Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutFebruary 27, 2006 OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 27, 2006 The following are the minutes for the regular meeting of the City Council held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 27,2006 in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights, NfN. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/INVOCATION Pastor Ken Ribe, Grace Church on Silver Lake, gave the invocation. Present: Mayor Peterson, Councilmember Williams, Councilmember, Nawrocki, Councilmember Diehm, Councilmember Kelzenberg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - recited ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA - none PROCLAMATIONS. PRESENTATIONS. RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS VFW presentation of U.S. Flags to the City Public Works Department Nawrocki introduced Jerry Wegscheid of the VFW who is responsible for their flags. The Public Works Department had requested 19 flags for Central Avenue. Wegscheid presented the 19 flags to the City on behalf of Commander Nawrocki and VFW Post 230. He stated his thankfulness for the patriot attitude displayed by the City of Columbia Heights. Wegscheid invited everyone to attend the Memorial Day Service to be held at City Hall on May 29th. He indicated the VFW also has flagpoles available. Peterson asked that Mr. Wegscheid pass along the City's thanks to the VFW. Nawrocki stated the VFW's pride to help improve Central Avenue, and in support of the clock project he presented a check, on behalf ofVFW Post 230, in the amount of $1 ,000 for the Clock Tower. Nawrocki stated that through his wife, the Columbia Heights Class of' 49 gave a donation and Ms. McDonald also donated for a brick in memory of her husband. Peterson thanked the VFW and Mrs. Nawrocki. Peterson stated that the clock project is going very well; it has been ordered with chimes. We will build the base when weather allows. This will be an asset to the City of Columbia Heights. Peterson showed a Patriotic Employer Recognition certificate received from the National Guard to the City. He stated that Ed Raati, one of our Public Works employees, who is in the National Guard and currently training in the Southern United States before going to Iraq, nominated the City and John Murzyn, his supervisor, for this award. The certificates were delivered last week by a man in uniform. Peterson also showed a picture ofthe Council Secretary's son, Kyle, in the tank he is learning to drive in Korea. He stated his pride for him and anyone that serves our country. Peterson indicated the wish that if anyone sees a service man or women, to walk up and thank them, no matter your opinion of the war. Williams stated that School Board member Laura Chandler's husband is currently serving in Iraq. Peterson stated that Mr. Chandler is now on his way home, but is slated to return to Iraq. Williams asked if people could buy bricks in memory of someone, for example Mr. Hinrichs. Peterson City Council Minutes February 27, 2006 Page 2 of I 0 stated that has already been done, but there can be more than one. Peterson stated that there would be a Rock Around the Clock fundraiser on March 17 at Murzyn Hall. Hopefully, there will be extra funds raised for future clock maintenance. If anyone wants to volunteer to help lay the base, they are welcome to do so. Nawrocki stated that Bob Hinrichs was also of the Class of '49. Peterson stated we are trying to get a brick area for the class of 2006 so they can come back to see it in 50 years when the time capsule is open. Peterson stated that the Class of ' 49 donation is a challenge to other classes to participate. CONSENT AGENDA 1) Approve City Council Meeting Minutes for February 13, 2006 regular City Council meeting Motion to approve the minutes ofthe February 13,2006 regular City Council meeting as presented. Nawrocki gave a correction to page six: grandson, not son and page 16 Local Government Officials meeting was February 22, not in May. 2) Accept Boards and Commissions Meeting Minutes Motion to accept the minutes of the January 25,2006 Park and Recreation Commission meeting. 3) Establish Work Session meeting date for Monday, March 6, 2006, beginning at 4:00 p.m. in Conference Room 1. Motion to establish a Work Session meeting date for March 6, 2006, in Conference Room 1. Upcoming Work Session Items: Youth Commission, beer and wine license request by pool hall, Gymnasium/community center study. Fehst stated that the Public Improvement Hearing would be held at 6:00 p.m. and that residents seem very in favor ofthe road improvement project. Fehst stated that Tim Wellman wants to restart the Youth Commission and Jimmy Wetch is requested a beer and wine license for his pool hall. Mark Ruff, Ehlers and Associates and Jill Schultz will be present regarding facilitation of the community center study. Fehst stated that he has also met with two others facilitators. Nawrocki stated he would not be at the meeting and objected to this taking place while he was not present. He also objected to hiring a consultant for this work. Nawrocki stated it is imperative to go through this process with the School Board. Fehst stated that they have been invited to attend. 4) Authorize payment of$19,832.79 to Anoka County for administering the 2005 Tax Increment Financing Laws of Minnesota, Truth in Taxation, and Special Assessments Motion to authorize payment of$19,832.79 to Anoka County for administeling the 2005 Tax Increment Financing Laws of Minnesota, Truth in Taxation, and Special Assessments, with expenses being charged to the TIF Debt Services Fund and the General Fund. Fehst stated this charge is authorized by State Statute. 5) Appoint the Mayor and City Manager to the Columbia Heights Fire Depaliment Volunteer Relief Association Board of Trustees for 2006. Motion to appoint the Mayor and City Manager to the Columbia Heights Fire Department Volunteer Relief Association Board of Trustees for 2006. City Council Minutes February 27, 2006 Page 3 of 10 Fehst stated that the law has changed and these appointments needs to be made every year. 6) Adopt Resolution 2006-24 adding the University Avenue Service Road from 44th Avenue to 53rd Avenue to the 2006 Seal Coating Feasibility Report. Removed Fehst stated this request is based on the impetus of Mr. John Medlow. 7) Adopt Resolution 2006-25 adding the University Avenue Service Road from 44th Avenue to 53rd Avenue to the 2006 Seal Coating Public Improvement Hearing for March 6 Removed Nawrocki stated his pleasure that this was moving ahead, but questioned if residents would be given proper notice. Williams suggested using the reverse calling system. Fehst indicated that notification has been sent to residents, but the second item may be more difficult to complete this year. Nawrocki stated that the petitioner felt more than sealcoating would be required. Peterson stated that 44th to 53rd needs additional work, but the area will be patched and then seal coated until the next street repair cycle. F ehst stated that our city would have to cover costs for the Fridley side of the street. Nawrocki stated he spoke to the Fridley Mayor who suggested we speak to their Public Works Director. Nawrocki referred to past difficulties of getting the grass cut in this area. He stated that we should talk to them, as it is halftheir road too. Fehst stated that we can not force them to participate. They have, in the past, asked us to consider annexing the street. Fehst suggested trading work for the repair costs. He stated that he would contact the City of Fridley. Nawrocki stated that the other improvement information meeting went very well. He indicated the understanding that additional work could be added to the contract at any time. Fehst stated that he understood that Council wanted to move along to get this done. Peterson stated the backup information indicates that 44th to 53rd is halfthe City of Fridley's. Nawrocki and Fehst felt it included to 45th Avenue. Hoeft suggested removing this from the Consent Agenda. Peterson removed items 6, 7 and 8. 8) Adopt Resolution 2006-26 ordering preparation of a feasibility report for the University Avenue Service Road from 40th to 44th Avenues. Removed 9) Adopt Resolution No. 2006-27, being a Resolution supporting the Outdoor Recreation Grant Application of Anoka County for Kordiak County Park, Anoka County, Minnesota. Motion to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2006-27, there being ample copies available to the public. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 2006-27, being a Resolution supporting the Outdoor Recreation Grant Application of Anoka County for Kordiak County Park, Anoka County, Minnesota. Peterson read what the grant funds would pay for. Nawrocki stated that Commissioner Kordiak indicated that some people in the County would like that park turned over to the city. He reminded him ofthe park's historical significance as the first county park. Fehst stated they were informed years ago that we are not interested in owning this park. RESOLUTION NO. 2006-27 A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE OUTDOOR RECREATION GRANT APPLICATION OF ANOKA COUNTY FOR KORDIAK COUNTY PARK, ANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA WHEREAS, Anoka County is applying for an Outdoor Recreation Grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for Improvements to Kordiak County Park; and WHEREAS, Anoka County is committed to improving the quality of recreation facilities and enhancing City Council Minutes February 27,2006 Page 4 of 10 natural resources within the county; and WHEREAS, Kordiak County Park, located within the City of Columbia Heights is in need of physical improvements; and WHEREAS, the City of Columbia Heights recognizes the recreational benefits of these improvements; and WHEREAS, protecting natural resources and providing open space is of high priority to the area residents and the City of Columbia Heights, NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOL YED, by the City of Columbia Heights that the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources accepts and approves this application to fund improvements at Kordiak County Park. 10) Approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for February 27, 2006 Motion to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for February 27,2006. Diehm stated that the owner of 1000 of Peters place is on this list. Fehst indicated the reissue of the rental license was under the next item. 11) Approve re-issue of a rental housing license a) Motion to issue a rental-housing license to Tawni Traynor to operate the rental property located at 4639-41 Washington Street NE in that the provisions of the residential maintenance code have been complied with. b) Motion to issue a rental-housing license to Catalina Peralta to operate the rental property located at 4550 Madison Street NE in that the provisions ofthe residential maintenance code have been complied with. c) Motion to issue a rental-housing license to Peters Place Apartments LLC to operate the rental property located at 1000 Peters Place NE in that the provisions of the residential maintenance code have been complied with. 12) Approve Business License Applications Motion to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for February 27,2006 as presented. 13) Approve Payment of Bills Motion to approve payment of the bills out of the proper funds as listed in the attached check register covering Check Number 116043 through 116205 in the amount of$1,061,202.83. Nawrocki questioned the corrections at 1000 Peters Place. Fire Chief Gary Gorman stated that everything on the list was completed. Diehm asked if other items that were due for an upcoming meeting were complete. Gorman stated they were. Motion by Williams, second by Kelzenberg, to approve the Consent Agenda items with the exception of items 6, 7, and 8. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. PUBLIC HEARINGS A) Adopt Resolution No. 2006-28 being a Resolution for Rental Housing License Revocation at 3848 Jackson Street Peterson closed this hearing as the property is now in compliance. B) Adopt Resolution No. 2006-29, being a Resolution declaring the property at 4141 Jefferson Street City Council Minutes February 27, 2006 Page 5 of 10 NE a nuisance and approving the abatement of violations from the property pursuant to City Code section 8.206. Abatement Hearing Gonnan stated there was a fire at this property last fall and the house is under renovation. Abatement is for items in the back yard. He distributed pictures of the rear yard and stated that there is a dumpster, but items don't make it into the dumpster. The items have nothing to do with the reconstruction. Peterson asked ifthe home would be rebuilt. Gonnan stated that a building permit has been issued. Peterson questioned how long the building pennit is for. Gorman stated that would depend on if the pennit was issued before or after the ordinance change. Motion by Williams, second by Kelzenberg, to close the public hearing and to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2006-29 there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Williams, second by Kelzenberg, to adopt Resolution No. 2006-29, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights declaring the property at 4141 Jefferson Street NE a nuisance and approving the abatement of violations from the property pursuant to City Code section 8.206. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. RESOLUTION 2006-29 Resolution of the City Council for the City of Columbia Heights declaring the property a nuisance and approving abatement of ordinance violations pursuant to Chapter 8, Article II, of City Code, of the property owned by Debra Langel (Hereinafter "Owner of Record"). Whereas, the owner of record is the legal owner of the real property located at 4141 Jefferson Street NE. Columbia Heights, Minnesota, And whereas, pursuant to Columbia Heights Code, Chapter 8, Article II, Section 8.206, written notice setting forth the causes and reasons for the proposed council action contained herein was sent via certified and regular mail to the owner of record on February 1, 2006. Now, therefore, in accordance with the foregoing, and all ordinances and regulations of the City of Columbia Heights, the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights Makes the following: FINDINGS OF FACT 1. That on January 17, 2006, an inspection was conducted on the property listed above. Inspectors found one violation. A compliance order was sent via regular mail to the owner at the address. 2. That on February 23, 2006, inspectors reinspected the property and found that one violation remained uncorrected. 3. That based upon said records of the Fire Department, the following conditions and violations of City Ordinance(s) were found to exist, to-wit: a. Shall remove all/any outside storage from the property. Shall store in shed or garage. Items include, BUT NOT LIMITED TO; All wood or lumber in the front and back of the house, gas cans, auto parts and any other outside items not mentioned above. 4. That all parties, including the owner of record and any occupants or tenants, have been given the appropriate notice of this hearing according to the provisions of the City Code Section 8.206(A) and 8.206(B). CONCLUSIONS OF COUNCIL 1. That the property located at 4141 Jefferson Street NE. is in violation of the provisions of the Columbia Heights City Code as set forth in the Notice of Abatement attached hereto; 2. That all relevant parties and parties in interest have been duly served notice of this hearing, and any other hearings relevant to the abatement of violations on the property listed above. 3. That all applicable rights and periods of appeal as relating to the owner of record, occupant, or tenant, as the case may be, have expired, or such rights have been exercised and completed. ORDER OF COUNCIL 1. The property located at 4141 Jefferson Street NE. constitutes a nuisance pursuant to City Code. 2. That a copy of this resolution/order shall be served upon all relevant parties and parties in interest. 3. That any motion for summary enforcement shall be served upon all relevant parties and parties in interest. 4. That all service provided for herein shall be in accordance with Minnesota Statute 483.17, subd. 2 Nawrocki questioned ifthe owners of 1000 Peters Place paid the full amount for license City Council Minutes February 27, 2006 Page 6 of 10 reinstatement. Gonnan stated it is 1.5 times the original amount, and they have paid that. Nawrocki questioned the ten times charge. GOlman stated it is ten times the amount in the fee list, but the cunent ordinance supersedes this. The ordinance change should be presented in another month or two. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION - none ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Report ofthe City Manager (as the City Manager was out ofthe room, his report would be given later) Rep0l1 of the City Attorney - none CITIZENS FORUM - none COUNCIL CORNER Kelzenberg . Regarding a community center: there is a lot happening in our town and this will bring the community together. We need to provide entertaimnent for kids and lower income people; we need a place for people to gather. Does not care ifit is not a good "political" thing to do. We need to do this, whether we do it with the School District or alone; even if we start with a gym, we can build on that. Williams . Corporal Paul Bonesteel will be recognized as Traffic Officer ofthe Year. We are proud of him. . Read the thank you letter received from our Sister City - Lomianki Poland, which was sent December 13, 2005. . Apologized for not wishing the ladies a happy Valentines Day. . His friend, June Grundberg Strandlund, passed on and the memorial was at First Lutheran Church. . Spoke of flight problems this morning. It pays to be patient. . We should get our Pastors and the schools involved in community center discussions. . Pray for peace and unity of our citizens and our city. Diehm . This Thursday will be the Empty Bowls fundraiser at the Fridley Community Center. Encouraged attendance. .. Missed the opportunity at the last meeting to wish Counci1member Kelzenberg a happy birthday. . Took the opportunity to tour the Parkview development and Grand Central Lofts. Very impressed with them and encourage everyone to take the tour and spread the word to friends and co-workers. Nawrocki . Community centers- Murzyn Hall was our first community center built in 1938. It had recreation programs for the kids with groups like the Boosters giving financial aid. . March 30 is the League ofMN Cities Legislative conference, which will cover eminent domain and local government aid. . At the Local Government Officials meeting discussed fiscal disparities, which is important to us and to the rest ofthe county. We are the biggest benefactors of fiscal disparities. Discussion included the amount lost and the affect on property taxes. He explained fiscal disparities. Fehst stated that this would be discussed at an inner ring suburbs meeting to be held on March 16th in City Council Minutes February 27, 2006 Page 7 of 10 Crystal and he will serve on this AMM committee. . The Star Bar and the heavy metal band they had gave us bad publicity. Distributed a petition from the high rise signed by over 50 people regarding the noise and requesting the Star Bar sound proof their music room. There is a meeting tomorrow with the owner. Another liquor license category was allowed with a lesser food requirement. We should consider eliminating that category of liquor license. . Questioned follow up on a committee to assist the Anoka County Historical Society with Anoka County's 150th Anniversary. Fehst stated he spoke to Julienne Wyckoff, Chair of our Historical Society with this request, but has not received an answer yet. . Questioned upgrade of wading pools. Fehst stated he spoke to Kordiak on the cost and read the letter from him recognizing the issues, indicating that Anoka County would not consider violations for cutting into the pool and the decking. If significant remodeling is done, the corrections would be required. He commended Kordiakfor his help and Nawrockifor the correct people to call. . Questioned delivery problem of the Sun Focus newspaper. Fehst stated that anyone can call the newspaper, tell them they are not receiving it, and askfor afree newspaper tube to attach to their mailbox, allowing delivelY without dropping it on the ground. We should remind them that the Northeaster is sent through the mail. Fehst stated that a biweekly paper can now be a legal newspaper. Hoeft stated that the Northeaster would qualifY, but they did not respond to our request. Peterson stated that after discussion they are now printing our recreation information. We can call with our concerns on distribution and put the ball in their court. . Requested financial reporting on the Industrial area. . Requested single sort recycling program costs of other communities with homes as close together as ours. . Requested follow up with the City of New Brighton on Polynesian project. . Also at Local Government Official's meeting discussed Fridley's Springbrook Nature Center, radio signal dead spot problems, fiscal disparities, and the proposed Vikings stadium. Expressed strong disapproval for a County sales tax increase. . Received file infonnation on sewer backup damage. Referred to a letter from the LMC. Peterson stated this issue has been covered and addressed at length and decided it would not be discussed again. He will continue to bring it up. Peterson stated the group agreed to this and Council Corner is not the place for opinion of other government projects. He is looking for a letter from the League that should have been in the file on property around 49th Avenue. . Requested the tentative work session date of March 20 be avoided. . Office of State Auditor requests recommendations from local units of government mandate refonn. This is an opportunity to express our opinions and we should do so. . Received phone call on 1008 and 1010 Gould Avenue, alleging the property was to be rented to the State for a halfway house. Person indicated initial unhappiness with the Salvation Army home, which has been no problem. What kind of facility would it be? Fehst gave a report on past discussions. . Eminent Domain - it is said that we only used it once in the Industrial Park, but we have authorized it several times and paid legal costs to begin the process. How many times have we authorized eminent domain? Returned to agenda items #6, 7, and 8. 6. Adopt Resolution 2006-24 adding the University Avenue Service Road from 44th Avenue to 53rd Avenue to the 2006 Seal Coating Feasibility Report. Fehst stated there would be mill and overlay from 40th to 44th Avenue, and oil and chip from 45th to 53rd Avenue. These residents received notice the same time as those in the other areas of construction. The feasibility report is to see how much work the road needs. City Council Minutes February 27, 2006 Page 8 of 10 Motion by Williams, second by Diehm, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2006-24, there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Williams, second by Diehm, to adopt Resolution 2006-24 being a resolution ordering the City Engineer to amend the 2006 Seal Coat Feasibility Report to include the addition of University Avenue Service Road from 44th Avenue to 53rd Avenue. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. RESOLUTION NO. 2006-24 BEING A RESOLUTION ORDERING THE CITY ENGINEER TO AMEND THE 2006 SEAL COAT FEASIBILITY REPORT TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION OF UNIVERSITY AVENUE SERVICE ROAD FROM 44th AVENUE TO 53Td AVENUE CITY PROJECT - NO. 0601 WHEREAS, the City Council of Columbia Heights is proposing to rehabilitate local streets in Zone lA that have not been rehabilitated under the annual street program. WHEREAS, the City Council intends to assess the benefited property for all or a portion of the cost of the improvement, pursuant to Mnmesota Statutes, Section 429.011 to 429.111 (Laws 1953, Chapter 398, as amended), and Section 103B.20l to 103B.25l, as follows: 2006-01 ZONE lA SEAL COATING PROGRAM: AMENDED TO INCLUDE THE UNIVERSITY SERVICE ROAD, FROM 44TH TO 53RD AVENUES NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA that the amended area proposed improvements be referred to Mr. Kevin Hansen, City Engineer, for study and that he is instructed to report to the Council with all convenient speed advising the Council in a preliminary way as to whether the proposed improvements are necessary, cost effective, and feasible and as to whether it should best be made as proposed or in connection with some other improvement, and the estimated cost of the improvement as recommended. 7) Adopt Resolution 2006-25 adding the University Avenue Service Road from 44th Avenue to 53rd Avenue to the 2006 Seal Coating Public Improvement Hearing for March 6 Motion by Diehm, second by Kelzenberg, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2006-25, there being ample copies available to the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Diehm, second by Kelzenberg, to adopt Resolution 2006-25 being a resolution accepting the amended 2006 Seal Coat Feasibility Report which includes the addition of University Avenue Service Road from 44th Avenue to 53rd Avenue and adding it to the Public Improvement Hearing of March 6, 2006. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. RESOLUTION NO. 2006-25 BEING A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2006 SEAL COAT FEASIBILITY REPORT TO INCLUDE THE ADDITION OF UNIVERSITY AVENUE SERVICE ROAD FROM 44th AVENUE TO 53Td AVENUE AND ADDING IT TO THE PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT HEARING OF MARCH 6, 2006 CITY PROJECT - NO. 0601 WHEREAS, the City Council has adopted a Street Rehabilitation Program which divides the City into seven zones, and WHEREAS, Resolution 2006-15 has accepted the report for the 2006 Street Seal Coating Program and established March 6!1., 2006 as the Public Improvement Hearing date, and WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 2006-24, an amended report has been prepared by the Director of Public Works adding the University Service Road from 44th to 53Td Avenues to the 2006 Seal Coat Program, and WHEREAS, the amended report provides information regarding whether the proposed project is feasible, necessary and cost effective, and Said amended report is hereby received by the City Council of Columbia Heights on February 27'h, 2006. City Council Minutes February 27, 2006 Page 9 of IO NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA 1. The Council will consider the improvement of such streets in accordance with the amended report and the assessment of abutting or benefited property 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 $128,685. 2. The established public hearing for the 2006 Street Seal Coat Program on the 6th day of March, 2006, in the City Council Chambers at 590 40th Avenue N.E. at 6:00 P.M., is hereby amended to add the University Service Road, from 44th to 53rd Avenues, and the City Clerk shall give mailed and published notice of such hearing and improvement as required by law. 8) Adopt Resolution 2006-26 ordering preparation of a feasibility report for the University Avenue Service Road from 40th to 44th Avenues. Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Williams, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2006-26, there being ample copies available for the public. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Kelzenberg, second by Williams, to adopt Resolution No. 2006-26, being a Resolution ordering the preparation of a report for the University Service Road, from 40th Avenue to 44th Avenue. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. RESOLUTION NO. 2006-26 BEING A RESOLUTION ORDERING THE PREPARATION OF A REPORT FOR THE UNIVERSITY SERVICE ROAD FROM 40th TO 44th AVENUES CITY PROJECT NO. 0602 WHEREAS, the City Council of Columbia Heights is proposing to rehabilitate local streets on the University Service Road from 40th to 44th Avenues that have not been rehabilitated under the street program. WHEREAS, the City Council intends to assess the benefitted property for all or a portion of the cost of the improvement, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section 429.011 to 429.111 (Laws 1953, Chapter 398, as amended), and Section 103B.20l to 103B.25l, as follows: 2006-02 UNIVERSITY SERVICE DRIVE, 40th TO 44th AVENUES NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA that the proposed improvements be referred to Mr. Kevin Hansen, City Engineer, for study and that he is instructed to report to the Council with all convenient speed advising the Council in a preliminary way as to whether the proposed improvements are necessary, cost effective, and feasible and as to whether it should best be made as proposed or in connection with some other improvement, and the estimated cost of the improvement as recommended. City Managers report . Will attend recognition of Corporal Bonesteel as the MN Safe and Sober Program Traffic Officer of the Year. . Indicated donation by Ann Kremer, Nancy Kremer Arndt, Lorraine Parks, and Marguerite Proft for the purchase of fire equipment. This will come to Council in the future for fonnal acceptance. . The League of Minnesota Cities contacted us to be part of a news conference at the Capitol to represent the communities with redevelopment needs in their communities and who see the need for eminent domain. The Mayor participated in the news conference. Our city has begun the process by resolution about seven times, but reached fair payouts. Nawrocki stated that we have not used eminent domain improperly and does not see a need to change the law. Each time we start the process it is eminent domain. Peterson stated that Council Comer is our time for ideas and has grown into too much discussion. Nawrocki disagreed. Discussion continued. Peterson suggested everyone review the Rules of Decorum to get back on track. City Council Minutes February 27, 2006 Page 10 of I 0 Peterson . Our Sister City group will jointly sponsor with Holy Cross the perfonnance of "Lolek" on Sunday, March 26th. . Prayer breakfast will be April 26, 2006 with Ivan Brown as the guest speaker. e A community center must be a citizen and community effort. Told prospective resident that Columbia Heights will continue to improve with this City Council. Weare attempting to rebuild the pride and love of our community. The Rising to New Heights group needs to rejuvenate and find a purpose. They will meet on March 14, at 7:00 p.m. at Murzyn Hall. . Sad note - we lost long time resident, Vivian Bixler. Nawrocki . Spoke of Mrs. Bixler. . Regarding newspaper article about invocations. Glad it is back in our meeting. Fully support the Prayer Breakfast. Some people would not agree with mixing government and religion. Mayor Peterson indicated this is the end of the agenda and stated don't take ourselves to seriously and do a random act of kindness. ADJOURNMENT g. ayo: p~erson adjourned the meeting at 9: 17 p.rn. ,j/ ~ ~ '{Ylk~ . . atricia Muscovitz, CMC Deputy City Clerk/Council Secretary