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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMarch 12, 2001OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MARCH 12, 2001 The regular meeting of the City Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 12, 2001 in the th City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40 Avenue NE, Columbia Heights. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL Present: Councilmember Williams, Councilmember Szurek, Councilmember Wyckoff, and Mayor Peterson Absent: Councilmember Nawrocki PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA - none CONSENT AGENDA A) MOTION: by Wyckoff, second by Szurek, Move to approve the Consent Agenda items as follows: 1) Minutes for Approval MOTION to approve the minutes of the February 26, 2001 regular City Council meeting as presented. 2) Authorize purchase of large capacity Washing Machine MOTION to award the purchase of a large capacity washing machine to Darling’s Sales and Service Company based upon their low, qualified, responsible bid in the amount of $5,764.95 with funds to be appropriated from 100-42200-5180 and with the difference of $573.95 from fire Department Fund 101-42200-2010; and furthermore, to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an agreement with Darling Sales and Service to purchase a heavy duty washing machine. Fehst stated this unit would handle the oversized fire gear. 3) Authorize purchase of T-Shirts and youth sports equipment MOTION to award the purchase of t-shirts to Athletic Outfitters based upon their low, qualified, responsible bid in the amount of $9,177.90 with funds to be appropriated from 881-45001-2170; and furthermore to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an agreement for the same. MOTION to award the purchase of youth sports equipment to Steichen’s Sports Store based upon their low, qualified, responsible bid in the amount of $8,043.55 with $5,343.28 to be appropriated from account 881-45001-2170 and $2,700.27 to be appropriated from account 101-45003-2170; and furthermore to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into an agreement for the same. Fehst indicated this bid was sent to 15 vendors, including local vendors, and these awards are based on the low bid. These items are budgeted and paid for every year. 4) Authorize Purchase of four (4) sets of aluminum bleachers for Huset Park MOTION to authorize the purchase of four (4) sets of aluminum five-tier bleachers from Earl F. Anderson, Inc. of Bloomington, Minnesota, in the amount of $11,756.92 including tax and delivery from Fund 412-45200-5180. 5) Authorize Purchase of Capital Equipment Replacement for the Melrose Bobcat #217 from the Minnesota State Purchasing Contract with John Deere Skid Steer Loader – Model 260 City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 2 of 12 MOTION to authorize purchase of one (1) John Deer Model 260 skid-steer loader, equipped with dirt bucket, snow bucket, and auger attachments from RDO Equipment Company of Burnsville, MN in the amount of $25,475, deducting $13,050 trade-in value for a purchase price of $12,425, plus sales tax, with funding appropriated from the Streets Capital Equipment Fund: 431-45200-5180. The price includes trade-in of the existing Bobcat skid-steer with bucket(s) and backhoe attachments, and delivery to Public Works Department. Fehst stated the bid price, the trade in price and the purchase price. This item was also in the budget for the last two years. 6) Authorize Purchase of Asphalt Milling/Cold Planer Attachment for MT Trackless MOTION to authorize purchase of one (1) new asphalt milling/cold planer attachment for the MT Trackless, from the State of Minnesota purchasing contract vendor, MacQueen Equipment, in the amount of $13,995.00, plus sales tax, from Fund 101-43121-5180. Fehst stated this would be paid from the equipment replacement fund. 7) Accept Feasibility Report for Central Avenue Water Services and Streetscaping - Project 9912-A and Calling for a Public Improvement Hearing MOTION to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2001-29, there being ample copies available for the public. MOTION to adopt Resolution No. 2001-29 being a Resolution accepting the report for City Project 1999-12A; Central Avenue Water Services and Streetscaping Improvements and calling for a Public Improvement Hearing on April 16, 2001. RESOLUTION NO. 2001-29 BEING A RESOLUTION RECEIVING THE REPORT FOR CITY PROJECT 1999-12A: CENTRAL AVENUE WATER SERVICES AND STREETSCAPING IMPROVEMENTS AND CALLING FOR A PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT HEARING WHEREAS , pursuant to Resolution 2001-04, adopted by the City Council on January 22, 2001, a report has been prepared by Mr. Kevin Hansen, City Engineer, with reference to the following improvements: CITY PROJECT 1999-12A: CENTRAL AVENUE WATER SERVICES AND THRD STREETSCAPING IMPROVEMENTS FROM 37 AVENUE TO 43 AVENUE th and this report was received by the Council on March 12, 2001 WHEREAS, the report provides information regarding whether the proposed project is necessary, cost effective and feasible, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA that the Council will consider the improvement of such streets in accordance with the report and the assessment of abutting property (frontage and/or parcel unit) as well as non-abutting property (frontage basis) on the closest intersecting street for all or a portion of the cost of the improvement pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429 at an estimated total cost of the improvement of $895,000. AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a Public Hearing shall be held on such proposed improvements on th the April 16, 2001 in the Council Chambers located at 590 40 Avenue N.E. at 7:00 p.m., and the City Manager shall give mailed and published notice of such hearing and improvement as required by law. City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 3 of 12 th Dated this 12 day of March, 2001. Offered by: Wyckoff Seconded by: Szurek Roll Call: All ayes _____________________________________ Mayor Gary L. Peterson ______________________________ Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk 8) Adopt Resolution No. 2001-31, being a Resolution regarding the Labor Agreement between the City of Columbia Heights and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees MOTION to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2001-31, there being ample copies available to the public. MOTION to adopt Resolution 2001-31, being a Resolution regarding the Labor Agreement between the City of Columbia Heights and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, effective January 1, 2001 – December 31, 2003. Fehst stated this is within the same parameters as the other union and municipal employees. RESOLUTION 2001-31 REGARDING LABOR AGREEMENT BETWEEN CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTSAND AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE, COUNTY, AND MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES, LOCAL NO. 495 WHEREAS, negotiations have proceeded between the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council No. 14, Local No. 495, representing clerical and technical employees of the City, and the Citys negotiating spokesperson, and said negotiations have resulted in a = mutually acceptable contract for calendar years 2001, 2002, and 2003; WHEREAS, a copy of said contract is available at the Office of the City Manager and is made a part hereof by reference; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the contract agreement, as negotiated, be and is hereby established as the salary and fringe benefit program for calendar years 2001, 2002, and 2003 for AFSCME bargaining unit employees of the City; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Manager be authorized to execute this agreement. th Passed this 12 day of March, 2001. Offered by: Wyckoff Seconded by: Szurek Roll Call: All ayes ___________________________________ Mayor Gary L. Peterson ________________________________ Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk 9) Approve a Conditional Use Permit for Ace Hardware, allowing the operation of a seasonal greenhouse to be located in the parking lot at 2261 37th Ave. NE from April 1, 2001 through July 31, 2001. City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 4 of 12 MOTIONto approve the Conditional Use Permit to allow the operation and placement of a temporary 21 X 48 foot tent for the display and sale of green and flowering plants from April 1, th 2001, through July 31, 2001, at 2261 37 Avenue NE, subject to the following condition: 1. A $500 deposit shall be submitted to the License/Permit Clerk prior to the display of the tent on the site on the lot. Fehst stated this use has been granted for at least the last five years, with no problems. 10) Approve Conditional Use Permit for Linder’s Greenhouse allowing for the operation of temporary ‘mini garden’ center and retail sales in the Central Valu Mall, 4300 Central Avenue NE, from April 15, 2001 through July 7, 2001. MOTION to approve the Conditional Use Permit to allow for the operation of a temporary greenhouse/retail sales at 4300 Central Avenue NE from April 15, 2001 through July 7, 2001, subject to the following condition: 1. A $500 deposit shall be submitted to the License/Permit Clerk prior to the installation of the structures on the site. Fehst stated this request is for a space in the parking lot in front of the Rainbow Foods store, as has been done in past years. 11) Approve Conditional Use Permit allowing for a strong beer and wine license for Tycoon’s Bar and Restaurant at 4952 Central Avenue NE for intensification of the current use. – Removed for discussion Fehst stated this request was to intensify the current use of the business. 12) Establish Hearing Date regarding License Revocation or Suspension of Rental Property at 4616 & 4622 Tyler Street MOTION to Establish a Hearing Date of March 26, 2001 for Revocation or Suspension of a License to Operate a Rental Property within the City of Columbia Heights against Syed Raza at 4616 and 4622 Tyler Street NE. 13) Approve Rental Housing License Applications MOTION to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for March 12, 2001. 14) Approve Business License Applications MOTION to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for March 12, 2001 as presented. 15) Approve Payment of Bills MOTION to pay the bills, as listed, out of the proper fund. Szurek requested Item #11 be removed for discussion. Peterson stated the purchase of the bobcat was discussed at the last Council work session. He followed up by looking at sale prices for similar machines and felt we are being offered a fair trade in price. Motion carried. Upon vote: All ayes. City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 5 of 12 #11 Conditional Use Permit allowing for a strong beer and wine license for Tycoon’s Bar and Restaurant at 4952 Central Avenue NE for intensification of the current use Szurek stated concerns regarding the building exterior, parking capacity to hold 25 vehicles, vehicles exiting into traffic from this business, the ability to accommodate 75 seated patrons, and the quality of the apartment above the establishment. Tim Johnson, City Planner, showed a parking layout plan. There would be no parking along the north side of the building, still allowing for 25 parking spaces and one handicapped space, which meet the requirements. He stated that parking along the building would protrude into the right-of- way. Johnson inspected the facility and felt it would accommodate seating for 75 patrons. The apartment is currently licensed, but he stated that the new owner does not intend to rent it out. Mr. Ron Karon, the current owner, addressed Council by stating the numerous recent improvements he has completed to the exterior, the interior, and the apartment of this facility. He estimated expenditures of $15,000 on the exterior and $35,000 on the interior of the building. Karon stated his business was an establishment for local clientele and not intended to look like a food chain facility. Williams suggested tabling this item for further review. Karon stated that would be a problem as it would affect the sale and closing on the property. Tom Ramsdell, Chairman of the Planning and Zoning Commission, spoke to the issue of parking th along the building and 50 Avenue. He suggested to angle stripe the parking lot to the west so patrons would have to pull in east bound and when pulling out they would have to go east bound on th 50 Avenue. Violations would be a Police issue. Szurek’s concern was that any parking alongside th of 50 Avenue was unsafe and she would not support this conditional use permit request. Jim Hoeft, City Attorney, stated this section is not an adequate legal parking site and would be a Police issue, however, the site does allow for the required 25 parking spaces. Peterson stated he has noticed the improvements to this property and is interested in saving the history of this town through its businesses and buildings. Williams suggested deferring to the Planning and Zoning recommendation. MOTION by Williams, second by Wyckoff, to approve the Conditional Use Permit to allow a wine license at 4952 Central Avenue NE, subject to the following conditions: 1. All required state and local codes, permits, licenses and inspections will be met and in full compliance. 2. Trash containers located on site shall be enclosed by a fence, so as to be removed from public view. 3. Twenty-five (25) parking spaces proposed will need to be striped and maintained. 4. Seventy-five (75) permanent seats will need to be maintained for On-sale wine. Motion carried, Upon roll call vote: Williams aye, Szurek nay, Wyckoff aye, Peterson aye. three ayes – one nay. PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS A. Proclamations B. Presentations C. Introduction - Dick Petkoff, 4931 Washington Avenue NE –Police and Fire Civil Service Commissioner Peterson gave the background and introduced Mr. Dick Petkoff as the newest Police and Fire Civil Service Commissioner. City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 6 of 12 Mr. Petkoff thanked the City Council for affording him this opportunity, as he has very strong feelings about the excellence of our fire and police departments. D. Recognition PUBLIC HEARINGS A. First Reading of Ordinance 1428 – being an Ordinance amending Ordinance #818 pertaining to Zoning and Development MOTION by Williams, second by Wyckoff, to waive the reading of Ordinance No. 1428, there being Motion carried ample copies available for the public. All ayes. . Mayor Peterson opened the public hearing. Fehst passed on the request from Councilmember Nawrocki that this Ordinance not have a second reading until after it was discussed at a Council work session. Fehst agreed and suggested meeting Tuesday, April 3, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. to discuss the proposed Zoning and Development Ordinance. Wyckoff questioned receiving a copy of the ordinance with any changes highlighted. Fehst felt this would be difficult and total sections were added or deleted. Johnson explained the review process conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission and he recognized the members, staff, and consulting firm that worked on this Johnson referred to the amended Zoning map and how it relates to the proposed ordinance. The Retail Zoning District has been re-titled “General Business District”. Johnson referred to changes in the standards for accessory structures setbacks from 3 feet to 5 feet. Wyckoff questioned hardship cases. Johnson stated there could not be more than 35 % structure coverage on a lot. Hardship would be considered if a variance were applied for. Individual situations were discussed. Johnson referred to the current 15-foot height restriction requirement changing to 18 feet. The current 20 foot set back when a garage door faces the alley or street would include allowing a 15 foot setback if the lot is less than 65,000 square feet. Szurek questioned the ability to park a large vehicle on this short of a driveway. Johnson stated the owner would have to be aware that this would cut down their parking ability. Johnson referred to dwelling unit size requirements, allowing for a reduction in floor area if the lot is 65,000 square feet or less. He stated there were also changes to off street parking standards, and signage. The new ordinance would allow banners but not portable signage like sandwich boards. Peterson questioned the difference between portable and temporary signage. Johnson stated that temporary signs are on the building and portable signs can be brought in and out or moved. rd Peterson agreed to send this ordinance review to a Council work session on April 3. He invited the public to attend. Fehst indicated that copies of the proposed ordinance are available at the library or city hall. Johnson briefly discussed building design standard recommendations, which are based on the Minneapolis zoning code. Wyckoff felt it would be visually more pleasing if businesses did not have their parking lot in the front of their building. Fehst stated that was also the recommendation of the Minnesota Design Team. City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 7 of 12 Johnson referred to separating uses of certain business types and how landscaping standards could be used. Williams asked if the Ordinance could be flexible to assist residents in doing various projects. Jim Hoeft, City Attorney, stated that the zoning ordinance is not just a guideline; a variance must fit specific requirements, and the document must cover the entire city. Random allowances would set a precedence. When reviewing the zoning code the overall interest of the community must be kept in mind and applied citywide. Szurek stated that it is difficult to reject a project that has merit and cannot prove a hardship (which is a physical reason the ordinance can not be followed), but must be done. Williams wants to accommodate our citizens whenever possible. th Fehst suggested looking into zoning situations on 40 Avenue, regarding restriction for non-conforming buildings. Rich Abraham, 3954 Arthur, stated he would be affected by the 1,000 square foot restriction and felt it would be best if lot coverage was based on lot size. Hoeft stated the maximum was established to maintain the character of the neighborhood. Fehst stated that there are ways to be flexible but the City must operate within State Statutes. Abraham stated the community would benefit from common sense decisions and a flexible council. Peterson indicated the difficult position Planning and Zoning members are in when trying to accommodate residents and yet follow the rules. Ted Yehle, Planning and Zoning Commission member, formally requested that the Commission be invited to the work session discussing this ordinance, as they spent many hours on this revision and would like to contribute the reason for these recommendations. Fehst will schedule the second reading at a later date. (A copy of the proposed Ordinance will be attached to the minutes following the second reading of the Ordinance.) ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION A. Other Ordinances and Resolutions 1. Adopt Resolution 2001-30, being a Resolution supporting the completion of TH 610 in 2005- 2010 MOTION by Williams, second by Szurek, to waive the reading of Resolution No.2001-30, there Motion carried being ample copies available to the public. All ayes. . MOTION by Williams, second by Szurek, to adopt Resolution 2001-30, being a Resolution supporting the completion of TH 610 in 2005-2010. Fehst stated this resolution is supporting the Northern Metro Mayors Association recommendation to finish this project in a timely manner of 2005 to 2010 instead of 2015 to 2025. Motion carried. All ayes. RESOLUTION 2001-30 SUPPORTING THE COMPLETION OF TH 610 IN 2005-2010 WHEREAS , the Draft MN/DOT Metropolitan Transportation System Plan Investment Timing has proposed that TH 610 from TH 169 in Brooklyn Park to I-94 in Maple Grove is scheduled in the 2011-2015 time frame, and City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 8 of 12 WHEREAS , the North Metro Mayors Association Board of Directors, the North Metro Crossing Coalition Board of Directors, and the City of Columbia Heights takes exception to that scheduled time frame, and WHEREAS, the North Metro Mayors Association Board of Directors, the North Metro Crossing Coalition Board of Directors, and the City of Columbia Heights urges that the Transportation System Plan relating to TH610 completion be properly placed in the 2005-2010 time frame for the following reasons: 1.The TSP notes “Finish what we started”, which refers to TH 610 as one of those two projects. 2. The segment from TH 252 to TH 169 opened for traffic October 2000. Westbound traffic disburses in multiple directions to find the best way to access I-94, the eventual western termination of TH 610. 3. There is approximately $32 million infrastructure being built in the TH 610 right-of-way from I-94 east to TH 169. The value of that investment will not be realized until TH 610 is completed. With the proposed completion date in 2004, it makes sense to keep the project moving and continue to fund TH 610 to completion in the 2005-2010 time frame. 4. To date the State and Federal Governments have invested $184 Million in the TH 610/10 North Crosstown Highway (plus the initial segment of the 610 river crossing completed in the mid 1980’s: · 610/10 North Crosstown – Anoka County Segment - $79,060,000 · TH 610 – Brooklyn Park Segment - $51,000,000 nd · 2 River Crossing - $22,000,000 · TH 610 ROW infrastructure Investments - $32,000,000 5. TH 610 serving as the By-Pass could relieve the congestion that will continue to build up even wit the widening of I-94 from Maple Grove to Brooklyn Center. · TH 610, when completed to I-94, should be designated as the “North Metro By-Pass’ to I-94 in east metro via I-35W and I-694. · The city of Blaine has located six major truck terminals at the northeast corner of TH 10 and I- 35W. · The Draft Metro Council Transportation Policy Plan Policy No. 12: Maintain competitive regional freight transportation system. This efficient movement of goods or “freight mobility” requires an extensive high capacity transportation network capable of moving large amounts of freight quickly, reliably and cost effectively. These concerns are stated in Strategy 12b: determine the needs for access to freight terminals and Strategy 12c: reduce congestion impacts on truck travel. 6. The Metro Council’s Transportation Policy Plan Draft also calls for completion of TH 610 with the 2001-2025 time frame, and also notes that TH 610 is one of two segments of the Metropolitan Highway System to be competed. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Columbia Heights respectfully requests the draft MN/DOT Metropolitan Transportation System Plan place TH 610 from the TH 169 Brooklyn Park to I-94 in Maple Grove in the 2005-2010 Investment Timing Schedule. th Passed this 12 day of March, 2001 Offered by: Williams Seconded by: Szurek Roll Call: All ayes City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 9 of 12 ____________________________________ Mayor Gary L. Peterson ________________________________ Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk B. Bid Considerations C. Other Business 1. Adopt Resolutions No. 2001-11 and 2001-12, being Resolutions accepting the Feasibility Reports for Zone 5 Street Rehabilitation and 2001 Seal Coating MOTION by Szurek, second by Wyckoff, to waive the reading of Resolutions No. 2001-11 and Motion carried 2001-12, there being ample copies available to the public. All ayes. . MOTION by Szurek, second by Wyckoff, to adopt Resolution 2001-11 and 2001-12, being Resolutions, which accept the Feasibility Report for Zone 5 Street Rehabilitation and Zone 5 Seal Coating. Kevin Hanson, Public Works Director, stated the Zone 5 informational meeting will be March 13, with a question and answer period from 6:00 to7:00 p.m., and a 7:00 p.m. presentation by staff. The formal hearing will be on March 19 at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. Hanson showed a map of the Zone 5 boundaries. A small area south of this location was chosen to be included. Physical coring, consultant strength testing, and staff counting the number and type of cracks determined the repairs needed. Utilities are also examined and tested for necessary repairs. He listed water main, storm sewer and sanitary sewer problems, which need to be addressed. Hanson estimated $350,000 for utility work, which would come from utility funds. Seal coating assessments are at 100 percent, and other improvements are assessed on a percentage of 60 percent city 40 percent assessments. Hanson indicated areas within this zone that were assessed for alley improvements only a few years ago, and felt these residents might want to address Council on this. st Hanson stated the sanitary sewer from 41 to Quincy, still needs to be appraised. Hanson referred to the addendum report and asked Council to consider the utility services in that area, as there may be lead based or galvanized pipe and this would be the proper time to replace it. Wyckoff questioned the type of calls staff has received. Hanson stated that calls generally question the assessment amount. Motion carried. All ayes. RESOLUTION NO. 2001-11 BEING A RESOLUTION RECEIVING THE REPORT ON THE 2001 ZONE 5 STREET REHABILITATION IMPROVEMENTS WITH FULL RECONSTRUCTION, PARTIAL RECONSTRUCTION AND MILL AND OVERLAY CITY PROJECT 0102 WHEREAS , pursuant to Resolution 2001-08, adopted by the City Council on February 26, 2001, a report has been prepared by Mr. Kevin Hansen, City Engineer, with reference to the following improvements: FULL STREET RECONSTRUCTION THthth 6 Street 44 Avenue to 45 Avenue strd Quincy Street 41 Avenue to 43 Avenue ndrd Jackson Street South of 42 Avenue to 43 Avenue City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 10 of 12 PARTIAL STREET RECONSTRUCTION ththth 6 Street 45 Avenue to 46 Avenue th 47 Avenue Cul-de-sac to Monroe Street thth Monroe Street 44 Avenue to 45 Avenue thth Quincy Street 44 Avenue to 45 Avenue thth Jackson Street 44 Avenue to 45 Avenue thth Van Buren Street 44 Avenue to 45 Avenue MILL AND OVERLAY ththth 7 Street 47 Avenue to 48 Avenue 47 ½ Avenue Jefferson Street to Monroe Street th Monroe Street 46 ½ Avenue to 48 Avenue th 45 Avenue Monroe Street to Central Avenue rdth Quincy Street 43 Avenue to 44 Avenue nd rd Van Buren Street 42Avenue to 43 Avenue th and this report was received by the Council on March 12, 2001 WHEREAS, the report provides information regarding whether the proposed project is necessary, cost effective and feasible, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA that the Council will consider the improvement of such streets in accordance with the report and the assessment of abutting property (parcel unit basis) as well as non-abutting property (parcel unit basis) on the closest intersecting street for all or a portion of the cost of the improvement pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429 at an estimated total cost of the improvement of $995,000. th Dated this 12 day of March, 2001. Offered by: Szurek Seconded by: Wyckoff Roll Call: All ayes _____________________________________ Mayor Gary L. Peterson _________________________________ Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk RESOLUTION NO. 2001-12 BEING A RESOLUTION RECEIVING THE REPORT ON THE 2001 ZONE 5 SEAL COAT CITY PROJECT 0101 WHEREAS , pursuant to Resolution 2001-09, adopted by the City Council on February 26, 2001, a report has been prepared by Mr. Kevin Hansen, City Engineer, with reference to the following improvements: ththth 4 Street 44 Avenue to 48 Avenue ththth 5 Street 44 Avenue to 48 Avenue ththth 6 Street 46 Avenue to 48 Avenue ththth 7 Street 44 Avenue to 47 Avenue thth Washington Street 44 Avenue to 47 Avenue thth Madison Street 44 Avenue to Cul-de-sac (north of 45 Avenue) City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 11 of 12 thth Monroe Street 45 Avenue to 46 Avenue rd 43 Avenue Quincy Street to Central Avenue th 45 Avenue University Avenue Service Drive to Monroe Street th 46 Avenue University Avenue Service Drive to Monroe Street 46 ½ Avenue Jefferson Street to Monroe Street th 47 Avenue University Avenue Service Drive to Jefferson Street th 48 Avenue University Avenue Service Drive to Washington Street th 48 Avenue Jefferson Street to Monroe Street th and this report was received by the Council on March 12, 2001 WHEREAS, the report provides information regarding whether the proposed project is necessary, cost effective and feasible, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA that the Council will consider the improvement of such streets in accordance with the report and the assessment of abutting property (parcel unit basis) as well as non-abutting property (parcel unit basis) on the closest intersecting street for all or a portion of the cost of the improvement pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429 at an estimated total cost of the improvement of $133,590. th Dated this 12 day of March, 2001. Offered by: Szurek Seconded by: Wyckoff Roll Call: All ayes ____________________________________ Mayor Gary L. Peterson _______________________________ Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS A. Report of the City Manager Fehst stated interviews are currently being conducted for the municipal liquor store manager position, due to Phil Suckerman’s retirement. Fehst commented on the excellent job Mr. Suckerman has done establishing and maintaining our municipal liquor stores. Fehst sympathized with everyone regarding the additional 4-6 inch snowfall, and stated if residents have specific concerns they may call the Public Works Department. Peterson indicated plowing might have been slowed because there was a water main break on his street. Hanson stated that crews were called in at 3:00 a.m. for sanding and began plowing after the depth reached three inches. Crews will begin plowing and removing snow again at midnight. B. Report of the City Attorney- none. GENERAL COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS A. Minutes of Boards and Commissions 1. Meeting of the March 6, 2001 Planning and Zoning Commission 2. Meeting of the February 28, 2001 Park and Recreation Commission City Council Minutes March 12, 2001 Page 12 of 12 CITIZENS FORUM st Timothy Bearth, 1328 41 Avenue, stated he lives on a short street that is never plowed until at least two days after a snowfall and he wanted to know why it is not completed on the first plow route. Hanson will follow up on this. thth Jim Morel, 2301 40 Avenue, questioned progress to solve the flooding problem on 40 Avenue. He stated work done previously by putting a holding pond in the park did not work. Hanson is drafting a report with recommendations on three areas that are having problems. These areas are being investigated because of resident’s comments. Peterson asked that these areas be monitored in spring. Fehst stated that the water is running away faster than it used to in this location, but the problem has not been completely resolved. th Fehst stated that on March 5 several Councilmembers and staff met with State Representative Goodwin and State Senator Chaudhary to advise them that if the Governor’s proposed budget would pass, that Columbia Heights would lose $2.3 million dollars of state aid and HACA funding. This is about 40 percent of our entire City budget. This would cause a very substantial increase in taxes. He stated that the current formula was established over 30 years and is proven to work. He felt it would not be fair to penalize the senior citizens in our community. Our legislators will pass this information on to the correct people at the State. Williams questioned the legislation regarding wine sales in grocery stores. Fehst stated this issue is virtually dead. Wyckoff reminded residents that the First Annual Taste of Columbia Heights would be held on Sunday, March th 25, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Food samples from various restaurants will be $2.00 each. She stated that a promotional segment would be aired on Channel 16. Peterson thanked Wyckoff for the work she has put into organizing this festival. Six students introduced themselves from the local school government classes. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Peterson adjourned the meeting at 9:35 p.m. _________________________________________ Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk