HomeMy WebLinkAboutFebruary 28, 2005OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 28, 2005
The following are the minutes for the regular meeting of the City Cotmcil held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, Februm'y
28, 2005 in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights, MN.
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/INVOCATION
Mayor Peterson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Present:
Mayor Peterson, Cotmcilmember Nawrocki, Councilmember Williams, Councilmember Ericson,
Councihnember Kelzenberg
Pastor Mark Klemme of the ChristLife Evangelical Church gave the Invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - recited
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA
NawTocki requested discussion of Plam~ing and Zoning Commission appointment. Peterson placed this as
item 7A2.
PROCLAMATIONS~ PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS - none
CONSENT AGENDA
City Mmaager Walt Fehst took Councilmembers through the Consent Agenda.
1) Approve City Council Meeting Minutes for February 14, 2005 regular City Council meeting
Motion to approve the minutes of the February 14, 2005 regular City Council meeting as presented.
2)
Accept Boards and Commissions Meeting Minutes
Motion to accept the February 1, 2005 minutes of the Public Library Board
Motion to accept the February 1, 2005 minutes of the Plmming/Zoning Cormnission
3)
Establish Work Session meeting date for Monday, March 7, 2005, begilming at 7:30 p.m. in
Conference Room 1.
Motion to establish a Work Session meeting date for Monday, March 7, 2005 beginning at 7:30 p.m.
in Conference Room 1.
Upcoming Work Session Items:
2.'00 a.m. Bar Closing, Banning of Ultimate Fighting Ordinance, Purchase of Reverse Calling
System, Request from Dragon House to use Police Department Logo and squad in training film, and
Planning and Zoning Commission appointment.
Nawrocki requested discussion of problems at the pool hall. Hoefi stated that Chief Johnson would
be able to speak to that. Fehst stated he would have him send a memo to council on this.
Peterson con-ected the error reported by Channel 4 news; the persons accused of shooting the
Rmnsey County Deputy were not the stone people arrested in the shooting in Columbia Heights.
Hoeft stated that we would not have been the ones to release them. Fehst stated that he made this
clear to the media he spoke to. Nawrocki stated that the media person was quoting a member of the
Gang Task Force. Our Police Chief stated there was no evidence linking those persons to the
incident in Coknnbia Heights. Fehst stated that the accused is being sent to Wisconsin for a shooting
there, mad would not be released to Wisconsin if he were connected to a crime here.
City Council Minutes
February 28, 2005
Page 2 of 9
4) Authorize payme_n2 of $! 8,508.80 to Anoka County for administering the 2004 Tax Increment
Financing Laws of Mim~esota, Truth in Taxation, and Special Assessments, with expenses being
charged to the TIF Debt Services Fund and the General Fund.
Motion to authorize payment of $18,508.80 to Anoka Cotmty for administering the 2004 Tax
Increment Financing Laws of Milmesota, Truth in Taxation, and Special Assessments, with expenses
being charged to the TIF Debt Services Fund and the General Fund.
Fehst stated this is a regular assessment to us from the County, to recoup their service costs.
5)
Approve application for Raffle event at Immaculate Conception Church
Motion to direct the City Manager to forward a letter to the State Charitable Gambling Control
Board indicating that that City of Columbia Heights has no objection to a raffle event to be
conducted at Immaculate Conception Church, 4030 Jackson Street NE on April 9, 2005; and
furthermore, that the City of Columbia Heights hereby waives the remainder of the thirty-day notice
to the local governing body.
6) Approve application for Raffle, Make-A~Wish FoundatiOn of MN at Star Central - Removed
7)
Approve application for Raffle, Little Voyageurs' Montessori School, St. Timothy's Lutheran
Church
Motion to direct the City Manager to forward a letter to the State Charitable Gambling Control
Board indicating that the City of Colmnbia Heights has no objection to a raffle event to be conducted
at St. Timothy's Lutheran Church, 825 51st Avenue, Colmnbia Heights, on May 10, 2005; and
furthermore, that the City of Columbia Heights hereby waives the remainder of the thirty-day notice
to the local governing body.
8) Adopt Resolution No. 2005-12 being a Resolution amending Resolution No. 2005-05 authorizing
and directing the condemnation of certain property for redevelopment and road purposes - Removed
9)
Establish a Hearing Date of March 14, 2005 for revocation or suspension of rental property license
at 600 51st Avenue
Motion to establish a hearing date of March 14, 2005 for revocation or suspension of a license to
operate a rental property within the City of Columbia Heights against Anthony Chester at 600 51st
Avelme N.E.
10) Approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for February 28, 2005
Motion to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for February 28, 2005.
11)
Approve Business License Applications
Motion to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for February 28, 2005 as
presented.
12)
Approve Payment of Bills
Motion to approve payment of the bills out of the proper ftmds as listed in the attached check
register covering Check Number 111776 tl-u-ough 111940 in the amount of $920,510.60.
Nawrocki refen'ed to a notary license renewal of $100, which is the County fee, m~d also requires a
$40 State fee and $20 purchase of a new stamp. He stated that we do need the number of licensed
notaries that we have at City Hall. Fehst stated that because of the nature of their business, the Police
Chief indicates they need the number they have. Fehst stated we would look at this again.
City Council Minutes
February 28, 2005
Page 3 of 9
Nawn:ocki refe~ed to check lm_m__ber ! ! 1884 to Frattallone for $17,800. He stated that the contract
was to include some excavation for hazardous materials, but will now be more than anticipated.
Fehst stated that the materials are not hazardous, only debris. Nawrocki refelTed to the original depth
of excavation approved.
Nawrocki stated that he inspected the existing Sullivan Park benches and questioned the need for
new ones. The line item used only had $4,400 available and the bill was for $5,550, which means the
budget was overspent for this purchase, and this specific purchase was not listed. Fehst stated that
we could return them, and that sometimes line items are overspent but equal out in the overall
budget. He indicated that the Public Works Director discussed this with the Park mhd Recreation
Commission. Kelzenberg stated that six of the eight park benches were donated. The Park and
Recreation Cormnission approved these tables as they are from a tougher material that is harder to
vandalize. Peterson suggested that the salvageable picnic tables be placed in other areas, such as
south of Lolrdanki Park for additional use. Other areas, such as Hart Lake, would benefit from such
improvements.
Nawrocld stated that he will be gone for the next regular City Council meeting mhd asked that the
2:00 bar closing request not be on that agenda.
Motion by Nawrocki, second by Ericson, to approve the Consent Agenda items, except for items 6 and 8, as
presented. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried.
Approve application for Raffle, Make-A-Wish Foundation of MN at Star Central
Nawa'ocki questioned if this is the old or the new Make-A-Wish Fotmdation. Ericson stated that there is only
one group, even though some board members have been replaced. Peterson questioned tabling the item. Jim
Hoeft, City Attorney, stated the paperwork includes a letter from the IRS, which indicates this organization
began in 1983. Nawrocki indicated concern with the way they are doing some things. Peterson stated that if
the organization violates their bylaws, the State would follow through. Nawrocki stated that we should have
more information. Hoeft stated that the tax ID nmnber is the same as in 1983.
Motion by Ericson, second by Willian~s, to direct the City Manager to forward a letter to the State
Charitable Gambling Control Board indicating that the City of Columbia Heights has no objection to a raffle
event to be conducted at Star Central 4001 Central Avenue NE Columbia Heights on April 1, 2005; mhd
ftmthermore, that the City of Columbia Heights hereby waives the remainder of the thirty-day notice to the
local governing body.
Motion by Nawrocki to table to the next meeting to acquire more information on the group. There being no
second, the motion failed.
Upon vote of the original motion: Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, aye; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, nay; Peterson,
aye. 4 ayes - 1 nay. Motion carried.
Adopt Resolution No. 2005-12 being a Resolution amending Resolution No. 2005-05 authorizing and
directing the condemnation of certain property for redevelopment and road purposes
Nawrocki stated that he would not vote in favor of this Resolution and questioned where the funding would
come from. Fehst stated this fi'om CD Block Grant ftmds that need to be used this year. Fehst stated this
property purchase is moving in the opposite direction, with stipulations by fl~e ow2~ers that we do not agree
with. Hoeft indicated that it is anticipated CDBG would cover the price, but if it exceeds that amotmt it
would be part of the TIF payback. Nawa'ocki stated this would not be pm't of the project, but of the roadway.
Fehst indicated that Council has not committed to the roadway roundabout. This property is part of the
right-of-way that is necessary for the project. Nawrocki stated that we do not need a $3,000,000 parkway
City Council Minutes
February 28, 2005
Page 4 of 9
a_n_d would argue against the condemnation. Peterson asked Councilmember Nawrocki if he is indicating the
building should remain. Nawrocki stated that we have not done a good job requiring owners to maintain
their buildings and property. Fehst stated that the Honeywell and RACO buildings are down and the area is
looking better.
Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Ericson, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2005-12, there being
mriple copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried.
Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Ericson, to adopt Resolution No. 2005-12, being a Resolution amending
Resolution No. 2005-05 authorizing and directing the condemnation of certain property for redevelopment
and road purposes. Upon vote: Kelzenberg, aye; Williams, abstain; Ericson, aye; Nawrocki, nay; Peterson,
aye. 3 ayes- 1 nay- 1 abstention. Motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 2005-12
AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2005-05 AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CONDEMNATION OF
CERTAIN PROPERTY FOR REDEVELOPMENT AND ROAD PURPOSES
WHEREAS, the City of Columbia Heights ("City") is a charter city duly organized and existing under the laws of
the State of Mhmesota; and
WHEREAS, the City Council is the official governing body of the City; and
WHEREAS, the City and the Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority (as successor to the Housing and
Redevelopment Authority in and for the City of Columbia Heights) ("Authority") have unde~¢aken a program to promote
redevelopment of land that is characterized by blight and blighting factors within the City, and in this connection the
Authority administers a redevelopment project known as the Downtown CDB Redevelopment Project ("Project")
pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.001 to 469.047 (the "HRA Act"); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.090 to 469.1081 ("the Act") and the HRA Act, the
Authority is authorized to acquire real estate by exercising the power of eminent domain under and pursuant to Minn.
Stat., Ch. 117, and to undertake certain activities to facilitate the redevelopment of real property by private enterprise;
and
WHEREAS, within the Project, the City and Authority have created the Huset Park Area Tax Increment Financing
District ("TIF District") in order to facilitate redevelopment of certain property in the Project; and
WHEREAS, the Authority and Huset Park Development Corporation, a Minnesota Corporation ("Redeveloper"),
have previously entered into a Contract for Private Redevelopment dated as of October 25, 2004, (the "Contract for
Private Redevelopment") regarding redevelopment of the property described in Exhibit A attached hereto and other
property; and
WHEREAS, the Redeveloper, City and Authority have taken various actions in furtherance of the Project, pursuant
to the Preliminary Development Agreement and Contract for Private Redevelopment, all of which indicate the Project is
feasible and desirable, including, but not lhnited to, enviromnental, blight and economic studies, determination of needed
public infrastructure, agreements to acquire and acquisition of prope~W, relocation analysis and land use planning; and
WHEREAS, the City and Authority believe that the redevelopment of the Redevelopment Property pursuant to the
Contract for Private Redevelopment, and fulfillment generally of the Contract for Private Redevelopment, are in the vital
and best interests of the City and the health, safety, morals, and welfare of its residents, and in accord with the public
purposes and provisions of the applicable State and local laws and requirements under which the Project has been
undertaken and is being assisted; and
WHEREAS, the real estate described in Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein (collectively, "Subject
Property") is located within the Project, as presently constituted, and is among the parcels which are to be redeveloped
pursuant to the Contract for Private Redevelopment; and
WHEREAS, on October 25, 2004, by Resolution No. 2004-55, the City Council approved, established and adopted a
Modification (the "Project Plan Modification") to the Downtown CBD Revitalization Plan for the CBD Redevelopment
Project (the "Project Area"), found that the adoption of the Plans conforms in all respects to the requirements of the Act
and will help fulfill a need to develop an area of the State of Minnesota which is characterized by blight, occupied by
substandard buildings, and contaminated with pollutants; and that the financial assistance described in the TIF Plan will
revitalize this area, significantly expand the amotmt and variety of housing stock in the City, and expand the tax base;
and that, because these benefits would not accrue without the assistance provided, any benefits received by private
redevelopers are incidental to the broader benefits achieved by the overall development of the TIF District; and
WHEREAS, in said Resolution No. 2004-55, the City Council found that the TIF District portion of the Project Area
is a "blighted area" within the meaning of Minn. Stat., §469.02, Subd. 11, and that acquisition, clearance and related
activities to redevelop the TIF Distq'ict portion of the Project Area in accordance with the Project Plan and the TIF Plan
constitute a "redevelopment project" within the meaning of Minn. Stat. §469.002, Subd. 14; and
City Council Mh~utes
February 28, 2005
Page 5 of 9
WHEREAS, in accordance with Section 3.2 of the Contract for Private Redevelopment, the Redeveloper has
notified the Authority in writing that (a) the Redeveloper has been unsuccessful in accomplishing acquisition of the
Subject Property voluntarily after commercially reasonable efforts to do so; and (b) that such efforts included a written
offer to owners of all such parcels to acquire such parcels for a price approved by the Authority as reasonable and an
offer to mediate; and
WHEREAS, the Authority found that the Redeveloper's efforts to voluntarily acquh'e the Subject Property were
reasonable and satisfy the requirements for doing so under the Contract for Private Redevelopment; and
WHEREAS, acquisition of the Subject Property by the Authority is essential in order to eliminate blight and
implement the Project; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of the Authority has found (and this Council also hereby finds) that
redevelopment of the Subject Property consistent with the Project is necessary, convenient, desirable, for a public
purpose, in the best interests of the citizens of the City and will promote the general health, welfare and safety of the
community; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that it is also necessary, convenient, deskable, for a public purpose, in the best
interests of the City and will promote the general health, welfare and safety of the community for the City to acquire
portions of the Subject Property and the real estate described as Parcel H on Exhibit C ("Parcel H") attached hereto for
street proposes; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of the Authority has found that it is in the best interest of both the
Authority and the City if the City proceeds to acquire all of the Subject Property and then convey to the Authority the
portions thereof not required by the City for street purposes ("Remainder") so that the Authority may redevelop the
Remainder pursuant to the Contract for Private Redevelopment; and
WHEREAS, on January 24, 2005, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2005-05 authorizing and directing the
acquisition of the real estate described in Exhibit A attached hereto by eminent domain proceedings for street and
redevelopment purposes; and
WHEREAS, Parcel H is also required for street purposes in furtherance of the Project and, although City staff have
made reasonable efforts to acquire Parcel H on behalf of the City voluntarily through negotiation, City staff have not
been able to reach agreement upon terms for purchase of Parcel H; and
WHEREAS, the City has received a grant fi'om Anoka County which may be used to acquire Parcel H and which
must be disbursed by April 6, 2005, or be lost to the City; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of the Authority has found that the funding and construction schedule for
the redevelopment pursuant to the Contract for Private Redevelopment makes it necessary to acquire title to and
possession of the Subject Property prior to the filing of the final repiner of the condemnation commissioners to be
appointed by the district court.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota that:
1. It is necessary that the Subject Property and Parcel H be acquired by the City in fee simple absolute for the stated
public purposes through the exercise of the power of eminent domain.
2. The Authority's Attorney is hereby authorized and directed to take all steps necessary to acquire the Subject
Property and Parcel H on behalf of the City, including, if necessary, by use of eminent domain proceedings, pursuant to
Minn. Stat. § 117.042, prior to issuance of an award of damages by Court-Appointed Commissioners.
3. The amounts stated on Exhibit B attached hereto are hereby determined to be just compensation for the various parcels
of the Subject Property and Parcel H for the purpose of offers to the owners pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 117.036 and for the
purpose of deposit with the District Court Administrator as the City's approved appraisal of value pursuant to Minn. Stat.
§ 117.042.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4824 Stinson Blvd
Mayor Peterson closed the Public Hearing regarding the Revocation or Suspension of the Rental License
held by Alicia Anderson regarding rental property at 4824 Stinson Boulevard in that the violations on
the property have been con'ected.
Nawrocki asked for the specifics on why the hearing was called. Fehst stated he would provide this to
Councilmembers.
ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
Other Ordinances and Resolutions
Adopt Emergency Ordinance No. 1481, being an Ordinance repealing Ordinance No. 1449 and
imposing a moratorium on Automobile Dealerships in the General Business Districts.
Pat Smith, City Planner, stated that the February 1 st Plam~ing and Zoning Cormnission meeting
discussion included a moratorium on car dealerships in General Business Districts. The cun'ent
City Council Minutes
February 28, 2005
Page 6 of 9
ordinance permits used dealerships in the General Business Districts and prohibits used automobile
business in the Central Business District and Limited business Districts. The Commission
recommends that it is prudent to include the General Business Districts. This moratorium would not
include permits for roofs or siding and would be effective for six months, until the ordinance can be
reviewed.
Fehst ask if all these districts were represented on Central Avenue. Smith stated they were.
Nawrocki asked for location clarification. Smith listed the limits of each district. Under the
moratorium can you put in or expand a cai' dealership in other zones. Nawrocki asked what the
property between Central Avenue and University Avenue on 40th Avenue is zoned. Smith stated that
no dealership is allowed from Central Avenue to City Hall, new or old.
Peterson stated that this is a six month moratorium and the Plam~ing and Zoning Commission would
make a recommendation to the City Council during that time. He stated that if such a business had a
new building or indoor showroom, and done properly, it could be a positive for the community.
Kelzenberg questioned wording that states 12 months. Hoeft indicated the moratorium could be
extended for ma additional 12 months.
Nawrocki indicated that the moratorium could be lifted at any time by the City Cotmcil. Nawrocki
stated that when he brought up this issue at the last Council meeting he was not aware the Plalming
and Zoning Commission had discussed it.
Deb Jotmson, 4626 Pierce, questioned what situation prompted this moratorium. Peterson stated that
the sale of the Mr. Steak property questioned usage in this area. He indicated that since that concern
Advance Auto Parts has purchased the property and will build a new 7,000 square foot building.
Nawrocki indicated there is a new used car lot at 51st and University mhd one across from City Hall.
These areas are just as important to consider as Central Avenue.
Motion by Nawa'ocki, second by Kelzenberg, to waive the reading of Ordinance No. 1481 there
being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried.
Motion by Nawrocki, second by Kelzenberg, to adopt Emergency Ordinance No. 1481, being an
Ordinance imposing a moratorium on motor vehicle sales and/or lease dealerships in the General
Business Districts. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried.
EMERGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 1481
AN INTERIM ORDINANCE FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROTECTING THE PLANNING PROCESS AND THE
HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE OF CITY RESIDENTS; AND REGULATING MOTOR VEHICLE
SALES AND/OR LEASE LOTS
The City of Columbia Heights does ordain:
Section 1: On May 29, 2001, the City of Columbia Heights adopted Ordinance 1428, which is an
ordinance relating to and establishing a Zoning and Development plan and revised Zoning Map for the City of
Columbia Heights; and,
Section 2: Ordinance 1428 and subsequent amendments is officially known as the Columbia Heights
Zoning and Development Ordinance; and,
Section 3: The Columbia Heights Zoning and Development Ordinance divides the City into four
residential districts, three business districts, and two industrial districts; and,
Section 4: The three business districts are further classified in the Columbia Heights Zoning and
Development Ordinance as LB, Limited Business District; GBD, General Business District; and CBD,
Commercial Business District; and,
City Council Minutes
February 28, 2005
Page 7 of 9
Section 5: The City Council determines it is necessary to undertake a land use study to determine the
effect that the operation of motor vehicle sales and/or leasing lots have and are having on the areas in which they
are located, including, but not limited to the effects on automobile traffic near the lots, the effects on provision of
city services to the properties and other effects arising fi'om the operation of businesses; and,
Section 6: The Columbia Heights City Council finds it necessary and appropriate to prohibit the expansion
of exiting motor vehicle sales and/or leasing lots and the establishment of motor vehicle sales and/or leasing lots
while the information is gathered regarding existing lots so as to obtain an accurate depiction of the effects such
existing lots m'e having in Columbia Heights; and,
Section 7: Minnesota Statues, Section 462.355, Subd. 4 allows the City of Columbia Heights to adopt this
Interim Ordinance to protect the planning process. The City Council finds that adoption of this Interim Ordinance
will protect the planning process and the health, safety and welfare of its citizens while the study provided for in
this Ordinance is being conducted; and,
Section 8: The Columbia Heights City Council hereby imposes a moratorium on automobile businesses in
the General Business District effective immediately and terminating on August 14, 2005, and recognizing said
time period may be shortened or extended by adoption of an Emergency Ordinance by the City Council.
Section 9: Activities affected by this moratorium include the establishment of motor vehicle sales and/or
lease lots and the expansion of existing motor vehicle sales and/or lease lots within the General Business District
in the City of Columbia Heights for the purpose of protecting the planning process pending completion.
Section 10: This Ordinance shall be in fi. ill force and effect immediately.
Bid Considerations -none
Other Business
Planning and Zoning Commission appointment - addition
Peterson stated that Commissioner Phil Baker has submitted his resignation and asked if
Councihnembers wished to make an appointment to the Conamission tonight. Ericson requested the
appointment be discussed at the next work session.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Report of the City Manager
Fehst stated that Adam Kramer, Minneapolis Water Works Utilities, has invited Councilmembers to tour
their new facility on March 15 at 3:30 p.m. Nawrocki indicated he would not be available. Fehst asked
what would be the best time of day to schedule a tour. Kelzenberg indicated after 5:30 p.m. Fehst stated
he would try to schedule a different date.
Fehst indicated there have been additional reports that the Mr. Steak building has been sold to a Forttme
500 company and that it has been sold to Sarna's.
Fehst stated that we have applied for League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust No Fault Insm'ance.
They have asked six or seven questions on what we have done, mid thanked us for approaching sewer
clean up in such mi aggressive mariner. Fehst listed statistics from the 904 smnp pump disconnect
inspections that have been completed. Nawrocki requested a copy of the questions.
Fehst acknowledged that the 2004 Amlual Report is complete.
Fehst referred to the misreporting of information regarding two people arrested in St. Paul, stating there
is no evidence these people were involved in the shooting near our pool hall.
Fehst advised everyone to be aware of phishing computer scams, which ask for personal information.
They look official, but are not.
Fehst spoke to inforlnation gathered on the 2005 budget reduction request. We anticipate the current
budget will be under spent. The two percent reduction would be $180,000. Nawa'ocki recommended
holding the money in escrow for ma emergency. Fehst referred to the meeting with State Representative
Barb Goodwin and the anticipation of additional cuts to our State Aid of approximately $500,000. A
letter has been sent to the Governor asking that he not change the statute for the teclmical change to take
City Council Minutes
February 28, 2005
Page 8 of 9
place. Thrrmgh discussions with the LMC and Metro Mtmicipa!ities, we anticipate a $300,000 cut next
year.
Fehst stated that 11 of 14 cities surveyed for legal rates have submitted their contracts. It appears that we
have a good overall view of area legal fees, but we do not have a final tally.
Report of the City Attorney - nothing to report
CITIZENS FORUM
Leonm'd Deering, 4311 Jefferson, questioned limited parldng at City Hall. Nawrocki indicated there is also
parldng available at the west end of the Police Depmntment. Deering stated that there is a large volume
variation when listening to City Council meetings on cable television. Nawrocki asked Mr. Deering if he
received a response from Comcast on lzis questions at the last meeting. He indicated he did not. Peterson
asked that he receive a response. Regarding the meeting audio, Peterson stated that our equipment is not
state of the art, and speakers will try to be more conscientious to speak loudly and into the microphone.
COUNCIL CORNER
Naw2'ocki
· Need to do a better job of clearing snow from Central Avenue sidewalks.
· Fruitful meeting with Representative Goodwin, Peterson, Kelzenberg and himself. Disappointed
there was not more staff representation.
· Letter from Secretary of State Kiffineyer to not allow administrative tags and an additional $10 per
ticket going to the State. Let our legislators know why we did what we did for minor tickets issued
and voice concern for the additional $10 charge. Fehst stated that minor violation tickets are $130,
of which we only receive $13. We will respond to this letter. Currently, we are writing citations
under the public nuisance ordinance and will continue. Hmmepin County charges a $3 law library
fee and Anoka County charges $10. Hoefi stated that the State surcharge is $67, the Anoka County
law library assesses $10. The rest is divided between the state, county and municipality.
· Emphasize to our Legislators our concerns regarding pipelines in street easements and the City's
interest in maintaining the right-of-way.
Responded critically to the departing cmmnents by the Fire Chief in the Green Sheet.
·
Ericson
· Empty Bowls fund raising dinner will be Thursday, March 3, and is sponsored by SACA to benefit our
food shelf.
· 7th grade boys basketball team is still undefeated and will participated in the State tournament on March
11, 12, and 13. This is a good family activity to attend and should make everyone in our community
proud.
· April 3rd will be the Rising to New Heights Housing Fair. The Fire Explores will host a pancake
breakfast that morning.
· Reminded everyone of the Values First values for the month - citizenship and patriotism.
Fehst indicated he attended a SACCC meeting on Wednesday in Fridley with a gentleman from
Chaska that discussed their wireless Internet connection. He also stated that Bob Lindahl, our
conde~rmation attorney, is on the Chaska City Council.
Kelzenberg
· Eighth grader girls' basketball teton is also doing well and played a great gmne against Fridley that went
into overtime.
· Resident brought in a jug of his water, which was very dark. We will do whatever we can to fix the
problem, such as flush the water lines or, if necessary, reline the lines.
City Council Minutes
February 28, 2005
Page 9 of 9
Williams
Read letter received from the High School Multicultural group. We must continue to encourage
multiculturalism
· Read letter fi'om Elaine Feely on the safe transport of the deer from the Water Works propel~y. Patience,
dialogue and colmmmication works. There is no longer any need to pass legislation.
· The 2:00 a.m. bar closing will be discussed at the March 7th work session. Received one letter in support
and one that objected.
· May 11th is Mayor's Prayer Breakfast. Tickets will be available soon.
· Pray for the health and peace of our friends and neighbors.
Peterson
· Sunday is the Sister Cities fund raising dinner. Donations go toward the purchase of a 75-wheelchair
carton for Poland, where our Sister City is. The $18,000 needed was a lot for our group to raise, but they
did it in a relatively short time. Auto World will sponsor the dinner.
· Have received input on 2:00 a.m. mn bm' closing, but requested more input. Invited residents to the work
session for this discussion.
· Wished Councilmember Williams well and a speedy recovery, as he is having hip surgery on
Wednesday.
· Thanked our troops and asked everyone to keep them in their mind and prayers as they serve our
country. Spoke of an Officer that flew in World Wm' II that told amazing stories. He was a positive man
and amazing, a real example of those that have served our country.
· Don't take yourself to seriously.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Peterson adjourned the meeting at 8:37 p.m.
(/'Patricia Musco'~itz, CMC ~
' Deputy City Clerk/Council Sedretary