and Preservation Activities". It meets CDBG National
Objectives found at 24 CFR Part 570.208(a)(3) "Activities benefiting low and moderate
persons, as a Housing Activity".
VI.
FUNDING SUMMARY:
The funds for this activity will be expended as follows:
Project Expenses ........................................ $87,300
(Rehabilitation Grants/Deferred Loans)
HRA Administration ...................................... $ 6,590
(Time spent by Housing Coordinator and HRA Contract Housing
Inspector/Specification Writer processing applications,
preparing bid specifications and monitoring construction,
estimated at 430 hours for the program; note this covers the
time spent on rehab files funded under the regular County
Rehab Program, as well.)
TOTAL FUNDING ........................................... $93,890
VII. COST DETAIL:
See above.
VIII. PROJECT AREA:
The project area is contiguous with the boundaries of the City of Columbia Heights.
Based on 1990 Census Data, the City of Columbia Heights had a population of 18,910.
The data indicated the following:
Number of Households
-With One of More Person
Over Age 65
7,741
2,128 (27%)
Number of House Units
-Single Family
-2 Unit Structures
7,950
5,609 (71%)
546
SECTION 3
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS/CDBG
PAGE 4
The first priority project area from July 1, 1994 to July 1, 1995 is the Sheffield
Neighborhood which includes the following bounded area in the City of Columbia Heights:
-South Boundary: 45th Avenue between Easterly edge of Keyes Park and Central Avenue.
-East Boundary: Johnson Street (rear property lines of Easterly properties) and
Easterly edge of Keyes Park.
-West Boundary: Central Avenue between 45th and 47th Avenues.
-North Boundary: 47th Avenue between Johnson Street (rear property lines of easterly
properties and Central Avenue).
The above defined area is hereinafter referred to as the "Sheffield Neighborhood". For
detail on housing and housing conditions in the Sheffield Neighborhood, please see
S V above.
IX.
LARGER EFFORT:
This activity is part of an effort by the City to improve its neighborhoods.
addition to this program, the City also offers the following programs:
-MHFA Home Improvement Loan Proqram
(166 loans since 1979 for a total of $934,751)
-MHFA Home Enerqy Loan Proqram
(44 loans since 1983 for a total of $153,780)
-MHFA Deferred, Accessibility and Revolvinq Loan Proqrams (115 loans since 1976 for a total of $369,660)
-MFHA Rental Rehabilitation Grant Proqram
(12 grants since 1984 for a total of $82,925)
-MFHA Rental Rehabilitation Loan Proqram
(8 loans since 1990 for a total of $105,017)
-First-Time Homebuyer Proqram
1993 Program ...... $911,868; 1 loan to date
1992 Program .... $1,400,309; 22 loans to date
1991 Program .... $1,477,000; 21 loans to date
1982 Program .... $8,408,000; 175 loans to date
In
CONTACT PERSON:
This activity will be carried out by the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of
Columbia Heights. Questions concerning the program should be directed to Don Schneider
at 782-2854 or 782-2855.
XI. REIMBURSEMENT AUTHORIZATION:
The following persons are authorized to sign payment vouchers:
- Donald R. Schneider, HRA Executive Director
- Angela Schlender, HRA Housing Coordinator
XII. NOT APPLICABLE
CDBGAPP
SECTION 3
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
1994 APPLICATION
PAGE i
I. PROJECT NAME:
Public Service
II:
PROJECT ACTIVITIES:
The following projects will be carried out under this activity:
Senior Outreach Proqram for Columbia Heiqht~
Anoka County Community Action Proqram, Inc. (ACCAP)
1201 - 89th Avenue N.E., Suite 345
Blaine, MN 55434
ACCAP will use CDBG funds to operate a Senior Outreach Program. The funds will be used
to pay the salary, benefits, travel and related costs of a part-time outreach worker.
This individual will work 25 hours per week for 40 weeks and provide assistance to
isolated Columbia Heights seniors and disabled adults who are in need of medical,
financial, nutritional, housing or advocacy services. It is anticipated that 400-500
persons will be served by this program.
Funding for Fiscal Year 1994 .................... $11,030
See Exhibit 4-1 for additional information.
Alexandra House
P.O. Box 424
Circle Pines, MN 55014-0424
Alexandra House will use CDBG funds to operate its 24 hour emergency for battered women
and their children/youth. The funds will be used to help offset part of the cost of
providing emergency shelter (room & board) to Columbia Heights women and their
children.
Funding for Fiscal Year 1994 .................... $3,000 (or $1,500 if SACA is funded.)
See Exhibit 4-2 for additional information.
Hot Meals for Shut-Ins
550 Osborne Road N.E.
Fridley, MN 55432
Hot Meals for Shut-Ins a/k/a Meals on Wheels will use CDBG funds to provide nutritious
meals to home-bound seniors and disabled adults in Columbia Heights. The funds will
be used to pay for the cost of meals purchased from Unity Hospital.
Funding for Fiscal Year 1994 .................... $3,080
See Exhibit 4-3 for additional information.
SECTION 4
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS/CDBG
PAGE 2
Southern Anoka C~munit¥ Assistance, Inc. (SACA} (Alternate if Alexandra House is
- funded at $1,500.)
627 - 38th Avenue N.E.
Columbia Heights, MN 55421
SACA will use CDBG funds for its existing food shelf which serves the southern Anoka
County area. The funds will be used to purchase food stuffs.
Funding for Fiscal Year 1994 .................... $1,500 (if Alexandra House is funded
at $1,500.)
See Exhibit 4-4 for additional information.
CDBGAPP
SECTION 4
ANOKA COUNTY.COMMU. NITY ACTION PROGRAM, INC.
12GI 8~:,'" -"..'.,e~ue ,"4E · Suite 3."-u ' Bla, r:,-3, MN ,,..."~34 · PI~ut',e 783-474,7 · FA~ 783-4700 · ~ 7~3-47Z41~/
December 1, 1993
Mr. Donald Schneider
Executive Director
Columbia Heiqhts HRA
City of Columbia Heights
590 40th Avenue N.~.
Columbia Meiqhts, Minnesota
55421-3878
Dear Mr. Schneider:
Thank y~u for nhe eDportun~ny t~ subm~ a CDRG ~.~ndinq reques~ for
the ;994-95 program year. Cn behalf of the Senior Outreach Program
in Columbia Hei~h~e, administered ~hrough .~.oka County Community
Action Program, Inu., I am su~miL~i~ ~ ~'equ~s~ £~r $11,030.00.
Because of your Dast and curr~n~ support, vulnerable and isolated
seniors and disabled adults are able ~o be assisted by Barb
Tai!lefer, the Outreach Worker for your city. Barb identifies and
me~s wi~h clients, and a~i~ ~hem in obtainin~ s~rvices so that
they may live in their homes. She progides case management,
referral and advocacy for these individuals, who have ~reat
difficulty coding with ~heir s~tuations. Without outreach efforts,
i~ is likely that many cf these residents would be forced to
unnecessarily seek long ~crm ¢~rc in a nuts!n? home, or would
simply be lefu in their homes with inade~ua=e food, medical care cr
other basic necessities.
If ycu have any questions, cr require further information about
tki~ ~un~in~ re.cue~t, please feel ~ree ~o contac~ me at 7q3-4~41.
On behalf cf seniors and disabled adults in Columbia Heights, thank
you for your consideration of this requesu.
Sincerely,
CynLhla Hendricks
Coordinator of Senior Programs
and Volunteer Services
CH/ch
SECTION 4
ANOKA COUNTY COMMUNITY A.CTION PROGRAM, INC.
1201 ~gt~ Av~;~uu NE * ~ui[e 34.~ · ~[ama. MN ~5434 · Pt~ane, 83-47~'7 · FAX 783-4700 · TTY 783.4724~i~
PROPOSAL FOR PUBLIC SEKVICE G.KA~
.~noka County Community Action Program - Senior Outreach Program
1201 $gth Avenue N.E., Suite 345
Blaine, Minnescta 55434
Con~ac~: C?n~hia ~endricks, Coordinator oE Senior ~ro~ams and
Volunteer Services
612/783-4741
Fundinc. is h~n~_ requested, f.~.~~ ~he Scnior Outreach Pro,ram in
Columbia Heights, administered through Anoka County Community
Action Program, Inc. This program provides case management,
re,efta! and advocacy for %~!neraDle, isclaCed sen~ors and disabled
adults within eke city of CoLumbia Heights. Tko Outreach Worker
identifi~ and mee~s with ra~n~s ~o help de,ermine ~heir needs,
and assists them in obtaining social, medical, financial,
nutritional cr other services. This includes, amcn~ ocher
asui~tance, he!pi:[~ them complete energy assistance or
weatherizaticn apDlications, contacting a Public Health Nurse or
referring c!iencs to such ~rcGrams am the fccd ~h~lf, home
delivered meals, or chore services.
The Outreach Worker meets bi-weekly with the six (6) other Outreach
Workers in Anoka County. This provides supporu, educacion and
~"~ ..... ion for her in her work The Outreach Worker also receives
daily supervision from the Coordinator of Senior Programs and
Volunteer Services at ACCAP. The Outreach Worker works closely
w~-n staff cf pro,ram: and ~cr-;ices in Coluu~ia H~!~hcs and ~oka
County. She has a great deal of knowledge of clients' needs and
resources available in the area. She is also linked to the
Columbia Heights Senior Center, to ensure tka[ staff and senior are
aware of outreach services.
This project will serve primar±ly Iow and moderate income residents
of Columbia Heights who need assistance in cbtainin~ se_-vices so.
they remain in their homes. Clients so-so/ed are isolated,
vulnerable and often hcusebcund, reducing typical awareness cf or
acce~ t~ ~;~c~. ~any lack family O£ community support, an~
most clients have some type cf disability or impairment which makes
independent involvement with service providers very difficult.
The anticipated results and goals of the Senior Outreach Program
are to reach as many isolated seniors and d~abied adults in
Columbia Heights as possible, and ts assist them in whatever ways
~easik!e %o enable them to remain independent. Tko success of this
Frogram m~ans tha~ ~h~re will be few~c p~em~u:'~ o:' unnecessary
nursing home admissions, injuries, or deaths, and fewer economic
and emc~icnal burdens for ~he entire community.
IAI
;
SECTION 4
Proposal for Public Service Grant
December l, 1993
page 2
While thi~ is not a now sot-rice, it is expanded b~cause the needs
of the population served continue to grow, and more traditional
resources and support systems are less available. According to the
1990 Census, there are over 3,000 Columbia Heights residents over
the age cf 60, many of wkcm are moderate or low-income. This
community, lika others in ~noka County, will continua to see
significant growth in this pcpu!ation in the future. The past ten
(i0) years saw a sixty percent (60%) increase in the elderly
population in Ancka County. Many seniors and disabled adults are
living longer, but with reduced, fixed incomes, resulting in
increased n~ds and limited resource~ for a~si~tanoe. The Outreach
Worker will continue to seize previous and new clients, most of
whom rely on her for substantial assistance.
To our knowledge, there are nc similar services provided by other
organizations serving the Columbia Meight~ area.
Approximately 400-500 residents would be directly served by the
Senior Outreach Pro,ram. Many c!ien~s re.cluire mu!~ip!e contacts
for additional assistance or follow-up on requests for services.
One hundred percent (!00%) of these c!ien~s are Columbia Heights
residents u~-=,v five to ninety eicht percen~ (95-98%) of clients
will be iow ~o moderate income. During the 1992-93 program year,
seventy percen: (70%) of C:!umbia Heights c!ien~s served lived on
an annual income of $9,300 or !ess.
The total funding re~uested is $11,030.00. Due to the awareness of
limi%ed CDRG funding, ACCAP is willing to approach community
organiza~ion~ in ~he city cf Columbia Hci~h~s..~ to raise an
additional $1,000. The minimum cost of this program is $12,029.00.
Possible sources of funding within Columbia Heights include service
organizaticns, churches or individuals. ACCAP also is willing to
work wi~h ~ha city of columbia ~ei~hts in propo~in~ non-CDBG city
funding in i~s budge~ process.
A Dudge% for ~he Senior outreach Program is attached tc this
proposal.
The primary administrator for the Senior Outreach Program is
C??,thia Hendricks, Coordina%cr cf Senior Programs and Vc!unteer
Services. Oversight of Ms. Hendrick's work and ~he deparcmen~
be!cngs to Stephen Klein, Director of Planning and Community
Programs.
Based en results seen in ~revicus years, along with written
feedback from c!ien~s and c~u~;~unihy ttt~:nb~:'~, we beiiev~ %he Senior
Outreach Program in Columbia Heights is vital to 5he well being of
,ru!nerable citizens in the community, it provides many benefits to
seniors and disabled adults while remaining cost efficient.
ANOKA COUN'T'Y COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM, INC.
SECTION 4
Proposal for Public Service Grant
December 1, 1993
page 3
without CDBG fundin~ or scme o~er type of city funding, the
Outreach Program could not exist and s~il! be effective.
Additional CDBG funds will be ~equired.
We are always seeking additional sources of funding from the public
or private sector in Columbia Heights. we woulG De very interested
in discussing with appropriate community and civic leaders how we
mighz locate ether sources of funding.
Thank you for your consideraticn of this funding request. If any
further information would be helpful, please £~el free to contact
Cyn=hia Mendricks, Coordinator of Senior Programs and Volunteer
Services, ACCAP.
ANOKA COUNTY COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM, INC.
SECTION 4
ANOKA COUNTrY.COMMUNITY ACTION PROGR. AM, INC.
IZOl 891h Avur~uu NE · Suite .4. · Blaine, MN §§434 · Phone 783.4747, FA~ 78:3-4700 1-1'Y 71~3.472~i
C~LUMBIA HEIGKTS SENIOR OUTREACH PKOGRAM
Proposed Budget
Septe~er, 1994 ~o May, 1995
Perscnnel- Senior Outreach Wcrker
$7.50/ho,~r x 25 hour~,wee~ x 40 wemks
Emplcyer-paid costs
(FICA, UC, WC, Insurance)
Trainin~ ~ .025 x ~ross wa~e
Travel @ .29/mile x 2000 miles
O~her Costs
(SDace, tele~kone, consumable suDDlies)
TOTAL
$ 7,~00.00
$ 2,675.00
$ ~80.00
In-Kind
$10,936.00
Administrative ~xpenses ~ 10%
GRAND TOTAL
Total CDRG fund~ raqueutad
To=a! funds ~hat could be raised through community
ch
$ 1,093.00
$12,029.00
$1!,030.00
$ !,000.00
12/1/93
SECTION 4
AN ORGANIZATION FOR BATTERED
WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN/YOUTH
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Roberta Flatten, Chair
Audrey Howlett, Vice Chair
Sally West, Secreta~/
Lyle Muehlbauer, Treasurer
Tom Alberg
Terrie Bunker
Barb Case
Roseanna Hudgins
Claudia Hulleman
Dawn M. Massey
Stella Petersen
Jean Shirley
Lynne M. Tellers
Barb Treska
Pat Prinzevalle,
Executive Director
December 28, 1993
Donald R. Schneider
Executive Director
Housing and Redevelopment Authority
of Columbia Heights
590 NE 40th Avenue
Columbia Heights, MN 55421
Dear Mr. Schneider:
As per our conversation on December 16, 1993, I am forwarding a
request for $3,000 from the City of Columbia Heights through the
Community Development Block Grant funds.
These funds will be used to provide safe, temporary emergency
shelter, support services and community advocacy to battered women
and their children/youth who reside in the City of Columbia
Heights. In addition, our Columbia Heights support group will
continue on a weekly basis.
Over 390 battered women and their children and youth have received
support, information, direct service advocacy, support group and
shelter services in 1993.
We are extremely grateful for the on-going support the City of
Columbia Heights has contributed to Alexandra House. Your
commitment in confronting the problem of domestic violence in our
conm,unlties continues =o strengthen the partnership between =ne
City of Columbia Heights and Alexandra House.
If you have any questions and/or need further information, please
contact me at 780-2332. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Pat Pr~~
Executive Director
P.O. BOX 424, CIRCLE PINES. MN 55014-0424
(Located in Blaine)
Business: 780-2332 · Crisis/'l-l'Y: 780-2330 · Fax: 780-1273
SECTION 4
~-2
~.S 'ON ~LU~ed
NI~I 'seu!d
OlYd
e6elSOd 'S'I'I
uo!1~z!ue6~O ~lOJd-UON
SECTIC
HOT MEALS FOR SHUT INS
550 OSBORNE ROAD NE
FRIDLEY MN 55~38
OCTOBER 20, 1993
DONALD R SCHNEIDER
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
HOUSING & REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
DEAR MR SCHNEIDER,
THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERING OUR PROGRAM FOR THE CDBG FUNDS FOR 1994.
THE TABLE BELOW WILL SHOW QUITE CLEARLY WHERE THE FUNDS WOULD BE USED.
1991 ACTUAL MEAL COUNT
19~E ACTUAL MEAL COUNT
1993 ACTUAL MEAL COUNT
THROUGH AUGUST 31
1993 PROJECTED COUNT
199~ PROJECTED COUNT
17,491
19,'B73
15,701
28,631
8~,506
APPROXIMATELY ?5Z OF THE MEAL COUNT IS FOR RESIDENTS OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS.
WE ANTICIPATE THE MEAL COUNT TO CONTINUE TO GROW FOR THE NEXT SEVERAL YEARS.
CDSG FUNDS WOULD USED FOR RESIDENTS WHO ARE UNABLE TO PAY THE FULL COST OF
THE MEALS.
SINCERELY , ,/'
EVE FRANK, COORDINATOR
THE MEALS.
SECTION 4
SOUTHERN ANOKA COUNTY COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE, INC
WILL BE PROVIDING A FORMAL REQUEST WHICH WILL BE
PROVIDED LATER.
SECTION 4
F22
CITY COUNCIL LETTER
MEETING OF: }ANUARY 24e 1994
AGENDA SECTION: ORDINANCES AND ORIGINATING DEPT.: CITY MANAGER
RESOLUTIONS FINANCE APPROVAL
NO: 6
ITEM: DESIGNATING DEPOSITORIES BY: WILL, IP/~../..~rLRITE BY:
FOR FUNDS OF THE CITY OF L,,~ ~,.~'
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS DATE: J~. 18, 1994
Each year the Finance Department reviews investment firms and, as needed, updates the City
resolution designating depositories for City funds. As in past years, the attached resolution
designates depositories. Other than name corrections, there are no changes in depositories from
1993.
It is staff's recommendation that the City Council adopt this resolution.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Resolution 94-
copies available to the public.
, there being ample
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adopt Resolution 94-__
depositories for funds of the City of Columbia Heights.
· being a resolution designating
WE:dh
9401181
Attachment
COUNCIL ACTION:
RESOLUTION 94-
DESIGNATING DEPOSITORIES FOR FUNDS OF
THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Marquette Banks Minneapolis and the Northeast State Bank be
hereby designated as the depositories for monies of the City of Columbia Heights, and the
Treasurer of this City is hereby directed to deposit monies of this City in said banks, and the
Marquette Bank and Northeast State Bank are hereby authorized and directed to honor and pay
any checks or orders, when signed by the Mayor, City Manager and Treasurer for the
withdrawal or transfer of funds on deposit in said banks in whatever form.
AND, that the following financial institutes be designated as official depositories of the City of
Columbia Heights for investment purposes: Marquette Bank Minneapolis, Northeast State Bank,
Twin City Federal, Norwest Bank, American National Bank of St. Paul First Banks, Merrill
Lynch Government Securities, Inc., Prudential Securities, Minnesota Municipal Money Market
Fund, Piper Jaffray Companies, Juran & Moody, Inc., Shearson-Lehman Brothers.
AND, that the Treasurer shall have the authority to wire transfer funds from one official
depository to another for the purpose of investing City funds.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in case such deposit shall at any time exceed the sum for
which its deposits are insured under the acts of Congress of the United States relating to
insurance of bank deposits, said depository shall immediately furnish bond or securities in lieu
of bond. The following are hereby designated as the places for safekeeping of all securities in
lieu of such bond: The Marquette Bank Minneapolis, The Federal Reserve Bank, Norwest Bank,
First National Bank of St. Paul, Manufacturers Hanover Bank, Midland National Bank, American
National Bank of St. Paul First Banks, Piper Jaffray Companies, Juran & Moody, Inc.
Passed this
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll Call:
day of ,1994
Joseph S. Sturdevant, Mayor
Jo-Anne Student, Council Secretary
CITY COUNCIL L~TI~R
Meeting of: 1/24/94
AGENDA SECTION: ORDINANCES AND ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT: Crr¥ MANAGER
NO. RESOLUTIONS PUBLIC WORKS
6
M. Winson fl{//~
NO. OF VARIANCE REQUEST DATE: 1/15/94 D
Attached is a resolution directing the City Engineer to proceed with the submittal of a variance request to the Commissioner of Transportation
to permit State Aid project numbers be assigned for the Mn/DOT Traffic Signal Replacement project on T.H. 4'/at 3?th Ave. N.E., 44th Ave.
N.E. and 53rd Ave. N.E., after approval of the plans.
Staff mistakenly processed this project with off-system funds, rather than M.S.A. Construction funds. Thc variance can be processed
administratively and will not need to be presented to the Variance Committee.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to waive the reading of the Resolution, there being ample copies available to the public.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to adopt Resolution No. 94- directing the City Engineer to proceed with the submittal of a variance
request to the Commissioner of Transportation for T.H. 4'/from 3?th Avenue to 53rd Avenue.
MAW:jb
94-039
Attachment
COUNCIL ACTION:
RESOLUTION NO. 94-
DIRECTING THE CITY ENGINRRR TO PROCEED WITH THE SUBMITrAL
OF A VARIANCE REQUEST TO THE COMMISSIONER OF TRANSPORTATION
FOR T.H. 47 FROM 37TH AVENUE TO 53RD AVENUE
WHEREAS, the City participated in the Minnesota Department of Transportation Department project for Traffic Signal replacement work
on T.H. 47 from 37th Avenue to 53rd Avenue; and
WHEREAS, the City did not have the appropriate Municipal State Aid Street numbers on the plan at the time of approval; and
WHEREAS, the Minnesota DeparUnent of Transportation Rule 8820.2800 Subparagraph 3 requires that projects must be assigned State Aid
project numbers and must be so identified in records of the Minnesota Department of Transportation and the local governmental unit; and
WHEREAS, State Aid Rules provide that a political subdivision may request a variance fi'om these rules;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights:
That the City Engineer be directed to submit to the Commissioner of Transportation a formal request for variance from adopted Rule
8820.2800 Subparagaph 3 to permit that State Aid project numbers be assigned for the Minnesota Department of Transportation Traffic Signal
Replacement project on T.H. 47 from 37th Avenue to 53rd Avenue.
Dated this day of ,1994
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll Call:
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA
By:
Joseph Sturdevant~ Mayor
Jo-Anne Student, Council Secretary
ATTEST:
I hereby certify that the foregoing resolution is a tree and correct copy of the resolution presented to and adopted by the City Council of the
City of Columbia Heights, at a duly authorized meeting thereof held on the 24th day of January, 1994, as shown by the minutes of said
meeting in my possession.
Jo*Anne Student
Deputy Clerk
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
MEETING OF: January 24. 1994
AGENDA SECTION: ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT: CITY MGR
NO: 6 CITY MANAGER'S APPRO~L
ITEM: CHARTER AMENDMENT - REFERENDUM & BY: P. HENTGES
NO: REFERENDUM PETITIONS ~.~, DATE: 01/18/94
The first reading of Ordinance 1280 was held on November 8, 1993. The second reading was
scheduled for January 24, 1994. As you recall, based on direction by the City Charter Commission,
the City Attorney drafted Ordinance No. 1280 pertaining to Chapter 5, Sections 35-46, regarding
referendums and referendum petitions. Basically, the Charter amendment:
· Clarifies that all types of ordinances, resolutions and all other action of the Council shall
be subject to a referendum.
· Replaces "electors" and "voters" with "registered voters".
· Section 36: Increases the expense to $300 from $100; and incorporates language which
would allow citizens to have the City Attorney's Office review proposed ordinance,
resolution, or action for technical correctness and continuity.
· Section 39: Includes an explanation on the sample petition.
Councilmember Nawrocki is a member of the Charter Commission and can provide additional
explanation if you have any questions. The Charter Commission has held their required two readings
on this Charter amendment.
Note that State Statutes mandates a unanimous vote for Charter amendments.
As a point of information, it has since been learned that referendums are confined to ordinances
according to the League of Minnesota Cities' opinion. Thus, this item will be tabled indefinitely due
to further Charter Commission study and review.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to waive the reading of the ordinance, there being ample copies
available to the public.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to indefintely table Ordinance No. 1280; Being an Ordinance
Amending Chapter 5, Sections 35 through 46 of the Charter of the City of Columbia Heights
Pertaining to the Referendum and Referendum Petitions.
COUNCIL ACTION:
ORDINANCE NO. 1280
BEING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 5, SECTIONS 35 THROUGH 46
OF THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS PERTAINING
TO THE REFERENDUM AND REFERENDUM PETITIONS
The City of Columbia Heights does ordain:
Section 1: Chapter 5, Sections 35-46, of the Charter of the
City of Columbia Heights which currently reads as
follows, to wit:
CHAPTER 5
INITIATIVE, REFERENDUM AND RECALL
Section 35. POWERS RESERVED BY THE PEOPLE. The people of
Columbia Heights reserve to themselves the power, in accordance
with the provisions of this chapter, to initiate and adopt
ordinances and resolutions, to require measures passed by the
council to be referred to the electorate for approval or
disapproval, and to recall elected public officials. These powers
shall be called the initiative, the referendum, and the recall,
respective.
Section 36. EXPENDITURES BY PETITIONERS. No member of any
initiative, referendum, or recall committee, no circulator of a
signature paper, and no signor of any such paper, or any other
person, shall accept or offer any reward, pecuniary or otherwise,
for services rendered in connection with the circulation thereof,
but this shall not prevent the committee from incurring an expense
not to exceed one hundred dollars for legal advice, copying,
printing, and notaries' fees. Any violation of the provisions of
this section shall constitute a misdemeanor.
Section 37. FURTHER REGULATIONS. The council shall as soon
as possible after the organization of the city government under
this charter provide by ordinance such further regulations for the
initiative, referendum, and recall not inconsistent with this
charter, as may be deemed necessary. Such ordinance shall include
the relevant provisions of this charter.
INITIATIVE
Section 38. INITIATION OF MEASURES. Any five electors may
form themselves into a committee for the initiation of any measures
of public concern. After formulating their measure they shall file
a verified copy thereof with their names and addresses as members
of such committee. They shall also attach a verified copy of the
proposed measure to each of the signature papers herein described,
together with their names and addresses as sponsors therefore.
Section 39. FORM OF PETITION AND OF SIGNATURE PAPERS. The
petition for the adoption of any measure shall consist of the
measure, together with all the signature papers and affidavits
thereto attached. Such petition shall not be complete unless
signed by a number~; voters equal to at least twenty per cent of
the total number votes cast at the last preceding regular
municipal election. Ail the signatures need not be on one
signature paper, but the circulator of every such paper shall make
an affidavit that each signature appended to the paper is the
genuine signature of the persons whose name it purports to be.
Each signature paper shall be substantially the following form:
INITIATIVE PETITION
Proposing an ordinance [or resolution, as the case may be] to
· . . [stating the purpose of the measure], a copy of which
ordinance [or resolution] is hereto attached. This measure is
sponsored by the following committee of electors:
NAME
ADDRESS
2.
3.
4.
understanding the terms and the
undersigned
electors,
The
nature of the measure hereto attached, petition the council for its
adoption, or, in lieu thereof, for its submission to the electors
for their approval.
NAME
ADDRESS
At the end of the list of signatures shall be appended the
affidavit of the circulator, mentioned above.
Section 40. FILING OF PETITION AND ACTION THEREON. Ail the
signature papers shall be held in the office of the city clerk as
one instrument. Within five days after the filing of the petition
the city shall ascertain by examination the number of electors
whose signatures are appended thereto, and whether this number is
at least twenty percent of the total number of electors who cast
their votes at the last preceding regular municipal election. If
the city clerk finds the petition insufficient or irregular, the
city clerk shall at once notify one or more of the committee of
sponsors of that fact, certifying the reason for such finding. The
committee shall then be given thirty days in which to file
additional signature papers and to correct the petition in all
other particulars. If at the end of that period the petition is
found to be still insufficient or irregular, the clerk shall file
the same and shall notify each member of the committee of the fact.
The final finding of the insufficiency or irregularity of a
petition shall not prejudice the filing of a new petition for the
same purpose, nor shall it prevent the council from referring the
measure to the electors at the next regular or any special
election, at its option.
Section 41. ACTION OF COUNCIL ON PETITION. Whenever the
petition shall be found to be sufficient, the city clerk shall so
certify to the council at its next meeting, and the council shall
at once read the measure and refer it to an appropriate committee,
which may be a committee of the whole. The committee or council
shall thereupon provide for public hearings upon the measure, after
the holding of which the measure shall be finally acted upon by the
council not later than sixty-five days after the date upon which
such measure was submitted to the council by the city clerk. If
the council shall fail to pass the proposed measure, or shall pass
it in a form different from that set forth in the petition and
unsatisfactory to the petitioners, the proposed measure shall be
submitted by the council to vote of the electors at the next
election occurring not more than three months after the date of the
final action by the council, and if no otherwise scheduled election
is to be held within three months from such date, then the council
shall call a special election to be held not less than thirty nor
more than forty-five days from such date. In case the council
passes the proposed measure with amendments and at least four-
fifths of the committee or petitioners do not express their
dissatisfaction with such amended form by a certificate filed with
the city clerk within ten days from the passage thereof by the
council, then the measure need not be submitted to the electors.
Section 42. INITIATIVE BALLOTS. The ballots used when voting
upon any such proposed measure shall state the substance thereof,
and shall give the voter the opportunity to vote either "For the
measure" or "Against the measure." If a majority of the electors
voting on any such measure shall vote in favor thereof, it shall
thereupon become an ordinance or resolution of the city as the case
may be. Any number of proposed measures may be voted upon at the
same election, but in case there shall be more than one, the voter
shall be allowed to vote for or against each separately.
Section. 43. INITIATION OF CHARTER AMENDMENTS. Nothing in
this charter contained shall be construed as in any way affecting
the right of the electors under the constitution and statutes of
Minnesota to propose amendments to this charter.
REFERENDUM
Section 44. THE REFERENDUM. If prior to the date when an
ordinance takes effect a petition signed by qualified electors of
the city equal in number to twenty per cent of the total vote at
the last regular municipal election be filed with the city clerk
requesting that any such measure, or any part thereof, be repealed
or be submitted to a vote of the electors, the said measure shall
thereby be preVented from going into operation. The council shall
thereupon reconsider the said measure at its next regular meeting,
and either repeal the same, or repeal the sections thereof to which
objection has been raised by the petitioners, or by aye and no vote
reaffirm its adherence to the measure as passed. In the latter
case the council shall immediately order a special municipal
election to be held thereon within not less that thirty nor more
than forty-five days from the action of the council calling it. If
a majority of the voters voting thereon are opposed to the measure,
it shall not become effective; but if a majority of the voters
voting thereon favor the measure, it shall go into effect
immediately or on the date therein specified.
Section 45. REFERENDUM PETITIONS. The requirements laid down
in sections 38 and 39 above as to the formation of committees for
the initiation of measures and as to the form of petitions and
signature papers shall apply to the referendum as far as possible,
but with such verbal changes as may be necessary. A referendum
petition shall begin as follows:
REFERENDUM PETITION
Proposing the repeal of an ordinance [or resolution, as the
case may be] to . . . [stating the purpose of the measure], a copy
of which ordinance [or resolution] is hereto attached. This
measure is sponsored by, etc.
Section 46. REFERENDUM BALLOTS. The ballots used in any
referendum election shall conform to the rules laid down in section
42 of this charter for initiative ballots.
is herewith amended to read as follows:
CHAPTER 5
INITIATIVE, REFERENDUM AND RECALL
Section 35. POWERS RESERVED BY THE PEOPLE. The people of
Columbia Heights reserve to themselves the power, in accordance
with the provisions of this chapter, to initiate and adopt
ordinances and resolutions, to require measures passed by the
council to be referred to the electorate for approval or
disapproval, and to recall elected public officials. These powers
shall be called the initiative, the referendum, and the recall,
respective.
Section 36. EXPENDITURES BY PETITIONERS. No member of any
initiative, referendum, or recall committee, no circulator of a
signature paper, and no signor of any such paper, or any other
person, shall accept or offer any reward, pecuniary or otherwise,
for services rendered in connection with the circulation thereof,
but this shall not prevent the committee from incurring an expense
not to exceed three hundred ~ollars for legal advice, copying,
printing, and notaries' fees. Any committee member, at their sole
d~scretion and at no charge %o said committee member, may utilize
the serv$ces of the city attorney so as to assure that %he proposed
ordinance, resolution, or action is consistent as to ~orm and
structure with other similiar measures enacted by the city council.
Any violation of the provisions of this section shall constitute a
misdemeanor.
Section 37. FURTHER REGULATIONS. The council shall as soon
as possible after the organization of the city government under
this charter provide by ordinance such further regulations for the
initiative, referendum, and recall not inconsistent with this
charter, as may be deemed necessary. Such ordinance shall include
the relevant provisions of this charter.
INITIATIVE
Section 38. INITIATION OF MEASURES. Any five registeFed
voters may form themselves into a committee for the initiation of
any ordinance, resolution or co~Dcil action of public concern.
After formulating their ordinance, resolutioD, or action they shall
file a verified copy thereof with their names and addresses as
members of such committee. They shall also attach a verified copy
of the proposed ordinance, resolution or a~tioD to each of the
signature papers herein described, together with their names and
addresses as sponsors therefore.
Section 39. FORM OF PETITION AND OF SIGNATURE PAPERS. The
petition for the adoption of any ordiDance, Fesolution, or action
shall consist of the measure together with all the signature papers
and affidavits thereto attached. Such petition shall not be
complete unless signed by a number of registered voters equal to at
least twenty per cent of the total number of votes cast at the last
preceding regular municipal election. Ail the signatures need not
be on one signature paper, but the circulator of every such paper
shall make an affidavit that each signature appended to the paper
is the genuine signature of the persons whose name it purports to
be. Each signature paper shall be substantially the following
form:
INITIATIVE PETITION
Proposing an ordinance [Fesolutio~, or action as the case may
be] to . . . [stating the purpose of the measure], a copy of which
ordinance [resolution or action] is hereto attached. This
ordinance [resolution or action] is sponsored by the following
committee of registered voters:
2.
3.
4.
NAME ADDRESS
The undersigned reqistered voters, understanding the terms and
the nature of the measure hereto attached, petition the council for
its adoption, or, in lieu thereof, for its submission to the
electorate for their approval.
NAME ADDRESS
At the end of the l~st of e~gnatu=ea shall be appended the
affidavit of the circulator, mentioned above. E&oh affidavit sh&11
be in substantially the following form~
State of )
)SS.
County of
boinq duly sworn deposes and says
that the affiant, and the affian6 only, personally circulated the
foregoing paper, that all the signatures appended thereto were made
in the affiant's presence, and that the affiant believes them to be
the genuine signatures of the persons whose names they purport to
be.
(Signature of Circulator)
Subscribed and sworn to before me
this day of 19__.
(Signature of Notary Public)
Section 40. FILING OF PETITION AND ACTION THEREON. Ail the
signature papers shall be held in the office of the city clerk as
one instrument. Within five days after the filing of the petition
the city shall ascertain by examination the number of ~
v tars whose signatures are appended thereto, and whether this
0 ........ ~ ~ .....t" ~ercent of the total number of ~
nummer is a~ ~ ~-~,. ~ ~ '
voters who cast their votes at the last preceding regular municipal
elect~on. If the city clerk finds the petition insufficient or
irregular, the city clerk shall at once notify one or more of the
committee of sponsors of that fact, certifying the reason for such
finding. The committee shall then be given thirty days in which to
file addit%onal signature papers and to correct the petition in all
other partlculars. If at the end of that period the petition is
found to be still insufficient or irregular, the clerk shall file
the same and shall notify each member of the committee of the fact.
The final finding of the insufficiency or irregularity of a
petition shall not prejudice the filing of a new petition for the
same urpose, nor shall it prevent the council from referring the
ordinance, resolution or action to the electorate at the next
regular or any special election, at its option.
Section 41. ACTION OF COUNCIL ON PETITION. Whenever the
petition shall be found to be sufficient, the city clerk shall so
certify to the council at its next meeting, and the council shall
at once read the oFd~nance, resolutioD or action and refer it to an
appropriate committee, which may be a committee of the whole. The
committee or council shall thereupon provide for public hearings
upon the measure, after the holding of which the measure shall be
finally acted upon by the council not later than sixty-five days
after the date upon which such ordinance, resolution or action was
submitted to the council by the city clerk. If the council shall
fail to pass the proposed ordinance, resolution or action, or shall
pass it in a form different from that set forth in the petition and
unsatisfactory to the petitioners, the proposed measure shall be
submitted by the council to vote of the ~ at the next
election occurring not more than thr. ee months after the date of the
final action by the council, and if no otherwise scheduled election
is to be held within three months from such date, then the council
shall call a special election to be held not less than thirty nor
more than forty-five days from such date. In case the council
passes the proposed Qrdinance, resolution or action with amendments
and at least four-fifths of the committee or petitioners do not
express their dissatisfaction with such amended form by a
certificate filed with the city clerk within ten days from the
passage thereof by the council, then the measure need not be
submitted to the elec%orate.
Section 42. INITIATIVE BALLOTS. The ballots used when voting
upon any such proposed ordinance, Fesolution or action shall state
the substance thereof, and shall give the voter the
opportunity to vote either "For the measure" or "Against the
measure." If a majority of the registered voters voting on any
such measure shall vote in favor thereof, it shall thereupon become
an ordinance, resolution or action of the city as the case may be.
Any number of proposed measures may be voted upon at the same
election, but in case there shall be more than one, the reqistered
voter shall be allowed to vote for or against each separately.
Section. 43. INITIATION OF CHARTER AMENDMENTS. Nothing in
this charter contained shall be construed as in any way affecting
the right of the el_~9_gJ=q~under the constitution and statutes of
Minnesota to propose amendments to this charter.
REFERENDUM
Section 44. THE REFERENDUM. If prior to the date when an
~Fdinance, resolution oF action of the council takes effect a
petition signed by Neaistered voters of the city equal in number to
twenty per cent of the total vote at the last regular municipal
election be filed with the city clerk requesting that any such
measure, or any part thereof, be repealed or be submitted to a vote
of the l~_9~Ag]~2~_9, the said measure shall thereby be prevented from
going into operation. The council shall thereupon reconsider the
said ordinance, resolution, or action at its next regular meeting,
and either repeal the same, or repeal the sections thereof to which
objection has been raised by the petitioners, or by aye and no vote
reaffirm its adherence to the measure as passed. In the latter
case the council shall immediately order a special municipal
election to be held thereon within not less that thirty nor more
than forty-five days from the action of the council calling it. If
a majority of the 's~9_q~9~_~voters voting thereon are opposed to
the measure, it shall not become effective; but if a majority of
the voters voting thereon favor the measure, it shall go into
effect immediately or on the date therein specified.
Section 45. REFERENDUM PETITIONS. The requirements laid down
in sections 38 and 39 above as to the formation of committees for
the initiation of ordinances, resolutions and actions and as to the
form of petitions and signature papers shall apply to the
referendum as far as possible, but with such verbal changes as may
be necessary. A referendum petition shall begin as follows:
REFERENDUM PETITION
Proposing the repeal of an ordinance [resolution or action, as
the case may be] to . . . [stating the purpose of the measure], a
copy of which ordinance [resolution or action] is hereto attached.
This measure is sponsored by, etc.
Section 46. REFERENDUM BALLOTS. The ballots used in any
referendum election shall conform to the rules laid down in section
42 of this charter for initiative ballots.
Section 2:
This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect
from and after ninety (90) days after its passage.
First Reading:
Second Reading:
Date of Passage:
Offered By:
Seconded By:
Roll Call:
Donald J. Murzyn Jr., Mayor
Jo-Anne Student, Council Secretary
CITY COUNGIL LETTER
Meetin§ of: January 24, 1994
AGENDA SECTION: Communications ORIGINATING DEPT.: CITY MANAGER
NO: 7 Buildin§ Inspections APPROVAL
ITEM: Request for Temporary Si§na§e BY: Evelyn Ny§aard
NO: 4005 Cent?a~v~nue, Box Seat DATE: 1/19/94
Attached is a copy of a written request received January 18, 1994 from Daniel J.
Stiles, owner of the Box Seat Restaurant, 4005 Central Avenue, proposed to be opened
by February 1, 1994.
Mr. Stiles is requesting temporary signage consisting of two banners: One banner
facing Central Avenue measuring 30"x30' (75 square feet) and a banner facing 40th
Avenue measuring 30"x15 ' (37.5 s.f.) for a total of 112.5 square feet. Actual
signage is limited to 100 square feet for the tenant space. The temporary signage
is proposed for display for approximately three (3) months.
The permanent signaEe cannot be painted on the building until Spring according to
Mr. Stiles letter.
The request is in conflict with our existing standards for temporary signage.
However, the temporary signage standards are for signage in addition to regular
signage and this request is for temporary signa§e in lieu of regular signage due to
weather constraints.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
Move to approve the request for temporary signage at the Box Seat Restaurant, 4005
Central Avenue, from February 1, 1994 to April 30, 1994 provided a deposit in the
amount of $100 is submitted to the Inspection Department prior to the display of the
temporary signage.
ALTERNATE MOTION:
Move to deny the request for temporary signage as it is in conflict with Section
9.117A(3)(k), "Standards for Temporary Signage", adopted by the City Council June
28, 1993.
COUNCIL ACTION:
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
9.117A(3)(k) Standards for Temporary $1~na~e:
amended
Ord. #i271
(i) Any sign not considered permanent $hall be considered temporary.
(ii) No temporary sign ~elghing In excess of thirty O0) pounds Is
permitted unless It Is first approved by the Building inspector,
Banners or pennants may not exceed the lesser of 3~x20~ In slze
or the ·llovmd~axlmumof ~mll sIgnage per alta.
(111) No temporary sign shall extend over or Into any street, ·1lay,
sidewalk or other public thorouqhfare· distance greater than
four (4) Inches fro~ the wall uponwhlch It Is erected, shell
not be placed or project over any wall end-ay not cover~ore
than 25~ of ~1fldow area such ~het 75~ of the total ~Indow area
Is kept clear et ell times.
(iv) No temporary alqn shall be erected so es to prevent free Ingress
to or egress from iny door, ~lndow or fire escape, nor shall such
slgn be attached to any standpipe or fire escape.
(k) fy)
(vi)
(vii)
(viii)
(Ix)
(x)
(xi)
(xil)
(xlil)
Every temporary sign shall be attached to the ~all with wlre or
steel cables, end no strings, ropes or ~ood slats for anchorage
or support purposes shall be permltted.
Portable signs may not exceed &' x 8' in sFze.
Location of all temporary slgnage must be wlthln the property
boundaries of such business.
Temporary slgnaqe shall be allowed up to a maximum of four
eleven (11) day periods per year. Only one (1) teflq)orary sign
is permitted in any eleven (11) day perlod. A request for the
use of more than one sign In an eleven day period w111 result
In · double deduction from the four (4) times per year temporary
signage allc~eance.
A $15.O0 permit, es well es a refundable $100.~0 deposlt, shall
be required for each eleven (11) day period.
Temporary sign·ge for NEW business grand openlnqs shall be
allowed.an additional eleven (11) day period.
Additionally, one (1) APPROVED temporary sign Is allowed during
the December Holiday season, without I permlt, for I mexlmum
of thirty (30) days, provided the user posts · SlO0.qO deposlt
prior to the Installation of the temporary signage es provided
In item (vlSI) above.
The deposit shall be returned to the deposltor upon satisfactory
removal of the temporary sign·ge and the explration of the
applicable permit.
Unauthorized use of temporary slgnaqe shall be subject to a
doubling of any appllcable permit fees end forfeiture of the
S100.00 deposit in addition to other sanctions as provided herein.
t '-BOXSEATili l
433 E. Mendota Road
West St. Paul, MN 55118
(e12) 45o-7736
Columbia Heights City Council,
Boxseat Sports Bar & Grill located at 4005 Central Ave. in
Columbia Heights is requesting that we may hang two temporary
banners. The two banners will be in the same color of blue
as the exsisting awning. They will be aproximatly the same
size as the front face of the exsisting awnings. The banner
that will be facing Central Ave. is 30in. X 30 I't. the
banner that would be facing 40th Ave. will be 30in.x15ft.
The two Oanners will read: SPORTS
FRONT--- BOXSEAT BA~ & GRILL BOXSEAT
SPORTS
SIDE--- DOXSEAT DAR & GRILL
~ecause the front and side awnings were painted on instead
of the traditional glued on lettering, we are unable to
do so for aproximatly 3 months. To manufacture a sign
our needs which will entail a complete new skin is a 3 mon.
process. The cola weather is also an obstacle we have come
across. To repaint the sign, we would have to wait till spring.
Our sign company is Arrow sign co. located at 18607 Hwy. 65 N.E.
in Cedar, Minn. the # 1-800-621-9231.
Thank you I'or taking the time mo consider our simple request.
Daniel J. Stiles
CITY OF COLUHBIA HEIGHTS
Appllcation for Temporary S_ignage Permit
Date:
OWNER/TENANT:
Address if other than
Telephone:
TYPE OF TEHPORARY SIGNAGE:
Location of Temp. Sign on Site: 4/x~J ~_C~Tu~ _ ~O~c~:/~~ Ce_~;~z~pc 4__ }/~
DATES FOR DISPLAY OF TEHPORARY SIGNAGE: ~0 '~0 ~. ~ ,~,~ 3
(Hex. of 11 days)
I NSTALLER/COHPANY NAME:
Address: ~ ~ ~
Signature of Applicant:
~,-.c-,-/z /
City,State ~. //' ,/~. Zip__
SIGNATURE OF BUILDING INSPECTOR:
APPROVED DENIED
PERHIT FEE:
DEPOSIT: /~0 ----
DATE PAID:
CITY COUNCIL LETTER
Meeting of: January 24~ 1994
AGENDA SECTION: COMMON I CATI 0NS ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT: CITY MANAGER
NO: 7 CITY MANAGER' S APPROVf.~
ITEM: 1994 ASSOCIATION OF METROPOLITAN BY:DATE:P. 1-19-94HENTGES BY'D~.TE: I,~.~~'~, ~
The 1994 Policies and Legislative Proposals from the Association of Metropolitan
Municipalities is provided for informational purposes only. No formal action is
required.
COUNCIL ACTION:
BOARD OF DIAr:GTO~
PRE~IDE]~T
P~T PREm~E~T
Dm
~fl B~nh~
William Burns
Frklk~y
Jack Denzer
CoUage Grove
Tom Egan
st Paul
Cond Houle
FaJoon Hetghl~
~m/Unke
Mounds View
,~n lynch
Frank Ongaro
St Paul
Jim
E~n'~
Blnlne
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Vern Peterson
January 7, 1994
aeeociat!.on of
metroDohtan
munici'palitiee
TO:
Chief Administrative official and
Local Contact Officials
Enclosed for your reference is a complete set of 1994 AMM
Legislative Policy as adopted by the membership. It should
be noted that key issues have been designated by the
membership and Board of Directors as extreme high priority.
They are Municipal Revenues, Metropolitan Governance and
Transportation Funding. An explanation of the
content of these areas is as follows.
Municipal Revenues. The AMM has several high
priority policies which deal with this issue and are
interrelated. This includes continuation of the Local
Government Trust Fund with 2 cent sales tax funding and
reinstatement of the original programs for distribution
to cities and counties. The AMM program supports
continued HACA and LGA distributions with growth in the
LGTF to be allocated among the various programs at
their original ratio within the LGTF. The AMM also
supports reinstatement of the growth distribution
formula for HACA.
2. Metropolitan Governance. A major finding of an AMM
study was that there needs to be an invigorated process
by which metropolitan problems can be discussed and
solutions implemented on a metropolitan level. The
current governance structure and authority is lacking.
Policies in this area include metropolitan agency
reorganization, changes in activities and appointment
process; election of the Metropolitan Council and
issues such as water management, housing and economic
development in the metropolitan area.
3. Transportation Fundinq. Although the AM)( continues to
support dedicated funding for Highways, the Policy
emphasis is on a permanent funding source for
Metropolitan Transit needs. If a statutory answer
cannot be enacted then the AMM would suggest a
constitutional dedication of a specific source for
transit or an expansion of the current Gas Tax
distribution to include transit.
A copy of the Legislative program has been sent to each
State Senator and State Representative as well as each
3490 lexington avenue north, st. paul, minnesota 55126 (612) 490-3301
member city chief administrative officer and contact
person. Please inform your council members of the
availability of these policies and discuss the major
issues.
We are urging each city to invite your legislators to
discuss these important issues and how they affect the
residents of your community. Its necessary that all
legislators understand the fiscal and social cost impact of
aid cuts or service cuts on the people they represent if
the LGTF is not fully funded. To assure success in this
year of heightened competition for additional revenues, our
legislators need to hear the message from you, their local
officials.
If you need additional information or more policy copies
please call Vern Peterson or Roger Peterson at 490-3301.
a,~--~c~on of
POLICIES
AND
LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS
1994
Adopted by the AMM Membership on November 4, 1993
THIS DOCUMENT IS PRINTED ON, RECYCLED PAPER
3490 lexington avenue north, st. paul, minnesota 55126 (612) 490-3301
MUNICIPAL REVENUES
A.
INDEX
PART ONE
MUNICIPAL REVENUES AND TAXATION
PAGE NUMBER
1 - 11
LEVY/VALUE LIMITS
1. Levy Limits
2. Oppose Valuation Or Operation Freezes
B. MANDATED STATE AND FEDERAL PROGRAMS
C. LOCAL GOVERNMENT AID
1. Aid Formula Criteria
2. Local Government Aid Formula
3. LGA Growth
D. PROPERTY TAX
1. Homestead Class Rate Change
2. Non-Governmental Tax Exempt Property
3. State, County, City and Metropolitan Owned
Tax Exempt Property
4. Property Tax Reform
E. GENERAL FISCAL IMPACT POLICIES
1. Fiscal Note Continuation
2. Funding Shifts
3. State Revenue Stability
4. city Fund Balances
F. SALES TAX DEDICATION GUARANTEE
G. HOMESTEAD AND AGRICULTURAL CREDIT AID (HACA)
1. HACA Continuation
1
1
1
2
2
3
3
4
4
4
4
5
6
6
6
7
7
8
9
9
-i-
II.
2. HACA Growth Factor
3. Oppose HACA Conversion To School Aid
4. HACA Buydown For Class Rate Changes
H. STATE IMPOSED FEE FOR SERVICE
I. FISCAL DISPARITY FUND DISTRIBUTION
9
9
10
10
10
PART TWO
GENERAL LEGISLATION
GENERAL LEGISLATION 12 - 19
A~ OPPOSE REDUCTION OF AUTHORITY OR LOCAL CONTROL 12
B. TORT LIABILITY 12
C. DATA PRACTICES 13
1. Open Meetings And Data Practices 13
2. Liquor License Application 14
3. General Public Data 14
D. POLICE AND FIRE PENSION PROVISIONS 15
1. Amortization Aid 16
2. Employee Contribution Amount 16
3. Benefit Increases 16
4. Assumption Changes 16
E. CONTRACTORS PERFORMANCE BONDS 16
F. CONCURRENT DETACHMENT AND ANNEXATION 16
G. 911 TELEPHONE TAX 18
H. MARKETS FOR RECYCLED MATERIAL 18
-ii-
PART THREE
HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND LAND USE
III.HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS
A.HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS
20 -36
20
1.Examine Local Requirements That Affect 20
Housing Costs
2.Practices By Other Levels Of Government 21
Which Affect Housing Costs
3.Mandatory Land Use Standards 21
4.State Housing Policy 21
5.Local Housing Policy 22
6.Metropolitan Housing Policy 23
7.Neighborhood Liveability 24
8.State And/Or County Licensed Residential 27
Facilities (Group Homes)
9.Licensed Residential Facilities (Group 29
Homes) Inspections
B.ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
1.Cities Re-developmerlt and
Economic Development Responsibilities
29
30
2.Equal Treatment of Cities 31
3.Tax Increment Financing 31
4.Property Tax/Value Abatement Authority 32
5.Local Option for Development Organization 33
Structure
-iii-
6.Development of Polluted Lands
7.Building Permit Fee Surcharge
C.LAND USE PLANNING
PART FOUR
METROPOLITAN AGENCIES
IV.PHILOSOPHY WITH RESPECT TO METROPOLITAN
GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES
34
35
35
37 -53
A.PURPOSE OF METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES 37
B.CRITERIA FOR EXTENSION OF METROPOLITAN 37
AGENCIES AUTHORITIES
C.STRUCTURES, PLANNING, IMPLEMENTATION. AND 38
FUNDING OF METROPOLITAN SERVICES AND PROGRAMS
1.Policy Planning -Implementation 38
2.Funding for Regionally Provided Services 38
3.Regional Tax Rates and User Fees 39
D.COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING -LOCAL AND REGIONAL 39
INTERACTION
E.COMBINED SEWERS -SEPARATION 40
F.METROPOLITAN COUNCIL BUDGET/WORK PROGRAM PROCESS 40
1.Budget Detail And Specificity
2.Reliance on Property Taxes
3.Program Evaluation
G.METROPOLITAN PARKS AND OPEN SPACE FUNDING
1.Operation and Maintenance Funding
2.Regional Bonding For Regional Parks
H.WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
-iv-
40
41
41
42
42
42
43
1. Water Supply. 43
2. Surface and Groundwater Water Management 44
3. Regional Wastewater (Sewer) Treatment 45
System
4. Water Testing Connection Fee 46
WASTE STREAM MANAGEMENT 46
1. Integrated Waste Stream Planning 47
2. Hazardous and Dangerous Waste Management 48
3. Metropolitan/County Responsibilities 49
4. Local Solid Waste Management 50
Responsibilities
5. Funding 50
6. Organized Collection 51
7. Host Cities and Cleanup Responsibilities 52
PART FIVE
TRANSPORTATION
TRANSPORTATION POLICY STATEMENT
54 - 65
A. STREET, BRIDGE AND HIGHWAY GENERAL FUNDING 55
B. METROPOLITAN TRANSIT SYSTEM GENERAL FUNDING 55
C. TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FUND 56
D. TRANSPORTATION (HIGHWAY AND TRANSIT) FUNDING 56
ALTERNATIVES
E. HIGHWAY AND TRANSIT INTEGRATION PLANNING 57
F. HIGHWAY JURISDICTION REASSIGNMENT, TURNBACKS, 57
AND FUNDING
G. TRANSPORTATION UTILITY
H. ~3C' TRANSPORTATION PLANNING PROCESS - ROLE
OF ELECTED OFFICIALS
I. PRESERVATION OF RAILROAD RIGHT-OF-WAY
J. CITY SPEED LIMITS
K. TRANSPORTATION INCENTIVES/DISINCENTIVES
L. REGIONAL TRANSIT SYSTEM
M. MSA SCREENING COMMITTEE
N. METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION TAX
O. AIRPORT POLICY
P. BIKEWAY GRANTS PROGRAM
Q. OPTOUT
R. MSAS FUNDING FOR COMBINED CITY STREET
DEPARTMENTS
PART SIX
ENDORSEMENT POLICIES
VI. ENDORSEMENT POLICIES
A. TAXATION HEARING AND NOTIFICATION LAW
B. STATE ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS
C. REFERENDUM LEVIES
D. COMPARABLE WORTH
E. LIQUOR ISSUES
F. PELRA
G. ANNEXATION
H. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITIES
58
58
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60
60
61
61
62
62
63
64
66 - 74
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67
67
68
69
70
71
72
-vi-
VII.
I. WETLANDS CONSERVATION
J. MSA MILEAGE LIMIT
K. HIGHWAY DEFINITION - TRANSPORTATION FUNDING
PART SEVEN
METROPOLITAN GOVERNANCE REORGANIZATION
METROPOLITAN GOVERNANCE REORGANIZATION
A. LEGISLATIVE REORGANIZATION OF iMETROPOLITAN
GOVERNANCE
1. Restructuring of Metropolitan Agencies
2. Legislative Committee Structure for
Metro Issues Consideration
3. Selection of Metropolitan Council/
Metropolitan Agencies Members
4. Regional Rail Authorities/Transit
B. RE-ENERGIZING THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL
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73
73
75 - 78
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75
76
76
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-vii-
MUNICIPAL REVENUES
PAGE i ~q~ROUGH 11
LEGISLATIVE POLICIES
1994
I
MUNICIPAL REVENUE AND TAXATION
I-AIA%n//VAIiIE LIMITS
A-1 LEVY LIMITS
The Association of Metropolitan Municipalities commends the 1992
Legislature for removing artifical Levy Limitations from cities
for 1993 and beyond. The AMM has consistently opposed the levy
limit laws in that they apply uniform statewide restrictions to
cities and are too inflexible to accommodate inflation,
uncertanties in state and federal financial aids, and the diverse
problems and circumstances faced by cities throughout the state.
Such laws are inconsistent with principles of local
self-government and accountability. Neither do they recognize
changing local conditions as to either expenditure needs or
revenue sources. Levy limits ultimately work against the interests
of local taxpayers because the law creates an incentive for cities
to take maximum advantage of the opportunity to make general or
special levies.
THE AMM STRONGLY SUPPORTS THE LEGISLATURE'S DECISION TO END LEVY
LIMITATIONS FOR CITIES AND FURTHER URGES THAT LEVY LIMITS NOT BE
REINSTATED IN THE FUTURE.
A-2 OPPOSE VALUATION OR OPERATION FREEZES
During the 1993 legislative session the administration and some
legislators made several proposals~ related to levy limitation
through freezes or referenda. As ~in the case of the previous levy
limitations these type of artificial restrictions will work
adversely for the taxpayers in the long run. Property valuation
freezes will create property tax disparities between current and
new property and will create large individual tax bill
fluctuations when the freeze is lifted and property valued at
market. Also, creating temporary payroll or operating freezes
will in turn cause larger increases at some later point or
violation of state labor law. Providing referenda to allow frozen
operations to increase will in itself cost money and impose
unnecessary bureaucracy into the local government budget process.
'I~E AMM OPPOSES IMPOSITION OF ARTIFICIAL GIMMICKS SUCH AS
VALUATION FREEZES, PAYROIJ. FREEZES WITH REFERENDA, OR OTHER
LIMITATIONS TO THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BUDGET AND TAXING PROCESS.
I-BMANDATED STATE AND FEDERAL PROGRAMS
The cost of local government is being influenced more and more by
-1-
both state and federal legislatively mandated programs and
increased mandated benefits or costs for in place programs. At
the same time the legislature and administration are suggesting
that expenditures are far too great at the local level and that
cutbacks are needed. Cities cannot provide additional mandated
programs without seriously impacting the ability of cities to
provide the traditional services of public safety, street
maintenance, snowplowing, etc. Mandated programs such as pay
equity, binding arbitration, PELRA, certain Data Practice
requirements, expensive election rules, waste recycling, and
truth in taxation cost money. These costs must be recovered
through levy, state payment, or reduction of current service.
There is no other way.
THE AMM URGES THE LEGISLATURE TO RECOGNIZE THAT MANDATED INCREASED
EXPENDITURES IN ONE PROGRA~WITHOUT A CORRESPONDING INFUSION OF
FUNDS MANDATES A NEW PROPERTY TAX OR A DECREASED EXPENDITURE IN
THE OTHER SERVICE AREAS SUCH AS PUBLIC SAFETY ETC. THEREFORE,
WHEN NEW PROGRAMS OR INCREASES TO EXISTING PROGRAMS ARE MANDATED,
THE I~GISLATURE SHOULD PROVIDE SUBSTANTIAL STATE FUNDING
ASSISTANCE.
I-C LOCAL GOVERNMENT AID
State Aid to cities has been a much debated legislative issue for
two decades. Over that time the formula(s) have ranged from pure
per capita, to need based on value and service, to a distribution
based on location and past spending. Homestead Credit has changed
to Homestead Aid and is no longer a direct taxpayer subsidy. New
gimmicks such as Disparity Reduction Aid (Mill rate equalization)
and Tax Base Equalization Aid, have been invented to target money
to various regions when the general aid formula could not be
politically designed to work.
With few exceptions, cities across the nation have access to more
than one form of municipal revenue. The dedicated Local
Government Trust Fund recognizes that and provides Minnesota
cities with a second source, sales tax, in addition to the
traditional small share of the property tax.
The advent of the dedicated Local Government Trust Fund (LGTF)
made up of 1 1/2 cent current sales tax revenue and 1/2 cent
locally enacted sales tax revenue provides the opportunity to
return to the basics and to develop a rational redistribution
formula. That formula should recognize the sales tax as 1) a
second source of city revenue to fund general city services as
well as 2) a source of funds to help eliminate some of the
disparities caused by unique municipal overburden and for low
property wealth.
c-1 AID FORMULA CRITERIA
-2-
ANY AID DISTRIBUTION FOI~I~ SHOULD CONSIDER AND SUBSTANTIi~T.T,Y
INCORPORATE THE FOLIX)WING CRITERIA:
.THE SALES TAX IS A GENERAL REVENUE SOURCE FOR CITY EXPENDITURES
AND THUS SOME DISTRIBUTION TO EACH COMMUNITY MUST BE PROVIDED TO
UPHOLD THE ORIGINAL COMMITMENT TO ;%1.1. OF THE STATES TAXPAYERS;
.RECOGNITION OF BURDENS CAUSED BY RAPID POPULATION GROWTH;
.RECOGNITION OF BURDENS CAUSED BY POPULATION LOSS IN MEETING THE
DEMANDS FOR PUBLIC SERVICES;
.RECOGNITION OF NEEDS BASED ON CHANGING DEMOGRAPHICS SUCH AS AGING
POPULATION, HOUSING STOCK, AND INFRASTRUCTURE;
.RECOGNITION OF WEALTH OR TAX CAPACITY;
.RECOGNITION OF BASIC NEEDED SERVICES WHICH SHOULD BE SUPPORTED
AT AN APPROPRIATE SUPPORT LEVEL; AND
.RECOGNITION OF PROPERTY TAX BURDEN RELATIVE TO INDIVIDUAL WEALTH.
C-2 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AID FORMULA
The aid formula proposal developed by the League of Minnesota
Cities for the 1993 legislative session basically incorporated the
criteria as stated in I-C-1 above. The legislature modified the
LMC proposal by using average statewide tax rate times tax
capacity as the base rather than twice the average tax base,
substituted a declining grandfather for the LMC rolling
grandfather, and added some cap limitation. Although the
distribution changed some, the adopted formula is based on need
and does substantially include the need criteria.
ALTHOUGH THE ORIGINAL 1993 LMC PROPOSED LGA FORMULA IS PREFERRED,
THE AMM CAN SUPPORT CONTINUATION OF THE CURRENT LGA FORMULA
THROUGH 1995. HOWEVER, IF CHANGES ARE CONSIDERED BY THE 1994
LEGISLATURE THAT WOULD ADVERSELY AFFECT THE STABILITY OR INTEGRITY
OF THE PROGRAM, THE AMMWOULD STRONGLY SUPPORT RETURNING TO THE
ORIGINAL 1993 LMC PROPOSAL. CONVERSELY, THE AMMWILL SUPPORT
CHANGES OFFERED TO THE CURRENT FORMULA THAT HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT
ON METRO AREA CITIES.
C-3 LGA GROWTH
In order to ensure that city property taxes do not grow
abnormally, there needs to be continued growth in the LGA which is
a major portion of the overall revenue base of cities.
THE AMM SUPPORTS CONTINUED GROWTH OF LGA IN 1995 THROUGH INCREASED
-3-
CONTRIBUTION FROM SALES TAX TO THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT TRUST FUND.
THE LGA GROWTH RATE SHOULD EQUAL THE LGTF GROWTH RATE.
I-D PROPERTY TAX
D-1 GENERAL CLASS RATE CHANGES
A portion of the property tax relief provided to farms by the 1993
legislature was accomplished by shifting county and school taxes
to city taxpayers. This shifting causes local property tax
burdens for certain properties to increase due to the actions of
the state legislature. However, local government officials are
held responsible by their taxpayers.
THE AMM OPPOSES CHANGES TO THE PROPERTY TAX CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
THAT WOULD CAUSE SIGNIFICANT SHIFTING OF PROPERTY TAX BURDENS FROM
ONE CLASS TO OTHERS.
D-2 NON-GOVERNMENTAL TAX EXEMPT PROPERTY
One of the glaring inequities in the Minnesota tax system involves
the free local services that are provided to tax exempt property
owned by certain non-governmental organizations. It is widely
acknowledged that such property benefits directly from
governmental services such as police and fire protection and
street services provided by cities. However, since there is not
legal basis for claiming reimbursement for the cost of such
services, they are borne by the local taxpayers. Furthermore,
such property is concentrated in certain cities resulting in a
heavy cost burden in certain parts of the state.
THE ASSOCIATION BELIEVES THIS PROBr~M SHOULD BE CORRECTED BY
ENACTING LEGISLATION, REQUIRING OWNERS OF TAX EXEMPT PROPERTY,
EXCEPT FOR CHURCHES, HOUSES OF WORSHIP, AND PROPERTY USED SOT~LY
FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES BY ACADEMIES, COLLEGES, UNIVERSITIES AND
SEMINARIES OF LEARNING, TO REIMBURSE CITIES FOR THE COST OF
MUNICIPAL SERVICES SUCH AS POLICE, FIRE, AND STREETS.
D-3 STATE, COUNTY, CITY AND METROPOLITAN AGENCY OWNED TAX EXEMPT
PROPERTY
The State of Minnesota, some cities, counties and Metropolitan
Agencies own a significant amount of property within the
metropolitan area. Cities provide a range of services that
benefit these properties. However, since the they are exempt from
paying property taxes, municipalities are not reimbursed for the
cost of these services. This places an unreasonable burden on
cities.
The State of Wisconsin established a program called "Payment for
Municipal Services" in 1973. The program provides a mechanism for
-4-
municipalities to be reimbursed by the state for services they
provide to state-owned properties. Through a formula based on the
value of state-owned buildings within a city, the Wisconsin system
reimburses cities for police, fire, and solid waste services.
THE AMM ENCOURAGES THE STATE LEGISLATURE TO ESTABLISH A PROGRAM
FOR REIMBURSING MUNICIPAIJTIES FOR SERVICES TO STATE, COUNTY,
OTHER CITY AND METROPOLITAN AGENCY FACILITIES. THE PROGRAM SHOULD
(1) ENSURE THAT THESE AGENCIES PAY ASSESSMENTS FOR SERVICES THAT
BENEFIT THEIR PROPERTY, AND (2) AT~W CITIES TO RECEIVE
COMPENSATION FOR SERVICES THAT ARE FUNDED THROUGH GENERAL REVENUE,
SUCH AS POLICE AND FIRE, WHICH ARE VALUABLE TO THE STATE OF
MINNESOTA, COUNTIES, ANOTHER CITY AND METROPOLITAN AGENCIES.
D-4 PROPERTY TAX REFORM
Many significant changes in the property tax system have been made
since the 1988 Session. The AMM believes it is critical that any
future proposals be evaluated on the basis of their impact on
individual communities. A proposal that may appear balanced on a
statewide basis can have very disparate effects on individual
cities.
The difference in property tax burdens among taxpayers living in
neighboring tax jurisdictions which provide similar services must
also be kept within reasonable limits. Any significant tax burden
disparities would adversely affect cities' abilities to compete on
a fair basis for residents and economic development.
Tax increment districts are dependent on tax rates and assessment
ratios of the current property tax system. The financial
viability of those projects should not be jeopardized by
state-imposed changes in the tax structure. Likewise, enterprise
zone businesses have been recruited based on a commitment that
they would receive a preferential classification ratio in the
calculation of their property tax obligations. These development
districts should be protected from any negative consequences of
tax reform. The tax increment financing plan in effect at the
time legislation is passed should be the basis for determining
remedies.
In enacting any major reforms of the Minnesota property tax
system, including the complementary system of property tax relief
through aids to local government, the AMM recommends that the
Legislature pursue policies which meet the following conditions:
THE IMPACT OF ANY PROPOSAL SHOULD BE THOROUGHLY ANALYZED,
ITS IMPACT STATEWIDE AND ON INDIVIDUAL COMMUNITIES.
FOR
MAJOR SHIFTS THAT INCREASE DISPARITIES IN TAX BURDENS AMONG TAXING
JURISDICTIONS OR REGIONS WITHIN THE STATE SHOULD NOT OCCUR.
-5-
ALL SIGNIFICANT CHANGES SHOULD BE PHASED IN SO THAT CITIES CAN
ADEQUATELY PLAN FOR ANY NEEDED ADJUSTMENTS.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT AID, ORAN EQUIVAT~NT PROGRAM OF PROPERTY TAX
RELIEF SHOULD REMAIN AN ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF THE PROPERTY TAX
SYSTEM. CATEGORICAL AID PROGRAMS SHOULD NOT BECOME A SUBSTITUTE
FOR LGA AND RELATED PROPERTY TAX RELIEF PROGRAMS.
PROPERTY TAX REFORM SHOULD RECOGNIZE ~E TAX/CASH FLOW NEEDS OF
AND NOT JEOPARDIZE EXISTING DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS, TAX INCREMENT
FINANCE DISTRICTS OR ENTERPRISE ZONES.
THE CHANGES IN TAX STATEMENTS MADE BY THE 1988 LEGISLATURE }{AVE
THE POTENTIAL TO MIST~AD TAXPAYERS ABOUT THE VALUE OF HOMESTEAD
AND AGRICULTURAL CREDIT AID (HACA) PAYMENTS MADE TO LOCAL
GOVERNMENTS AND SHOULD BE CORRECTED.
AN INCOME-ADJUSTED CIRCUIT BREAKER AND RENTERS' CREDIT SHOULD
CONTINUE.
SIMPLIFICATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY ARE DESIRABLE GOALS THAT
SHOULD BE ADDRESSED WITHIN THE ABOVE TENETS.
I-E GENERAL FISCAL IMPACT POLICIES
E-1 FISCAL NOTE CONTINUATION
Many laws are passed each year by the legislature which have a
substantial effect on the financial viability of cities. Some of
these, such as revenue and tax measures, have an obvious and
direct effect which is often calculated and reported during the
hearing process. Many others, such as worker's compensation
benefit increases, mandated activities, binding arbitration and
other labor related legislation, social programs, etc., have
costs which are not as obvious but which will now be known due to
a fiscal note requirement. Cities and others will now be able to
determine the real cost of a program or suggestion and be able to
use this data in determining the merits.
THE STATE SHOULD CONTINUE A POLICY OF "DELIBERATE RESTRAINT" ON
ITS MANDATED PROGRAMS AND UTILIZE EXTENSIVELY THE RECENTLY
ADOPTED FISCAL NOTE STATUTE IDENTIFYING LOCAL GOVERNMENT COSTS
ON ANY NEW MANDATED PROGRAMS.
E-2 FUNDING SHIFTS
The Minnesota House of Representatives Research Department
annually prepares 'Major State Aids and Taxes: A Comparative
Analysis'. The statistics for 1985 through 1992 show an imbalance
of state revenues collected and aids and credits distributed
-6-
between the metropolitan and outstate areas. Nearly 65% of the
State Revenue is collected in the Metropolitan Area while only
about 45% of the aids and credits are redistributed in the metro
area. In 1992 there was $.56 returned in aids and credits for each
dollar collected in the metro area (dOwn 3 cents from 1990)
whereas, there was $1.27 returned per $1.00 collected in greater
Minnesota (down 5 cents from 1990). The trend in the past two to
three years has been very slightly in favor of the metro area but
there is still a vast imbalance in favor of outstate distribution
per amount collected. If the imbalance is allowed to continue,
state tax and aid policies may jeopardize the future economic
growth of the metro area to the detriment of the whole state.
STATISTICS COMPILED BY THE HOUSE RESEARCH DEPARTMENT SHOW THAT THE
MAJORITY OF THE STATE REVENUE IS RAISED IN THE METRO AREA WHILE
ONLY A MINORITY OF THE STATE AIDS AND CREDITS ARE AT~CATED TO THE
METRO AREA. THE AMMREQUESTS THE LEGISLATURE TO CONTINUE TO REDUCE
THE IMBALANCE AND TO CONSIDER HOW THIS DISTRIBUTION OF RESOURCES
EFFECTS THE ECONOMIC GROWTH AND VITAT~TY OF THE METRO AREA AND
THUS THE ENTIRE STATE.
E-3 STATE REVENUE STABILITY
The AMM has in the past supported a state reserve fund to help
deal with unanticipated economic changes that could result in mid
year cuts to various city aid programs. The AMM also supports
cash flow balances for cities so that short term borrowing is
unnecessary. The same case can be made for the states cash flow.
Finally, it seems prudent to develop a mid term correction or
unallotment process that does not penalize any one segment of the
state budget recipients over another segment if the economy drops
beyond a reasonable reserve balance.
THE AMM SUPPORTS A CONTINUED STATE FUND TO PROVIDE FOR STATE
BUDGET CASH FLOW NEEDS AND A RESERVE FOR UNEXPECTED BUDGET
SHORTFA~ DUE TO ECONOMIC DOWNTURNS. THE AMMALSO ENCOURAGES THE
LEGISLATIVE COMMISSION ON PLANNING AND FISCAL POLICY TO ADOPT A
UNIFORM ACROSS THE BOARD UNAIJ~OTMENT PROCESS FOR MAJOR ECONOMIC
DOWNTURNS SIMILAR TO THAT PROVIDED BY THE 1993 LEGISLATURE.
E-4 CITY FUND BALANCES
There are several reasons why cities must carry adequate fund
balances. First, cities need substantial cash balances at the
beginning of their fiscal year to finance expenditures for the
first six months of the year. (By statute, cities' fiscal year is
on a calendar year basis, running from January 1 through December
31.) The main sources of city revenue are property taxes and
state aid; property tax payments are not made to cities until
June and state aid is not provided until late July -- six to seven
months into the city fiscal year. Without the necessary cash
-7-
balance at the beginning of the year cities do not have funds to
operate for the first half of the fiscal year. The alternative
would be for the city to engage in costly borrowing which is not
in the interest of local taxpayers or the state. The office of
the state auditor has recommended that to be prudent, cities
should carry an end-of-the-year dedicated cash balance sufficient
to fund city expenditures for the first half of the year.
Second, many cities, in order to save taxpayer dollars and avoid
paying costly interest on debt, accumulate funds for major capita].
purchases and infrastructure. A common example is saving over a
period of years to purchase an expensive fire engine or public
works vehicle. In some cities, it may appear as if a city has a
large reserve compared to its annual expenditures, but in reality
it is "saving" for a major purchase. Confusion over this practice
has lead cities to more prudently "designate" their fund balances
to clarify the intended future use of such funds.
Because of the vast differences in the size of the 856 cities of
Minnesota and the various local preferences in financing
purchases, it would be bad public policy for the Legislature to
restrict or eliminate cities' abilities to accumulate fund
balances.
Third, cities need to maintain some fund balance to meet emergency
or unanticipated expenditures created by situations such as cuts
in aid, natural disasters, lawsuits, and premature breakdown of
vital equipment. Cities are not given the necessary revenue
raising authority to be able to address these issues in the middle
of a budget year.
And finally, bond rating firms require liquidity and a
demonstrated ability to pay debt in order to receive a favorable
bond rating. Bond rating firms scrutinize city fund balances when
rating bonds. The better the bond rating of a city, the lower
the interest cost of borrowing are to the taxpayer. Therefore,
THE LEGISLATURE SHOULD NOT ATTEMPT TO CONTROL OR RESTRICT CITY
FUND BALANCES. THESE FUNDS ARE NECESSARY TO MAINTAIN THE FISCAL
VIABILITY TO MEET UNEXPECTED OR EMERGENCY RESOURCE NEEDS OF CITY
GOVERNMENTS, TO PURCHASE CAPITAL GOODS AND INFRASTRUCTURE,PROVIDE
ADEQUATE CASH FLOW AND TO MAINTAIN HIGH LEVEL BOND RATINGS.
I-F SALES TAX DEDICATION GUARANTEE
The AMM commends the Legislature for the creation of the Local
government Trust Fund (LGTF) consisting of sales tax dedication to
city/county property tax relief, city governmental officials have
long needed a stable source of funding to augment the property tax
for provisions of municipal services.
-8-
CITIES CONTINUE TO SUPPORT THE CONCEPT OF THE LGTF WHICH INCLUDES
AN IRREVOCABLE DEDICATION OF A PORTION OF THE SAr.RS TAX AND MOTOR
VEHICLE EXCISE TAX TO A DEFINED AND STABLE SET OF PROPERTY TAX
RELIEF PROGRAMS. IF DEDICATION CANNOT BE ASSURED UNDER THE
CURRENT SYSTEM, THE AMM WILL PURSUE MODIFICATIONS TO THE STRUCTURE
AND COMPOSITION OF THE FUND OR A CONSTITUTIONAL DEDICATION OF THE
TRUST FUND REVENUES TO PROPERTY TAX RELIEF PROGRAMS, OR BOTH.
I-G HOMESTEAD AND AGRICULTURAL CREDIT AID (HACA)
G-1 HACA CONTINUATION
Homestead and Agricultural Credit Aid (HACA) is the residual aid
from the old Homestead and Agricultural credit programs.
Taxpayers see a Homestead calculation on their Property Tax
Statements but as time has passed, this calculated number and the
actual HACA payment to local governments is sugnificantly
different and of no relationship. $50 million of city HACA was
shifted to schools in the late 1980's and has since been further
reduced through general aid cuts. Unfortunately the school tax
rates reduced by the shift have since risen beyond the buydown
level. HACA is an integral part of the state and local
governmental service financing. It is the vehicle used to control
property tax increases when class rates are modified and it
augments not duplicates the LGA system. HACA is as important as
LGA and thus should be continued as a major part of the state and
local fiscal partnership.
HACA SHOULD BE CONTINUED AS A PART OF THE STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL
RELATIONSHIP AND INCREASED AS APPROPRIATE.
G-2 ~ACA GROWTH FACTOR
The 1993 legislature repealed the HACA growth factor for cities,
towns, schools, and special taxing districts but not for counties
beginning in 1994. The HACA growth factor assures that the
property tax relief provided by the state through the
classification system is paid by the state and not through tax
shifts to other property and it is especially needed as a partial
property tax relief offset in high homestead growth areas.
THE AMMURGES THE LEGISLATURE TO RESTORE THE HACA GROWTH FACTOR
FOR ATJ. CITIES OR PROVIDE AN ALTERNATE ESCALATOR.
G-3 OPPOSE ~{ACA CONVERSION TO SCHOOL AID
Converting city HACA or LGA to school aid could force cities to
dramatically increase their property taxes in order to maintain
sufficient operating revenues. In addition, due to constant
pressure to increase the resources available for schools, there is
no assurance that conversion of city HACA or LGA to school aid
-9-
would result in permanent reductions in school levies or have a
neutral impact on the taxes paid by local taxpayers.
THE AMM OPPOSES CONVERSION OF CITY HACA TO SCHOOL AID
G-4 HACA BUYDOWN FOR CLASS RATE CHANGES
In the past the legislature has used HACA to pay for class rate
changes for C/I and high valued homestead properties to ensure
that other property classes are not penalized.
THE AMM SUPPORTS STATE BUYDOWN OF FUTURE CLASS RATE CHANGES
THROUGH HACA TO PREVENT SHIFTING PROPERTY TAX BURDENS TO OT}~R
PROPERTY CLASSES.
I-H STATE IMPOSED FEE FOR SERVICE
The legislature recently adopted a fee of $5.21 for each
municipality connected water hook up to provide money for
federally mandated water well testing. The state imposed the fee
in a way that local city officials have been blamed for the fee
and increases on water bills resulting from the fee. In addition
the fee was not imposed on trailor parks and certain other private
interests, thus allowing a large portion of the population to
escape paying. Finally, it has been reported that the total
collected was in excess of the need and that the excess has been
deposited in the state general fund for general expenses.
THE AMM OPPOSES THE STATE MANDATING FEES IN A MANNER THAT FORCES
CITY OFFICIALS TO BE HELD AS THE RESPONSIBLE CULPRITS IN LEVYING
AND EXPLAINING THE PURPOSE. THE AMM ALSO OPPOSES FEES THAT ARE
NOT SPREAD EQUITABLY TO ALL AND OPPOSES OVER COLLECTION OR USE OF
A REVENUE GENERATED FOR A SPECIFIC PURPOSE TO BE USED FOR GENERAL
GOVERNMENT EXPENSES.
I-I FISCAL DISPARITY FUND DISTRIBUTION
Fiscal Disparities (F.D.) is a fiscal tool that shares
Commercial/Industrial property value for tax purposes in the
seven-county metropolitan area. Its primary purpose is to help
equalize, to some degree, the property tax wealth among the cities
by sharing part of the growth in communities experiencing
significant growth with those experiencing little growth. A
secondary aspect is it tends toward equalizing taxes on similar
C/I properties in various communities.
Recently suggestions have been raised to use a percentage of the
fiscal disparities funds for specific social or other programs in
the metropolitan area° Because of the way F.D. is calculated,
this would amount to a hidden property tax increase across the
metropolitan area that impacts the property tax poorer cities the
-10-
most. Fiscal disparities distribution is applied after levy
certification so the property tax increase is automatic, not
discretionary at the local level. Therefore,
THE AMMOPPOSES USE OF FISCAL DISPARITIES TO FUND SOCIAL OR
PHYSICAL METROPOLITAN PROGRAMS SINCE IT RESULTS IN A METRO~TAN
-WIDE PROPERTY TAX INCREASE HIDDEN FROM THE PUBLIC WITH AN
EXCESSIVE IMPACT ON COMMUNITIES WITH LOWER PROPERTY WEALTH.
-11-
II
GENEP~L LEGISLATION
PAGE 12 THROUGH 19
II
GENERAL LEGISLATION
II-A OPPOSE REDUCTION OF AUTHORITY OR LOCALCONTROL
The AMM has for many years opposed certain statutory changes that
erode local authority or mandate activities which cost money to
implement unless there is a provision to recover those costs.
Rather than adopt a separate policy for each issue, the AMM
believes that as general policy the legislature should not
decrease current authority or mandate activities creating added
costs to cities without providing the necessary funding or unless
there is overwhelming obvious demonstration ofobvious need.
Included in this general policy is opposition to mandates such as;
mandating wards for elections, setting city employee salaries,
state or metropolitan licensing of tree treatment contractors,
plumbing inspections by licensed plumbers only, and requiring
competitive bidding for land sales.
THE AMM OPPOSES STATUTORY CHANGES WHICH ERODE LOCAL CONTROL AND
AUTHORITY OR CREATE ADDITIONAL TASKS REQUIRING NEW OR ADDED LOCAL
COSTS WITHOUT A CORRESPONDING FUNDING MECHANISM. THIS INCLUDES
MANDATING ELECTION BY WARDS AND INTRUSION IN SETTING LOCAL
SALARIES.
II-B TORT LIABILITY
The Municipal Tort Liability Act was enacted to protect the public
treasury while giving the citizen relief from the arbitrary,
confusing, and administratively expensive prior doctrine of
sovereign immunity with its inconsistent and irrational
distinctions between governmental and proprietary activities. The
act has served that purpose well in the past, however, courts
frequently forget or ignore the positive benefits secured to
citizens damaged by public servants as a result of enactment of
the comprehensive act which includes some limitations on liability
and some qualifications of normal tort claims procedure.
The special vulnerability of far-flung government operations to
debilitating tort suits continues to require the existence of a
tort claims act applicable to local governments or local
governments and the state. The need for some type of limitations
is evidenced by recent experiences with the insurance market.
cities in Minnesota are finding it increasingly difficult to
obtain insurance at an affordable rate, if at all. Amendments in
1983 to increase the dollar amounts recoverable by plaintiffs
should be adequate to satisfy any reasonable claim. Further
changes in limits beyond the current $200,000 per person and
$600,000 per occurrence should not be made.
Joint and several liability provisions have been modified to
lessen the deep pockets effect some. The current limit of payment
is times two for liability of 35% or less (i.e. if the city is 30%
-12-
liable, they may be required to pay 60% of the damage award) or
total responsibility if liability is over 35% (i.e. if the city is
40% liable, they may be required to pay 100% of the damage
award). This still seems onerous especially when this comes out
of taxpayers pockets. Payment liability should definitely not be
increased.
THE AM]4 SUPPORTS THE CONTINUED EXISTENCE OF THE MUNICIPAL TORT
LIABILITY ACT AND RECOMMENDS THAT THE CURRENT LIMITS OF LIABILITY
REMAIN INTACT. JOINT AND SEVERAL LIABILITY PROVISIONS FOR PAYMENT
LIMITS SHOULD NOT BE INCREASED FROM CURRENT LAW SO THAT TAXPAYERS
ARE NOT MORE UNFAIRLY SUBJECTED TO DEEP POCKET AWARDS.
II-C DATA PRACTICES
C-1 OPEN MEETINGS AND DATA PRACTICES
The Legislature needs to continually reexamine the open meeting
law and the data practices act. The intent of the open meeting
law is to ensure, within practical limits, the access of persons
to the actions and motivations of government. The data practices
act is intended to ensure, within practical limits, the privacy o{~
persons who willingly or unwillingly become involved with their
government. Both laws are difficult to follow individually, and
when private or other classified information must be discussed by
a public body subject to the open meeting law, as inevitably it
must in many situations, the government is forced to attempt to
meet two conflicting statutes. The Legislature has attempted to
identify problem areas and to provide clear rules for local
government to follow. Unfortunately, not all circumstances can be
anticipated nor remaining ambiguities addressed.
Selection of city employees is complicated by the data practices
act's classification of the identity of non-finalists as private.
If meetings of public bodies to screen applicants until finalists
are chosen were closed, this would protect the privacy rights of
individuals and yet allow the public to be involved at the most
important stage of the process, that being the selection of an
employee from the group of finalists.
Certain meetings, such as settlement meetings involving judicial
or administrative actions, are more likely to be more productive
and concluded faster if they are not subject to the open meeting
law. The legislature should broaden current provisions to allow
quasi-judicial officers or certain state employees to authorize
closed meetings of public bodies.
Several city officials have incurred huge personal costs defending
open meeting law violation allegations, because state law treats
the open meeting law somewhere between a civil and criminal
matter. Recent proposals to increase the penalty section of the
-13-
open meeting law as a means of ensuring greater compliance are
misplaced. City officials are making good faith efforts to comply
with both laws. Without additional clarification, however, the
Legislature must realize that city officials owe it to their
constituents to limit the city's exposure to liability.
THE AMM SUPPORTS LEGISLATION CLARIFYING THE OPEN MEETING LAW AND
THE DATA PRACTICES ACT TO MAKE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMPLIANCE EASIER
AND LESS COSTLY. PUBLIC BODIES SHOULD BE ATJOWEDTO CLOSE
MEETINGS TO SCREEN JOB APPLICANTS UNTIL FINALISTS HAVE BEEN CHOSEN.
THE T~GISLATURE SHOULD REPEAL CURRENT PROVISIONS WHICH REQUIRE
REASON~LE EFFORTS TO KEEP DATA PRIVATE WHICH MUST BE DISCUSSED
PUBLICLY, THUS FORCING LOCAL OFFICIALS TO VIOLATE ONE OR THE OT~RR
LAW OR TAKE ACTION UNAPPROPRIATELY. THE LEGISLATURE SHOULD
CONSIDER ABANDONING JUDICIAL ACTIONS AS THE PRIMARY MEANS OF
ENFORCING THE OPEN MEETING LAW. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION
MECHANISMS, COMMISSIONS SIMILAR TO THE STATE NEWS COUNCIL, OR
OTf~RROPTIONS SHOULD BE EXPLORED. AT THE VERY LEAST, THE
LEGISLATURE SHOULD AUTHORIZE LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO REIMBURSE THEIR
OFFICERS TO THE SAME EXTENT AS IF CRIMINAL CHARGES WERE BROUGHT
BECAUSE OF THEIR OFFICIAL ACTIONS.
C-2 LIQUOR LICENSE APPLICATION
The definition of 'licensing agency' in Minn. State 13.41 is not
clear as to the inclusion of cities, therefore, it is unclear
whether all or part of the information on license issuance is
public. This can be a real problem when issuing liquor licenses,
since part of the data concerns sensitive business and personal
finances.
THE AMM ENCOURAGES THE LEGISLATURE TO CLARIFY THAT POLITICAL
SUBDIVISIONS OF THE STATE INCLUDING CITIES ARE LICENSING AGENCIES
IN MINN. STATUTES 13.41 AND THAT FINANCIAL DATA OF A PERSON OR
BUSINESS SUBMITTED IN CONJUNCTION WITH AN APPLICATION FOR A LIQUOR
LICENSE OR OBTAINED AS A RESULT OF AN INVESTIGATION OF THE
APPLICANT OR LICENSEE SHAT~. BE CLASSIFIED AS PRIVATE.
C-3 GENERAL PUBLIC DATA
The Government Data Practices Act allows municipalities to charge
the actual costs of searching for, retrieving, and copying public
data if copies of the data are requested. The law prohibits
municipalities from charging the costs of searching for and
retrieving data if a person asks only to inspect it. In many
cases, the searching and retrieving are the most time-consuming
aspects of supplying data. Making a copy is frequently only a
small portion of the time required and should not be the standard
for determining whether a charge is appropriate.
Profit-making enterprises have used this free service to augment
-14-
their businesses. For example, individuals have established
businesses for preparing special assessment searches. Personnel
from these businesses use city facilities, including expensive
computer equipment, to obtain the special assessment data. The
personnel may also take significant amounts of staff time for
explanations of the data collected. They then dominate the
publicly provided telephone for lengthly periods to transmit the
information obtained. These businesses use city facilities and
personnel as part of a profit-making enterprise, solely at
taxpayer expense. Municipalities should be allowed to charge for
retrieving and explaining public data whether or not the request
includes copying.
The law also prohibits municipalities from charging for separating
public from non-public data. This task may be very time-comsuming
and is necessary to protect the non-public data. Municipalities
should be allowed to charge for this service.
To preserve the Act's spirit and intent of keeping government
records open to inspection for public purposes, the new charges
proposed would not apply to the media or to private citizens
requesting information about themselves or their own properties.
THE AMM ENCOURAGES THE LEGISLATURE TO AMEND MINN. STAT. 13.03,
SUBD. 3 TO AT.TOW MUNICIPALITIES TO CHARGE FOR RETRIEVING AND
EXPLAINING PUBLIC DATA AND FOR SEPARATING PUBLIC FROM NON-PUBLIC
DATA. THIS AMENDMENT WOULD NOT APPLY, HOWEVER, TO THE MEDIA OR TO
PRIVATE CITIZENS REQUESTING INFORMATION ABOUT THEMSELVES OR THEIR
OWN PROPERTIES.
II-D POLICE AND FIRE PENSION PROVISIONS
Local police and full-time fire relief associations were phased
out by the 1980 legislature, unless the local council opts to keep
the relief association. All new employees will become part of the
state police and fire PERA fund and the state will reimburse local
units for a portion of the unfunded liability remaining in the
local fund. The unfunded liability was projected to be paid by the
year 2011 but during the 1980's, investment earnings were in
excess of 10% and thus could, at that continued rate, reduce the
time to year 2005. Past earnings are not an indication of what
happens in the future. The legislature considered siphoning
earnings in excess of that needed for 2011 amortization to reduce
state payments and property tax levy for unfunded liability as
well as provide a bonus (13th. paycheck) to retirees. If
investment increase drops below 10%, the local property taxpayers
in future years will pay more, not only to pick up the property
tax reduction but the state reimbursement reduction. It would be
better public policy to wait until the unfunded liability is
funded. Also, 1979 Law set employee contributions at 8% and the
Legislative Retirement Commission has in the past established a
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general policy requiring public safety employees to pay 40% of the
normal pension costs.
D-1 AMORTIZATION AID
THE AMM OPPOSES LEGISLATION THAT PROVIDES FOR REDUCTIONS OF STATE
AMORTIZATION AID TO LOCAL POLICE AND FIRE RELIEF ASSOCIATIONS.
D-2 ElqPLOYEE CON~BUTION AMOUNT
EVEN THOUGH THE EMPLOYEE CONTRIBUTION AMOUNT WAS SET AT 8%, IN
MANY FUNDS THIS IS NOT EQUIV~r.RNT TO 40% OF THE NORMAL COSTS. THE
AMM URGES THAT THE CONTRIBUTION LEVEL BE SET AT 40% OF THE NORMAL
COST OF FINANCING THE BENEFITS EVEN IF THIS AMOUNT EXCEEDS 8% OF
BASE SALARY.
D-3 BENEFIT INCREASES
THE AMM OPPOSES ANY BENEFIT INCREASES FOR LOCAL POLICE AND FIRE
RELIEF ASSOCIATIONS UNLESS AN INCREASE, INCLUDING ANY RESULTING
DEFICIT, IS FINANCED 50% BY THE EMPLOYING CITY AND 50% BY
EMPLOYEES ON A CURRENT BASIS.
D-4 ASSUMPTION C}h%NGES
THE AMM SUPPORTS CHANGES IN ACTUARIAL ASSUMPTIONS RELATING TO
SALARIES AND INV~S~ ~ TO MORE TRULY REFLECT EXPERIENCES.
THE AMM OPPOSES PAY~RNT OF ANY TYPE OF BONUS TO ACTIVE OR RETIRED
MEMBERS (13TH. CHECK) AS A PART OF ACTUARIAL ASSUMPTION CHANGES.
II-g CON?~ACTORS PERFORMANCE BONDS
The 1989 legislature modified Minnesota Statutes 574.26 to allow
contractors to provide a letter of credit instead of a performance
bond for contracts of less than $50,000. Although an improvement
at the time, this still will create significant hardship with many
reputable minority and small contractors. In todays market,
projects in excess of $50,000 are very common and are not really
large jobs. Experience also shows that letters of credit are safer
for the public and easier to collect than Bonds. The emphasis
should be on protecting the public.
THE AMMURGES THE LEGISLATURE TO PROVIDE GREATER FLEXIBILITY IN
CONTRACTOR GUARANTEES FOR CITIES BY ALLOWING IN ADDITION TO BONDS,
OT~R RELI~T~ FINANCIAL SECURITY GUARANTEES, SUCH AS LETTERS OF
CREDIT, WITHOUT LIMITATION AS TO PROJECT COSTS TO THEREBY ENHANCE
OPPORTUNITIES FOR MINORITY AND OTHER SMATJ. CONTRACTORS.
II-F CONCURRENT DETACHMENT AND ANNEXATION
Prior to 1985 the changing of municipal boundaries initiated by
-16-
property owners was limited to the single case where their
property was totally surrounded by another community. The 1985
legislation opened the possibility up to all property owners to
initiate such action. This broad based allowance is problematic
in some instances because of the City expense and intercity
divisiveness that it causes.
IT IS THE POLICY OF THE AMM THAT THE PROVISION ALLOWING PROPERTY
OWNERS TO PETITION FOR ANNEXATION BE MODIFIED TO ALLOW PETITIONING
UNDER ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA.
-THE PROPERTY OWNERS HAVE BEEN DENIED A REASONABLE USE OF THEIR
LAND WHICH IS CONSISTENT WITH AND ALI~WED UNDER THE CITY'S
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND ZONING ORDINANCE. THE PROPERTY OWNERS HAVE
NOT BEEN DENIED A REASONABLE USE IF THE PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT HAS
BEEN DEFERRED PURSUANT TO A PHASING OR STAGING PLAN.
-THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DOES NOT ACCOUNT FOR SIGNIFICANT BARRIERS
SEPARATING THIS I2%ND FROM SERVICE FROM THE CURRENT COMMUNITY
INCLUDING ANY ABILITY TO ACCESS ITS STREET SYSTEM.
-PROPERTY OWNERS HAVE PAID FOR SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR SERVICE BUT
DUE TO ACTIONS TAKEN BY THE GOVERNING BODY ARE PROHIBITED FROM ANY
CONNECTION TO THAT SYSTEM.
BEFORE PROPERTY OWNERS INITIATE PROCEEDINGS UNDER THESE CONDITIONS
THEY MUST UNDERTAKE A PROFESSIONAL PLANNING FEASIBILITY STUDY TO
BE CONDUCTED BY A CONSULTANT TO BE SELEC~EDAND PAID FOR BY THE
PROPERTY OWNERS. THE CURRENT COMMUNITY MUST APPROVE THE SET~CTION
OF THE CONSULTANT OR OFFER AN ALTERNATIVE CONSULTANT ACCEPTABLE TO
THE PROPERTY OWNERS. IF AGREEMENT CANNOT BE REACHED, THE
MUNICIPAL BOARD SHALL APPROVE A CONSULTANT. THE STUDY SHOULD
EXAMINE THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF THE PROPERTY AND THE
RAMIFICATIONS OF DETACHMENT AND ANNEXATION. THE STUDY SHOULD
ADDRESS PHYSICAL PLANNING ISSUES, DELIVERY OF SERVICE AND ANY
FINANCIAL RAMIFICATIONS TOGETHER WITH ANY IMPLEMENTATION PLAN.
THE PROPOSED PLAN FOR THE PROPERTY SHALL BE PRESENTED TO THE
CURRENT COMMUNITY. IF REJECTED BY THE CURRENT COMMUNITY, THE
PROPERTY OWNERS SHALL PRESENT THE PLAN TO THE OTHER COMMUNITY.
PRIOR TO A HEARING IN FRONT OF THE MUNICIPAL BOARD, AFTER THE
PETITION HAS BEEN SUBMITTED, THERE SHALL BE A PERIOD TO ALLOW FOR
MEDIATION BY THE CITIES.
FAILING A MEDIATED RESULT, A REVIEW SHALL BE CONDUCTED BY THE
REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION(S) OR METROPOLITAN COUNCIL WHERE THE
CITIES ARE LOCATED. COMMENTS WILL THEN BE FORWARDED TO THE
MUNICIPAL BOARD FOR CONSIDERATION.
THE MUNICIPAL BOARD'S DECISION MUST BE BASED ON A BALANCING OF THE
INTERESTS OF BOTH MUNICIPALITIES AND THE PROPERTY OWNERS. FACTORS
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TO CONSIDER SHOULD INCLUDE BUT NOT BE LIMITED TO:
-THE EXTENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES THAT CAN BE PROVIDED DY EACll
MUNICI PALl TY;
-THE FINDINGS OF THE REGIONAL PLANNING AUTHORITY REGARDING THE
IMPACT ON ~ REGIONAL SYSTEMS;
-THE ECONOMIC IMPACT ON EACH COMMUNITY AND THE PROPERTY OWNERS;
-THE EXISTENCE OF PHYSICAL BARRIERS WHICH SEPARATE THE PROPERTY
FROM THE REMAINDER OF THE CURRENT MUNICIPALITY BUT NOT THE
PROPOSED MUNICIPALITY; AND
-ADDITIONAL CRITERIA INCLUDED IN MS 414.041, SUBDIVISION 5
II-G 911 TELEPHONE TAX
Since 1985, Minnesota has had the authority to impose a fee of up
to 30 cents per month on every telephone bill in the state.
Currently, the fee is set at 18 cents per phone bill per month.
The funds generated by this fee amount to several millions of
dollars per year. The Department of Administration uses these
funds to pay the recurring monthly costs to the 90+ phone
companies in the state for the costs of the dedicated phone
circuits.
In a previous legislative session, legislation was introduced
which would have allowed the surcharge to grow to $1.00. The
excess fee was intended to develop capital in those outstate
counties to implement enhanced 911 service over and above the
basic 911 service they already have.
THE AMMSUPPORTS AYJOWINGTHE CURRENT 911 ACCESS FEE ON TELEPHONE
BILLS TO BE USED FOR COSTS OTHER THAN JUST ENHANCED UPGRADE FROM
BASIC SERVICE AND THAT ANY FEE IN EXCESS OF 30 CENTS BE RETURNED
TO THEJURISDICTIONW}F~RE IT WAS COTWmCTED.
II-H MARKETS FOR RECYCLEDMATERIAL
In recent years, the state legislature has adopted legislation
encouraging significant recycling of paper, cans, and plastic in
the State of Minnesota. Fortunately or unfortunately, the
activity has been such a success that the supply of recyclable
material is outstripping the market for such material. It has
been suggested that along with encouraging recycling the state
should also help encourage and create opportunities or markets for
use of recycled material. One idea by a local official went so
far as to suggest building recycling plants at state prisons and
creating a prison industry of manufacturing goods from their own
recycling plant.
-18-
THE AMMURGES THE LEGISLATURE TO CREATE INCENTIVES OR USE ITS
AUTHORITY TO IDENTIFY OR CREATE MARKETS FOR PROCESSING RECYCLED
MATERIAL.
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III
HOUSING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND LAND USE
PAGE 20 THROUGH 36
III
HOUSING, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND LAND USE
III-A. HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS
The housing problem for persons currently unable to afford market
rate housing can best be mitigated if all levels of government and
the private sector, including non-profit groups, work together and
if each contributes a fair share to the solution.
Each level of government should contribute to help solve the
problem and each level's contributions should be of the kind it is
best suited to make. The Federal and/or State Levels should
provide direct financial subsidies for housing for low and
moderate income persons. The Federal and State Governments also
have the responsibility to provide a tax climate in which the
private sector can produce and maintain rental units that are
affordable to low and moderate income households. The State
should also grant local units of government the authority and
flexibility to conduct the kind of housing programs that best
meets their diverse needs.
The Metropolitan Council should continue to place high priority on
housing planning for the Metropolitan Area and provide specific
guidance to the public and private sectors so that both can make
rational decisions relative to future housing needs. The Council
should continue to be aggressive in seeking innovative ways to
create housing opportunities for low income persons.
Local units of government also have a major role to play. Local
controls constitute but a small portion of the total cost of
housing but local units should not establish requirements which go
beyond what is necessary for the protection of health, safety and
welfare. Local units should also work with the private and
non-profit sectors to make the best use of existing tools to
produce affordable housing which is more affordable.
Decision makers at all levels must become more cognizant of their
actions, policies, and decisions which have an undesirable impact
on housing costs.
A-1. EXAMINE LOCAL REQUI~NTS THAT AFFECT HOUSING COSTS.
Local requirements, if excessive, can add to the cost of producing
affordable housing.
IT IS TH~ RESPONSIBILITY OF CITIES TO PERIODIC~T~ ~'~IEW THEIR
IX)CALREQUIRENRNTS (LAND USE REGULATIONS, SUBDIVISION ORDINANCES,
ETC.) TO ASSURE THAT THESE REQUIREMENTS DO NOT GO BEYOND WHAT IS
NECESSARY FOR THE PROTECTION OF HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE, AND
INHIBIT THE CONSTRUCTION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING. MODIFICATIONS
SHOULD BE MADE IF EXLUSIONAR¥ PRACTICES ARE FOUND.
-20-
a-2 o
PRACTICES BY OTHER LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT WHICH AFFECT
HOUSING COSTS.
Decision makers at other levels of government must become more
cognizant of actions they take which have an impact on housing
costs. These actions in themselves may be worthwhile and
beneficial, but when implemented result in increased housing
costs. Examples of 'this type of action would include such things
as the sewer availability charge, restricted growth policies,
building and energy codes, environmental rules, etc.
OTHER LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT ATtO SHOULD EXAMINE THEIR PRACTICES AND
POLICIES TO DETERMINE POSSIBLE UNNECESSARY IMPACTS ON HOUSING
COSTS. CHANGES SHOULD BE MADE AS NECESSARY.
MANDATORY LAND USE STANDARDS.
Uniform standards for housing style, type and size are not
appropriate because of the great diversity among cities and
differences within cities relative to density of development,
topography, age of housing stock, the mix of housing values,
the level of municipal services which are provided.
and
Land use regulation is one of the tools used by city officials to
protect the health, safety, welfare, and interests of the city's
residents.
THE LEGISLATURE SHOULD NOT PASS LEGISLATION WHICH MANDATES UNIFORM
ZONING AND SUBDIVISION STANDARDS OR WHICH REMOVES ADDITIONAL LAND
USE REGULATION AUTHORITY FROM LOCALUNITS OF GOVERNMENT. CITIES
SHOULD RETAIN THE AUTHORITY TO REGULATE THE LOCATION, SIZE,
AMOUNT, AND TYPE OF HOUSING WITHIN THEIR BOUNDARIES. NO
LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVE NEEDED.
A-4. STATE HOUSING POLICY.
The state should be a more active participant in providing funding
for housing needs. It is expected that allocation of state
resources would be based on an overall state housing policy which
would provide the necessary tools for implementation. The
Legislature needs to provide for financing strategies which will
carry out the long range goals for providing and maintaining
affordable housing opportunities. The state housing policy should
enable and assist local governments, private and non-profit
developers to initiate affordable housing. Local governments
should participate in the formulation of a state housing policy
which will be used to support local housing goals.
THE AMM RECOMMENDS THAT THE STATE PROVIDE DIRECT FUNDING AND
FINANCIAL INCENTIVES NEEDED TO ASSIST CITIES IN MEETING LONG TERM
-21-
HOUSING NEEDS IN THE STATE.
DIRECT FUNDING SHOULD COME IN THE FORM OF GRANTS AND LOANS
STATE FINANCING SOURCES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
FROM
- STATE APPROPRIATIONS
- STATE BONDING
- STATE GAMBLING REVENUE
- MORTGAGE DEED TAX REVENUE
- REVENUE FROM MINNESOTA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY
FINANCIAL INCENTIVES PROVIDED THROUGH THE STATE TAX POLICY SHOULD
BE USED TO BENEFIT THE MAINTENANCE AND DEVELOPMENT OF AFFORDABLE
HOUSING. INCENTIVES THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED BUT NOT LIMITED
TO:
STATE LOW INCOME HOUSING TAX CREDIT
SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION
OF LOW INCOME HOUSING BY PUBLIC AGENCIES
THE STATE LEGISLATURE IN AYJOCATING RESOURCES FOR HOUSING SHOULD
NOT SPECIFIC~TJ~ TARGET ANACTIVITYANDTHEREBY SET ASIDE SMATJ.
AMOUNTS OF FUNDS FOR MANY DIFFERENT SMALL PROGRAMS. THIS JUST
INCREASES STATE AND LOCAL COST IN ESTABLISHING RULES, AND APPLYING
FOR AND ADMINISTERING THE PROGRAMS. INSTEAD THE LEGISLATURE
SHOULD SET GENERAL POLICY PRIORITIES FOR THE USE OF STATE FUNDS
AND ~T~OW FOR LARGERPOOLS OF FUNDS BY WHICH LOCAL, NON-PROFITAND
FOR-PROFIT DEVELOPERS CAN APPLY BASED ON THEIR SPECIFIC
ACTIVITIES.
A PORTION OF ANY NEW REGIONAL TAX OR FUNDING SOURCE SHOULD BE USED
TO ALSO FUND HOUSING ACTIVITIES IN COOPERATION WITH LOCAL UNITS OF
GOVERNMENTS.
THE AMMRECOMMENDS THAT THE PROPERTY TAX SYSTEM NOT BE USED AS A
SOURCE OF NEW HOUSING FUNDS TO MEET STATE AND METROPOLITAN GOALS.
A-5 LOCAL HOUSING POLICY
There is a great diversity among cities in the metropolitan area.
Some cities need more housing for low income persons while other
cities need housing for moderate to upper income persons, cities
should have the authority to promote whichever kind of housing is
in the public purpose and best interest of a particular city while
attempting to provide housing opportunities to households of all
income levels, cities need to have a greater flexibility in
financing their housing goals if they are to meet the intent of
the Metropolitan Land Planning Act.
CITIES SHOULD BE GRANTED SUFFICIENT AUTHORITY AND FLEXIBILITY BY
THE LEGISLATURE TO CONDUCT AND FINANCE HOUSING PROGRAMS THAT MEET
-22-
THEIR INDIVIDUAL HOUSING NEEDS. LOCAL FUNDS CAN BE USED TO
LEVERAGE FEDERAL, STATE AND METROPOLITAN RESOURCES WHEN THEY CAN
MEET COMMON POLICY GOA!.q.
IT IS NECESSARY TO EXPAND FINANCIAL RESOURCES AVAILABLE AT THE
LOCAL LEVEL. INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
-REMOVAL OF HOUSING AUTHORITY LEVY LIMITS
-REINSTATING THE STATE DEED AND MORTGAGE TRANSFER TAX EXEMPTION FOR
PUBLIC AGENCIES
-ALLOWING CITIES TO IMPOSE IMPACT FEES
A-6 METROPOLITAN HOUSING POLICY
The 1991 Metropolitan Council through a specially appointed
regional housing task force completed a thorough study of housing
needs in the seven-county area. The study concluded that the
region is facing critical challenges to its ability to provide
decent affordable housing for its population. Demographic shifts,
market forces and aging of the regional housing stock will combine
in the 1990s to jeopardize many people's opportunity for housing
of their choice.
Those findings have not been addressed in a comprehensive manner
at either the state and/or federal level and the AMM continues to
support most of the task force's final report conclusions and is
still very concerned with the problems identified in said report.
And, it is still the case that individual cities do not have the
financial resources to adequately deal with said problems which
continue to cause unmet human needs for a good number of citizens
in this Metropolitan area.
TO BEGIN ADDRESSING THE REGION'S ON-GOING HOUSING PROBLRMS, THE
AMMRECOMMENDS THAT:
ae
ALL CITIES AND THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL UNDERTAKE COORDINATED
PLANNING WITH R~SPECT TO CITY AND REGIONAL HOUSING NEEDS
INVOLVING BOTH THE PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTORS.
A METROPOLITAN HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD REVITILIZATION FUND BE
ESTABLISHED. A SURCHARGE ON THE DEED TAX OR OTHER NON-PROPERTY
REGIONAL FUNDING SOURCE OR NON-GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND SOURCE
COULD BE USED TO PROVIDE THE FINANCING TO ADDRESS SUCH ISSUES
AS ADEQUATE AFFORDABLE RENTAL HOUSING, AFFORDABLE OWNER
OCCUPIED HOUSING, PRESERVATION OF AGING STOCK, SHELTER FOR
PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS, ETC. ON A METROPOLITAN WIDE
BASIS.
C#
ADDITIONAL FUNDING BE PROVIDED TO ASSIST CITIES WITH
COMPREHENSIVE HOUSING PLANNING AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION. THE
ADDITIONAL FUNDING COULD BE CONDITIONED ON A CITY UNDERTAKING,
-23-
IF IT HAS NOT ALREADY DONE SO, THE SPECIFIED COMPREHENSIVE AND
COORDINATED PLANNING AND ANY METROPOLITAN ALLOCATION OF
FUNDING COULD BE BASED ON CONFORMANCE WITH REASONABLE
STANDARDS.
A-7 NEIGHBORHOOD LIVEABILITY
Rapidly evolving social, demographic, economic and behavorial
changes are converging on many cities creating new challenges that
exceed their capacity to deal effectively with their new
environments.
The challenges cities face, such as deteriorating neighborhoods,
crime, and drugs, need the cooperative efforts of public, private
and business interests to solve. Cities have expanded public
safety, inspection, and health programs; have aggressively
repaired and replaced infrastructure; i.e., replaced streets and
public utility lines; have removed diseased trees, redeveloped
parks, refurbished or replaced neighborhood civic facilities; and
have developed programs to assist low and moderate income
families, yet problems continue to grow.
cities should take the lead in developing local and regional
strategies that will assist them in dealing with growing
neighborhood problems. These strategies should include the
following major categories:
1. Physical and structural deterioration of the
neighborhood.
2. Social welfare of the neighborhood.
3. Educational opportunities.
PHYSICAL AND STRUCTURAL DETERIORATION OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD:
ao
bo
co
cities need to evaluate the demographic impact on
their housing stock and plan for future
rehabilitation or reuse. The demographic impacts
may include declining home values, delayed or
non-maintenance of housing stock, foreclosed or
abandoned housing and the changing of neighborhood
character (i.e. An owner-base to a tenant-base). In
a metropolitan area these forces go beyond a city's
boundary and may require a more metropolitan view to
try to resolve the causes of the problems.
cities need to plan for continued upgrading of public
facilities (i.e. streets, utilities, parks) even in
the face of declining values. This may
require statutory authority beyond existing authority.
Cities need to plan for regulatory enforcement at
-24-
levels needed to maintain neighborhood quality. If a
strong level of enforcement is provided up front it
can be an effective relatively low cost long term
strategy for maintaining neighborhood quality.
Cities need to plan for and encourage neighborhood
residents' participation in the preservation of the
city's neighborhoods. Neighborhood pride can become
one of the strongest tools that cities can tap into~
provided that other resources are in place that can
provide the means by which this energy can focus.
Cities need to expand their resource base and plan
for the targeting of resources to accomplish their
long-term strategy for neighborhood preservations.
Expanding this resource base will require
coordinated efforts at the federal, state, regional
and local level.
fe
cities need to strengthen their ability to take
appropriate legal actions in a swift manner to
eliminate deteriorating structures in a
neighborhood. Lengthy procedures accelerate damaging
impacts blighted structures have on a neighborhood.
This should include the expanding use of the housing
court to allow for action on single family dwellings
and for City code enforcement.
ge
cities need to plan for and encourage neighborhood
resident's participation in recreational pursuits and
activities. Along with the appropriate public
facilities for recreation and leisure, there needs to
be organized programs and activities to make the best
use of these facilities.
Cities should actively encourage apartment owners and
managers to formally organize to create a forum by
which owners, managers, city officials, and other
interested parties may work cooperatively to
establish a climate that would achieve an ongoing
relationship among all participants and encourage
livable apartment environment.
SOCIAL WELFARE OF NEIGHBORHOODS:
ae
cities need to evaluate those social issues that
directly impact the liveability in a neighborhood
(aging, child care, transportation, job training,
domestic abuse, etc.) and plan for long-range
systems that will strengthen the liveability of
neighborhoods.
-25-
cities need to become more familiar with the social
welfare system and work closely with state and county
agencies to emphasize the need of stabilizing
neighborhoods and the family units within those
neighborhoods.
cities need to strengthen the cooperation of
individuals and families within the neighborhood to
support city initiatives dealing with crime and drug
awareness, public health issues (i.e. garbage houses,
animal infestation, etc.) and domestic abuse.
e®
cities need to plan for services to neighborhoods
that will allow for affordable day care,
transportation and job opportunities. The impact of
lack of these services has the greatest impact on the
low income and elderly households within any
neighborhood.
cities need to develop programs and/or participate in
the development of state and regional programs to
lessen the impact that poverty has on the
destabilization of a neighborhood. These programs
are needed to deal with the broad range of issues
rather than one specific activity and can be
tailor-made to address a problem by linking
activities together (i.e. rent, mortgage assistance
or tax breaks tied to rehabilitation loans; rent
assistance tied to child care; job training and
transportation assistance, etc.).
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES:
as
cities need to encourage, participate in and
strengthen the school systems community education
outreach programs. These programs provide an
opportunity to coordinate school and city efforts to
strengthen the liveability of neighborhoods.
cities need to work within
providing early childhood
cities face in dealing
neighborhood liveability.
the education process by
education on problems
with social impact on
Co
cities need to work closely with secondary and post
secondary education systems to encourage job
training programs. Such programs can help solve
neighborhood problems (i.e. work study with forestry,
rehabilitation, maintenance, etc. which will give
work experience by providing opportunities in the
-26-
neighborhoods).
THE AMM RECOMMENDS:
WHERE I~GISLATION IS DIRECTED TO ASSIST LOW INCOME
PERSONS AND CHILDREN IN POVERTY, LEGISLATORS RECOGNIZE
THE LINKAGE BETWEEN HOUSING AND HUMAN SERVICES, JOBS AND
TRAINING, HEALTH CARE AND TRANSPORTATION. WHEN THE
LEGISLATURE CONSIDERS LOW INCOME PROGRAMS, IT SHOULD
TREAT THESE ACTIVITIES IN A COMPREHENSIVE MANNER.
THAT THE LEGISLATURE ENACT NECESSARY LEGISLATION TO
IDENTIFY AND ELIMINATE ANY BARRIERS THAT WOULD ACT TO
DETER PERSONS FROM ACHIEVING THEIR GOAL OF ECONOMIC AND
PERSONAL SUCCESS FOR THEM AND/OR THEIR FAMILY.
THAT THE GOVERNOR, BY EXECUTIVE ORDER, DIRE CT HI S
DEPARTMENT HEADS WHO ARE INVOLVED WITH ANY ASPECT OF
HOUSING AND HUMAN SERVICES TO:
COORDINATE THEIR OPERATIONS SO THAT THEY IDENTIFY AND
REMOVE ANy CONFLICTING REQUIREMENTS.
ADMINISTRATIVELY, WHERE POSSIBLE IDENTIFY AND REMOVE
THOSE BARRIERS THAT ARE FELT TO RESTRICT A PERSON'S
ABILITY TO ACHIEVE ECONOMIC AND PERSONAL SUCCESS.
THAT THE LEGISLATURE AND THE GOVERNOR ALSO SEEK ANY
FEDERAL LEGISLATION AND/OR ADMINISTRATIVE RELIEF IN
IDENTIFYING AND ELIMINATING THOSE BARRIERS AT THE FEDERAL
LEVEL THAT THWART ECONOMIC AND PERSONAL SUCCESS.
A-8 STATE AND OR COUNTY LICENSED RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES (GROUP
HOMES)
The AMM believes that persons with disabilities are entitled to
live in the least restrictive possible environment and should have
a range of residential choices throughout the state. The AMM also
believes that residential based facilities (i.e. Group Homes)
should not be concentrated. Over-concentration of such facilities
could have a negative impact on the community and on the facility
residents. The AMM believes that the principles contained in this
policy are very appropriate and any state legislation pursued
should not conflict with the AMM principles.
The residents of residential based facilities come from our
communities and the AMM believes that cities as one of the major
institutions of our society have a responsibility to be a part of
the solution by welcoming such facilities on a fair share and
rational basis. The AMM believes that cities have a
responsibility to be part of the solution, but it also believes
-27-
that the state has the major responsibility to assure that the
residents living in residential based facilities receive care and
supervision appropriate to the extent of their disability or their
need to be housed in a group facility.
The state's deinstitutionalization policy is directly linked to
the need for more residential based care facilities in our cities
and the state has the responsibility to provide sufficient funding
to assure adequate care and supervision of the residents placed in
such facilities.
The AMM also believes that the state has an obligation to
screen clients, particularly in the corrections area, so that
persons placed in residential based facilities are not a danger
to themselves, fellow residents, or the community.
THE AMM BELIEVES THE FOLLOWING PRINCIPLES SHOULD BE IN LAW OR RULE
TO REGULATE RESIDENTIAL BASED FACILITIES:
-STATE AND COUNTY AGENCIES MUST PROVIDE TIMELY NOTIFICATION TO
CITIES WHEN A RESIDENTIAL FACILITY LICENSE IS REQUESTED TO BE
ISSUED OR RENEWED IN ORDER TO PROVIDE THE CITY ADEQUATE
OPPORTUNITY TO RESPOND. CITIES ALSO NEED TO BE AWARE OF SUCH
FACILITIES TO KNOW WHAT SPECIAL CARE IS BEING GIVEN RESIDENTS IN
CASE OF PUBLIC SAFETY EMERGENCIES.
-STEPS MUST BE TAKEN TO AVOID THE CLUSTERING OF COMMUNITY
RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ECONOMIC, GEOGRAPHIC OR
PROGRAMMATIC EXPEDIENCE. STANDARDS OF NONCONCENTRATION FOR
THE STATE OR FOR COUNTY-ISSUED RFP'S SHOULD BE ESTABLISHED. ATJ,
CITIES SHOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO REGULATE THE DISTANCE BETWEEN
GROUP HOMES IN A CONSISTENT MANNER.
-THERE MUST BE A REALISTIC ONGOING SCREENING PROCESS TO ASSURE
THAT PERSONS PLACED IN A RESIDENTIAL FACILITY WIrJ. BENEFIT FROM
SUCH LIVING ENVIRONNRNTAND WILL NOT BE A DANGER TO THEMSELVES
OR OTHERS. THE LICENSING AUTHORITY MUST BE RESPONSIBLE FOR
REMOVING ANY PERSONS FOUND INCAPABLE OF CONTINUING IN SUCH
ENVIRONMENT.
-FACILITIES LICENSED BY THE CORRECTIONS DEPARTMENT SHOULD NOT BE
EXEMPT FROM REASONABLE LOCAL LAND USE REGULATIONS.
-A FAIR SHARE CONCEPT AND FORMULA SHOULD BE CONSIDERED WITHIN THE
METROPOLITAN AREA, BUT SUCH CONCEPT AND FORMULA MUST BE COGNIZANT
OF OTHER FACTORS INCLUDING TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES, JOBS
AVAILABILITY, AND OT~RRNEEDED SUPPORT SERVICES.
-THE LICENSING AUTHORITY AND/OR THE LEGISLATURE SHOULD PROVIDE
SOME LATITUDE TO CITIES IN SITING SUCH FACILITIES IN ORDER TO
-28-
PROVIDE LOCATIONAL SETTINGS THAT WITJ. BEST MEET THE NEEDS OF THE
PROVIDERS, FACILITY RESIDENTS, THE NEIGHBORHOOD AND T}{E COMMUNITY
AS A WHOLE.
A-9 LICENSED RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES (GROUP HOMES) INSPECTIONS
Cities are frequently requested by the state fire marshal to
inspect group homes and day care facilities, which the state has
the responsibility for. Also, there are inspections made by the
county and/or state for health and licensing purposes.
Cities do not care to provide this service since they 1) do not
get compensation for performing the inspection, and 2) expose
themselves to liability if the city is involved in the inspection.
THE AMM RECOMMENDS THAT:
THE STATE AND/OR COUNTIES PROVIDE ALT. THE INSPECTION REQUIRED BY
STATE LAW.
IF THE STATE AND/OR COUNTIES WISH TO HAVE CITIES PROVIDE THE
INSPECTION ON THEIR BEHALF, THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS MUST APPLY:
CITIES WOULD BE FAIRLY COMPENSATED FOR THEIR WORK.
CITIES WOULD HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO ORDER COMPLIANCE AND/OR
PROHIBIT THE FACILITY FROM OPENING UNTIL THERE IS COMPLIANCE.
THE STATE AND COUNTIES WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE RISK
MANAGEMENT CONCERNS AND THE CITIES WOULD BE EXEMPT FROM LITIGATION
THAT MAY OCCUR.
III-B ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Cities have an interest in the maintenance of and appropriate
enhancements to the economic base of their respective communities.
It is the community's economic base which provides;
a.)
the tax base and other revenue sources which support
the general operations of cities, counties and school
districts;
b.)
the employment of some or a substantial number of
residents and,
c.) the means by which the populus is housed.
Ail metropolitan communities address economic development when
it's translated to physical development through their local land
use regulations with the individual communities striving for
"orderly development". As a group however, metropolitan
-29-
communities differ as to development needs and view points, with
each community's needs subject to a number of variables.
A municipality's ability to both regulate and promote economic
development is based on authority established by other
organizations and regulations. It is this ability that is of
general interest to all Metropolitan communities. The Association
of Metropolitan Municipalities (AMM) is the principal policy
action group acting on behalf of its member cities. As such it is
appropriate that AMM present the policy issues and concerns to
those organizations that set the rules.
As noted economic development for local governments is not just a
matter of more tax base for the community but entails tools to
promote, regulate and service the development. Promotional
means include Housing and Redevelopment Authorities, Economic
Development Authorities, Port Authorities, tax increment
financing, revenue and general obligation bonds, condemnation and
the Star Cities Program. Regulation includes its comprehensive
planning and land use functions. Servicing include water, sewer,
streets and other municipal services.
B-1 CITIES RE-DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Twin City Metropolitan Area contains over 50% of the
population of the State of Minnesota and is the major source of
the economic vitality of this state.
At the same time, the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, along
with the older suburbs are facing the ongoing need for providing
economic development opportunities for the lower income residents
of their respective communities.
There is also the need for the redevelopment of neighborhoods and
commercial and industrial areas to revitalize the decaying areas
of these cities, which is causing disinvestment.
In view of the fact that cities have the primary responsibility
for economic development and to accomplish the above goals, cities
need fiscal tools so they can address these issues on a timely
and effective basis.
One of the major keys for reducing poverty in decaying areas is to
provide access to good paying jobs such as those associated with
manufacturing enterprises. It is important to provide incentives
or other tools to help retain or introduce manufacturing business
into economically distressed areas.
The most effective program that the central cities have had at the
state level has been the Urban Revitalization Action Program
-30-
(U.R.A.P.). This program was very easy to administer.
Many inner-ring suburban communities with deteriorating job bases
and aging housing stock asked for similar legislation in the past
and feel that it would work well to address their housing and
related economic development needs - including a targeted jobs
program also.
THE AMM URGES APPROVAL OF A NEW WORKABLE STATE ENTERPRISE ZONE OR
A MANUFAC~T~RING JOB OPPORTUNITY ZONE INCENTIVE PROGRAM FOR CITIES
WHOSE MANUFACTURING JOB BASE IS ERODING.
THE AMM ATtO URGES THE LEGISLATURE TO ENACT A NEW VERSION OF THE
URAP PROGRAM THAT INCLUDES ALL CITIES WITH THE CHARACTERISTICS
AND DEMOGRAPHICS ~{AT MEET DEFINED CRITERIA. SUCH CRITERIA SHOULD
INCLUDE FACTORS SUCH AS POVERTY RATES, AGE OF HOUSING,
UNEMPLOYMENT RATES, INCOME LEVELS, ETC.
WE ALSO RECOMMEND THAT ONCE A CITY HAS BEEN DESIGNATED A URAP
ELIGIBLE COMMUNITY, IT BECOMES AUTOMATICALLY ELIGIBLE FOR ANY
BENEFITS THAT WOULD BE AVAILABLE UNDER ANY FEDERAL OR STATE
ENTERPRISE ZONE LEGISLATION AND/OR ANY OTHER PROGRAM TARGETED TO
CITIES WHOSE CHARACTERISTICS AND DEMOGRAPHICS INDICATE THERE ARE
NEEDS THAT CANNOT BE MET WITHOUT STATE AND OR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE.
B-2 EQUAL TREATMENT OF CITIES.
The AMM believes that all cities irrespective of size or location
should be treated fairly with respect to the availability and use
of state authorized economic development programs, including
redevelopment tools, and programs and other state funding.
NEW OR REVISED PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO ADDRESS SPECIFIC ECONOMIC
CIRCUMSTANCES WITHIN CITIES OR COUNTIES SHOULD USE PROBLEM
DEFINITION AS THE CRITERIA FOR PARTICIPATION AS OPPOSED TO
GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION, SIZE OR CITY CLASS, ETC.
B-3 TAX INCREMENT FINANCING.
Tax Increment Finance (TIF) has enabled cities to plan and carry
out housing, economic development, and redevelopment projects on
their own initiative. TIF represented, prior to 1990, the most
feasible and effective strategy or tool exercised by cities to
preserve and improve their own physical and economic environments.
TIF is virtually the only tool available to most cities for
positive self intervention to curb the spread of blight and to
encourage and manage sound economic development which is so vital
to provide jobs and to maintain a healthy tax base.
Over the past several years, however, TIF authority has been
seriously limited, and, as a result, the ability of cities to
-31-
engage in needed development and redevelopment has been sharply
reduced. The state needs to acknowledge that cities are the
primary governmental unit responsible for economic development to
create jobs and help stabilize the state's economy, redevelop
blight and decay, develop affordable rental and owner-occupied
housing, and clean up pollution within cities. TIF has proven to
be the most effective tool for cities in fulfilling these needs,
and some of the restrictions need to be removed to allow these
efforts.
The LGA/HACA aid penalty should not apply to all TIF districts.
If the Legislature is not willing to remove it, cities should not
be restricted in their means of paying for the penalty. The
general fund of a city should not be responsible for this penalty,
and the Legislature should remove the prohibition on developer
payment of the penalty.
TIF should be improved and must be preserved for use by all cities
irrespective of geographical location and any limitations should
be based on demographic criteria.
THE AMM ENCOURAGES THE TaGISLATURE TO MAKE POSITIVE CHANGES TO THE
TAX INCREMENT FINANCING LAWS.
-ALTOW POOLING FOR REDEVELOPTfENT AND POLLUTION DISTRICTS.
-~L~OW CREATION OF PO~.~;3TION DISTRICTS FOR CLEAN-UP CONTAMINATED
SOILS.
-ELIMINATE THE LGA AND HACA PENALTY FOR REDEVELOPMENT AND
POLLUTION DISTRICTS.
-PROVIDE AUTHORITY FOR AN EFFECTIVE, WORKABLE MANUFACTURING TIF
DISTRICT.
-~L~OW REDEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL DISTRICTS TO BE REDESIGNATED
AS A POLI/F~ION DISTRICT IF CONTAMINATION REQUIRING SIGNIFICANT
CT.RAN UP COSTS IS FOUND.
B-4 PROPERTY TAX/VALUE ABATEMENT AUTHORITY
Minnesota cities have the prime governmental responsibility for
economic development. While cities have the responsibility, by
statute and default, they have very few tools to carryout that
responsibility. The major existing tool is Tax Increment
Financing (TIF) and its effectiveness has been diminished by
legislative actions in recent years. The AMM believe additional
tools are needed and would support legislation which authorizes
cities to abate either property taxes or property value.
The AMM believes only abatement efforts to preserve tax base,
-32-
promote job creation or retention, redevelop blighted areas and to
promote affordable housing should be eligible for abatement.
Criteria should be developed to guarantee that these tools would
have accountability by both the local governments and the property
owners.
Programs such as homestead credit, "this old house", the abatement
authority for enterprize zones, and the new contamination tax for
pollution cleanup have all set the precedent for a coordinated
system of value and tax abatements. Currently, many property
owners are discouraged from making substantial improvements to
their property because of the offsetting penalty of increased
taxes.
THE AMM SUPPORTS THE CREATION OF TWO TYPES OF ABATEMENT AUTHORITY
TO FACILITATE REDEVELOPMENT AND JOB CREATION.
PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENTS SHOULD BE AVAILABLE FOR A!J. TYPES OF
PROPERTY TO ABATE THE TAXES THAT ARE CAUSED BY INCREASES IN VALUE
WHICH ARE DUE TO IMPROVEMENTS THAT ARE MADE TO THE PROPERTY IF
SUCH PROPERTY IS PART OF A REDEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN ~qiE
CITY AND THE PROPERTY OWNER~
PROPERTY VALUE ABATEMENTS SHOULD BE AUTHORIZED FOR TARGETED
REDEVELOPMENT WHICH OCCURS IN "PRESERVATION AND REHABILITATION
ZONES" WHICH WOULD BE ESTABLISHED BY CITIES TO INCLUDE A NUMBER OF
BLIGHTED PROPERTIES. SUCH ZONES COULD BE CREATED BASED ON
DEFINITIVE CRITERIA SUCH AS AREAS WITH DECLINING PROPERTY VALUES,
LOW HOUSEHOLD INCOMES, ETC., AND SHOULD BE TARGETED TO RESIDENTIAL
AND EMPLOYMENT/INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY ONLY.
B-5 LOCAL OPTION FOR DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE.
There have been previous legislative initiatives which would have
the effect of forcing cities to have a combined, single
development authority for housing and economic development and
redevelopment activities. The proponents argue that the intent of
such legislation is not to restrict local development activities
but to help assure coordination and cooperation at the local
level. We believe cities ought to have the maximum flexibility in
determining which type or types of local agencies are the most
appropriate to meet the desires and unique needs of different
cities. There is a possibility that a bill similar to the previous
bill will be introduced again.
THE AMM SUPPORTS LEGISLATION WHICH WOULD ENABLE CITIES TO HAVE A
SINGLE, COMBINED DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AS LONG AS IT IS OPTIONAL.
IF THE LEGISLATURE BELIEVES THAT IT IS IN THE 'PUBLIC INTEREST' TO
HAVE A SINGLE, COMBINED DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, IT SHOULD PROVIDE
INCENTIVES TO ENCOURAGE CITIES TO ADOPT THAT OPTION. SUCH ACTION
SHOULD NOT BE MANDATED NOR SHOULD A CITY BE PENALIZED IF IT DOES
-33-
NOT CHOOSE SUCH OPTION. THE AMM ALSO SUPPORTS ENABLING
LEGISLATION TO Ar.I~W CITIES TO CREATE AN AREA (TWO OR MORE CITIES)
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY.
B-6 DEVELO~ OF POT,TIlTED LANDS
Every Minnesota city has contaminated sites within its boundaries
that remain underdeveloped and polluted because of the number of
obstacles that prevent local government action. Among the
roadblocks are liability issues and financing of up-front costs
for clean-up. Developers are reluctant to expose themselves to
liability. Clean-up costs often exceed the value of the land
precluding incentive for private sector intervention. Public
sector subsidy is critical.
Recent changes in tax increment law have rendered hazardous
substance subdistricts useless in providing assistance with
clean-up costs, and Superfund dollars are not sufficient to
address the need.
The Legislature did pass the Land Recycling Act of 1992 which
should be of some help. The law is designed to promote the
transfer and reuse of contaminated land by offering an exemption
from liability to those who are not otherwise liable and who
voluntarily cleanup a site. The new law also provides that once a
response action is satisfactorily completed, the PCA Commissioner
will issue a certificate of completion.
The 1993 tax law also made a step toward developing a pollution
cleanup program and acknowledged that tax increment financing
(TIF) is an appropriate tool to provide a portion of the funding.
The AMM however, opposes the Legislature's decision that cities
must use general taxes and fees from their city residents to
provide a portion of the cleanup funding to be eligible for
contamination grants and use of TIF authority, cities should have
the right to clean-up polluted private property without penalizing
all city taxpayers.
THE ANN SUPPORTS LEGISLATION THAT WOULD:
-CREATE ADDITIONAL FINANCING METHODS TO ADEQUATELY FUND A
STATEWIDE CLEANUP PROGRAM.
-REQUIRE THAT CONDEMNATION COMMISSIONERS CONSIDER THE COST OF
CORRECTING POTION PROBLEMS IN DETERMINING THE FINAL AWARDVALUE
OF THE PROPERTY.
-AUTHORIZE CREATION OF TIF POTION DISTRICTS (SEE POLICY III-B3).
B-7 BUILDING PERMIT FEE SURCHARGE
-34-
Local units of government levy a one half percent surcharge on
building permits which is paid to the State to operate the State
Building Codes and Standards Division. Until the 1991 Legislature
changed the law at the request of the Governor, any excess fees
over actual operating costs were proportionately rebated to local
units to help pay for Building Officials training and continuing
education costs. Local units of government are facing tough
financial times and need every available resource, especially that
which could be considered local money.
THE AMMRECOMMENDS REINSTATING THE LANGUAGE PROVIDING THAT UNUSED
BUILDING PERMIT SURCHARGE FEES IN EXCESS OF STATE BUILDING CODE
DIVISION COSTS BE RETURNED TO LOCAL UNITS OF GOVERNMENT.
III-C LAND USE PLANNING
Land use regulation by cities in the Metropolitan Area has been
governed by the Municipal Planning Act (MS 462) and the
Metropolitan Land Planning Act (MS 473). While not a perfect
framework, these acts have worked well for the vast majority of
cities in the metropolitan area. Land use controi is more than
just one of the many powers exercised by cities and occupies a
significant part of the work of city councils and their staff.
It has a significant impact on other community regulations, tax
base, economic development and redevelopment. It is a driving
force for creating service needs. Land use regulation is the
common thread which runs through most of a city's functions and
operations.
Proposed legislation, which would have superceded existing law
and created a uniform land planning law for cities, towns and
counties was introduced in the 1987 through 1990 legislative
sessions under the sponsorship of the Governor's Advisory
Committee on State-Local Relations (ACSLR). The AMM
successfully opposed those proposals because they would have
diluted the authority of local elected officials; established a
new legal framework which could have rendered moot much of the
existing case law and existing codes and ordinances; created
conflict with some provisions of the metropolitan land planning
act; and reduced the flexibility and discretion of local
officials to manage development within cities.
A special AMM task force worked for over two years in developing a
compromise proposal beneficial to metro cities as well as to the
counties, townships and outstate cities. The task force's work
was completed in late 1991 and a bill was introduced in the 1992
session which embodied the task force's work. No comparable bill
was introduced in the 1993 session.
THE AMM WILL SUPPORT A UNIFORM LAND PLANNING ACT THAT IS
CONSISTENT WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE COMPROMISE PROPOSAL
-35-
DEVELOPED BY THE AMM LAND USE PIANNING TASK FORCE THAT WAS
EMBODIED IN THE 1992 DRAFT BILL.
-36-
IV
METROPOLITAN AGENCIES
PAGE 37 THROUGH 53
IV
METROPOLITAN AGENCIES
IV. PHILOSOPHY WITH RESPECT TO METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES
Many challenges AMM cities face in the 1990s are beyond the
financial and staff resources of a single city. Therefore, it is
recognized by the AMM that when such questions arise, it is in the
organization's interest that all concerned units of government
cooperate and work together in reaching solutions.
There are a few issues which because of their complexity or cost
encompass the concerns of the entire metropolitan area. The
region may need to deal with these issues through a metropolitan
governance system. The AMM strongly believes that this system must
act in cooperation with local governing bodies. The theme of this
effort is that the metropolitan agencies and local government
officials are partners, with each respecting the roles of the
other when addressing metropolitan wide problems and issues.
IV-A PURPOSE OF METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES
The diversity and political differences in our metropolitan area
results in the need for a regional service delivery system to
provide certain services or portions of services to most
effectively and efficiently address the needs of the residents.
There is also a need for planning on a metropolitan basis which
must be done in cooperation with local government.
THE ASSOCIATION OF METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITIES AFFIRMS IT SUPPORT
FOR THE CONCEPT OF A METROPOLITAN GOVERNANCE SYSTEM WHEN
APPROPRIATE. THE PRIMARY AND PREDOMINATE PURPOSES OF THE
METROPOLITAN GOVERNANCE SYSTEM SHOULD BE TO FACILITATE THE
COORDINATED PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE METROPOLITAN AREA; TO
PROVIDE REGION-WIDE SERVICES, WITHOUT DUPLICATING THOSE PROVIDED
BY LOCAL GOVERNMENT, THAT ARE BEYOND THE CAPABILITIES OF LOCAL
GOVERNMENTAL UNITS TO CARRY OUT INDIVIDUALLY OR JOINTLY; TO
PROVIDE REGION-WIDE PLANNING AS NECESSARY AND WITH THE COOPERATION
OF AFFECTED LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS AND TO FULFILL OTHER SPECIFIC
RESPONSIBILITIES AS DELEGATED BY THE STATE AND FEDERAL
IV-B CRITERIA FOR EXTENSION OF METROPOLITAN AGENCIES AUTHORITIES
Any efforts by metropolitan agencies to expand their powers or
authority must be carefully considered and limited in focus
with in-depth review by all those impacted by the proposed
changes.
TI{E LEGISLATURE, WHEN GRANTING THE METROPOLITAN AGENCIES
ADDITIONAL AUTHORITY, SHOULD CAREFULLY STATE THE SPECIFIC
AUTHORITY BEING GRANTED.
ANY EXPANSION OR EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY SHOULD BE CONSIDERED
-37-
ONLY WHEN AT T~AST ONE OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS EXIST:
-THE SERVICE, FUNCTION, OR ACTIVITY HAS BEEN SHOWN TO BE
NEEDED AND IT CAN BE DEMONSTRATED THAT IT CANNOT OR IS NOT BEING
EFFECTIVELY OR EFFICIENTLY PROVIDED THROUGH EXISTING GENERAL
PURPOSE UNITS OF GOVERNMENT;
-INTERVENTION ON A REGIONAL BASIS IS NEEDED FOR PROTECTION OF THE
REGION'S INVESTMENT IN AN EXISTING METROPOLITAN SYSTEM.
IV-C STRUCTURES, PLANNING, IMPLEMENTATION AND FUNDING OF
METROPOLITAN SERVICES AND PROGRAMS.
The Metropolitan Council was created by the Legislature in 1967 to
coordinate "the planning and development" of the Metropolitan
Area. The Council was mostly advisory, but was given
responsibility for regional policy development and coordination in
the areas of wastewater treatment and disposal, land
transportation and airports. The Council was given limited
approval authority for development proposals which were of
metropolitan (regional) significance. The Council was not given
direct operational authority and instead the Legislature created
two new Metropolitan Commissions (MWCC and MTC) and restructured
the MAC to operate and provide regional services. The Metropolitan
Council's responsibility has expanded subsequently to include
regional parks and open space, solid waste, approval authority
for controlled access highways and for certain elements (airports,
transportation, parks and open space, and sewers) of local
comprehensive plans.
C-1 POLICY PLANNING - POLICY IMPLEMENTATION
The historic legislative intent concerning separation of
responsibility for metropolitan policy planning and policy
implementation should be continued.
THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL MUST BE A PLANNING AND COORDINATING
BODY. REGIONAL POLICY AND PROGRAMS SHOULD BE IMPleMENTED
AND/OR OPERATED BY EXISTING METROPOLITAN OPERATING AGENCIES
AND/OR GENERAL PURPOSE UNITS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT WHEN PRACTICAL.
NEW METROPOLITAN OPERATING AGENCIES OR COMMISSIONS SHOULD ONLY BE
CREATED WHEN THE SERVICE OR FUNCTION TO BE PROVIDED HAS BEEN SHOWN
TO BE NEEDED AND IT CAN BE DEMONSTRATED THAT IT COULD BE MORE
EFFECTIVELY PROVIDED THROUGH A NEW STRUCTURE RATHER THAN THE
EXISTING STRUCTURES.
C-2 FUNDING FOR REGIONA!,!,Y PROVIDED SERVICES
The Metropolitan Council and the Metropolitan Agencies funding has
changed over time and is a mixture of property taxes, user fees
and federal and state revenues. Occasionally there has been some
-38-
discussion to replace these multiple sources with a single new
revenue source.
THE AMM BELIEVES IT IS APPROPRIATE TO CONTINUE TO FUND THE
REGIONAL AGENCIES AND ACTIVITIES BY THE EXISTING COMBINATION OF
USER FEES, PROPERTY TAXES, STATE AND FEDERAL GRANTS. THE AMM
BELIEVES THIS METHOD PROVIDES BETTER OVERSIGHT OF EXPENDITURES' BY
THE ,PAYERS' AND T}[RREFORE OPPOSES THE IMPOSITION OF A SINGLE NEW
REVENUE SOURCE TO REPLACE THE PRESENT FUNDING SOURCES.
C-3 REGIONAL TAX RATES AND USER FEES
The Legislature controls the tax levies of the Metropolitan
Council and the other Metropolitan Agencies. We believe it should
continue to do so. User fees are generally controlled by the
Metropolitan Agency collecting the fees (MWCC, MTC and MAC). The
setting of user fees and the process for setting fees has
generally not been considered a problem by local officials except
for isolated cases. The AMM believes that:
USER FEES FOR REGIONAL SERVICES SHOULD NOT BE DICTATED BY THE
LEGISLATURE BUT SHOULD BE DETERMINED BY THE OPERATING AGENCY
PROVIDING THE SERVICE. ALL FEES SHOULD BE REVIEWED BY THE
METROPOLITAN COUNCIL ON A PERIODIC BASIS TO ENSURE THAT SUCH FEES
ARE CONSISTENT WITH REGIONAL SYSTEM PLANS AND GOALS. AN OPEN
VISIBLE PROCESS/PROCEDURE SHOULD BE EMPLOYED FOR USER FEE CHANGES
UNDER GUIDANCE OF THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL WHEN CHANGES ARE
NECESSARY AND IN CLOSE COOPERATION WITH THOSE IMPACTED BY THE FEE
CHANGES.
IV-D COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING - LOCAL AND REGIONAL INTERACTION
Planning is an ongoing process, and several precepts should be
kept in mind by Local units of Government, Metropolitan Agencies
and the State as this metropolitan planning process continues.
METROPOLITAN SYSTEM PLANS MUST CONTINUE TO BE SUFFICIENTLY
SPECIFIC IN TERMS OF LOCATIONS, CAPACITIES, AND TIMINGTObLTDW
FOR CONSIDERATION IN LOCAL COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING-
(TRANSPORTATION, WASTEWATERTREATMENT, AIRPORTS,_A~_~ ...... E
SPACE) SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE PROTECTED
IMPACT ON THESE SYSTEMS DUE TO LACK OF INTEG~IATIUN
COORDINATION BETWEEN REGIONAL AND LOCAL PLANNING.
LOCAL OFFICIALS MUST HAVE EFFECTIVE INPUT INTO THE REGIONAL
PLANNING PROCESS ON AN ONGOING BASIS.
DESIGNATION OF OTHER REGIONAL PLANS AS METROPOLITAN SYSTEMS PLANS
SHOULD NOT BE MADE UNLESS THERE IS A COMPELLING METROPOLITAN AREA
-39-
WIDE PROBT.R~4 OR CONCERN T~AT CAN BEST BE ADDRESSED THROUGH A
REGIONAL SYSTEM DESIGNATION.
IV-E COMBINED SEWERS - SEPARATION
The three communities of Minneapolis, St. Paul and South St. Paul
still have some combined waste water and storm water sewers which
create overflows of untreated waste water in the Mississippi River
during heavy rains and storm water runoff periods. These cities
have over many years been progressing with sewer separation
projects paid for primarily through local tax levies. The Federal
and State governments are pressing the issue of meeting certain
water quality standards in the Mississippi River which apparently
cannot be done until separation is complete. The state has
provided additional funding since the 1985 Legislative session to
help pay for the speed up. For the first five years of the
program Federal funds were also available to assist in the
program. Since 1990, however, there have been no Federal funds.
IT IS AMM POLICY THAT IF THE STATE GOVERNMENT CONTINUES TO PURSUE
THE ACCELERATED COMBINED SEWER SEPARATION PROGRAM IN THE THREE
CITIES, THAT IT ~T~O CONTINUE TO PROVIDE ~trNDING TO ENSURE THAT
NEITHER LOCAL PROPERTY TAXES NOR METROPOLITAN SANITARY SEWER COSTS
ARE INCREASED DUE TO THE ACCELERATED BUILD EFFORT. THE PROGRAM TO
DATE HAS PROCEEDED ACCORDING TO THAT POLICY.
AS THE CSO ISSUE ~ SIGNIFICANT IMPLICATIONS, BOTH FOR STATE
FINANCES AND FOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE METROPOLITAN AREA, THE AMM
REQUESTS THAT ITS BOARD OF DIRECTORS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO
REVIEW AND COMMENT ON ANY SIGNIFICANT CHANGE IN THE FINANCING OR
IMPLRMENTATION PLANS FOR THE SEPARATION PROJECT.
SINCE PART OF THE REASON FOR THE ACCELERATED PROGRAM IS TO MEET
FEDERAL STANDARDS~ AMM SUPPORTS THE CONSIDERATION OF THE
ESTABLISHMENT OF A CSO FUNDING PROGRAM AND THE ADDRESSING OF THE
MOST EFFICIENT MANNER AND REGULATORY FRAMEWO~EN THE CONGRESS
CONSIDERS THE REA~I"~ORIZATION OF THE FEDERAL C~AN WATER ACT.
IV-F METROPOLITAN COUNCIL BUDGET/WORK PROGRAM PROCESS
The Metropolitan Council has an annual budget over 15 million
dollars and its programs impact the two million plus people living
in the metropolitan area. The budget document should convey
sufficient information so that the residents can determine what
'product' is being produced and how much the 'product' costs and
the benefits. The budget process should commence early enough in
the annual adoption cycle so that the residents can provide
meaningful input as to goals and priorities.
F-1 BUDGET DETAIL AND SPECIFICITY
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The annual budget and work program document has been improved in
recent years and contains more detail and specificity which
enables public interest groups to make more reasoned
recommendations but further improvements can be made.
MANDATED OR NON-DISCRETIONARY PROJECTS, PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES
SHOULD BE IDENTIFIED. PROJECTS, PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES WHICH MAY
BE DISCRETIONARY BUT ARE TOT~r~ OR MOSTLY FUNDED BY A FEDERALOR
STATE GRANT SHOULD ALSO BE IDENTIFIED. INFORMATION SHOULD
CONTINUE TO BE PROVIDED AS TO PREVIOUS YEARS EXPENDITURES AND
PROGRESS FOR ON-GOING PROGRAMS, PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES.
F-2 RELIANCE ON PROPERTY TAXES
There is a trend of increased reliance on the property tax to
support Council activities. Federal grants formerly funded about
two/thirds of the Council Budget and the local property tax about
one/third. The federal portion has now shrunk to about 20 percent
and the property tax has increased to over 60 percent.
THE ~OUNCIL SHOULD MAKE A THOROUGH EXAMINATION OF THE PROGRAMS
FORMERLY FUNDED BY FEDERAL GRANTS OR NON-LOCAL FUNDS TO DETERMINE
IF THEY ARE STILL NECESSARY AND WORTHWHILE WHEN ONLY LOCAL DOrmeRS
ARE INVOLVED. ADDITIONALLY THE COUNCIL SHOULD SEEK TO DIVEST
ITSELF OF SERVICES THAT IT PERFORMS FOR THIS AREA, IF SUCH
SERVICES ARE PERFORMED BY STATE AGENCIES FOR THE BALANCE OF THE
STATE, OR SEEK STATE FUNDING FOR THOSE SERVICES. SOME AREAS WHICH
NEED TO BE EXAMINED INCLUDE SOLID WASTE, HEALTH CARE, HUMAN
SERVICES PLANNING, ETC.
F-3 PROGRAM EVALUATION
The Council usually levies the maximum or close to the maximum tax
levy allowed. It is difficult for ~outsiders' to determine if
internal evaluation is being performed to ascertain the
effectiveness or necessity of council programs or if they are
being continued because ~they have always been done.'
THE AMM BELIEVES THAT EVERY MAJOR COUNCIL PROGRAM/PRIORITY SHOULD
MEET FOUR TESTS:
-THE ISSUE OR PROBLEM BEING ADDRESSED IS IMPORTANT TO THE WELL
BEING OF THE REGION.
-COUNCIL INTERVENTION OR ACTIVITY WILL PRODUCE A POSITIVE RESULT.
-COUNCIL EFFORT OR ACTIVITY DOES NOT DUPLICATE OR SERVE AS A
SUBSTITUTE FOR A STATE LEVEL PROGRAM OR EFFORT OR WHAT SHOULD BE A
STATE LEVEL ACTIVITY.
-COUNCIL IS MOST APPROPRIATE AGENCY TO INTERVENE OR PERFORM
-41-
ACTIVITY.
IV-G METROPOLITAN PARK AND OPEN SPACE FUNDING
The Legislature established the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space
System in 1974 and provided state/regional fiscal support for the
acquisition and development of the Parks System and provided a
payment in lieu of taxes to local units of government on a
decreasing basis for land removed from the tax rolls. Since the
establishment of the system, the State and the Metropolitan area
have failed to establish a permanent partnership relative to the
status of the Regional Park System both within the region and
state. Failure to clearly define the role of regional parks has
led to long term instability relative to the acquisition and
development of regional parks and created significant funding
concerns for implementing agencies as they relate to the operation
and maintenance of those regional facilities.
G-1 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE FUNDING
Regional parks within the Metropolitan area provide the same basic
function as state parks provide in Greater Minnesota. The State
has consistently refused to acknowledge this situation and has
never provided an adequate amount of funding for the operation and
maintenance of regional parks while covering 100 percent of the
cost of state parks in Greater Minnesota.
AMM RECOMMENDS THAT THE STATE OF MINNESOTA RECOGNIZE THE ROLE OF
REGIONAL PARKS WITHIN THE METROPOLITAN AREA AND PROVIDE
APPROPRIATE FUNDING TO IMPI~24ENTING AGENCIES TO ASSIST THEM IN THE
OPERATION ANDMAINTENANCE OF THE REGIONAL PARKS AND OPEN SPACE
SYSTEM. THE STATE OF MINNESOTA SHOULD PROVIDE 40 percent OF THE
FUNDING TO OPERATE AND MAINTAIN THESE FACILITIES.
G-2 REGIONAL BONDING FOR REGIONAL
The Legislature for the past several years has provided less than
25 percent of the funding requested for acquisition and
development by the Metropolitan Council and the MPOSC on an annual
basis. To allow for the orderly and planned development schedule
for the regional parks and open space system, the Metropolitan
Council is considering to use previously granted authority and
issue regional bonds to make up part of the shortage.
THE AMM BELIEVES THIS ACTION CREATES A DANGEROUS PRECEDENT AND
COULD TAKE THE ~STATE OFF T}~ HOOK' IN FUTURE APPROPRIATION
CYCLES. THE AMM BELIEVES THAT THE REGIONAL PARKS ARE ESSENTIAT~
A SUBSTITUTE FOR STATE PARKS IN THE METRO AREA AND SHOULD BE
FUNDED ACCORDINGLY. IN ESSENCE, METRO AREA TAXPAYERS WILL BE
PAYING TWICE AND THIS IS NOT EQUITABLE. THE AMM URGES THE
METROPOLITAN COUNCIL TO REDOUBLE ITS EFFORTS TO OBTAIN AN
-42-
EQUITABI~ SHARE OF STATE FUNDING TO SUPPORT THE REGIONAL PARK~ AND
OPEN SPACE SYSTEIq~.
IV-H WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
The AMM recognizes that water is a critical resource for this
metropolitan area and it is necessary to plan and manage this
resource to assure adequate supply, safeguard the public health,
provide recreational opportunities and enhance economic
opportunities. Many levels of government have a vested interest
in protecting and managing water resources in an environmentally
and economically sound manner. Since many levels of government
are involved in water management, it is in the public interest to
clearly delineate each level's responsibility to prevent
duplication, overlap, and conflicting requirements. This
delineation is particularly important to cities since they are
the level that ultimately has the most "hands on" responsibility.
The aspects of water resources which have received the most
attention in recent years are surface water runoff, groundwater
quality, water supply and water recharge areas (wetlands). There
is an interrelationship among all of these systems and there is
need for coordination in managing them effectively. The AMM
believes that local units of government should retain the basic
responsibility for water resources management because they are the
level closest to the problems. However, local units need the
financial resources, tools and technical expertise to implement
this responsibility and may need to look to the state and metro
for financial support and technical assistance.
H-1 WATER SUPPLY
The AMM is in general agreement with the Water Supply Act (Chapter
186) passed in the 1993 legislative session. The thrust of this
act is to promote water conservation, require contingency plans
for water emergencies and to promote long range planning for local
water supplies. As suggested by the AMM, cities retain the basic
responsibility and authority for local water supply systems. The
Metropolitan Council is encouraged to complete its regional water
supply and water data base as soon as possible to provide a
framework for local water supply planning.
THE AMM DOES NOT SEE THE NEED FOR ADDITIONAL LEGISLATION
PERTAINING TO LOCAL WATER SUPPLY PLANNING AT THIS POINT IN TIME.
HOWEVER, IF LEGISLATION IS PROPOSED, IT SHOULD BE BASED ON THE
FOIW~WING PRINCIPLES:
-LOCAL UNITS SHOULD RETAIN THE BASIC RESPONSIBILITY FOR WATER
SUPPLY PLANNING AS IN CUIARENT LAW.
-ADDITIONAL STATE MANDATES SHOULD BE FUNDED BY THE STATE.
-43-
-NEW STATE IMPOSED REQUI~NTS AND OR REGULATIONS IMPLRMENTING
CHAPTER 186 SHOULD NOT ADD TO LOCAL COSTS AND WHENEVER POSSIBLE
SHOULD REDUCE AND/OR MINIt4IZE DUPLICATIVE REVIEWS.
H-2 SURFACE AND GROUNDWATER WATER MANAGEMENT
The AMM supports as a given that no one has the right to pollute
either ground or surface water resources and in order to safeguard
the public health and environment, it is necessary to preserve our
water resources as critical state resources. Most Water
Management Organizations (WMO) and local units or government have
done a good job of dealing with surface and groundwater management
issues and have the authority and ability to continue to do so in
a cost effective manner. These existing mechanisms should
continue to be used to the greatest extent possible to address
surface and groundwater management problems; instead of creating
a new system or a new organization, but they need the financial
resources and tools to meet this responsibility.
While the AMM does not see the need for any new urban water
management organization, it is clear that the current system
contains duplicative review and approvals of local plans and
development projects/proposals and should be streamlined. The AMM
believes that the systems for review and approval of surface water
management planning and the review and approval process for
"permitting projects" is rife with duplicative reviews and time
consuming delays.
THE AMM WOULD SUPPORT ~{E FOLLOWING INiTIATIVES/ACTION:
-TIMELY COMPLETION OF METROPOLITAN COUNCIL RESPONSIBILITIES AS
DEFINED IN MS 473.157 SO THAT W~O'S AND CITIES CAN FULFILL THEIR
SURFACE WATER MANAGE~tENT RESPONSIBILITIES.
-A THOROUGH ASSESS}~NT OF THE BOARD OF WATER AND SOIL RESOURCES
(BWSR) STRUCTURE AND AUTHORITIES TO ASCERTAIN IF IT SHOULD
CONTINUE TO BE THE APPROVAL AND OVERSIGHT AGENCY FOR SURFACE
WATER MAI~AGEMENT PLANNING AND ACTIVITIES IN THE METROPOLITAN
AREA.
-A THOROUGH ASSESS~IENT OF THE )~TROPOLITAN AREA SURFACE WATER
MANAGEMENT PLANNING AND PER14ITTING PROCESS WITH THE OBJECTIVE OF
DEVELOPING IMPROVEMENTS IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION, COORDINATION
BETWEEN AND AMONG STATE AND LOCAL AGENCIES, SURFACE WATER
PLANNING, AND PROJEC~f PERMIT APPROVALS.
-COMPLETION BY 9~0'S AND CITIES OF THEIR RESPONSIBILITIES FOR
SURFACE WATER MANAG~ENT PLA}.~ING AS DEFINED IN MS 103 B. 225-235
AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO ADDRESS THE WATER QUALITY ISSUES PLAGUING
THE MINNESOTA, MISSISSIPPI AND ST. CROIX RIVERS.
-44-
-COMPLIANCE BY LOCAL UNITS OF GO~NT IN OUTSTATE MINNESOTA
WITH THE SAME STANDARDS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR SURFACE WATER
MANAGEMENT AS THOSE IMPOSED ON LOCAL UNITS WITHIN THE
METROPOLITAN AREA.
IF ANY LEGISLATION IS CONSIDERED FOR SURFACE WATER MANAGEN~NT AS
A RESULT OF THE BEFORE MENTIONED ASSESSMENTS (STUDIES) IT SHOULD
BE BASED ON THE FOLT&)WING PRINCIPLES:
-THE LEGISLATURE SHOULD PROVIDE FUNDS IF IT MANDATES ANY
ADDITIONAL WATER MANAGEMENT PLANNING OR IMPT.]~TING ACTMTIES
BY LOCAL UNITS OF GOVERNMENT. THE CSO PROGRAM SHOULD BE VIEWED
AS THE PRECEDENT FOR THE STATE HAVING A FINANCIAL INTEREST IN
PROVIDING FUNDS FOR CAPITAL PROJECTS RELATED TO STORM WATER
RUNOFF.
-LOCAL UNITS OF GOVERNMENT SHOULD RETAIN THE BASIC
RESPONSIBILITY FOR SURFACE AND GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT AS THEY
ARE THE LEVEL CLOSEST TO THE PROBT.~M.
-NEW STATE REQUIREMENTS SHOULD NOT ADD TO LOCAL COSTS AND
DUPLICATIVE REVIEWS/APPROVALS SHOULD BE ELIMINATED.
H-3 REGIONAL WASTEWATER (SEWER) TREATMENT SYSTEM
A bill was introduced in the 1992 session which would have
changed the methodology for allocating the costs of the
metropolitan wastewater collection and treatment system. The
alleged intent of the bill was to slowdown and reverse the decay
and blight which has and is occurring in some of the older,
developed parts of this metropolitan area. The AMM is concerned
with the problem but does not believe that changing the way the
metropolitan sewer system is financed from a regional to a
subregional system has any relevance with respect to the problems
identified and opposed the before mentioned bill. The AMM was part
of a major study effort in 1985, that resulted in the uniform cost
system that is currently in place for the metropolitan sewer
system.
THE METROPOLITAN WASTEWATER COLLF. CTION AND TREATMENT SYSTEM HAS
BEEN A MAJOR COMPONENT OF AN INTERGRATED LOCAL-REGIONAL SYSTEM
WHICH HAS HELPED IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF THE WATER IN MANY OF THE
MAJOR WATER RESOURCES OF THIS AREA SUCH AS LAKE MINNETONKA, THE
MINNESOTA, MISSISSIPPI AND ST. CROIX RIVERS, WHITE BEAR LAKE, ETC.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT CHANGE NOT BE MADE TO THIS REGIONAL SYSTEM
THAT COULD LEAD TO ITS BREAKUP OR TO DIMISH ITS EFFECTIVENESS.
SINCE ALL 'USERS' BENEFIT EQU/~LLY THROUGHOUT THE SYSTEM THE
REGIONAL RATES SHOULD BE UNIFORM THROUGHOUT THE SYSTEM AND A
SUB-REGIONAL SYSTEM OF ~LT~)CATING THE REGIONAL SYSTEM COSTS SHOULD
NOT BE REINSTITUTED.
-45-
H-4 WATER TESTING CONNECTION FEE
The States' Safe Drinking Water Act contains a per hook up fee of
$5.21 passed in Laws of Minnesota 1992, Chapter 513, Article 6,
Section 2 which is to be used to pay for water supply testing as
mandated by Federal Law. This per user fee creates an inequitable
and unfair service fee compared to testing cost for large
communities with only a few supply points that need testing. In
addition, there are many non-community and private water supply
users such as trailor courts being tested which are not paying the
connection fee imposed by the Department of Health. This fee
should be re-examined by the legislature and the law changed so
that each community and user pays only its fair share. This may
necessitate the state to provide some financial assistance to
smaller communities with multiple supply sources.
THE AMM REQUESTS THE LEGISLA~dRE TO CHANGE THE WATER SUPPLY
TESTING CONNECTION FEE TO BE FAIR AND EQUITABLE AND TO REFLECT THE
ACTUAL COST OF SUPPLY TESTING WITHIN THE COMMUNITY. ALSO, NON
COMMUNITY AND PRIVATE SYSTEMS SHOULD PAY ALL OR PART OF THEIR
TESTING COST.
IV-I WASTE STREAM MANAGEMENT
The problem of managing the waste stream (for all types of waste)
is and will continue to be one of the major social
environmental problems during this decade. We are rapidly running
out of space (capacity for land disposal) in the metropolitan area
and there are no general disposal facilities in this state for
Hazardous Waste. We are also learning that for many materials
incineration may not be a good environmental alternative to
landfill disposal.
The existing waste management system centralizes responsibility at.
the state level for hazardous waste but requires the cooperation
and support of all levels of government and the private sector.
The solid waste system for the metropolitan area is essentially a
three-tiered system: cities control and regulate collection;
counties are responsible for 'siting' new landfills, developing
abatement plans, developing processing facilities and regulating
existing landfills; and the Metropolitan Council provides grants
and has regional planning and coordinating responsibilities. The
systems were intended to foster and encourage abatement, recycling
and resource recovery for as much of the waste stream as possible
and then to assure environmentally sound disposal for the
remaining waste. In spite of a great deal of cooperation and
coordination among and between the various levels and units of
government and the private sector, some major problems appear on
the horizon.
-46-
Much has been accomplished during the past decade in improving the
waste stream management system. Much remains to be done and any
future legislation should take into account the following
precepts.
I-1 INTEGRATED WASTE STREAM PLANNING
The disposal of solid waste is a multifaceted problem which will
require the cooperation and participation of all levels of
government and the private sector to effectively develop a solid
waste system which is cost effective and environmentally sound.
To achieve such a system, all elements of the waste management
hierarchy (reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, incineration,
landfilling) must be utilized. In the area of packaging, the
system should make the distinction between transport packaging,
primary or necessary packaging and secondary or excess packaging.
Further, it must be realized that an effective "system" begins
before materials become "waste" and, as such, a comprehensive view
of the entire life cycle of products is needed in order to
succeed.
-THE AMM ENDORSES THE CONCEPT THAT THE "GENERATORS" OF WASTE MUST
BEAR THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR FUNDING ITS DISPOSAL. "GENERATOR"
INCLUDES THE MANUFACTURERS OF PRODUCTS WHICH BECOME WASTE, THE
SETJ.RRS OF PRODUCTS WHICH BECOME WASTE AND THE CONSUMER OF
PRODUCTS WHICH BECOME WASTE.
-THE AMM ENDORSES THE CONCEPT THAT SINCE GOVERNMENT IS RESPONSIBLE
FOR SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL, IT HAS A LEGITIMATE INTEREST IN BEING
INVOLVED IN OVERATe. WASTE STREAM MANAGEMENT. THIS MEANS T}{AT
GOVERNMENT'S INTEREST BEGINS BEFORE MATERIALS BECOME "WASTE."
-THE AMMENDORSES A WASTE MANAGEMENTHIERARCHYWHICH INCLUDES
REDUCTION, REUSE, RECYCLING, COMPOSTING, INCINERATION AND
LANDFILLING. ~R, A COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEM MUST INCLUDE A
MIXTURE OF ALL THESE EL~MENTS AND SHOULD NOT RELY SOLELY ON ANY
ONE ET.RMENT.
-THE AMM ENCOURAGES MORE ATTENTION BE GIVEN TO THE ALTERNATIVES
OF REDUCTION, REUSE AND RECYCLING BY ATJ. LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT.
-THE STATE SHOULD FUND THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPL~4ENTATION OF AN
EDUCATION PROGRAM, WHICH ACTIVELY ENCOURAGES CITIZENS TO RECYCLE,
COMPOST, REUSE AND REDUCE WASTE GENERATION.
-LEGISLATION SHOULD BE INITIATED WHICH WOULD ESTABLISH RECYCLED
CONTENT OR RECYCLABILITY GOALS FOR ~T~. PRODUCT PACKAGING
MATERIALS, INCLUDING FOODAND BEVERAGE CONTAINERS-
LEGISLATION SHOULD BE INITIATED WHICH WOULD PROVIDE FINANCIAL
INCENTIVES TO MANUFACTURERS, RETAILERS OR CONSUMERS FOR REDUCING
-47-
PACKAGING VOLUME, USING RECYCLED MATERIALS IN ITS FABRICATION, OR,
PARTICULARLY IN THE CASE OF FOOD AND BEVERAGE CONTAINERS,
FACILITATING ITS RETURN. FEES, TAXES, OR DEPOSITS ON PACKAGING
MATERIALS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED WITH THESE COSTS WAIVED WHEN
CONTENT GOALS ARE MET, VOLUMES ARE MINIMIZED, OR EFFECTIVE
MATERIAT~q RETURN SYSTEMS ARE IN PLACE. THE NET REVENUE GENERATED
FROM FEES/TAXES ABOVE ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS SHOULD BE USED TO
PROMOTE OR ENHANCE LOCAL PROGRAMS TO REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE
PACKAGING MATERIALS.
-THE AMM OPPOSES ANY LEGISLATION WHICH WOULD LIMIT LOCAL
INITIATIVES IN WASTE STREAM MANAGEMENT UNLESS AN OVERALL STATE OR
METROPOLITAN WIDE SYSTEM IS ESTABLISHED WHICH ACCOMPLISHES THE
SAME GOAL OR OBJECTIVE.
-THE AMM SUPPORTS COMPOSTING AS A TEC}FNIQUE FOR REUSE OF
YARDWASTES AND OTHER APPROPRIATE COMPONENTS OF THE SOLID WASTE
STREAM. GIVEN THE PROHIBITION ON LANDFILLING YARDWASTE, RESIDENTS
AND REFUSE HAULERS NEED TO BE PROVIDED WITH CONVENIENT LOCATIONS
TO DEPOSIT BRUSH AND OTHER YARDWASTES FOR PROCESSING. COUNTIES
WITH ASSISTANCE FROM THE STATE OR METROPOLITAN COUNCIL SHOULD BE
RESPONSIBLE FOR LOCATING AND OPERATING COMPOSTING FACILITIES AND
MUST NOT DELEGATE THIS RESPONSIBILITY TO CITIES WHICH DO NOT WISH
TO OPERATE SUCH FACILITIES. MINOR CHANGES MAY BE NEEDED IN THE
EXISTING OVERRIDE PROCESS TO ENABLE COUNTIES TO SITE THESE TYPES
OF FACILITIES.
I-2 HAZARDOUS AND DANGEROUS WASTE MANAGEMENT
The improper disposal of hazardous wastes, through landfilling or
incineration, poses a major risk of water and air pollution. Much
has been done to monitor the generation and proper disposal of
hazardous waste by business and industry, and these efforts should
continue. However, the reduction, control and proper disposal of
household hazardous wastes is a significant concern which needs to
be addressed.
(A.) HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE.
THE AMM SUPPORTS A STATE-WIDE PROGRAM TARGETED TO THE REDUCTION
AND PROPER MANAGEMENT OF HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTES, INCLUDING:
-PERMANENT DROP OFF OR DISPOSAL SITES - STRATEGICALLY AND
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED THROUGHOUT THE STATE WHERE ALL TYPES OF
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTES CAN BE TAKEN FOR PROPER HANDLING,
PROCESSING, OR DISPOSAL.
-EDUCATIONALAND POINT-OF-SALE INFORMATION FOR CONSUMERS NOTIFYING
THEM OF THE HAZARDOUS NATURE OF CERTAIN PRODUCTS AND THE
IMPORTANCE OF PROPER HANDLING.
-48-
-INVOLVEMENT OF THE GENERATORS (RETAILERS) IN THE MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM FOR HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTES TO HELP ASSURE PROPER
HANDLING AND PROCESSING.
-INFORMATION TO CONS~ I~T.I~/TING THEM TO NON-HAZARDOUS
SUBSTITUTES FOR HAZARDOUS HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS.
-ENCOURAGEMENT WHICH COULD INCLUDE INCENTIVES TO MANUFACTURES TO
PRODUCE LESS HAZARDOUS PRODUCTS FOR USE IN HOUSEHOLDS. TKE TOP
PRIORITY OF THE HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IS TO
REDUCE THE AMOUNT PRODUCED.
(B.) COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL HAZARDOUS WASTE.
THE ANM SUPPORTS CONTINUED EFFORTS AT THE STATE LEVEL TO PROPERLY
MANAGE INDUSTRIAL HAZARDOUS WASTES, INCLUDING THE RE-USE, RECOVERY
AND RECYCLING OF AS MUCH HAZARDOUS WASTE AS POSSIBLE. THAT WHICH
CANNOT BE RE-USED OR REPROCESSED MUST BE DISPOSED OF IN AN
ENVIRONMENT~T.T.Y SOUND MANNER. KNOWING FAILURE TO PROPERLY DISPOSE
OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS (INCLUDING NIT.T.F-GAL DUMPINGN), SHOULD
RESULT IN CRIMINAL LIABILITY FOR BOTH COMPANIES AND INDIVIDUALS.
MANUFA~ SHOULD ALSO BE ENCOURAGED TO REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS USED IN THEIR MANUFACTURING PROCESSES.
I-3 METROPOLITAN/COUNTYRESPONSIBILITIES-
AS noted previously, the cities have the responsibility for waste
collection including implementing and managing most recycling
type programs. The other waste stream management responsibilities
are basically split between the Metropolitan Council and the
Counties. Considerable progress has been made in recent years in
certain parts of the waste stream management system particularly
those aspects for which cities are responsible. But several
significant problems beyond the control of cities are becoming
evident including: the inability of the counties to site needed
waste facilities (landfills, transfer stations, compost sites,
etc.), fluctuating and/or lack of markets for some recyclables,
uneven funding among counties to run the iow tech systems, and the
radical variance in disposal costs throughout the metropolitan
area. Some of these problems are urgent and significant changes
may need to be made in the waste stream management system in the
metropolitan area. Some of the current waste stream management
concerns are similar to the concerns which precipitated the
formation of other regional commissions.
WHiLE NOTRULING OUT ADDRESSING THESE CONCERNS WITHIN THE
EXISTING INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK, SERIOUS CONSIDERATION SHOULD BE
GIVENTO THE FORMATION OF A REGIONALSOLID WASTE COMMISSION.
SUCH COMMISSION SHOULD INCLUDE LOCAL ELECTED OFFICIALS. MORE
ANALYSIS AND STUDY IS NEEDEDTO DETERMINE THE TOTAL LIST OF
FUNCTIONS TO BE ASSIGNED TO SUCH COMMISSION BUT MOST FUNCTIONS NOW
-49-
PERFORMED BY THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL AND THE COUNTIES SHOULD BE
GIVEN STRONG CONSIDERATION INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING:
-OWNERSHIP (INCLUDING THE ASSUMPTION OF DEBT) OF THE CURRENT
MAJOR PUBLIC DISPOSAL AND PROCESSING FACILITIES.
-RESPONSIBILITY FOR SITING CERTAIN TYPES OF WASTE PROCESSING AND
DISPOSAL FACILITIES.
-REGULATION OF DISPOSAL CHARGES (TIPPING/FEE)
FAIRNESS AND EQUITY.
TO PROVIDE MORE
-DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS TO SUPPORT ~rlE LOCAL RECYCLING PROGRAMS.
-DISTRIBUTION OF OT'rIER GRANT FUNDS NOW MANAGED BY
METROPOLITAN COUNCIL.
-MOST OT]{ER FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY THE COUNCIL EXCEPT FOR THE
PLANNING FUNCTIONS (LONG RANGE POLICY PLA~{S, ETC.).
-COORDINATION OF MARKETING EFFORTS FOR RECYCLABLES.
I-4 LOCAL SOLID WASTE }~NAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES
cities have certain responsibilities in helping to manage and
implement an effective solid waste management system including
recycling programs and the collection systems. The AMM believes
that to date cities, utilizing a variety of collection systems,
are doing a good job of managing Local Recycling and Waste
Collection.
THE RESPONSIBILITIES NOW ASSIGNED TO CITIES FOR SOLID WASTE
MANAGEMENT SHOULD RF~3%IN WITH THE CITIES. THE AMM BELIEVES THAT
THE SYSTEM OUGHT TO BE FLEXIBLE AND BASED ON PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS AND/OR GOALS RATHER THAN MANDATED TECHNIQUES.
I-5 FUNDING
The current funding system for solid waste has a number of
drawbacks: It does not encourage maximum utilization of the waste
disposal hierarchy; it often gives no incentive to individual
residents to participate in recycling; it does not differentiate
between generators of 'clean' waste and ~problem' waste; and it
has given no assurances that the main sources of funding are
related to the entities incurring expenses.
-AMM BELIEVES THAT THE FUNDING SYSTEM SHOULD RECOGNIZE THAT
ME~ODS OF DISPOSAL~ INCLUDING RECYCLING HAVE A COST. ALSO THE
TRUE AND FULL COST OF THE ENTIRE DISPOSAL SYSTEM SHOULD BE
RECOGNIZED.
-50-
-ANM BELIEVES THAT IN GENERAL FUNDING FOR THE SOLID WASTE SYSTEM
SHOULD COME FROM THE GENERATORS OF SOLID WASTE.
-AMM BELIEVES A FEE SYSTEM AT THE MANUFACTURES AND/OR RETAIL LEVEL
SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED AND TH~ CONCEPT OF RETURNABILITY SHOULD BE
INVESTIGATED AND EXPANDED.
-IN GENERAL, THE FUNDING SYSTEM SHOULD ENCOURAGE MAXIMUM USE OF
THE WASTE HIERARCHY. FOR EXAMPLE IT SHOULD COST MORE TO DISPOSE OF
WASTE IN LANDFILLS THAN IN RESOURCE RECOVERY FACILITIES.
-ANM SUPPORTS THE CONCEPT THAT MATERIALS WHICH CAUSE SPECIAL
PROBLEMS IN THE WASTE STREAM SHOULD BEAR THE COSTS (THROUGH THE
COST OF PURCHASING THE MATERIALS) ASSOCIATED WITH THESE PROBT.~MS.
-ANM ENCOURAGES PROVIDING FINANCIAL INCENTIVES SUCH AS VARIABLE
AND DIFFERENTIAL FEES TO RESIDENTS WHO PARTICIPATE IN RECYCLING
WHILE MAKING IT CLEAR THAT EVEN RECYCLING HAS A COST.
-ANM BELIEVES THAT ANY FUNDING SYSTEM MUST GUARANTEE DISTRIBUTION
OF THE MONIES TO ~T.T. ENTITIES INVOLVED IN THE SYSTEM AND RECOGNIZE
ALL COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE SYSTEM. THIS MEANS A SIGNIFICANT
PORTION OF THE FUNDS RAISED THROUGH THE SALES TAX SHOULD BE
DISTRIBUTED TO CITIES WHICH OPERATE RECYCLING PROGRAMS. THE AMM
ALSO BELIEVES THAT THE ENTIRE PROCEEDS OF TAX ON SOLID WASTE
SHOULD BE DEDICATED TO SOLID WASTE ACTIVITIES.
I-6 ORGANIZED COT.~.F. CTION
Organized collection serves as a viable and important method for
municipalities to achieve solid waste abatement. It is a type
of service agreement that allows cities proper regulatory power
over their solid waste collection system. It provides
municipalities the opportunity to choose the type of solid waste
collection that would best serve their residents.
'Just Compensation' legislation is designed to limit
municipalities regulatory power in the area of solid waste
collection. In placing severe financial penalties on
municipalities that undertake organized collection, 'Just
Compensation' legislation infringes on municipalities rights to
establish intangible service agreements for municipal services.
-THE /LMM ENDORSES THE CONCEPT OF ORGANIZED COLLECTION AS ONE OF
SEVERAL VIABLE METHODS FOR MUNICIPALITIES TO ASSERT REGULATORY
POWER OVER THEIR SOLID WASTE CO~.r.F. CTION SYSTEMS.
-THE ANM BELIEVES THAT ORGANIZED COr.T.F. CTION MUST CONTINUE TO BE
AVAILABLE TO CITIES AS THEY CHOOSE A TYPE OF SOLID WASTE
COLLECTION SYSTEM THAT WOULD BEST SERVE THE NEEDS OF THEIR
RESIDENTS.
-51-
-THE AMM OPPOSES ANY LF. GISLATION THAT WOULD IMPOSE COMPENSATION
PENALTIES ON MUNICIPALITIES WHO CHOOSE TO IMPT.k~4ENT A SOLID WASTE
COLLECTION SYSTEM.
I-7 HOST CITIES AND CLRANUP RESPONSIBILITIES
While solid waste facilities are components of county and regional
solid waste management systems, they must be located in individual
cities. Because the number of facilities is limited, the effects
of hosting these facilities is not equally shared among cities.
Most of these effects are negative - an increased likelihood and
incidence of water, soil, air, and noise pollution; and increased
amount of litter and offensive odors; a greater likelihood of
adverse impacts on values of neighboring properties; a need for
increased maintenance on public streets and highways; and
potential threats to public health and welfare in areas immediate
to and along access routes to these facilities. Longer-term
impacts may affect cities if the organizations responsible for
facility operations cease as financially viable entities.
Safeguards need to be enacted for host cities for the operations
and clean up responsibilities associated with solid waste
facilities.
The trend within the metropolitan area has been to internalize
present and future costs of solid waste management on current
generators of solid waste. These costs should include the extra
and adverse financial impacts borne by host communities. Cities
host these regional facilities because of accidents of geography.
Liabilities for these facilities should be shared across the
region.
-THE AM14 SUPPORTS THE CURRENT COMPENSATION LEVEL ALIX)WED THROUGH
SURCHARGE FEES AS A MINIMUM LEVEL; THIS COMPENSATION SHOULD BE
CONTINUED OR INCREASED. THIS FORM OF COMPENSATION SHOULD BE
AVAILABLE TO ALLTYPES OF SOLID WASTE FACILITIES.
-THE AHM BELIEVES THE HOST COMMUNITIES SHOULD NOT BEAR A
FINANCIAL LIABILITY ASSOCIATED WITH SOLID WASTE FACILITIES. COSTS
INCURRED FOR MONITORING OPERATIONS AND CORRECTIVE ACTIONS SHOULD
BE BORNE BY FACILITY OPERATORS OR, IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH
REGULATIONS, BE ASSUMED BY THE STATE OF MINNESOTA. LEGISLATION
NEEDS TO BE STRENGTHENED SO AS TO EXEMPT CITIES FROM ANY PRESENT
AND FUTURE LIABILITY ARISING FROM OPERATIONS OF SOLID WASTE
FACILITIES. T~GISLATION SHOULD FURTHER ESTABLISH THAT PROCEEDS
FOR FUTURE REMEDIAL ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIONS BE IN A TRUST FUND.
-THE ;iMM WILL SUPPORT LEGISLATION WHICH CLEARLY ARTICULATES THAT
REMEDIAL ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVITIES ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY ONLY ON
THE PERMITTED OPERATOR AND/OR THE STATE OF MINNESOTA.
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-THE AMM BELIEVES THAT LOCAL PROPERTY TAXING AUTHORITIES SHOULD
NOT BE FORCED TO LEVY HIGHER PROPERTY TAX HATES BECAUSE SOLID
WASTE FACILITIES MAY DEPRESS PROPERTY VALUES WITHIN PARTS OF THE
TAXING JURISDICTION. OPEHATORS SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO PAY
ADDITIONAL FEES COMMENSURATE WITH THE ADVERSE TAX REVENUE IMPACT
RESULTING FROM LOWER VAIJJES ON NEIGHBORING PROPERTIES.
-THE AMM WIT.T, SUPPORT MEASURES WHICH REQUIRE THAT OPERATORS OF
SOLID WASTE FACILITIES GUARANTEE THE PURCHASE VAI/IE OF PROPERTIES
WHICH ARE INFLUENCED BY THEIR PROXIMITY TO THOSE FACILITIES.
-THE AMM WILL SUPPORT STATE AND FEDERAL LEGISLATION THAT CLARIFIES
THAT MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE IS NOT A HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE, THAT
ENABLES LOCAL GOVERNMENTS INVOLVED IN CLEANUPS TO HAVE THE
OPPORTUNITY TO SETTLE THEIR POTENTIAL LIABILITY QUICKLY AND
SAFELY.
-THE AMM WILL SUPPORT CREATION OF A CLEANUP PROGRAM FOR CLOSED
SOLID WASTE LANDFILLS WHICH IS FUNDED SEPARATELY FROM THE STATE
SUPERFUND PROGRAM. A POSSIBLE SOURCE OF FUNDING COULD BE A TAX OR
FEE ON TOXIC MATERIALS. LOCAL GOVERNMENTS SHOULD BE PROTECTED
FROM CT.F. AN-UP COSTS WHICH DO NOT RELATE DIRECTLY TO THEIR
CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROBT.~.
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V
TRANSPORTATION
PAGE 54 THROUGH 65
V
TRANSPORTATION
AMMTRANSPORTATION POLICY STATEMENT
The AMMbelieves that the recent passage of the Federal
Transportation Bill (ISTEA) provides the Metropolitan area with a
unique opportunity, to rethink Transportation, Transit and
Development Plans. It is imperative that as we prepare to move
into the next century, our transportation network become
multi-modal, offer flexibility, invest significantly in transit,
and be designed to manage traffic.
'Within the last two decades, the number of miles driven per day
has doubled. Traffic congestion is expected to increase by 35% by
the year 2000, creating nearly 200 miles of severely congested
highways. Ridership by bus, car and van pool, continues to
decline and the Regional Transit System continues to be
inadequately funded. There is a growing awareness that the true
cost of driving an automobile, when factoring in energy use,
pollution, productivity loss due to congestion, and the resulting
cost of motor vehicle accidents, are born by the general public at
large not solely the driving public. The majority of peak hour
traffic is workers commuting to or from work. Achieving a balance
between workers and jobs in a geographic area can reduce the
volume of intra-area commuting and balance the directional use
of the interconnecting roads. Economic stratification and an
aging population is creating a larger pool of transit dependent
individuals. Our current transit system is not capable of
providing adequate transit services in the entire metropolitan
area. Government cannot build its way out of congestion. Local
governmental units are facing funding shortfalls which prevent
them from adequately maintaining the current transportation
network.
AMM calls upon the Legislature, MNDOT, RTB, and the Metropolitan
Council to develop a more comprehensive transportation program
that more closely integrates transit and highways. This
coordinated approach at the minimum must be designed to increase
accessibility, improve air quality, and serve the transit
dependent and handicapped. The AMM supports a comprehensive
transportation policy that;
1. Incorporates traffic management into local and regional zoning
and planning actions;
2. Encourages traffic management plans by all employers;
Creates a series of incentives aimed at increasing vehicle
occupancy levels;
4. Discourages the use of development incentives for any project
of significant size that does not contain a comprehensive
traffic management plan;
5. Studies the concept of jobs to workers balance in the
metropolitan area; and
-54-
6. Establishes an adequate dedicated funding source for transit.
In addition, local units of government must be provided with
adequate funding or authorizing legislation that will allow them
to maintain their current investments in the local transportation
infrastructure. The following recommended legislative proposals
are designed to meet this overall goal.
V-A STREET, BRIDGE, AND HIGHWAY GENERAL FUNDING
An efficient transportation system is a vital element in planning
for physical, economic, and social development at the state,
regional, and local levels. Funding for current roadway
maintenance reconstruction, and construction of new streets,
bridges, and highways in developing areas is a significant major
element of a competitive and safe transportation system. Due to
past declining state revenues there has been a tendency by the
Legislature to divert much needed roadway funds to state general
expenditure. This trend must be reversed, especially in light of
the Federal Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of
1991 (ISTEA). Funding needs to be expanded to not only keep up
with inflation and modest program growth, but to provide necessary
funds for matching 80/20 projects included in the ISTEA
legislation for quality standards will have impact on future
project costs.
THE AMM URGES THE LEGISLATURE TO PROVIDE AN ADEQUATE LEVEL OF
FUNDS SO THAT NEEDED STREET, BRIDGE, AND HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE
MAY BE CONTINUED, NECESSARY NEW STREET AND HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION
MAY OCCUR, THE MUNICIPAL STATE AID FUND LEVEL CONTINUES GROWTH,
AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE FEDERAL INTERMODAL SURFACE TRANSPORTATION
EFFICIENY ACT OF 1991 (ISTEA) CAN BE MET.
V-B METROPOLITAN TRANSIT SYSTEM GENERAL FUNDING
Because of the large economically diverse and spreadout population
of the Twin City Metropolitan Area, it is an absolute necessity to
provide an effective and efficient public mass transit service
augmented by a variety of programs,such as Rideshare and Project
Mobility. Without a good transit system, many elderly and
handicapped persons residing in the area primarily because of
access to unique services would be almost totally immobile. The
new Federal legislation (ISTEA) has established a modern trend by
providing over 20% of its total 5 year funding for Transit and
allowing a shift of highway funds to transit on a project by
project basis. The Americans Disability Act and new air and noise
quality standards will impact both the way we do transit as well
as the cost. In order to obtain ISTEA funds and to continue
providing reasonable transportation opportunities, the legislature
must increase transit funding priority.
-55-
THE AMM REQUESTS THE LEGISLATURE TO CONSIDER THE METROPOLITAN
TRANSIT PROGRAMS AS HIGH PRIORITY AND FUND THEM SUFFICIENTLY TO
TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF FEDERAL ISTEA FUNDING AS WELL AS MEET THE
DEMANDS OF ADA AND AIR AND NOISE STANDARDS. FUNDING ALTERNATIVES
SHOULD INCLUDE BUT NOT BE LIMITED TO TIlE STATE GENERAL FUND, MOTOR
VEHICLE EXCISE TAX OR OTHER SALES TAX, THE FARE BOX, PROPERTY
TAX, AND SERVICE EFFICIENCIES-
V-C TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FUND
A Transportation Services Fund was created for minimal activities
and with minimal funding in 1991. The Legislature should adopt
the recommendations of the Transportation Study Board and
Minnesota Transportation Alliance which suggests using MVET to
fund statewide transit needs and related non highway construction
activities currently funded from the Users Fund. These are Dept.
of Public Safety, Tourism, River Parkway, Safety Council and
several others which are at best questionable gas tax
expenditures.
THE AMMENDORSES THE CONCEPT OF REMOVING NON HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION
AND MAINTENANCE ACTIVITIES FROM THE STATE TRUNK HIGHWAY FUND AND
THE EXPANSION OF A TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FUND FOR THESE
ACTIVITIES.
V-D TRANSPORTATION (HiGHWAY ANDTRANSIT) FUNDING ALTERNATIVES
The need for both Highway and transit funding has been increasing
significantly in the past several years while the resources
dedicated or generally used for these purposes have either not
kept pace or been diverted for other state priorities. The new
Federal Transportation Act (ISTEA) has shifted emphasis by
providing significant funds for Transit and also placed increased
burden on states by increasing the local match to 20%. Transit
needs in the Metropolitan Area have become critical since in some
cases Highway expansion is physically or financially prohibitive,
therefore capacity expansion can best be solved by transit
alternatives implementation in these cases. Funding should be
multi source with growth capability. Therefore, the AMM believes
it is time to solve the problem on a permanent basis.
THE AMMSUPPORTS A COMBINED STRATEGY OF GAS TAX INCREASES TO KEEP
PACE WiTH HIGHWAYMAINTENANCEAND CONSTRUCTION NEEDS AND A
DEDICATED M VET OR OT}IRR TAX SOURCE FOR TRANSIT FUNDING EXPANSION.
IF THE LEGISLATURE CANNOT ASSURE STATUTORY DEDICATION OF SOME
FUNDING MECHANISMTHEN A CONSTITUTIONAL SOLUTION SHOULD BE
IHPL~qENTED.
AS AN ADDITION TO THE TRADITIONAL GAS TAX AND TO PROVIDE FUNDING
FOR BOTHHIGHWAYS AND TRANSIT, THE AMMWOULD SUPPORT A SALES TAX
ON GASOLINE AT THE PUMP WITHTHE ENTIRE 6.5 CENTS ~T~OCATEDTO
-56-
TRANSPORTATION.
AS PART OF THE COMBINED STRATEGY, THE STATE LEGISLATURE SHOULD
CONSIDER USING ITS BONDING AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION
INFRASTRUCTURE SINCE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INTEREST RATES AND
INFLATION IS SUCH THAT IT IS ADVANTAGEOUS TO MAKE SUCH STRATEGIC
INVESTMENTS.
V-E HIGHWAY AND TRANSIT INTEGRATION PLANNING
An efficient Transportation System consists of both high quality
roadway and high quality multimodal transit opportunities. These
two elements must be considered together from early planning
through implementation in Metropolitan areas. The AMM understands
that to some degree this is done in planning and that transit is
considered somewhat when determining funding priorities for
highway construction. Although, there has been improvement it is
felt that more integration of highway and transit planning is
needed.
THE AMM URGES EXISTING AGENCIES INVOLVED IN MAJOR HIGHWAY AND
TRANSIT PLANNING AND IMPLk~ENTATION TO INTEGRATE THESE ACTIVITIES
TO ENSURE AN EFFICIENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM. CRITERIA USED TO
DETERMINE HIGHWAY FUNDING FOR CONSTRUCTION AND EXPANSION SHOULD BE
REVIEWED AND UPDATED TO REQUIRE INCLUSION OF MULTIMODEL TRANSIT
OPPORTUNITIES AND INTEGRATED TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS WHEN
APPROPRIATE.
V-F HIGHWAY JURISDIC~fIONALREASSIGNMENT, TURNBACKS, AND FUNDING
Many commissions, boards, organizations, and now the legislatively
reconstituted Transportation Study Board have studied or are to
study the possibility of reclassifying many roadways in the state
as to appropriate use classifications and jurisdiction. This
reassignment in the metropolitan area is estimated to shift $6.1
million annually from the state and $1.2 million annually from the
counties to the cities for an increase of $7.3 million annually
for general maintenance and life cycle treatment (i.e. sealcoat,
overlays, etc.). Current state law provides that the state and/or
county may declassify a trunk highway and turn it back to a local
unit of government. The only provision is that it must be in good
condition. The unit receiving the highway does not have the
option to refuse title and must, thereafter, maintain the turned
back road. Although reassignments or turnbacks may be added to
the MSA system, there may not be enough maintenance funds for the
new mileage, and the receiving city will lose the opportunity of
new MSA road designation until its mileage allocation catches up
to the turnback mileage. Reassignment may be appropriate, but
will have a profound effect on city finances and future ability to
maintain good road systems, especially if certain criteria are not
met and finance alternatives established. Therefore, the AMM
-57-
on the largest beneficiary of the activity funded, should be a
stable funding source, and should be totally dedicated to the
funded activity. In addition, a new source of revenue should not
restrict future local government options. With the foregoing
criteria as a basis:
AMMSUPPORTS THE CONCEPT OF A METROPOLITAN TAX FOR METROPOLITAN
TRANSPORTATION NEEDS, INCLUDING STREET AND HIGHWAY FACILITIES,
HIG~R OCCUPANCY VEHICLE FACILITIES, AND TRANSIT FACILITIES
(INCLUDING LRT) WITH THE FOTJOWING CONSIDERATION: (1) TAXES SUCH
AS THE MOTOR FUELS, MOTOR VEHICLE EXCISE TAX, SALES TAX, AND
PAYROTW. TAX SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED; AND (2) THE PROPERTY TAX AND
GENERAL INCOME TAX SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED.
V-O AIRPORT POLICY
In 1987, the Minnesota State Legislature adopted the ',Dual-Track"
strategy for airport planning. One track focuses on a new airport
option; the other on improvements at the existing airport. The
choice will be made when economic, operational, environmental and
cost benefits studies are completed by 1996. The Metropolitan
Council has identified a search area in Northern Dakota County
within which a major airport could be located. Meanwhile, the
Metropolitan Airport Commission must develop a long range plan
to ensure capacity at the Minneapolis St. Paul International
Airport. By the end of 1995, the Metropolitan Airports Commission
must also identify a specific airport site within the search area
identified by the Metropolitan Council. In 1996, both the
Metropolitan Council and the Metropolitan Airports Commission must
prepare recommendations on major airport long-term development for
consideration by the Minnesota State Legislature.
THE AMM RECOMMENDS AND SUPPORTS THE CONTINUATION OF THE DUAL TRACK
PROCESS TO ASSURE THAT Ars OPTIONS ARE PROPERLY REVIEWED, AS
AIRPORT ISSUES ARE BEING CONSIDERED. THE AMM ENCOURAGES THE
METROPOLITAN COUNCiL ANDTHEMETROPOLITANAIRPORTS COMMISSION,
~ CONSIDERING ANEW SITE OR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE EXISTING
SITE, TOTHOROUGHLY STUDY THE SOCIETALAND ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF
BOTH SITES IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: ENVIRONMENT, SOCIAL, SITE
AREA, GENERAL I2tND USE AND COST. THE AMMALSO ENCOURAGES THE
METROPOLITAN COUNCiL ANDTHEMETROPOLITANAIRPORTS COMMISSION TO
CONSIDER THE INFRASTRUCTURE COSTS AT BOTH SITES AS WELL AS THE
COST-BENEFITS RATIO OF ~T~. CLASSIFICATIONS OF PROPERTY FOR THE
AREAS SURROUNDING BOTH SITES , AS STUDIES ARE COMPLETED ON
POSSIBLE EXPANSION OF THE EXISTINGMINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL AIRPORT
AND/ORRELOCATION OF THE AIRPORT TO A NEW SITE.
V-P BIKEWAY GRANTS PROGRAM
Increased support needs to be provided for innovative and inter
modal transportation programs. Dependency on the single occupant
-62-
automobile must be lessened. Ail Minnesota governments should
continue to encourage increased energy conservation, travel-demand
management, ride-share programs, bicycle facilities, alternative
fuels, and research and education for such options.
The attractiveness of bicycle transportation is maximized in urban
areas. Traffic calming projects have been shown to reduce the
severity and number of accidents, reduce air and noise pollution
and improve urban streets for non-motorized users. With the
increased awareness of health and fitness, the environmental
benefits and cost effectiveness of bicycling, more and more
Minnesotans are demanding safe and convenient bicycle facilities.
Local governments have expressed interest in enhancing bicycle
safety by planning for and adding off road trails, paved shoulders
and bicycle storage facilities and safety programs in their
communities.
The National Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of
1991 (ISTEA) states that improvements necessary to accommodate
other transportation modes are eligible uses of both National
Highway system and Surface Transportation Program funds. ISTEA
also requires each state to set aside 10 percent of its surface
transportation program funds for safety construction activities,
(ie, hazard elimination and rail-highway crossings) and 10 percent
for transportation enhancements which encompass a broad range of
environmentally-related activities.
IN KEEPING WITH THE NATIONAL RECOGN!TION OF THE NEED TO DECREASE
DEPENDANCE ON SINGLE OCCUPANCY A~£OMOBILES, THE LEGISLATURE SHOULD
RESTORE FUNDING FOR THE BIKEWAY GRANTS PROGRAI~. THE MINNESOTA
COMPREHENSIVE BICYCLE PLAN RECOMMENDS THAT "A GRANT PROGRAM BE
ESTABLISHED AND IMPLEMENTED TO DEVELOP BICYCLE FRIENDLY ZONES IN
URBAN AREAS."BICYCLE FRIENDLY ZONES WOULD INCLUDE BUT NOT BE
LIMITED TO CONSTRUCTION OF BOTH ON AND OFF ROAD BICYCLE
FACILITIES, PUBLIC EDUCATION, PROMOTION AND MONITORING. ON ROAD
FACILITIES COULD VARY FROM STRIPPED PAVED SHOULDERS TO DESIGNATED
BICYCLE LANES.
V-Q OPTOUT
In 1981, the Minnesota Legislature established the Transit Service
Demonstration Program under Statute 174.265 (which was repealed in
1984 as a demonstration program). Opt-out transit systems operate
under Statute 473.388 under which they qualify for transit funds
equivalent to 90 percent of the property taxes levied for transit
in their communities. The legislature recognized that little of
the transit monies collected from the suburbs were actually
providing those areas with transit services. With changing
demographics caused by suburban growth, not only was transit
needed, but suburban legislative support was becoming more and
more critical for continued transit funding. Opt-out was designed
to fill this void by allowing suburbs at the end of transit lines
to use up to and including all of 90% of their transit taxes to
provide efficient transit services in their areas. The Regional
Transit Board (RTB) is responsible for overseeing the opt-out
program. The opt-out program includes five transit systems
serving 12 metro-area communities.
Some issues of regional significance have been identified as areas
of concern by the opt-out systems. The regional fare structure
should be reviewed annually so that it is realistic. The opt-out
systems should have the flexibility of diverging from the
metropolitan fare structure, particularly if their services offer
features not typically found in regular route or para transit
systems. The RTB should encourage the concept of "opt-in"
whereby communities otherwise ineligible for opt out may have a
greater say in the type of transit service they receive from the
MTC instead of "taking what they get." Such a program would
foster the involvement of other municipalities which will benefit
the Regional Transit System through services better matched to
community needs and increased ridership.
THE AMM URGES THE LEGISLATURE TO DIRECT THE RTB TO ANNUALLY REVIEW
THE REGIONAL FARE STRUCTURE AND PROVIDE GREATER FLEXIBILITY TO SET
FARES COMMENSURATE WITH SERVICE LEVELS, AND ENCOURAGE THE CONCEPT
OF "OPT-INN PROVIDING GREATER MUNICIPAL INVOLVEMENT IN TRANSIT
SERVICES.
V-R MSAS FUNDING FOR COMBINED CITY STREET DEPARTMENTS
The State of Minnesota developed in the late 1950s a system for
distributing highway funding to MnDOT, counties, and communities
with populations over 5,000. This system has worked reasonably
effectively to construct and maintain an integrated transportation
network within the State.
In recent years, the State Legislature has established statutes
which call for the investigation of benefit that would be obtained
through consolidation of services and reallocation of resources.
One such area that presents such an option is the consolidation of
Public Works and Maintenance departments within cities, townships,
and counties. Such an opportunity for streamlining capital
expenditures and cost-effective maintenance of an integrated
street system might be best served by recognizing such
consolidation through the use of the Municipal State Aid System.
In that, if two or more governmental units consolidate their
maintenance departments, having in effect a Joint Powers Agreement
which reflects a single entity for budgeting and operations
purposes, then the population of the governmental units
participating in such a Joint Powers Agreement should be considered
-64-
in determining the MSAS funding eligibility of these communities
as per MS 162.09.
THE AMMURGES THE LEGISLATURE TO ENCOURAGE THE IMPr.RMENTATION OF
COOPERATION AND CONSOLIDATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT SERVICES SUCH AS
IS ENVISIONED BY MS 375. THE STATE AID SYSTEM STATUTES SHOULD BE
AMENDED TO AT.TOW FOR THE ELIGIBILITY OF COMBINED POPULATION WITHIN
INCORPORATED MUNICIPALITIES HAVING A JOINT POWERS PUBLIC WORKS AND
MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT AND CONTIGUOUS BORDERS, TO QUALIFY FOR MS~
FUNDING UNDER THE MUNICIPAL STATE AID STREET SYSTEM POPULATION
CUTOFF RULE OF 5,000.
-65-
VI
ENI~ORSEMENT'POLICIES
PAGE 66 THROUGH 74
VI-ENDORSEHENT POLICIES
VI-A TAXATION HEARING AND NOTIFICATION LAW
THE T.~GUE SUPPORTS A PROPERTY TAX HEARING AND NOTIFICATION
PROCESS THAT PROVIDES ACCURATE AND TIMELY INFORMATION TO
TAXPAYERS, FITS INTO THE CURRENT BUDGET PROCESS FOR LOCAL
GOVERNMENTS, AND IS COST-EFFICIENT. THE PROCESS SHOULD CONTINUE
ITS FOCUS ON PROPERTY TAXES RAISED FROM LOCAL TAXPAYERS. STATE
GOVERNN~.NT SHOULD SET AN EXAMPLE, AND BE REQUIRED TO FOIJOW
SIMILAR REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS AND NOTIFICATION
PROCESSES ON TAX AND BUDGET ISSUES.
The state-mandated **truth in taxation** process has existed through
four years of local government budget cycles. Both the major
changes and the minor tinkering have not substantially improved
the process for citizens or for local governments. The League
urges the legislature to make the following changes to improve the
effectiveness of the process for both taxpayers and local
governments officials.
* The process should be limited to one official, announced
public hearing to discuss the proposed levy. The actual adoption
of the levy and budget should take place at a regularly scheduled
meeting of the governing body of the city, county, school, or
special district. Cities already conduct an open budget
development process beginning as early as May and June, and
becoming more final with the certification of proposed property
tax levies by September 15.
* Local governments should be allowed to amend the levy that they
preliminarily propose to the county auditor on September 15. Many
cities have a difficult time realistically assessing their budget
needs to be able to certify a proposed levy and budget by
September 15 far ahead of the beginning off the next budget year.
The early date, combined with the restriction that prevents the
city's final levy from exceeding its preliminary estimate, works
against responsible budgeting and forces cities to overestimate
their budget needs to avoid potential revenue shortfalls.
* As a state mandate, the costs of this requirement should be
fully funded by the state. The appropriation made for the 1990
process has not been renewed. Local governments must now find
additional funds to finance this state-mandated process from their
tight or shrinking local budgets.
* Proposed tax information should continue to be provided on the
mailed notice; financial data requirements in newspaper
advertisement should continue to be excluded. The Legislature
should consider eliminating the newspaper advertisement requirement
- notices sent to each property owner and posted in each apartment
building effectively notifies citizens of the hearings and
proposed levies. Tax dollar spent for the cost of publishing
advertisements could be better spent on city services for
taxpayers.
-66-
~ The title of the requirement should be changed to the taxation
hearing and notification law. The current title implies that
there was and would be a lack of accuracy and accountability
without this process. In addition, the calculations used in the
process are frequently misleading and confusing, and challenge the
truthfulness and accuracy of the information provided.
VI-B STATE ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS
THE T~AGUE OPPOSES THE POLICY OF DEDUCTING STATE AGENCY
ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS FROM FUNDS WHICH ARE APPROPRIATED FOR
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF. IF THE STATE CONTINUES THIS INAPPROPRIATE
POLICY, THE COSTS SHOULD BE MORE EQUITABLY BORNE BY THE FULL LOCAL
GOVERNMENT TRUST FUND, RATHER THAN ONLY FROM FUNDING FOR LOCAL
GOVERNMENT AID.
The League believes that all state government expenses should be
subject to the standard appropriation review process and be funded
directly by specific state appropriation, not by blanket
deductions from property tax relief programs and from state
grants. Where a state agency is required to recover costs through
a state charge-back for services to local units, the state should
be required to hold administrative hearings to justify the charges
on the basis of the services provided to the individual local
units of government.
City local government aid (LGA) provides financing for
administrative costs for: the Office of the State Auditor, the
Department of Administration (IISAC), the State Demographer, and
the Department of Employee Relations. For 1993 LGA, $502,972 was
deducted for these state agencies.
In addition, LGA funds, distributed primarily to cities, have been
used to finance operations by the state auditor and Department of
Administration which are not caused by cities alone, but by all
local governments, including counties, school districts, and
townships.
VI-C REFERENDUM LEVIES
THE T~AGUE SUPPORTS REPEAL OF REQUIREMENT THAT CITY REFERENDUM
LEVIES, UNLIKE GENERAL PROPERTY TAX LEVIES, APPLY TO PROOPERTY
MARKET VAIXIE. IN ADDITION, IT MAY BE INACCURATE FOR A REFERENDUM
BALLOT TO STATE "BY VOTING YES ON THIS BALLOT QUESTION, YOU ARE
VOTING FOR A PROPERTY TAX INCREASE."
The state has deliberately designed a system of property classes
based on property use, which creates varying tax burdens. The
method by which a property tax is adopted should not influence
this class rate system. This law makes an inappropriate
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expenditures only for city governments. Both spending items are
components of total city spending and should impact taxpayers
comparably. If the legislature wants to adjust tax burdens,
changes should be made in the classification system, rather than
through the tax base.
In addition, the simple statement that taxes will rise as a result
of a referendum levy may be false. In cases where the city has
reduced their general levy or previous debt is retired, a city's
property tax levy may actually decline when compared to the
previous year.
VI-D COMPARABLE WORTH
THE LEAGUE SUPPORTS EFFORTS TO ELIMINATE ANY SEX-BASED DIFFERENCES
IN COMPENSATION OF PUBLIC EMPLOYEES BUT ASKS THE LEGISLATURE TO
REVISE THE PAY EQUITY STATUTE TO ALLOWLOCALGOVERNMENTS
SUFFICIENT TIME TO COMPLY WITH RECENTLY ADOPTED ADMINISTRATIVE
RULES REGARDING COMPLTANCE DETERMINATIONS. ADDITION~TJ~, THE
?mAGUE URGES THE LEGISLATURE TO AMEND THE STATUTE TO LIMIT THE
LAWS APPLICABILITY TO ONLY FUTJ.-TIME EMPLOYEES AND TO CLARIFY
THAT SEPARATELY ESTABLISHED GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES MUST FILE
SEPARATE COMPLIANCE REPORTS.
The local government pay equity act, first adopted in 1984, has
been frequently amended by the legislature. Significant
amendments were adopted in 1990, and in 1991 the legislature
authorized the Department of Employee Relations to promulgate
rules to assist the Department in determining local government
compliance with the statute.
These rules, which include several new tests, necessitate many
changes to local government compliance efforts, took effect almost
a full year after cities and other public employers were required
by the statute to submit compliance reports, cities which are
found out of compliance must be granted additional time to comply
with these new standards prior to facing imposition of state
sanctions which include 5% reductions in financial assistance and
$100 per day penalties. The League supports legislative action
to delay the implementation deadline to December 1994.
At the very least, the legislature should act to delay imposition
of new statistical tests of health insurance contributions, salary
range differences, and exceptional service pay programs until
December 1994.
The rules address other significant issues not previously dealt
with by the legislation, including the definitions of employees
and employers covered by the Act.
For the definition of employees, the rules use the same definition
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as in the Public Employees Labor Relations Act (PELRA). Use of
this definition causes two significant problems. First, because
local governments use a great number of part)time and seasonal
employees in order to effectively and efficiently provide
important services, many more jobs will have to be included in
compensation systems than is the current practice. This will
require much more administrative work in establishing job
descriptions and ranking jobs which by their very nature are often
impossible accurately describe or value. Second, because
benefits, including health insurance programs, are often limited
to full-time employees, cities run the risk of being found out of
compliance with the pay equity act not because of gender based
discrimination, but rather because of valid distinctions between
full-time and part-time employment. The League proposes adopting
a definition of employee which would not include any employee
working less than twenty hours per week on average or which is
employed in a position which is filled less than six months in any
year.
For the definition of employers covered by the Act, the problem is
slightly different. The law clearly requires all cities and other
political subdivisions of the state to comply. The problem is
determining who is the employing agency for a particular group of
employees. Historically, employees of certain enterprises such as
public utilities, hospitals, nursing homes, and libraries have
been considered as separate and distinct from employees of the
city. Often, the only connection is that the city council acts
somewhat pro forma to ratify the annual budget proposed by the
separate entity prior to certification of the tax levy.
Unfortunately, it is this feature of formal budget adoption on
which the rules focus, regardless of separate payroll systems,
personnel rules, salary and benefit systems, etc. The League
supports statutory clarification that other aspects of the
government structure be considered when making a determination of
which governing body is the employer of a group of employees. To
be considered separately established, the governmental entities
may have separate personnel systems, separate facilities, separate
bookkeeping and payroll systems, and no interrelationships other
than budget approval and/or financial assistance. In addition,
these existing governmental entities must be separately
established prior to 1984.
VI-E LIQUOR ISSUES
THE T~AGUE SUPPORTS REPEAL OF THE PUBLIC HEARING REQUIREMENT FOR
CITIES WITH LIQUOR STORES THAT EXPERIENCE LOSSES IN TWO OF THREE
CONSECUTIVE YEARS AND SUPPORTS REPEAL OF OFF-SALE HOUR
RESTRICTIONS BASED ON PROXIMITY TO FIRST CLASS CITIES WITHIN THE
SAME COUNTY.
Liquor issues have been consolidated into a single bill in recent
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legislative sessions. The League generally supports this practice
but only if each provision is adequately considered by the
legislature and the parties affected are given ample opportunity
for input. The League has identified the following issues which
may or should be considered by the legislature:
1. Continuation hearings. State law currently requires that a
city operating a municipal liquor store hold a public hearing if
the store loses money in any two of three consecutive years, this
statue, adopted prior to "truth in taxation" hearing requirements,
is now duplicative and wasteful and should be repealed or combined
with other budget hearings.
2. Off-sale hours. Minnesota Statue 340A.504, Subd. 4 limits
off-sales of liquor to 10:00 p.m. generally, except that cities of
the first class and cities within 15 miles of cities of the first
class (within the same county) must close at 8:00 p.m. Monday
through Thursday. Political boundaries make the latter portion of
this statue unfair. The League supports repeal of the neighboring
city, same county, portion of this statue, and generally believes
that cities should be fully authorized to establish hours of sale
and be expressly authorized to establish differing license fees
for establishment having different hours of operation.
VI-F MN. PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT LABOR RELATIONS ACT (PELRA)
A. THE LEAGUE SUPPORTS LEGISLATION WHICH MODIFIES THE EXISTING
INTEREST ARBITRATION PROCESS TO REQUIREARBITRATORS TO GIVE
PRIMARY CONSIDERATION TO INTERNAL EQUITY COMPARISONS AND THE
IMPACT THATANY ARBITRATION AWARD MIGHTHAVE ON THE PERSONNEL
COMPENSATION SYSTEMS OF THE CITY INVOLVED IN THE ARBITRATION.
~, THE T~AGUE OPPOSES CONSIDERING ANY ADDITIONAL EMPLOYEE
GROUPS AS ESSENTIAL EMPLOYEES.
City and other governmental experience with the arbitration
process has shown that arbitrated awards generally exceed
negotiated settlements. Unlike the state, local governments do
not have the authority to reject these arbitrated awards. The
legislature should re-examine binding arbitration as a means of
determining pay and benefit issues. The goal of any modification
to the process should be to ensure that arbitrations do not
interfere with other state programs such as pay equity. These
should not be any additional employee groups placed in the
category of "essential employees."
B. THE LEAGUE RECOMMENDS THAT THE LEGISLATURE REINSTATE THE
PREVIOUS DEFINITION OF EMPLOYEES COVERED BY PELRA TO PEOPT~
EMPLOYED FOR MORE THAT 100 WORKING DAYS IN A C~NDAR YEAR.
The 1983 legislature reduced the time period that part-time
employees must be employed before they are considered employees
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covered by PELRA. This has resulted in higher wages for some
part-time employees, and more significantly, has resulted in
cities hiring fewer part-time employees. 1991 legislative action
in this area has caused further confusion, which may also result
in a lessening of job opportunities, particularly for students and
the disadvantaged. Additionally, many employees who view their
work as temporary or transitory in nature, have been asked to pay
their fair share of union dues, even though they receive no
benefit from union membership. Recent legislative interest in
cost-saving initiatives at the local level could be substantially
promoted by a statutory amendment to enable local governments to
effectively utilize seasonal employees.
VI-G ANNEXATION
A. THE T~AGUE SUPPORTS LEGISLATION RESTRICTING FURTHER URBAN
GROWTH OUTSIDE CITY BOUNDARIES AND FACILITATING THE ANNEXATION OF
URBAN LAND TO CITIES.
Public policies which encourage substantial development in
non-urban areas and which extend public services beyond existing
jurisdictions and service areas are wasteful and counter
productive. Additionally, shoreland and prime agricultural land
are major natural and economic resources and the state should
include as a major objective their preservation and wise use.
Particular attention should be given to the issue of development
and the delivery of governmental services to urbanizing fringe
areas. In the metropolitan area, the Legislature should not
modify the existing framework for restricting or guiding
development absent careful study and input from metropolitan
cities and their associations.
State law should continue to encourage the preservation of
shoreland and prime agricultural land and discourage the
development of such land outside designated growth areas to be
served by a city. The League recommends the following:
* State statutes regulating annexation should make it easier for
cities to annex developed or developing land within unincorporated
areas which the annexing city has designated as a growth area.
* The legislature should clarify 1992 legislation which allows
property owners to initiate an annexation by petition to
specifically allow these annexations notwithstanding orderly
annexation agreements which might contradict the petition.
* Cities should be given the authority to extend their zoning
ordinance and subdivision controls up to two miles outside the
city's boundaries regardless of the existence of county or
township controls, in order to ensure conformance with city
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facilities and services.
VI-H ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITIES
A. THE I~AGUE SUPPORTS THE STATE'S CURRENT POLICY OF LIMITING THE
SPECIFIC AUTHORITY AND POWERS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITIES
(EDA) TO CITY GOVERNMENTS.
The limited economic development tools available in the state are
vital to assist in the creation of jobs and industry across the
state, and are concentrated in urbanized governments. The League
believes that the Legislature should continue its decision to
limit EDA authority to cities as the primary local government
responsible for the organizational and financial coordination of
development and redevelopment.
The state has already determined that city government most
efficiently provides governmental services in areas intensively
developed for residential, commercial, industrial, and
governmental purposes. The League believes that the state should
continue to recognize the importance of using and preserving the
existing infrastructure that exists within cities, and continue to
find that urban development, and all related authority, should
remain within cities, managed by city governments.
B. THE LEAGUE SUPPORTS LEGISLATION WHICH WOULD PROVIDE CITY
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITIES (EDAs) THE SAME POWER AND
AUTHORITY AS THOSE GIVEN TO PORT AUTHORITIES.
The league urges the legislature to authorize all cities to
designate development areas anywhere within their jurisdiction, or
to designate area development authorities when they enter into
joint powers agreements with other cities. Present law restricts
development areas, qualifications, and authority for EDAs. In
addition, EDAs should be allowed to issue general obligation bonds
for project activities without a referendum.
VI-I WETLANDS CONSERVATION
THE T~AGUE, ALONG WITH MANY OTHER GOVERNMENTAL ASSOCIATIONS,
SUPPORTED PASSAGE OF THE 1991 WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT.
EXPERIENCE GAINED BY ADMINISTRATION OF THE INTERIM PROGRAM AND
PARTICIPATION IN THE RULE-WRITING FOR THE PERMANENT PROGRAM
INDICATES A NEED FOR ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE ACTION.
Specifically, the League supports the following legislative
initiatives.
Remove the $75 limitation on replacement plan reviews. Since all
proposals to alter, drain, or fill a wetland involve a
substantial expenditure of local staff time, including, but not
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limited to, professional engineers or hydrologists, any limitation
on cost recovery less than actual expenses means that the general
taxpayer is subsidizing the proponent of any activity which, by
definition is potentially adverse to the environment.
Initiate detailed review of costs/benefits of expanding the scope
of protected wetlands to include Types 1,2, and 6 and evaluate
alternative mitigation methods to compensate for any direct loss
from impacts to Type 1, 2, and 6 wetlands.
Amend the governmental oversight process so landowners can clearly
understand which government unit needs to review a proposal, and
refine the system to ensure expedited reviews of proposals
consistent with the environmental goals of the program.
Provide for state defense and indemnification of local governments
administering state laws for any "taking" claims which property
owners might allege.
Make wetland replacement requirements equal between urban and
non-urban land at a 1:1 ratio.
VI-J MSA MIT~AGE LIMIT
A. IN ORDER TO MORE ADEQUATELY REPRESENT THE CURRENT ELIGIBLE
MILES OF CITY STREETS, THE T~AGUE SUPPORTS RAISING THE MUNICIPAL
STATE AID SYSTEM (M.S.A.S.) LIMIT TO 3000 MILES. THIS IS AN
ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGE AND WOULD NOT AFFECT THE ACTUAL DISTRIBUTION
OF M.S.A. FUNDING.
Existing law limits the system to 2,500 miles and total mileage
currently in the system is approximately 2,300. This mileage
increase for the system is necessary to accommodate the mileage
needs of growing cities which reach the 5,000 population level and
larger cities with growing street systems so that these cities may
also receive adequate municipal state aid.
B. THE POPULATION FACTOR OF THE MUNICIPAL STATE AID SYSTEM SHOULD
BE CHANGED TO REFLECT ANNUAL POPULATION UPDATES BASED ON ESTIMATES
FROM THE STATE DEMOGRAPHER OR METROPOLITAN COUNCIL, RATHER THAN
FEDERAL OR SPECIAL CENSUS COUNTS.
VI-K HIGHWAY DEFINITION - TRANSPORTATION FUNDING
IF THE SA~S TAXON GASOLINE IS FOUND TO BE UNCONSTITUTIONAL, THE
LRAGUE URGES THE LEGISLATURE TO RESOLVE THE CONSTITUTIONAL USE OF
GAS TAX REVENUES EXPANDED USES. UNTIL THIS IS RESOLVED, THE
~AGUE SUPPORTS AMENDING THE STATUTORY DEFINITION OF ROAD OR
HIGHWAY, TO INCLUDE OTHER TRANSPORTATION MODES WITHIN
"TRANSPORTATION CORRIDORS." THE LEAGUE WOULD THEN SUPPORT A GAS
TAX INCREASE ADEQUATE TO MEET THE CURRENT NEEDS OF THESE
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TRANSPORTATION MODES.
Under this funding option, mass transit projects within
transportation corridors would be eligible for gas tax revenues if
the projects helped to achieve the state's overall transportation
goals, maximize ISTEA funding, and reduce pollution to meet the
requirements of the Clean Air Act. Eligible transit expenditures
would include property, vehicles, and equipment for public bus and
rail systems, and their related facilities.
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VII
METROPOLITAN GOVERNANCE REORGANIZATION
PAGE 75 THROUGH 78
VII
METROPOLITAN GOVERNANCE REORGANIZATION
VII-A LEGISLATIVE REORGANIZATION OF METROPOLITAN GOVERNANCE.
The Association of Metropolitan Municipalities' Metropolitan
Governance Task Force has suggested broad-based changes in the
make-up and operation of the Metropolitan Council and Metropolitan
Agencies so they may become more responsive and accountable to
help lead the metropolitan area into the 21st Century and beyond.
The types of recommendations are divided into two main categories:
Those requiring legislative action and those needing action by the
Metropolitan Council.
A-1 RESTRUCTURING OF METROPOLITAN AGENCIES.
The AMM believes that to better meet the needs of current and
future delivery of regional services and developing and
implementing regional policy, some changes should be made to the
structures and responsibilities of the regional agencies. The
detailed reasons and rationale for such changes are contained in
the aforementioned Task Force report.
THE AMM RECOMMENDS THE FOLLOWING STATUTORY CHANGES WITH RESPECT TO
METROPOLITAN AGENCIES:
-REMOVE THE METROPOLITAN SPORTS FACILITIES COMMISSION AS A
METROPOLITAN AGENCY SINCE THE BACK-UP TAX LIABILITY IS LIMITED TO
ONE CITY WHICH ALSO APPOINTS ~T~. COMMISSIONERS EXCEPT THE CHAIR,
CONTINGENT UPON ITS DIVESTITURE OF LANDS AND PROPERTIES IN CITIES
NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE BACK UP TAX;
-MODIFY THE STATUS OF THE M.A.C. SO THAT IT EITHER BECOMES A TRUE
METROPOLITAN AGENCY OR A STATE DIRECTED AGENCY. IF THE BACK-UP
PROPERTY TAX IS ONLY LIMITED TOTHE SEVEN COUNTY METROPOLITAN
AREA, THEN IT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED A METROPOLITAN AGENCY AND ITS
COMMISSION MEMBERS APPOINTED BY AN ELECTED METROPOLITAN COUNCIL.
THE BACK-UP PROPERTY TAX SHOULD BE STATEWIDE IF THERE IS STATEWIDE
REPRESENTATION ON THE M.A.C. AND IF A STATEWIDE ENTITY IS THE
APPOINTING AUTHORITY.
THE AMM WOULD SUPPORT LEGISLATIVE RESTRUCTURING OF METROPOLITAN
TRANSIT ORGANIZATION AND OPERATION BASED ON THE FOTJ&)WING
PRINCIPLES:
a. ENHANCED OVERATe, COORDINATED PLANNING TO I~PT.~](ENT LONG-TERM
TRANSIT/TRANSPORTATION NEEDS;
b. DEVELOP AND SPECIFY THE TOTAL PLANNING PROCESS SO (A) THE PUBLIC
AND INTERESTED AGENCIES MAY EASILY UNDERSTAND THE PROCESS, (B)
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Cu
de
ee
THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF ;iT.Ts AGENCIES INVOLVED ARE DEFINED AND
(C) DUPLICATION OF DUTIES AND TASKS AMONG THE AGENCIES ARE
MINIMIZED;
ORGANIZE THE VARIOUS AGENCIES TO ACHIEVE TfIE APPROPRIATE
MIX OF TRANSIT AND HIGHWAY FUNDING TO IMPLEM]ZNT LONG-RANGE
METROPOLITAN TRANSIT/TRANSPORTATION GOALS;
DEVELOP FLEXIBLE AND UNDERSTANDABLE PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES
FOR COMMUNITIES THAT RECEIVE LESS THAN ADEQUATE TRANSIT SERVICE
SO THEY MAY BECOME PART OF THE SYSTEM MORE EASILY AND BE
PROVIDED WITH ONE-STEP ACCESS DURING THE PROCESS; AND
CT.F. ARLY DELINEATE THE RESPONSIBILITIES INVOLVED WITH PROVIDING
FOR TRANSIT/TRANSPORTATION IN THE %{ETROPOLITAN AREA. NOT ONLY
WOULD THIS HELP TO ESTABLISH ACCOUNTABILITY, IT ALSO WOU]'.D
PROVIDE TRANSIT/TRANSPORTATION USERS WITH A BETTER IDF2% OF WHICH
AGENCY SHOULD BE CONTACTED WHEN PROBLEMS ARISE.
-GRANT THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL THE AUTHORITY TO APPROVE THE
CAPITAL AND OPERATING BUDGETS OF THE METROPOLITAN AGENCIES
A-2 LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE STRUCTURE FOR METRO ISSUES
CONSIDERATION.
The state Legislature frequently is asked to review and pass
legislation that affects only the seven-county metropolitan area.
The AMM has been concerned because in previous years some of the
committees making initial decisions affecting only the metropolitan
area have had a majority of non-metropolitan area legislators.
Both the House and Senate created subcommittees in the last session
consisting primarily of metro area legislators to provide initial
review and action on metropolitan area specific legislation and
issues.
THE AMM COMMENDS THE HOUSE AND SENATE FOR THEIR RESPONSIVENESS IN
CREATING COMMITTEE STRUCTURES THAT ARE MORE KNOWLEDGEABLE OF
METROPOLITAN AREA SPECIFIC ISSUES AND CONCERNS AND URGES BOTH
LEGISLATIVE BRANCHES TO CONTINUE COMPARABI~ ARRANGEMENTS IN FUTURE
YEARS.
A-3
SELECTION OF METROPOLITAN COUNCIL/METROPOLITAN AGENCIES
MEMBERS.
The Metropolitan Council has substantial taxing authority and
supervises other metropolitan agencies that have considerably more
taxing authority. This taxing ability requires accountability that
cannot be achieved through current appointment process° Direct
election would give the accountability the citizens need to balance
the Council's taxing authority and other responsibilities it now
has or may have. As a side benefit, the election process would help
address the general lack of understanding about the Metropolitan
Council and its role in the region.
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THE AMM RECOMMENDS THAT METROPOLITAN COUNCIL MEMBERS BE ELECTED
DIRECTLY TO THEIR POSITIONS TO BALANCE ACCOUNTABILITY WITH
AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY. (THE ELECTION PROCESS SHOULD BE IN
SUBSTANTIAL CONFORMANCE WITH THE TASK FORCE REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR ELECTION OF COUNCIL MEMBERS. )
THE AMM ALSO RECOMMENDS THAT THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL CHAIR BE
ELECTED BIENNI;%LLY FROM WITHIN ~ COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP, NOT
APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR. THE AMM FURTHER RECOMMENDS THAT THE
COUNCIL HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO APPOINT AT.L C~{AIRS AND MEMBERS TO
REGIONAL AGENCIES UNDER THE COUNCIL'S PURVIEW. THESE AGENCIES ARE
METROPOLITAN AIRPORTS COMMISSION (M.A.C.), METROPOLITAN WASTE
CONTROL COMMISSION (MWCC) , METROPOLITAN TRANSIT COMMISSION (NTC) ,
METROPOLITAN PARKS AND OPEN SPACE COMMISSION (MPOSC) AND THE
REGIONAL TRANSIT BOARD (RTB). IF THE LEGISLATURE DETERMINES THAT
THE M.A.C. IS NOT A TRUE METROPOLITAN AGENCY AS REFERENCED IN
POLICY A-l, THEN ITS MEMBERS AND CHAIR SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE
APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR.
A-4 REGIONAL RAIL AUTHORITIES/TRANSIT.
The regional rail authorities as they affect transit matters in the
metropolitan area have outlived their usefulness. No one rail
authority has the broad metropolitan perspective to plan a transit
system. As a group, the rail authorities duplicate and complicate
transit planning of the existing metropolitan agencies.
THEREFORE, THE AMM RECOMMENDS THAT THE ROT~ OF THE REGIONAL RAIL
AUTHORITIES AS INVOLVED IN TRANSIT IN THE SEVEN-COUNTY METROPOLITAN
AREA BE ELIMINATED.
VII-B RE-ENERGIZING THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL.
The Metropolitan Council was formed to address specific problems,
such as providing an adequate sewer system for Minneapolis, St.
Paul and the surrounding suburbs, but it had a broader focus. Its
mission was to serve the metropolitan area. Its first members took
what could be called a pro-active stance and, over time, became
involved in issues such as land use planning, parks and open space,
and transportation to allow for the orderly expansion of growth in
the Twin cities metropolitan area.
During the years since its inception to the present, however, the
Metropolitan Council is perceived to have become more politicized
and is offhandedly referred to as the "State Department of
Metropolitan Affairs." It has, either by design or happenstance,
become an enforcer of rules and regulations. It has become enmeshed
in minutia and dealing with the here-and-now, functioning less as
an institution of forward-thinking planning.
When the Council was created to address the issues of sewers,
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transit, and parks and open space, it seemed natural for the
Council to engage more heavily in the day-to-day activities of the
systems and agencies it envisioned. The Council did nothing wrong,
per se. Rather, it seemed to institutionalize its vision, which
pulled it back from forward-thinking. The AMM believes the Council
should become re-energized and is encouraged by the recent actions
of the Council to become more visionary and big picture oriented.
THEREFORE THE AMM RECOMMENDS THAT:
-THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL CONTINUE TO RE-EMPHASIZE ITS VISIONARY
ROLE AND APPOINT A PERMANENT COMMITTEE WHOSE SOLE CHARGE IS TO SEEK
OUT OPPORTUNITIES AND CHAI.I~NGES THAT THE COUNCIL MAY ADDRESS. THE
COUNCIL HAS THE OPPORTUNITY TO HELP ADVANCE THE METROPOLITAN AREA
INTO THE NEXT CENTURY BY FOCUSING ON VISION AND LONG-RANGE
PLANNING;
-THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL WORK ACTIVELY TO GET CITIES AND OTHER
ORGANIZATIONS INVOLVED AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE IN THE ACTUAL DELIVERY
OF SERVICES. TO THIS END, THE COUNCIL NEEDS TO WORK WITH CITY
OFFICIAI~ TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE AS NEEDED AND TO GET A LOCAL
PERSPECTIVE ON ISSUES;
-THE COUNCIL EXAMINE SEVERAL ISSUE AREAS THAT HAVE METROPOLITAN
WIDE SIGNIFICANCE. TtIE COUNCIL WOULD PROVIDE OVERSIGHT AND BE
RESPONSIBLE FOR REPRESENTING AGENCIES UNDER ITS CHARGE AT THE ST~rE
LEVEL. IT WOULD FACILITATE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT OF THESE ISSUE
AREAS. SOME OF THE ISSUE AREAS INCLUDE LAND USE PLANNING AND GROUP[1
MANAGEMENT; HOUSING, COMMUNITY PRESERVATION AND NEIGHBORHOOD
REVITALIZATION; ENVIRONMENT, TRANSPORTATION, HUMAN SERVICES, PUBLIC
SAFETY SUPPORT, AND REGIONALAND LEISURE SERVICES;
-THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL STRENGTHEN THE AUTHORITY OF THE EXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR IN RUNNING THE DAY-TO-DAY OPERATIONS AND THAT THE COUNCIL
M]gMBERS BECOME MORE "BIG PICTURE" ORIENTED AND LESS INVOVLED IN
DETAILS.
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CITY COUNCIL LETTER
MEETING OF: JANUARY 24, 1994
AGENDA SECTION: NEW BUSINESS ORIGINATING DEPT. CITY MANAGER
NO: 9 FINANCE APPROVAL
ATTENDANCE OF THE FINANCE BY: WILLIAM ELRITE BY:f ~
ITEM:
DEPT. STAFF AT THE ANNUAL ~-)~~) ~~ ~
GFOA CONFERENCE DATE: JAN. 18, 1994
NO: ~. ~.
The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada holds an annual
conference dealing with the realm of complex and ever changing government financial issues. This
conference deals with current changes in governmental accounting and reporting requirements, new
concepts and overall financial management. It is one time in the year when finance professionals
become updated on issues th~.~ could have a major impact on their government.
Over the years, attendance at the conference has grown significantly. The current attendance is over
4,000 people. As a result of the large attendance, there are seven to eight concurrent sessions
throughout the day. Attendance at virtually all sessions would benefit the City. The 1994 budget
includes appropriations to send staff members to this conference since it is being held in Minneapolis
this year.
The alternatives are limited to either attending or not attending the conference. There is no
alternative level of training available. Attendance provides staff with an updated level of training
and knowledge to enhance job performance. A lack of attendance is a lack of training. Attendance
at this conference could be compared to the ongoing training that is required of C.P.A.'s and other
professionals. In the case of Municipal Finance Professionals, there is no required ongoing training.
The decision to have ongoing training is at the discretion of the City Council.
The 1994 budget includes funds for employees to attend this conference. The projected cost of the
attendance at the conference is within the budget limitations. There is a 35% savings on the
registration fee if it is paid prior to January 28, 1994. The early registration fee is $250 per person.
The long range financial implications of attending the conference are hard to judge. The knowledge
gained will definitely be a benefit and will have a positive financial result. In the past, only one
person has attended this training on an annual basis. Because the conference is held in Minneapolis,
this is an excellent opportunity to allow more staff this high level of training.
It is staff's recommendation that William Elrite and June Johnston attend the annual GFOA
conference.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to authorize the attendance of William Elrite and June Johnston
at the Annual Government Finance Officer's Association Conference from June 5-8, 1994; and
furthermore, that related expenses be reimbursed.
WE:dh
9401182
COUNCIL ACTION:
December 1993
GOVERNMENT FINANCE
OFFICERS ASSOCIATION
180 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 800, Chicago, Illinois 60601
312/977-9700 · Fax: 312/977-4806
Dear Minnesota Colleague:
I am pleased to inform you that the Government Finance Officers Association of the
United States and Canada (GFOA) will hold its 88th annual conference, June 5-8, 1994,
in Minneapolis. I am inviting you to join us for this important gathering.
GFOA's annual conference is the nation's single largest conference on state and local
government finance issues. More than 3,000 public finance professionals from
throughout the country will convene in Minneapolis to learn of the latest financial
management strategies and techniques. Three preconference seminars, two general
sessions, and more than 55 sessions and 20 roundtable discussions will be presented
over the course of five days. Whether you are involved with state, county, city, town,
school district, retirement system, or special district finances, you won't want to miss
this premier educational opportunity.
For those of you who do not regularly attend the GFOA annual conference, join us in
your own backyard and "Explore the Boundaries of Government Finance." We'd like to
make this opportunity an even greater likelihood by offering you and your staff a
special discount off the conference registration fee.
If you have any involvement with state or local finances in Minnesota, you can
register at our lowest registration rate. Using the registration form in the enclosed
brochure, just check and pay the "active member" fee if you are employed by the
public sector, or check and pay the "associate member" fee if you are employed by the
private sector. If you register by January 28, 1994, you can save up to 35 percent
off the full registration fee.
We hope that you will join us June 5-8, 1994 in Minneapolis.
Siagerely,
Jeffrey L. Esser
Executive Director
enclosure
WASHINGTON OFFICE
1750 K Street, N.W., Suite 650. Washington, DC 20006
202/429-2750 · Fax: 202/429-2755
finance
THERE'S HO LIMIT TO WHAT
YOU CAH DISCOV[R
H there's one word that best describes
the world of government finance, it
is "change." Things are changing so
fast, how can you possibly keep up.
Attend GFOA 's 88th Annual
Conference, June $8, 1994,
in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
We've designed the 1994 conference
to specifically address the issues
that are causing so much change in
government finance.
You'll discover ways to push the
boundaries of current financial, man-
agement and technological strategies
to new limits. At the GFOA conference,
you'll have plenty of opportunities to
explore. Discover why GFOA's annual
conference is the largest and most
comprehensive training opportunity
available to state and local government
finance professionals.
C~cumnt More than 55 sessions
Smions provide proven tech-
niques and strategies in
all the major areas of government
finance and financial management.
Leading practitioners and finance
experts share their insights and
experience in 90-minute sessions held
Sunday afternoon through Wednesday
morning. All sessions offer practical,
hands-on information so you benefit
immediateJy.
&mai Two general sessions
will bring participants
together to hear today's
most influential leaders in government
and government finance.
Imdtabb Meet with your peers in
Dhambm small groups to share
· insights and solutions on
nearly 20 different topics of interest to
government finance professionals.
I~w~4~i~l Join colleagues from simi-
Lu~ iar jurisdictions to share
~ ideas and concerns at
Monday's hosted luncheon.
~hibit Open all day Sunday and
Hall Monday and until noon
~ on Tuesday, the confer-
ence exhibit hall features more than
100 firms offering financial products
and services to state and local gov-
ernments. In one setting, you can
meet with representatives of the
leading public accounting firms,
inves~t banking firms, credit rating
agencies, bond insurers, computer
vendors, investment advisors and
many more.
Wdcome Join your colleagues and
I~O~i0n friends for refreshments
~ and hors d'oeuvres at a
reception scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m.
on Sunday, the opening day of the
conference.
S~ssion All of the concurrent and
Tap~s general sessions are
~ audio-taped. Purchase
tapes on site of your favorite sessions,
or ones you missed.
~rt~gt All delegates receive on
site a booklet of speaker
outlines and roundtable
discussion questions. This booklet
can help make final decisions about
sessions and roundtables that you
· want to attend. It also serves as a
handy reference when you return
to work.
fJ01 Browse through the
~bst ~ GFOA's latest publica-
· tions or purchase your
favorite book at discount prices.
Try your hand at GFOA's best-selling
software products. Get your most
pressing technical questions
answered by GFOA staff. You can
do all of these things at the GFOA
Host Booth in the registration area.
I~econfet~nceRegister for one of the
~i~n one<lay seminars sched-
~ uled for Saturday, June 4,
at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis
described below. It's a perfect way
to start your conference week. Space
is limited, so register today on the
conference registration form in this
brochure.
I:mpowerlllg Your Orgsmlzation
Customer service and quality
improvement have become as
important to the public sector as
they are to the private sector. To
succeed wi'th these goals requires
the commitment of everyone within
an organization. Learn how to create
an environment in your organization
that empowers your staff to excel at
their jobs.
Navigating Risk Financing Options
This seminar will explore the most
viable risk financing options available
to state and local governments. The
workshop will examine the financial
trade-offs between self-insurance
and risk transfers. Among other
techniques, participants will learn
how to set self-insured retentions
and how much and what type of risk
transfer coverage to purchase.
· Meaningful Performance Bear. hmar~
and Measures
This seminar will feature some of the
greatest successes in performance
budgeting, measurement and bench-
marking. Participants will learn how
to develop effective performance
indicators and help line agencies
and departments set reasonable
targets. Moreover, participants will
find out how to gain meaningful
results from workable performance
measurement systems.
Ii: YOU'RE RLADY TO EXPLORE,
WE CAN GIVE YOU DIRECTIOHS
The 1994 GFOA annual conference
will offer practical, hands-on sessions
and roundtable discussions in the
seven topic areas described below.
Use the Preliminary Conference
Program, which you will receive in
February 1994, to plan your personal
conference schedule. The program
will include detailed descriptions of
all the sessions and the roundtables
that will be presented in the
Minneapolis Convention Center.
lkc00nting, Learn the latest on gov-
bliliM llml ernmental accounting
Finandal standards from GASB
IIq~rtlmi representatives and
leading practitioners.
Find out the status of service efforts
and accomplishments (SEA) report-
ing, financial reporting model and
other pending pronouncements.
Select from a menu of other sessions
and roundtables on such topics as
cost accounting, fraud prevention
and performance auditing.
Jod~lellM If you have any part in
lnd preparing your govern-
Fi~ncial ment's budget or financial
lq~ni~l forecasts, you will benefit
from a large selection of
budget-related sessions on such topics
as target-based budgeting, long-range
forecasting, cost analysis and capi-
tal facility planning. Sessions and
roundtables will offer insights into
the latest techniques and strategies
for planning and evaluating revenue
sources, as well as operating and
capital costs.
{~pital How long will the market
Financing favor municipal borrowers?
~ Debt Can we expect further
Mmini~ali0a changes in arbitrage
~ rebate regulations?
Learn the answers to these and other
questions at sessions and rotmdtables
teaturing municipal bond industry
experts and regulators, in addition,
discover the latest innovations in
capital financing, and the planning
and issuance of debt.
~sh A myriad of treasury
lia~is~mtt functions will be featured
Md throughout the conference
Invmm~t program. Experts and
leading practitioners will
explore new developments In billing
and collection techniques, cash control
and cashflow forecasting, and Invest-
ment strategies for short-term and
pension portfolios.
Cmlmtm The cost of computer
Ami hardware and software
Iedmloff continues to drop. What
r effect will this develop-
ment have on governments, and, in
particular, government finance opera-
tions? These and other questions will
be investigated at sessions covering
such topics as networking, image
processing, computer forecasting
and financial system software.
14aMq~m~t 'The management and
leadership challenges
Inm~iommmml facing government
finance managers are
greater than ever.
You'll be able to sharpen your skills
with pracUcal, hands-on sessions.
This track also will feature sessions
on federal initiatives affecting state
and local government finances.
Nnsion~ Learn about the emerging
Md issues in the administra.
lendlts tion and financing of
employment and post-
employment benefits, including retire-
ment, health care and family leave
benefits. Among the many sessions to
be showcased will be one on the admin-
tstration's health care proposal and its
'implications for state and local
governments.
Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday
Registration 10 am - 5 pm 9 am - 5 pm 8 am - 5 pm 8 am - noon
Exhibits Open 9:30 am-5 pm 9:30 am' 1:30 Pm& 8 am- noon
3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
General Opening General General Session
Session 9 am - 10:15 am
S~doB 8'~0 am - lOftS am
LlmcheoB Networking Lunch Annual Business
Luncheon
12:15 pm - 1:30 pm 12:15 pm - 1:45 pm
Concurrent I pm - 2:30 pm 10:30 am - noon 10:30 am - noon 8:30 am - 10 am
Se~ons ~nd 2:45 pm-4 pm (RT) 1:45 pm- 3:15 pm 2 pm-3:30 pm 10:IS am- 11:45 am
Roundtables 3:30 pm - 5 pm 3:45 pm - 5 pm (RT)
Specbll Ev~llts Preconference Welcome Reception The Mega Event
Seminars 6 pm - 8 pm 6 pm - 1 am
9am-Spm
R[GISTRATIOH fORM
GrOA 88th Annual Conference o #inneapolis, Ninnesota
JUN[ 5- 8,199z,
[] Indicate if you are fa.YAng this form. FaY accepted only wilh
credit card paymenl. Do nol mail original.
[] indicate if you are substituting for a GFOA member.
[] indicate if registering as a student and attach a copy of your
student ID.
GFOA membership ID ~
First Name MI Last Name
Tltle./P~HIo~
IIIllllllllllllllll
Organization/Company
Street Address
II111111111111[--[-1
State
I~'o~e Country
Illlllllll
Telephone
F~x
Print name(s) of guest(s) and/or chlld(ren). Please attach additional
names If more than four.
Gue~(a)
Irlrll Name Last Name
First Name Lust Name
ChUd (ren)
First Name L~t Name
Check the seminar of your choice:
bber Nonmember ~udent
[] Empowering Your
Organization $220 S270 $75
[] Navigating Risk Financing
Options $220 $270 $75
[] Meaningtul Pertormance
Benchmarks and
Measures $220 $270 $75
Active member
Associate member
Nonmember public sector
Nonmember privateseetor
Student (lull-time only)
F, m4~ Advance Fuji
S250 S280 S295
~0 315 355
325 350 390
430 455 495
Member type (check one): [] Active [] Additional Active
[] Associate [] Associ,te Sustaining [] £du¢,tio.al
[] Federal Government unit (check one): [] City/County
[] Special District [] State/Province [] Retirement System
Enter fee amounts:
Preconference seminar: $
Conference reslstration:
New member tee:
Total lees:
All fees are payable in U.S. funds.
METHOD OF PAYMENT
Please check one: [] Payment enclosed [] Bill me
[] Charge to: [] MasterCard [] VISA [] American Express
Card No. Mo. Yr.
Cardholder's Signature
Print cardholder's full name
CANCF. IJATION AND REFUND POLICY
Conference cancellations, resistration changes and refund requests
must be made in writing to GFOA.
· April 8, 1994: Cancellations postmarked by this date will be
retunded less a 25 percent service fee.
· April 9 - May 13, 1994: CaflceUations postmarked between these
dates will be refunded less a 50 percent service fee.
· May 14, 1994: No refunds will be issued after this date.
Please also complete the other aide of this form and return to:
Government Finance Officers Association
180 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 800
Chicago, IL 60601-7476
Tel: 312-977-9700 FAX: 312-977-4806
Check one of the iollowing:
[] Please make the following reservation.
[] I will NOT require hotel accommodations.
Indicate your first, second, third, fourth and fifth hotel choices with
the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Also, circle the room type you desire.
See map Ior hotel locations.
If all of your choices are sold out, you will ~e assigned to the next
available hotel.
Hotel cancellations and c~ must be submitted In wrtUn~ to GFOA.
Hotel requests received AFTER April 15, 1994, will be confirmed on a
space available basis.
Choice
Hotel Single Double
Best Western Regency Plaza $ 56 $ 62
Crown Sterling Suites 109 109
Hotel Luxeford Suites 94 '94
Hotel Normandy 62 62
Hyatt Regency Minneapolis 117 127
The Marquette Hotel 111 121
Minneapolis Hilton 119 139
Minneapolis Marriott 105 117
City Center
Northstar Hotel 88 98
Park inn International 87 97
Radisson Plaza 105 105
Hotel Minneapolis
Check one: King Bed [] OR 2 Double Beds []
Arrival Day/Date Time
Departure Day/Date Time
SPECIAL NOTES
Room Pates
Room rates do not include 12% state and local taxes.
Shuttle Bux
A $2 service charge has been added to all hotel room rates for
shuttle bus service. Shuttle bus service will be available during
conference hours to all hotels except the Minneapolis Hilton, Hyatt
Re~ency Minneapolis and Park inn International.
Hoepitellty Suites (check one)
Call GFOA for rates and availability
[] Parlor · one-bedroom [] Parlor · two-bedrooms
~ Need~
Please indicate below any special needs (i.e., handicapped accommo-
dations)
Dmpomlts
All conference hotels require one night's deposit to reserve your
room on the date of your arrival. You may Indicate your credit card
number on this form, or send a check in U.S. dollars directly to the
hotel upon receipt of your confirmation form the hotel. Please read
your hotel confirmation carefully for further details.
METHOD OF DEPOSIT:
[] Visa [] MasterCard [] merican Express
~Exp. Datel I I I I
Card No. Mo. Yr.
Cardholder's signature.
Print cardholder's name
CONFERENCE HOTELS
Beet We~em Re~eney Piaxa
S blocks from the convention center
Moderately priced, Iow-rise downtown hotel. Free parking, indoor
pool and whirlpool. Express bus to Mall of America.
5 blocks from the convention center, connected by skyway
Afl suite, high-rise hotel offering complimentary breakfast and
evening cocktails. Each suite includes a living room with a sleeper
sofa, microwave, refrigerator and a coffee maker. A separate bed-
room with king bed or two double beds is connected to the living
loom.
3 blocks from the convention center
All suite, high-rise hotel. Each suite is comprised of a living room
and kitchenette with a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker and
wet bar. A separate bedroom with a king bed or two double beds
is connected to the living room. The hotel also leatures a lull-ser-
vice restaurant and room servtee from 6:30 a.m. - midnight.
Hotel Nonl~e~dy
5 blocks from the convention center
Hl~ hotel in the heart ol downtown featurin~ an indoor pool,
Hy~U Reeemcy MUmeapolte
! block bom the convention center connected by skyway
Ultr&-modern hi&~,tse hotel with indoor pool, athletic club, ~auna,
whirlpool and steam room, full-court ~tmnaslum, racquetball,
squash and indoor tennis courts. Regency Club and non~moking
rooms available. Full. ses~ce restaurants, lounges and room service
lmm '6:30 a.m.- 2 a.m.
The Marquette Hotel
6 blocks bom the convention center
Deluxe high-rise hotel in the downtown business district within
easy walking distance of the convenUon center and shopping
area. The hotel features Include oversized guest rooms, restau-
rant and lounge, and indoor parking. Health club facilities are
located nearby.
]~ln~p~pOlie Hilton
1 block from the convention center, connected by skyway
Traditional red brick and limestone high-rise hotel teaturing a
full-service health spa with indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna and
exercise equipment. Also featuring two fuli-servcie restaurants,
lobby bar and room service from 6 a.m. - 1 a.m.
7 blocks bom the convention center
Modern high-rise hotel with skylit atrium resting on top of the
City Center shopping mall. Fully equipped health club featuring
exercise equipment, sauna and steam rooms, two full-service
restaurants, lounge, and room servtee from 6 a.m. - midnight.
6 blocks from the convention center
High-rise hotel in the heart of the business district featuring full-
service restaurant, ~ and mom servtce from 6:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Health dub facfllUes located nearby.
I block bom the convention center, connected by skyway
Newly renovated high-rise hotel featuring an indoor pool, sauna,
whirlpool, exercise facility, full-service restaurant and bar.
~ Plai~gi Mlnne&pOlle
9 blocks from the convention center
High-rise hotel leaturing a full-service health club with whirlpool.
and sauna. The hotel also features two restaurants and lounges
and room service from 6 a.m. to midnight.~
PLAN YOUR JOURH[Y
~ Best Western Regency Plaza B. Crown Sterling Suites
C. Hotel Luxeford Suites
D. Hotel Normandy
E. Hyatt Regency Minneapolis
F. The Marquette Hotel
G. Minneapolis Hilton
H. Minneapolis Marriott City Center
I. Northstar Hotel
J. Park Inn International
K. Radisson Plaza Hotel Minneapolis
liow To Begin by filling out the
fOrTh in this brochure.
Be sure to register by
January 28, 1994, to take advantage
of the lowest discount fees.
Guest registrations - Guests and
children of delegates must be regis-
tered to attend the GFOA Welcome
Reception. There is no registration fee.
Member substitutions - If your orga-
nization has a current staff member
who is a GFOA member, a nonmember
may attend in his/her place at the
lower member rate. Please include
the membership number or name of
the GFOA member on the form.
Nonmembem - If you join GFOA
when you register for cotfference,
not only will you save money on
conference registration but you will
save money by paying 1993 member
dues. Call 312/977-9700 to determine
the proper membership category
and dues.
By I~i1: GFOA
180 N. Michigan Avenue,
Suite 800
Chicago, IL 60601-7476
By[ax: 312/977-4806.
Credit card registrations
only. To avoid duplicate
registrations, please do not mail
original form.
Your registration confirmation will be
mailed to you within a few weeks of
your registration. Badges and program
materials will be distributed on site
during registration hours.
ilowTo GFOA has secured special
fadll~e fares for conference dele-
~. gates and guests with
Northwest Airlines and United Airlines.
To obtain discount fares, tickets must
be purchased through GFOA's travel
agent, Ticket To Ride Travel. Call toll
free 800/848-8882 between 8:30 a.m.
and 5 p.m., CST, for airfare and car
rental reservations.
Next, send your registration and
payment to GFOA. Phone registra-
tions cannot be accepted.
While At Conference -
The ~nd of !0,000 Lakes
While you are at conference, take
some time to explore Minneapolis,
built on the mighty Mississippi River.
Explore the city's art, shopping,
restaurants, its sports and its people.
There is a lot to do in Minneapolis,
both Indoors and outdoors.
The Minneapolis Local Conference
Committee has coordinated an active
array of trips and sports activities for
delegates and guests. A 5K fun run/
walk, tennis tournament and golf tour-
nament are scheduled for Sunday,
June 5, before the conference program
gets underway. Tours begin on
Saturday, June 4, and continue
throughout the conference for guests
and include, among others, a Lake
Brunch Cruise, a ballgame, river
canoeing, trips to Mystic Lake Casino
and the Zoo.
The committee also has planned pre-
and post-conference tours, including
trips to Minnesota Lake Superior
North Shore, as well as Amish com-
munities in southern Minnesota and
Wisconsin.
A brochure with a complete listing
of all sporting events and tours,
Including the Tuesday night event at
the largest entertainment mall in the
United States, will be sent to you
upon receipt of your completed
registration form.
lmporla~t Action Dates
l/28/94 - First discount deadline
- register early and save
money.
3/31/94 - Second and final discount
deadline.
4/!/94 -Fuliregistrationfeerequlred~
4/15/94 - Deadline date for hotel
reservations.
CITY COUNCIL I~TI~R
Meeting of: 1~A~94
AGENDA SECTION: NEW BUSINESS ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT: CITY MANAGER
NO. 9 PUBLIC WORKS ~._,,~ ~ ~-,~
ITEM: AUTHORIZATION TO SEEK BIDS FOR BY: M. Winson ~)Jr) BY: ~
NO. 1994 STREET AND PARKING LANE STRIPING DATE: 1/18/94 DATE:'~-'q~'~
Staff is requesting authorization to seek bids for the 1994 Street and Parking Lane Striping. Approximalely 20% of Ibc project ($750.00)
is budgeted for in General Fund 101431704000. The remaining 80% ($3,400.00) is budgeted for in the Municipal State Aid Maintenance
Fund (212431904000).
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to authorize staff to seek bids for the 1994 Street and Parking Lane Striping contract.
MAW:jb
944)37
COUNCIL ACTION:
CITY COUNCIL LETrER
Meeting of: 1/'24~94
AGENDA SECTION: NEW BUSINESS ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT: CITY MANAGER
NO. 9 PUBLIC WORKS
ITEM: AUTHORIZATION TO SEEK BIDS BY= M. Winson ~[~ BYTE:~ ~
NO. FOR CATCH BASIN MANHOLE DATE: 1/15~ DA
I~_.PLACEMENT ~. ~.
Four storm sewer catch basin manholes between the railroad tracks and the west side of the Miske property (NW comer of 37th Ave. and
5th St.) need to be replaced. The RC storm sewer pipe is in good condition.
Slaff requests authorization to seek bids to replace four catch basin/manholes this spring, prior to thc owner paving on the site. The
estimated cost for the work is $6,000.00. The project costs will come from Fund 602-49450-4000.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to authorize sUdf to seek bids for the replacement of four catch basin manholes located west of 455
3?th Ave.
MAWOb
94..0'23
COUNCIL ACTION:
CITY COUNCIL LETFER
Meeting of: 1/24/94
AGENDA SECTION: NEW BUSINESS ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT: CITY MANAGER
NO. 9 PUBLIC WORKS
ITEM: F, STABLISHDATEFORPUBLIC BY: M. Winson ~[~) BY: ....~~
DATE: 1/18/94 DATE
NO. IMPROVEMENT HEARING q.~
Thc City Council needs to establish a date for thc Public Improvement Hearing to consider thc LaBclIe Park East Bank Erosion Control
Project which will be partially funded by special assessments to benefitting properties. The proposed project affects the properties from
120'/to 133'/Circle Terrace, inclusive.
At this time, the City Manager is recommending that the Public Improvement Hearing be held on February 28, 1994 at '/:00 P.M. in the
City Council Chambers.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to establish a Public Improvement Hearing for February 28, 1994 at 7:00 P.M. in the City Council
Chamben.
MAW:jb
94-014
COUNCIL ACTION:
CITY COUNCIL LETTER
Meetin§ of : January 2%, 199%
AGENDA SECTION: NEW BUSINESS ORIGINATING DEPT.: CITY MANAGER
NO: 9 CITY MANAGER' S APPROVAL
ITEM: SET DATE FOR BOARD OF REVIEW BY: PATRICK HENTGES
NO: ~, ~, DATE: 1-19-94
Anoka County has requested that we select the date for the required
annual Board of Review after April 11, 1994. The date tentatively set is
April 18, 1994, at 7:00 p.m.
Staff recommends the Council adopt the followin8 motion.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to set the date for the Local Board of
Review meeting for April 18, 1994, at 7:00 pm
which will be held in the Council Chambers.
COUNCIL ACTION:
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
T~. MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
FROM:
PAT HF~NTGES, CITY MANAGER
SUBJECT:
MANAGER'S RF. PORT
DA'IH; .IANUARY 21, 1994
1) ~HAl~ RIDE RECAP--
See attached Shared Ride Expansion and Origination-Destination reports for January 1, 1993 through
December 31, 1993, for the Shared Ride Program. If you have any questions, call Linda Magee at 782-2812.
2) soLm WASTE REPORT--
See attached Solid Waste Report for December, 1993.
3) CITY A'I'IX)RNL:rYP--I~IGNATION--
Be advised that I have received the notice of resignation from the City Attorney, Oreg Woods, effective
March 31, 1994. We are currently contemplating the impact and alternatives associated with the resignation.
I will file a report on replacement alternatives.
4) HILLTOP/NWCC SEWER DISPUTE--
All the parties involved in the lawsuit are at a crossroads as we are getting close to the litigation phase of
the dispute. I request that executive session be convened after the January 24, 1994, council meeting. The
purpose of the session will be review a proposed Hilltop settlement.
5) RANDYTJF~MANNCAB LICENSE--
Enclosed please find correspondence to Randy Ziemann regarding his cab license. The Police Department
will be providing a monthly update on Ziemann in the operational report.
6) - CHARTER COMMISSION REPORT- -
Be advised the Charter Commission met Thursday, January 20. Based on the new information regarding
the ordinance for initiative, referendum, and recall, the Charter Commission will be further studying the
matter and proposing possible change to the proposal. According to the League of Minnesota Cities' legal
opinion, referendums in home rule charter cities are confined solely to ordinances as opposed to other
actions by City Council.
The Charter Commission is also investigating a possible change to the process used by the city for the
issuance of debt. Currently the process requires issuance of debt by ordinance and allows for a 30 day
petitioning for a referendum. After the petitioning period, the charter requires an additional one weeks'
published notice be given prior to the bonds being sold. This essentially defeats the advantages of a
negotiated sale whereby City, its financial advisor, and negotiated broker, schedule a time for the sale so as
to receive the best possible rate. Moreover, City does not have the advantage of deferring the sale with the
cumbersome notice requirements. The new proposal will allow a sale after the effective date of the
ordinance upon 72 hour notice and enable actual sale date to be rescheduled. The proposal does require that
the sale occur during the 60 day window after the effective date of the ordinance. The 60 day time frame
is being further investigated as to adequacy.
7) $OINT CABI-R COMMISSION/CITY COUNCIL MEETING- -
Be advised that the cable commission requests a joint meeting with the City Council to be conducted on
February 17th at 7:30 P.M. (This is the regularly scheduled cable commission meeting.) The purpose of
the meeting is to discuss and review the analysis of the cable rates in advance of the final public hearing
on the matter. Please mark your calendars for this very important meeting.
8) SOUTH ANOKACOUNTY COMMUNITY UPDATE- -
Be advised that the Joint Youth Worker Grant submitted by the SACC members was rejected for funding.
There still exists a grant pending for a work/training program for at-risk youth who have recently dropped
out of high school.
The other project that SACC is working on involves the community-wide effort to develop a community-
wide vision for our communities presented in a format of value statements. This type of community-wide
effort was very successful in Edina and Chaska. It is possible that a very renown sociologist could work
with communities in the development of such program. The funding for the program would come from
some of the monies allocated by Anoka County, social service foundations, and corporate donations. The
sociologist who will be called on assist in this effort has been very successful in identifying at the at-risk
factors in the community that affect our youth and citizenry, and identifying values that must be in place
sustain quality of life. If this effort is to go forward, participation by the City' would involve the
recognition of the process, participation in focus groups, and perhaps the eventual recognition of an adopted
set of values for the community.
9) SI-~J~F~Lr~ HEARING--
Arrangements have been made to cable cast the Sheffield hearing scheduled for January 31, 7 P.M. at
Murzyn Hall. Advanced information will be distributed to the City Council this coming week. City staff
will present at the hearing various re-development ideas or alternatives for the neighborhood. I have met
with a number of developers that have come forward to express interest in the community. Councilmember
Nawrocki and myself have met with officials from the City of St. Paul and Miller & Schroder and identified
a list of perspective residential-type redevelopment companies. I have had contact with most of the
companies on the list and are forwarding packets of information concerning the redevelopment problems
in the neighborhood. It is hoped that we get back some feedback from the firms and ideas concerning
feasible projects for Sheffield.
10) COUNCILMEMBERNAWROCKIBUDGET INQUIRIES--
At the last meeting, Councilmember Nawrocki inquired as to the posting of the library tax levy at the 100%
level as opposed to allocating a fair share for delinquency obligation to fund. An adjustment to the fund
has been made to account for the delinquency.
Additionally, concern as to the profit level of the liquor fund was identified. Unlike the past, I fully intend
to review during the month of February the fund balance status and retained earnings of each fund of the
city. The Finance Department is preparing the information for review of the City Council. Essentially, this
process is needed to determine the adequacy of rates and revenues structures within each fund, along with
keeping the City Council informed as to the fund balance status of each fund.
PH/cb
94/3
Attachments
ORDINANCE NO.
BEING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 7, SECTION 72
OF THE CHARTER OF THE CITY OF COLU~B. IA HEIGHTS
PERTAINING TO THE BONDED DEBT AND DEBT LIMIT
The City of Columbia Heights does ordain:
Section 1: Chapter 7, Section 72, of the Charter of the City of
Columbia Heights which currently reads as follows, to wit:
Section 72. BONDED DEBT AND DEBT LIMIT. Bonds may be issued by
four-fifths vote of the council without the previous approval of
the voters of the said city, but subject to the referendum powers
of the people, for the purchase of. real estate; for new
construction; for new equipment; for all improvements of a lasting
character; for the purchase or construction of public waterworks or
for the enlargement of the s~e and for the protection and
distribution of the water supply, for the establishment of public
acquisition and
lighting, heating, or power plants, and for their
equipment by purchase or otherwise; for the acquisition or
construction of street railways, telegraph or telephone lines, or
any other public convenience ~rom which a revenue is or may be
derived; for the creation or maintenance of a permanent improvement
fund; for the purchase or erection of needful public buildings;
establishing and ~aintaining garbage crematories, or other means of
garbage disposal, for the establishment and maintenance of
hospitals,, schools, libraries, museums, art galleries ana
cemeteries, for the construction of sewers, subways, streets,
sidewalks, pavements, culverts, and parks and parkways and play
grounds; for changing, controlling or bridging streams and other
waterways within the corporate limits and constructing and
repairing roads and bridges within two miles of the corporate
limits thereof; for the purpose of refunding outstanding bonds; for
the purpose of funding floating indebtedness; and for all purposes
which may be authorized by the laws of the State of Minnesota; the
right of the city to issue bonds under the authority of any law
heretofore and this section of the city's charter shall not be
construed to limit the passed and adopted by the State of
Minnesota, but no bonds shall ever be issued to pay current
expenses or to refund emergency debt certificates. The total
bonded indebtedness of the city shall never exceed ten percent of
the last assessed valuation of the taxable property therein,
including monies and credits, but in computing the total bonded
indebtedness, emergency debt certificates and certificates of
indebtedness shall not be included in or counted as part of such
bonded indebtedness, if [1] held in a sinking fund maintained by
the city, [2] issued for the acquisition of equipment; purchase,
construction, maintenance, extension, enlargements or improvement
of street railways, telegraph or telephone lines, water, lighting,
heating and power plants, or either of them, or any other public
convenience, from which revenue is or may be derived, owned and
operated by the city, or the acquisition of property needed in
connection therewith; or for the construction of sewers, public
drainage ditches, or the acquisition of lands, or for improvements
of streets, parks, or other public improvements, to the extent that
they are payable from the proceeds of assessments levied upon
property specially benefitted by such ditches or improvements, or
[3] for the purpose of anticipating the collection of general taxes
for the year in which issued. In no case shall bonds be issued to
run for more than thirty years. The purpose for which bonds are
issued shall be set forth in the ordinance authorizing them and the
proceeds from such bonds shall not be diverted to any other
purpose.
Before any bonds are sold, at least one week's published
notice shall be given of a meeting of the city council to open and
consider bids therefore. The time and place of said meeting shall
be fixed and the newspaper in which the notice shall be published
shall be designated by a resolution duly passed, which may provide
for additional notice. At the time and place so fixed, the bids
shall be opened and the offer complying with the terms of. such sale
and deemed most favorable shall be accepted; PROVIDED, that the
council may reject any and all such offers and award said bonds to
a more favorable bidder or upon like notice, it may invite other
bids. Bids may be asked on the basis of a rate of interest
specified in the proposals and on the net interest basis on which
the bidder will pay par for the same.
is herewith amended to read,
Section 72. BONDED DEBT AND DEBT LIMIT. Bonds may be issued by
four-fifths vote of the council without the previous approval of
the voters of the said city, but subject to the referendum powers
of the people, for the purchase of real estate; for new
construction; for new equipment; for all improvements of a lasting
character; for th~ purchase or construction of public waterworks or
for the enlargement of the same and for the protection and
distribution of the water supply; for the establishment of public
lighting, heating, or power plants, and for their acquisition and
equipment by purchase or otherwise; for the acquisition or
construction of street railways, telegraph or telephone lines, or
any other public convenience from which a revenue is or may be
derived; for the creation or maintenance of a permanent improvement
fund; forthe purchase or erection of needful public buildings; for
establishing and maintaining garbage crematories, or other means of
garbage disposal; for the establishment and maintenance of a
hospitals, schools, libraries, museums, art galleries and
cemeteries; for the construction of sewers, subways, streets,
sidewalks, pavements, culverts, and parks and parkways and play
grounds; for changing, controlling or bridging streams and other
waterways within the corporate limits and constructing and
repairing roads and bridges within two miles of the corporate
limits thereof; forthe purpose of refunding outstanding bonds; for
the purpose of funding floating indebtedness; and for all purposes
which may be authorized by the laws of the State of Minnesota; the
right of the city to issue bonds under the authority of any law
heretofore and this section of the city's charter shall not be
construed to limit the passed and adopted by the State of
Minnesota, but no bonds shall ever be issued to pay current
expenses or to refund emergency debt certificates. The total
bonded indebtedness of the city shall never exceed ten percent of
the last assessed valuation of the taxable property therein,
including monies and credits, but in computing the total bonded
indebtedness, emergency debt certificates and certificates of
indebtedness shall not be included in or counted as part of such
bonded indebtedness, if [1] held in a sinking fund maintained by
the city, [2] issued for the acquisition of equipment; purchase,
construction, maintenance, extension, enlargements or improvement
of street railways, telegraph or telephone lines, water, lighting,
heating and power plants, or either of them, or any other public
convenience, from which revenue is or may be derived, owned and
operated by the city, or the acquisition of property needed in
connection therewith~ or for the construction of sewers, public
drainage ditches, or the acquisition of lands, or for improvements
of streets, parks, or other public improvements, to the extent that
they are payable from the proceeds of assessments levied upon
property specially benefitted by such ditches or improvements, or
[3] for the purpose of anticipating the collection of general taxes
for the year in which issued. In no case shall bonds be issued to
run for more than thirty years. The purpose for which bonds are
issued shall be set forth in the =rdinanuc resolution authorizing
them and the proceeds from such bonds shall not be diverted to any
other purpose.
bid .
4-~- ~'-1-1 .... : ~ ~ ....... ~-- 4-= ..... Before anv bonds are sold.
there shall be a fOur-fifths vote of the council authorizin~ the
issuance of the bonds by resolution. Followin~ its Dassaae. the
resolution shall be published at least once by publication in a
leqa~ newspaper havin~ ~eneral circulation in the city. The
registered voters of the city shall have thirty days from the date
of. uublication to initiate a referendu~ on the resolution
authorizin~ the issuance. Subsequent to the passage of the
~uthorizin~ resolution, its publication, and the thirty-day period.
the bond sale shall occur within sixty davs. Durin~ said sixty day
p~riod, the Citv Manager shall have the authority to establish a
spec~a~ meetin~ ~pon $~ least seventv-two ~72} hours a~vanc~ notice
to each member of the council. At that special meeting, the City
Manager is authorized to receive the actual bid~s~ or sale of the
$onds to be negotiated. The actual award or sale of the bonds
shall be aDDroved bY a resolution passed bY a four-fifths vote of
the council.
Section
Chapter 7, Section 72b, of the Charter of the City
of Columbia Heights which currently reads as
follows, to wit:
Section 72b. BONDED DEBT AND DEBT LIMIT. No bond shall ever
be issued to pay current expenses or to refund certificates of
indebtedness issued to provide for temporary deficiencies in the
revenues to cover current expenses, but bonds may be issued by a
four-fifths vote of the council, subject to the referendum powers
of the people, for the purchase of real estate, for new equipment,
and for all improvements of a lasting character. The total bonded
debt of the city shall never exceed ten percent of the assessed
valuation of all the taxable property in the city, but in computing
the total bonded debt, emergency debt certificates, and bonds
issued prior to the adoption of the charter and either held in a
sinking fund or issued for the purchase, construction, maintenance,
extension, enlargement, or improvement or water, heating plants or
either, or any other public convenience from which a revenue is or
may be derived, owned and operated by such city or village, or the
acquisition of property needed in connection therewith, or for the
improvement of streets, parks or other public improvements, to the
extent that they are payable from the proceeds of assessments
levied upon property especially benefitted thereby, and obligations
issued for the improvements which are payable, wholly or partly,
from the collections of special assessments levied on property
benefitted thereby, or for the creation or maintenance of a
permanent improvement revolving fund shall not count as part of
such total bonded debt. In no case will bonds be issued to run for
more than thirty years. The purpose for which bonds are issued
shall be set forth in the ordinance authorizing them and the
proceeds from such bonds shall not be diverted to any other
purposes.
is herewith amended to read,
Section 72b. BONDED DEBT AND DEBT LIMIT. No bond shall ever
be issued to pay current expenses or to refund certificates of
indebtedness issued to provide for temporary deficiencies in the
revenues to cover current expenses, but bonds may be issued by a
four-fifths vote of the council, subject to the referendum powers
of the people, for the purchase of real estate, for new equipment,
and for all improvements of a lasting character. The total bonded
debt of the city shall never exceed ten percent of the assessed
valuation of all the taxable property in the city, but in computing
the total bonded debt, emergency debt certificates, and bonds
issued prior to the adoption of the charter and either held in a
sinking fund or issued for the purchase, construction, maintenance,
extension, enlargement, or improvement or water, heating plants or
either, or any other public convenience from which a revenue is or
may be derived, owned and operated by such city or village, or the
acquisition of property needed in connection therewith, or for the
improvement of streets, parks or other public improvements, to the
extent that they are payable from the proceeds of assessments
levied upon property especially benefitted thereby, and obligations
issued for the improvements which are payable, wholly or partly,
from the collections of special assessments levied on property
benefitted thereby, or for the creation or maintenance of a
permanent improvement revolving fund shall not count as part of
such total bonded debt. In no case will bonds be issued to run for
more than thirty years. The purpose for which bonds are issued
shall be set forth in the e~Li~e~authorizing them and
the proceeds from such bonds shall not be diverted to any other
purposes.
Section 3: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect
from and after ninety (90) days after its passage.
First Reading:
Second Reading:
Date of Passage:
Offered By:
Seconded By:
Roll Call:
Donald J. Murzyn Jr., Mayor
Jo-Anne Student, Council Secretary
NOTICE OF OFFICIAL MEETING
Notice is hereby given that an official meeting
is to be held in the
City of Columbia Heights
as follows:
Meeting of:
MAYOR, CITY COUNCIL, CITY MANAGER
D~eofMeetin~ TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 1994
Time of Meeting:.
Location of Meeting:.
IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING RECREATION APPRECIATION MEETING
(APPROXIMATELY 9:00 P.M.)
CITY HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
Purpose of Meeting:
WORK SESSION
1. City Attorney Options
2. Newsletter Publication
3. Refuse Rate Adjustment
(If not covered at January 24,
1994, work session.)
The City of Columbia Heights does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission
or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request,
accommodation will be provided to allow individuals with disabilities to participate in all City
of Columbia Heights' services, programs, and activities. Auxiliary aids for handicapped
persons are available upon request when the request is made at least 96 hours in advance.
Please call the City Council Secretary at ?82-2800, Extension 209, to make arrangements.
(TDD/782-2806 for deaf only)
~ITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT: SOLID WASTE REPORT -
PATRICK HENTGES, CITY MANAGER
VALORIE GIFFORD, SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR
JANUARY 18, 1994
DECEMBER 1993
1)
Tonnage~ for December 1993
(parentheses indicate figures for 1992)
Curbside Multi-Unit and Recycling Center Tonnage
133.57
Curbside ...................................
Multi-Units ..................................... 5.48
Other commingled accounts (LaBelles) ................ 1.56
Recycling Center:
Scrap Iron ....................................... 0
Corrugated ..................................... 1.99
6.03
Other .....................................
Yard Waste
0
Curbside .......................................
Other Materials Abated
Appliances ................................. 67 units
4.08
Oil .....................................
City Hall Commingled Recyclables ...................... 98
Tires ..................................... 2.16
Mixed Municipal Solid Waste Collected
443.14
Curbside ...................................
Multi-Unit ................................... 110.87
Municipal Service Garage ........................... 5.24
Participation Rate
Recycling Program Per above Statistics ................ 54.7%
tons
tons
tons
tons
tons
tons
tons
4.52 tons
tons
tons
tons
tons
tons
tons
019.91)
(7.57)
(2.56)
(2.60)
(1.05)
(4.0)
( o)
(12.50)
(46a32)
(12a25)
(9.59)
Solid Waste Report
Page 2
2) Anoka County Board Meeting of January 11, 1994
The Commissioners considered and passed Ordinance #94-1, Anoka County Solid Waste Management
Charge. The Board also authorized the Chair of the Board to enter into waste delivery contracts with
interested Anoka County waste haulers to bring wastes to the Elk River RDF facility.
During the discussion which preceded the vote, and during committee discussions, the following points
were made:
Ao
The county plans a detailed study of the commercial Solid Waste Management charge to determine
its equity, both among the commercial categories and as compared to the residential allocation.
This is to be followed by an equally detailed study of the residential charge--the equity of its
allocation and its internal categories. The current charge is an interim amount put in place swiftly
in order to assure short run fiscal solvency.
Bo
The Solid Waste Management charge is not related to the decrease in waste going to Elk River due
to recycling, but it is a direct result of the Martin/Faribault court decision which overturned
interstate Solid Waste designation. Although designation within Minnesota is still enforced,
haulers are now free to take wastes out of state to lower cost landfills.
Co
Loss of wastes delivered to Elk River would increase costs to county residents far beyond the Solid
Waste charge. Commissioner McCarron noted that were the facility not to receive minimum
wastes contracted for, residents would have to pay the debt service, penalties, and other costs
totaling $52.50 per year on a $60,000 house, $63 per year on a $72,000 house and $155.75 on a
$100,000 house- -for the 16 year life of the contract with NSP. This would be on top of whatever
waste management costs would exist.
Do
The Commissioners recognized that the fee is not completely equitable and that adjustments in
future may be able to consider varying the fee according to volume of waste. This is not
guaranteed, however.
The purpose of the Solid Waste Management fee must be clearly and effectively explained to those
who will pay it. A group of waste haulers and County staff will draw up a proposed public
education campaign.
As a point of information, it should be kept in mind that recycling does not cost less than waste removal.
Whereas the latter requires one pick up and a delivery, recycling requires the original pick up, sorting, and
delivery to end markets, making it more expensive. No recycling program can be expected to pay its way or
to decrease overall refuse program costs, even when waste reduction is factored in.
Finally, the Solid Waste Management charge continues to meet the state mandate to make the costs of waste
visible to the generator.
2. Anoka County Solid Waste Task Force
Anoka County staff person Sue Doll organized a county wide collection of fluorescent lamps for
municipalities. Columbia Heights disposed of 705 for approximately $179. Transportation costs were
divided among the county and participating municipalities, and have not been figured yet.
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
590 40th Avenue N. E.
Columbia Heights, MN 55421-3878
(612) 782-2800
January 11, 1994
Mayor
Donald J. Murzyn, Jr.
Councilmembers
Scan T. Clerkin
Bruce G. Nawr°Cki
Gary L. Peterson
Robert W. Ruettimann
City Manager
Patrick Hentges
Randy Eric Ziemann
6531Cahnnel Road, #2
Fridley, Hn. 55432
Dear Hr. Ziemann:
Your appeal of the denial for a 1994 license to drive a taxicab
within Columbia Heights was heard by the City Councll at their
meeting of January 10,1994. They agreed to issue a provlsional
license for a period of six months with review by the Police
Department on a monthly basis. If any vlolations occur, your
license will be revoked immediately.
Enclosed you will find that six month provisional license to drive
a taxicab in Columbia Heights. Please be aware that this license
expires on July 10, 1994. If your record remains unblemished
through the expiration date, you may renew your license for the
remainder of 1994 if you plan on continuing to drive a taxicab.
If you have any questions, you may contact this office at
782-2817.
Slncerely,/
at ryn epln
License/Permit Clerk
kp
enc.
CC:
L. Magee, Adm. Asst.
H. Waldmann, Suburban Taxi Corp.
D. Mawhorter, Police Chief
'SERVICE IS OUR BUSINESS" EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
TO CITY COUNCIL JANUARY 24, 1994
*Signed Waiver Form Accompanied Application
APPROVED BY
BUILDING INSP.
II II
II II
II II
II II
II II
II II
II II
II II
II II
CONTRACTORS
*Airco Heating & A/C
*Crosstown Plumbing
Lindman Plumbing Co.
*R.J. Miller P & H
*Refrigeration Services
*Richfield Plumbing Co.
*Scenic Sign Corp.
*Shield Fire Protection
Suburban Air Cond.
*Wenzel Heating S Air
1994
LICENSE AGENDA
LICENSEO AT
4014 Central Avenue
16530 - 1OSth Avenue N.
6224 Noble N.
6293 Jackson Street
4110 Central Avenue
805 W. 77½ St.
828 S. 5th St.
84 Fourteenth Ave. N.E.
8419 Center Dr..
1955 Shawnee Rd.
FEES
$ 40.OO
4O.OO
4O.O0
4O.OO
4O.OO
40.OO
4O.O0
40.00
4O.OO
4O.OO
POLICE DEPT.
TAXICAB DRIVERS
*William James Ludgate
830 - 27th Avenue N.E.
20.00
TAXICAB VEHICLES
POLICE DEPT. *Yellow Taxi Service 3 vehicles within the City 75.00 eac