HomeMy WebLinkAboutApril 3, 2006 Work Session
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
Mavor
Gary L. Peterson
Councilmembers
Robert A. Williams
Bruce Nawrocki
Tammera Ericson Diehm
Bruce Kelzenberg
City Manaqer
Walt Fehst
590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights, MN 5542] -3878 (763) 706-3600 TDD (763) 706-3692
Visil Our Wehsite al: www.ci.co{ulllhia-heights.mn.us
ADMINISTRA TION
NOTICE OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING
************
to be held in the
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
as/allows:
Meeting of:
Date of Meeting:
Time of Meeting:
Location of Meeting:
Purpose of Meeting:
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2006
7:00 P.M.
CONFERENCE ROOM 1
WORK SESSION
AGENDA
1. Discussion of proposed amendments to Chapter 2, Form of Government Sections
6, 7, 8, and 9 of the City Charter pertaining to dividing the city into wards and adding
two additional council members.
2. Discuss date for second work session meeting of the month
The City of Columbia Heights does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or
treatment or employment in, its services, pr~rams, or activities. Upon request, accommodation will be
provided to allow individuals with disabilities to participate in all City of Columbia Heights' services,
progralTIS, and activities. 1~.uxi!iaf'j aids for hand~apped persons are available upon request \vhen the request
is made at least 96 hours in advance. Please call the City Council Secrctary at 706-3611, to make
arrangements. (TDD!706-3692 for deaf or hearing impaired only)
THE CIIY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY IN EMPLOYMENT OR THE PROVISION OF SERVICES
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
CITY COUNCIL LETTER
Meeting of:
April 10,2006
AGENDA SECTION: ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
NO:
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT:
ADMINISTRATION
CITY MANAGER'S
APPROVAL
ITEM:
FIRST READING OF PROPOSED CHANGES TO
THE CITY CHARTER, CHAPTER 2, SECTIONS
6, 7, 8, & 9 PERTAINING TO FORM OF
GOVERNMENT
BY: CHARTER COMMISSION
DATE:
BY:
DATE:
NO:
Throughout 2005, the Charter Commission has again studied the issue of dividing the city into
wards/districts. In addition, they have discussed adding two councilmembers at large. An in-
depth study was done comparing cities of like size via information received from the League of
Minnesota Cities.
After considerable discussion throughout 2005, the Charter Commission has passed, on two
separate readings, proposed revisions to the City Charter to accomplish this. These charter
changes are presented to the City Council in the attached proposed ordinance.
The City Council has the option of approving the proposed changes unanimously. If the City
Council does not pass them unanimously, they can send it back to the Charter Commission. The
Charter Commission then has 60 days in which to respond to any council action/suggested
revisions, per Minnesota Statutes 410.12. The Charter Commission will then determine if they
wish to pursue the changes or not, or to put this issue on the ballot at the next regular
election.
Attached is:
-Ordinance No. 1509. amending Chapter 2, Sections 6, 7, 8, and 9 of the City Charter
pertaining to "Form of Government"
-Informational paper from the League of Minnesota Cities presenting a summary of
disadvantages and advantages of ward systems
-Other ideas to consider
-Listing of eleven cities that have populations similar to Columbia Heights and have ward
systems
-Minutes from the special meeting of the Charter Commission of February 16, 2006, (not yet
approved)
.Maps showing population by quadrant using 44th Avenue and Central Avenue for dividing lines
and 43rd Avenue and Central Avenue for dividing lines for possible ward districts
-Minutes from the regular meeting of the Charter Commission of January 19,2006
-Excerpts from the regular meeting of the Charter Commission of October 20, 2005
-Excerpts from the regular meeting of the Charter Commission of July 21, 2005
-Excerpts from the regular meeting of the Charter Commission of April 21, 2005
-Excerpts from the regular meeting of the Charter Commission of January 20, 2005
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Ordinance No. 1509, an ordinance pertaining
to Chapter 2, Sections 6, 7, 8, and 9 of the City Charter, "Form of Government".
RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move to schedule the second reading of Ordinance No. 1509 at approximately
7 p.m. on Monday, May 8,2006, in the City Hall Council Chambers.
COUNCIL ACTION:
ORDINANCE NO. 1509
BEING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER 2, SECTIONS 6, 7, 8, AND 9
OF THE CITY CHARTER
OF THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
PERTAINING TO "FORM OF GOVERNMENT"
The City of Columbia Heights does ordain:
Chapter 2, Sections 6,7,8, and 9, of the Charter of the City of Columbia Heights which currently reads
as follows, to wit:
Section 6. FORM OF GOVERNMENT. The form of government established by this charter shall be
known as the "Council-Manager Plan."
Section 7. ELECTIVE OFFICES. The council shall be composed of a mayor and four council
members who shall be qualified electors, and who shall be elected at large in the manner hereinafter
provided. The four council members shall serve for a term of four years and until their successors are
elected and qualified. The Mayor shall serve for a term of two years and until a successor is elected and
qualified. The council shall be judge of the election of the mayor and council members. (Ordinance
No. 1466, passed December 15,2003) (Ordinance No. 1300, passed April 10, 1995)
Section 8. INCOMPATIBLE OFFICES. No member of the council shall hold any paid municipal
office or employment under the City of Columbia Heights, and until one year after the expiration of that
member's term as council member no former member shall be appointed to any paid office or
employment under the city which office or employment was created or the emoluments of which were
increased during that member's term. (Ordinance No. 1086, passed June 11, 1984)
Section 9. VACANCIES IN THE COUNCIL. A vacancy in the council shall be deemed to exist in
case of the failure of any person elected thereto to qualify on or before the date of the second regular
meeting of the new council, or by reason of the death, resignation, removal from office, cessation as a
resident of the city, continuous absence from the city for more than three months, conviction of a felony
of any such person whether before or after qualification, the failure of any council member without good
cause to perform any of the duties of membership in the council for a period of three months or for any
other cause as may be provided for in Minnesota Statutes, as amended. In each such case, at the next
regular meeting following receipt of notice by the council of one of the foregoing conditions, the council
shall by resolution declare such vacancy to exist unless further investigation is required. Notice of said
vacancy shall be posted at city hall for a period of two (2) weeks from the date of the adoption of the
resolution declaring said vacancy. Notice shall also be published in a designated city newspaper for a
period of two (2) weeks as soon as possible after the date of the adoption of said resolution, with the
publication being completed no later than thirty (30) days from said date. Applications shall be sought
and accepted from individuals interested in filling the vacancy, which applications shall be submitted to
city hail, to the attention of the City Clerk, within 45 days from the date of said resolution. The council
shall interview each of the applicants within 30 days from the close of the application period, and shall
conduct said interviews in an agreed upon uniform manner as a council. After said 30 day period, the
council shall make its appointment from the pool of applicants within 15 days, whether done so at a
regular council meeting or a special meeting. The individuals so appointed shall fill said vacancy until
the next regular municipal election, when the office shall be filled for the unexpired term by an eligible
person elected at large in the manner hereinafter set forth; provided, however, that if a vacancy is
declared by resolution after March 31 st in the year of a regular municipal election, then the appointment
process as set forth herein shall not take effect and any such vacancy shall continue to exist until said
election, at which time the vacancy shall be filled for the unexpired term by an eligible person elected at
large in the manner hereinafter provided. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, any vacancy
resulting from a recall election or from a resignation following the filing of a recall petition shall be filled
in the manner provided in such case. (Ordinance No. 1331, passed September 23, 1996) (Ordinance
No. 1086, passed June 11, 1984)
Shall be amended to read:
Section 6. FORM OF GOVERNMENT. The form of government established by this charter shall be
known as the "Council-Manager Plan."
Section 7. ELECTIVE OFFICES. The council shall be composed of the mayor, elected at-large, two
councilmembers elected at-large, and four councilmembers, each of whom shall be elected from a
separate ward as established or amended pursuant to this charter. The mayor and councilmembers shall
be qualified electors. Each councilmember elected from a ward shall be a resident of the ward.
However, the following circumstances shall not disqualify a councilmember from serving the remainder
of a term: (i) a change in ward boundaries; or (ii) cessation as a resident of the ward from which elected,
so long as the councilmember remains a resident of the City. Except as hereinafter provided,
councilmembers shall serve for a term of four years and until a successor is elected and qualifies. The
mayor shall serve for a term of two years and until a successor is elected and qualifies. The elections for
the mayor and councilmembers shall be held as provided herein. (Ordinance No. 1466, passed
December 15, 2003) (Ordinance No. 1300, passed April 10, 1995)
Section 7a. WARDS. The City shall be divided into four separate wards. The boundaries of such
wards shall be determined by ordinance based upon population as determined by the most recent federal
census and shall be as equal in population as practicable. A ward must be composed of a compact and
contiguous territory. Review of the ward boundaries must be made by the Council and the wards
reapportioned by ordinance no later than two years after the year in which a federal census is taken so
that the populations ofthe wards are as equal as practicable. The wards of the City are those described
herein on the effective date of this Charter Amendment.
Section 8. INCOMPATIBLE OFFICES. No member of the council shall hold any paid municipal
office or employment under the City of Columbia Heights, and until one year after the expiration of that
member's term as council member no former member shall be appointed to any emoluments of which
were increased during the member's term. (Ordinance No. 1086, passed June 11, 1984)
Section 9. VACANCIES IN THE COUNCIL. A vacancy in the council shall be deemed to exist in
case of the failure of any person elected thereto to qualify on or before the date of the second regular
meeting of the new council, or by reason of the death, resignation, removal from office, cessation as a
resident of the city, continuous absence from the city for more than three months, conviction of a felony
of any such person whether before or after qualification, the failure of any council member without good
cause to perform any of the duties of membership in the council for a period of three months or for any
other cause as may be provided for in Minnesota Statutes, as amended. In each such case, at the next
regular meeting following receipt of notice by the council of one of the foregoing conditions, the council
shall by resolution declare such vacancy to exist unless further investigation is required. Notice of said
vacancy shall be posted at city hall for a period of two (2) weeks from the date of the adoption of the
resolution declaring said vacancy. Notice shall also be published in a designated city newspaper for a
period of two (2) weeks as soon as possible after the date of the adoption of said resolution, with the
publication being completed no later than thirty (30) days from said date. Applications shall be sought
and accepted from individuals interested in filling the vacancy, which applications shall be submitted to
city hall, to the attention of the City Clerk, within 45 days from the date of said resolution. The council
shall interview each of the applicants within 30 days from the close of the application period, and shall
conduct said interviews in an agreed upon uniform manner as a council. After said 30 day period, the
council shall make its appointment from the pool of applicants within 15 days, whether done so at a
regular council meeting or a special meeting. The individuals so appointed shall fill said vacancy until
the next regular municipal election, when the office shall be filled for the unexpired term by an eligible
person elected at large in the manner hereinafter set forth; provided, however, that if a vacancy is
declared by resolution after March 31st in the year of a regular municipal election, then the appointment
process as set forth herein shall not take effect and any such vacancy shall continue to exist until said
election, at which time the vacancy shall be filled for the unexpired term by an eligible person elected at
large in the manner hereinafter provided. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, any vacancy
resulting from a recall election or from a resignation following the filing of a recall petition shall be filled
in the manner provided in such case. (Ordinance No. 1331, passed September 23,1996) (Ordinance
No. 1086, passed June 11, 1984)
First Reading:
Second Reading:
Date of Passage:
Offered by:
Seconded by:
Roll Call:
Gary L. Peterson, Mayor
Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk
LMC
League of Minnesota Cities
145 University Avenue West, St Paul, MN 55103-2044
(651) 281-1200 · (800) 925-1122
Fax: (651) 281-1299 · TOO: (651) 281-1290
wWW.lmnc.org
Luzg- 0/ Minnesota Cities
Ci/iu promoting ","",Ormcg
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Ward System in Home Rule
Charter Cities
By Rylee Retzer, Staff Attorney, Charter Assistance Program
Standard Arguments for both propositions:
Advantages of the Ward System
· As citizens vote only for candidates in their ward, the ballot is shorter and simpler.
· Voters are more likely to have direct, personal knowledge about qualities of those who
seek to represent them, and thereby will make a more intelligent choice.
· After the election, the council member will keep in closer touch with his or her
constituents.
· Insofar as wards have special interests, these will be represented.
· Insofar as wards contain distinct social, ethnic, and economic groups, the council will be
a better cross-section of the population.
· If a minority is concentrated in one geographical area, the ward system increases its
chance of securing some representation on the council.
· The campaign costs to a council candidate are lower.
· Election by wards tends to attract ore candidates to run for office.
· Each geographical area of the city will be assured some representation.
· Council members will be able to have closer contact with their constituents and be more
responsive to their needs.
Disadvantages of the Ward System
· Ward boundaries do not necessarily delineate homogenous areas. Therefore, there may
not be a ward interest that would justify separate representation.
· Voters in one 'ward may find there is no ca.'1didate in the ward they can wholeheartedly
support, and that there is a candidate in another ward who would more fully represent
their support, and that there is a candidate in another ward who would more fully
represent their views. The ward system prevents these voters from fully exercising their
freedom of choice.
· In some wards there may be difficulty in finding qualified candidates who are willing to
run for office so that the voters' range of choice is restricted and the quality of the council
may be lowered.
· Wards encourage a spirit oflocalism since the basis of selection tends to be service to the
ward, not the city.
· Wards may foster divisive competition for scarce resources.
· Politically active or special interest groups may be over represented by targeting certain
wards.
· Once established, ward boundaries are difficult to change. Redistricting may be
expenSIve.
· Election will be more expensive as more polling places and election judges will be
needed. It may be more difficult for the voter to find the correct polling place.
CNOTE; ThJs. 'v:c,-QI.!Id not be the case tn Colurnbi.a H-e;:ghJs~l
JPROS AND CONS OF WARDS/DISTRICTS:
Insofar as wards contain
the council will be a be
If a minority is concentr
ward system increases i
the council.
Campaign costs to a COt
candidate would have to
the whole city (unless tl
Each geographical area
representation, thus not
"represented" from thei
Council members willi
constituents and be mOl
If the city considers the
time to also consider in
increasing the length 01
It may be an opportuni1
well as minorities.
Increases in population
Lofts, NEI site, Mady':
city due to developmen
roposed quadrants cUJ~
Elections could be less
election judges will be
V oters might find it les
mitiallv.
--
PI~OS CONS
simpler. Ward boundaries do not necessarily delineate homogenous areas so there may
not be a ward interest that would iustify separate representation.
ect, personal knowledge about qualities of Some voters may find there is no candidate in their ward they want to
nt them, thereby making a more intelligent support, but there's another candidate in another ward they would.
--
ouncil member will keep in closer touch with It's possible in some wards there will be difficulty in finding qualified and
interested candidates.
--
pecial interests, these will be represented. Wards can encourage a spirit of localism since the basis of selection tends to
be service to the ward.
a distinct social, ethnic, and economic groups, Wards may foster divisive competition for scarce resources.
~~er cross--section ofthe entire city.
lted in one geographic area of the city, the Politically active or special interest groups may be oven-epresented by
s chance of securing some representation on targeting certain wards.
ncil candidate would be much lower, as the Once established, boundaries are difficult to change, and redistricting may be
only canvass a specific area of the city, not expensIVe.
,ey were running for an at-large position).
of the city will be assured some If no one decided to run in a specific quadrant, write-in candidates would be a
leaving anyone feel like they are not possibly, as well as the council appointing the cun-ent member or someone
: area. new. A special election is also a possibly in this case.
,e able to have closer contact with their
~~ response to their needs.
wards/districts option, it would be a good
::reasing the size of the council and possibly
.term for the Mayor.
y to get younger people to nm for office, as
--
in certain quadrants (i.e., Industrial Park, The
Bowling Alley/Salvation Army site) of the
t/redevelopment may change some of the
rently being looked at.
expensive, as fewer polling places and
needed.
s difficult to find their con-ect polling place
--
Ballots are shorter and s
Voters likely to have di
those seeking to represe
choice.
After the election, the c
his/her constituents.
Insofar as wards have s
LISTING OF CITIES WITH LIKE POPULATIONS
THAT HAVE WARDSIDISTRICT:
o Albert Lea (population 18,079)
o Austin (population 23,670)
o Crystal (population 22, 840)
o Hastings (population 19,202)
o Northfield (population 17,846)
o Ramsey (population 18,830)
o Owatonna (population 23,082)
o Red Wing (population 16,269)
o West St. Paul (population 19,650)
o White Bear Lake (population 24,874) and
o Willmar (population 18,512).
OFFICIAL MINUTES OF THE
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE
CHARTER COMMISSION
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16,2006
7:00 P.M.
GAUVITTE ROOM
MURZYN HALL
Call to Order
The special meeting was called to order by President Mike Hartel at 7:05 p.m.
Roll Call
Members present: Bob Buboltz, Nicole Druckrey, Barb Gertsema, Mike Hartel, Jim Johnson, Nancy
King, Carolyn Laine, Mike Patiuk, Lori Ritzko, Joe Sturdevant, Dan Vogtman
Members absent and excused: Scott Kyseth, Joseph Sturdevant
Members absent and unexcused: Katy Korday
Council Liaison for 2006, Tami-Ericson Diehm, was present.
Also present: Jim Hoeft, City Attorney; Carole Blowers, Recording Secretary
Status of Membership
President Hartel announced that there is one vacancy on the Charter Commission due to the removal of
Clare Schmidt from the commission due to the fact that she has missed four consecutive meetings
without being excused. Applications were available for members tonight to take with them if they knew
of anyone interested in applying for this commission.
Approval of Minutes of January 19,2006:
Commissioner V ogtman asked that a correction be made on page 2, second paragraph from the bottom of
the page. The correction was to add the words "as originally discussed". Motion by Commissioner
V ogtman, seconded by Commissioner Buboltz to make this amendment. Motion by Commissioner
Laine, seconded by Commissioner Hartel to approve the minutes of January 19, 2006, with the above
correction. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion by Commissioner Buboltz, seconded by Commissioner Hartel, to approve the minutes as
submitted for the October 20, 2005, meeting. Motion passed unanimously.
Old Business
Discussion on Districts/Wards
President Hartel stated that the purpose of this special meeting tonight was to consider the proposed
amendments to Chapter 2 as a second reading on the commission level.
NpUT 111::1n<;: d,n"Tina thp nnnlllation fiaur",<;: riaht n(""Xl for Qll<:lrlranh, "ons;rl"'r;nrr A1rd Au",n"", anrl r",ntr<:>l
.... ,_.. ..........._1:"''''' .................... .'.......JI.....O ..........- .!:-''-'y,.,.....l. \..L .... .........0 .A._U L.l.b.l. '" L.L....... '1''1' ..........L .I......"\o..a..1. .1..1."'''-'..... .l..1. .1.\".1."" .L 1.5 -....I.J l.V"-'.l..lu....... .l..lU ~vJ.l .1U.l.
Avenue were passed out tonight for commissioner's information. Using that map and dividing lines,
populations were: NW Quadrant 5,495
NE Quadrant 4,950
SWQuadrant 3,916
SE Quadrant 4,159
Charter Commission
February 16, 2006
Page 1
Previous maps showing the population figures right now for quadrants considering 44th Avenue and
Central Avenue were passed out as well, in case people needed that map. Using that map and dividing
lines, populations were: NW Quadrant 4,500
NE Quadrant 4,115
SW Quadrant 4,911
SE Quadrant 4,994
Commissioners agreed that using 44th Avenue and Central Avenue had a more equal distribution of
population.
Commissioners were also given information from the City Planner regarding projected increase in
housing units for the city.
Commission members were provided tonight with wording put together by the City Attorney's office
reflecting changes discussed at the January, 2006, meeting. This version addressed the issue of when a
councilmember moves from one ward to another in the city, they would still be allowed to finish out their
elected term. The City Attorney stated that he felt he should address this in Section 7 instead of Section
9, and the draft provided this evening reflects that.
Commissioner Druckrey mentioned that there was a typographical error in the first sentence of Section
7-the last word should be "charter" not "charger".
Questions were asked regarding voting to put this item on the ballot. The City Attorney stated that if the
City Council did not pass the amendments proposed unanimously, it would take a simple majority vote at
the Charter Commission level to put this item on the ballot.
Motion by Commissioner Buboltz, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, to approve the amended
language on a second reading at the commission level, and to forward it to the City Council (as follows):
PROPOSED CHANGES TO
CHAPTER 2
FORM OF GOVERNMENT
(Note: Underlined material indicates new language; crossed out material indicates current language to
be deleted.)
Section 6. FORM OF GOVERNMENT. The form of government established by this charter shall be
known as the "Council-Manager Plan."
Section 7. ELECTIVE OFFICES. The council shall be composed of a the mayor, elected at-large, two
councilmembers elected at-large, and four council members, each of whom whe shall be qualified electors,
and ',Jiho shall be elected from a separate ward as established or amended pursuant to this charter. at large in
the m:1lLl1er hereinafter pro"vided. The mayor and councilmembers shall be qualified electors. Eacll
councilmember elected from a ward shall be a resident of the ward. However, the following circumstances
shall not disqualify a councilmember from serving the remainder of a term: (1 ) a change in ward boundaries;
or (ii) cessation as a resident of the ward from which elected, so long as the councilmember remains a
resident of the City. Except as hereinafter provided, councilmembers The four council members shall serve
for a term of four years and until theif ~ successors is are elected and qualifie~d. The mayor shall serve for a
Charter Commission
February 16, 2006
Page 2
term of two years and until a successor is elected and qualifie~a. The council shull be judge of the elections
ef for the mayor and councilmembers shall be held as provided herein. (Ordinance No. 1466, passed
December 15, 2003) (Ordinance No. 1300, passed April 10, 1995)
Section 7a. WARDS. The City shall be divided into four separate wards. The boundaries of such
wards shall be determined by ordinance based upon population as determined by the most recent federal
census and shall be as equal in population as practicable. A ward must be composed of a compact and
contiguous territory. Review of the ward boundaries must be made by the Council and the wards
reapportioned by ordinance no later than two years after the year in which a federal census is taken so
that the populations of the wards are as equal as practicable. The wards of the City are those described
herein on the effective date of this Charter amendment.
Section 8. INCOMPATIBLE OFFICES. No member of the council shall hold any paid municipal office
or employment under the City of Columbia Heights, and until one year after the expiration ofthat member's
term as council member no former member shall be appointed to any paid office or employment under the
city "vhich office or employment VIUS created e:F--the emoluments of which were increased during that
member's term. (Ordinance No. 1086, passed June 11, 1984)
Section 9. VACANCIES IN THE COUNCIL. A vacancy in the council shall be deemed to exist in
case of the failure of any person elected thereto to qualify on or before the date of the second regular
meeting of the new council, or by reason of the death, resignation, removal from office, cessation as a
resident of the city, continuous absence from the city for more than three months, conviction of a felony
of any such person whether before or after qualification, the failure of any council member without good
cause to perform any of the duties of membership in the council for a period of three months or for any
other cause as may be provided for in Minnesota Statutes, as amended. In each such case, at the next
regular meeting following receipt of notice by the council of one of the foregoing conditions, the council
shall by resolution declare such vacancy to exist unless further investigation is required. Notice of said
vacancy shall be posted at city hall for a period of two (2) weeks from the date ofthe adoption of the
resolution declaring said vacancy. Notice shall also be published in a designated city newspaper for a
period of two (2) weeks as soon as possible after the date of the adoption of said resolution, with the
publication being completed no later than thirty (30) days from said date. Applications shall be sought
and accepted from individuals interested in filling the vacancy, which applications shall be submitted to
city hall, to the attention of the City Clerk, within 45 days from the date of said resolution. The council
shall interview each of the applicants within 30 days from the close of the application period, and shall
conduct said interviews in an agreed upon uniform manner as a council. After said 30 day period, the
council shall make its appointment from the pool of applicants within 15 days, whether done so at a
regular council meeting or a special meeting. The individuals so appointed shall fill said vacancy until
the next regular municipal election, when the office shall be filled for the unexpired term by an eligible
person elected at large in the manner hereinafter set forth; provided, however, that if a vacancy is declared
by resolution after March 31 st in the year of a regular municipal election, then the appointment process as
set forth herein shall not take effect and any such vacancy shall continue to exist until said election, at
which time the vacancy shall be filled for the unexpired term by an eligible person elected at large in the
manner hereinafter provided. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, any vacancy resulting
from a recall election or from a resignation following the filing of a recall petition shall be filled in the
manner provided in such case. (Ordinance No. 1331, passed September 23,1996) (Ordinance No.
1086, passed June 11, 1984)
Vote on the above motion: Ayes: Buboltz, Druckrey, Gertsema, Hartel, Johnson, Laine, Patiuk, Ritzko,
Sturdevant, Vogtman Nayes: King Absent: Korday, Kyseth, Sturdevant. Motion passed.
Charter Commission
February 16, 2006
Page 3
Council Liaison Ericson-Diehm asked that the maps the Charter Commission has been looking at be
attached to these minutes for review by the City Council.
President Hartel said he would expect this issue to be brought up first at a council work session and then
to a regular city council meeting. Council Liaison Ericson-Diehm stated that Councilmember Nawrocki
will be gone one meeting in March. Charter Commission members felt it would be important to have this
on a work session that all city councilmembers would be attending. President Hartel will be in contact
with the City Manager to set the date this would be discussed at a council work session. Charter
Commission members are certainly invited to attend the work session meeting as well, but President
Hartel will be there to represent the commission as a whole.
Next Meeting Date
The next regular Charter Commission meeting date is April 20, 2006, at 7 p.m. at Murzyn Hall.
Adjournment
Motion by Commissioner Vogtman, seconded by President-Elect Hartel to adjourn the meeting at 7:25
p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Carole J. Blowers,
Recording Secretary
Attachments-Maps (2)
Charter Commission
February 16, 2006
Page 4
1; ~._
50 1/2 AVE !;:;C..T..-J.' '. o,o-yn..'-.....,. "j- "'~~~:~.' '~..' Er-
W~&r~J-V; .~ ~. ~.
~ 49 1/2 AVE:~CL,~ i~<="~ ' < ". lii . .
~' >~ ~lJL.-r,x lVl E ff
:2 ---t'... .. 11'1 . 0 i;IGHlAl' D Pl
'.' ..... ,~"'" .. 49~O~ i FAiIR~Jl _DR
.' . .... . ~. . . . . .;
,47THAVE -1'-'-]:--. '!i; .... .~
le'!, . .':.. ;~4~H~1 ~.... .~
.i j"" . ~
j .... 45 HAVE>:' .... I l \ 45 Am
,. ~:.
~ ""~44,. 1/2 AV..E. ...'. ...:.... .m .[1.....
<.~. ..,' ; ...L ." . iJ
~ E ,44TH AV~ . . J;;;"Vl:g3 ._1 .... ....
>] :.' 431/2 AVE ~,~ y--- '.
.........:...., .... l' iiJ <:
4 RDAVE!i; ..,;,.., .'. 'f; (9. 3RD IvE
.,.' 'j., Ik',:: ,W >J ...1'.... ~!'\""...
,;, ;'" .....:,\',/ a.,.... ".Y ..... ~m:' I. ",.":
"'m "', : ""';') ,...". '.' :.m
0'7,'/ ......~:<.~,:.:,i~~.:t '.. ,.'}
.:;".1.., ,f.! 'itl .'" '\
........':.... .,...,'j(':":"" '..:14/1'~9..'Pu'" "',:'~
=',I"t. ':':'",Jr%v/ 'm .. ......~I.~~ .'.' -;,-
".' ,;,-' t ";~,;()(ir::i :...).:); I;e ';.' ...'....:
, ,'. > '.?Jl: " ,'/ /.; ~TH AV,!;..: .. '..' .\ .... :-d
: k.';'/,/\/~ ,rn~~ ":: ~..(;;:,~ '" .:'
'.' F;,.f/'?';'f/ ..... ,".~ "><'.- .'" ~ ..\'~
)J/', / jf.?' . ";;h, :.;-"; ........,...; % 'i,1'V
LJ-
.'('
52f D A\ E
.n
v~
~
CJ
;;0
- 51ST AVE
50T AVE
H
a 49 HJl E ~ td\ ^ I ~
~ ,~I~t-~-,;
R '48 HA\E 54;95
u _-1
471/2 S
TH ST ~7n AVE
t
'l6T AVE ~
47 HAVE
k6 1/2 ST
46TH AV
45TH AVE HAVE
i--
~ I I
I ~ I 1
~D \IE ~ i
....;
~
! I-
~ In
1
I
I
ct:
45TH AVE
,'" -
i..
NO AVE
ND
....'., :.,.,' _",l'
,.':. ,.,: ~
"" iF, ,.,..
~f
"".
;":d."
'" ~.
..;,
,'-';.;y,....
"<; '"
.};:~
;,,'
/
(.
'"
" ......
>'
I
'.,."..,
,.,,'
.... ,'';C.
"~{i'
.,0' ,;.';
..... :.:
I;",!l:' '.,
i"!j;< . .". ;, >,:1'
, Data: 2000 Census
Map Date: February 15, 2006
,Author. Columbia Heights GIS
(AI
('
'. City of
" Columbia Heights
Population by Quadrant
.
[I Census Block
(/".
, .-.-,
, City of
, Columbia Heights
Population by Quadrant
with Census Block Populations
26 53
r
52 74/ .
-1103.
. 128
82'52 5160
C" ....' Data: 2000 Census
Map Date: July 20, 2005
,; Author: Columbia Heights GIS
o Census Block
OFFICIAL MINUTES OF THE
CHARTER COMMISSION
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19,2006
7:00 P.M.
GAUVITTE ROOM
MURZYN HALL
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by President Joseph Sturdevant at 7:02 p.m.
Roll Call
Members present: Bob Buboltz, Nicole Druckrey, Barb Gertsema, Mike Hartel, Jim Johnson, Nancy
King, Scott Kyseth, Carolyn Laine, Mike Patiuk (7:12 p.m.), Lori Ritzko, Joe
Sturdevant, Joseph Sturdevant, Dan Vogtman
Members absent and excused: Katy Korday
Members absent and unexcused: Clare Schmidt
Council Liaison for 2006, Tami-Ericson Diehm, was present.
Also present: Jim Hoeft, City Attorney; Carole Blowers, Recording Secretary
Approval of Minutes of October 20, 2005
Motion by Commissioner Buboltz, seconded by Commissioner Hartel, to approve the minutes as
submitted for the October 20,2005, meeting. Motion passed unanimously.
Election of Officers
President Sturdevant asked commissioners for nominations for President. Motion by Commissioner
Johnson to nominate Joe Sturdevant for President. Joe Sturdevant declined the nomination. Motion by
Commissioner Laine to nominate Mike Hartel for President. President Sturdevant called for nominations
for President three times. There being no further nominations, Mike Hartel was elected President via a
white ballot.
It was decided that Joseph Sturdevant would continue to run tonight's meeting. President Sturdevant
asked commissioners for nominations for Vice President. Motion by Commissioner Sturdevant to
nominate Bob Buboltz. President Sturdevant called for nominations for Vice President three times.
There being no further nominations, Bob Buboltz was elected Vice President via a white ballot.
President Sturdevant asked commissioners for nominations for Secretary. Motion by Commissioner
V ogtman to nominate himself. President Sturdevant called for nominations for Secretary three times.
There being no further nominations, Dan V ogtman was elected Secretary via a white ballot.
Therefore, officers for 2006 are:
President Mike Hartel
Vice President Bob Buboltz
Secretary Dan V ogtman
~ .
. ..-.._....n.on_ro._IiI.n._.n.1'>.
'--VII \;1'lPVUU\;U"'"
The Recording Secretary advised the following correspondence took place since the last meeting in
October:
· Revisions were made to the City Charter regarding Chapter 7, Section 72, Bonded Debt and Debt
Limit, and copies were provided to the Mayor and Council, division heads, charter commission
members, local schools, and the League of Minnesota Cities.
Charter Commission
January 19, 2006
Page 1
· The City Attorney's office forwarded a copy of proposed changes to the City Charter regarding the
issue of wards/districts. A strike-out/underline version of these changes was prepared for commission
members to be included in the packets for tonight's meeting. A cover memo was also prepared to
introduce the proposed changes from the City Attorney regarding the issue of wards/districts.
· Tonight's agenda was prepared and mailed.
· Member e-mail/phone number update forms were prepared.
· The 2005 Annual Report of the Charter Commission was prepared for review by the members.
President Sturdevant asked if any members had any other correspondence since our last meeting. There
was no further correspondence reported.
Status of Membership
The Charter CommissIOn has its full complement of fifteen members at this time.
Slips were passed out to members to verify their current phone and e-mail addresses for the Recording
Secretary.
The City Attorney arrived at 7:10 p.m.
Old Business
Annual Board/Commission Dinner
The annual board/commission recognition dinner was held on Wednesday, December 14, 2005, at
Murzyn Hall. Some members of this commission were in attendance. This year's caterer was Classic
Catering. It was suggested that perhaps a different caterer could be used next year, as the food was not
as good as usual.
New Charter Pages
New city charter pages were provided to commission members regarding the ordinance changes made to
the Bonded Debt section. Motion by Commissioner Sturdevant, seconded by Commissioner Buboltz to
accept the updated pages.
Discussion on Districts/Wards
This topic is ongoing from the past several commission meetings. Commission members were provided,
in advance, wording put together by the City Attorney's office regarding what needed to be changed in
the charter to divide the city into four wards or districts and add two city councilmembers at large.
There was discussion about using the word "ward", and should either the word "district" or "precinct" be
used instead. It was decided to keep the word "ward" throughout the proposed language.
Commissioner Laine addressed the proposed wording for Section 7a, WARDS, the fourth sentence
concerning who will review the ward boundaries. She stated that it was the wish of the Charter
Commission members present at the last meeting that the Charter Commission would be the body that
would review the boundaries. Commissioners Buboltz, Hartel, and V ogtman stated the Charter
Commission was to have control of the boundaries, as originally discussed.
Commissioner Laine also questioned the City Attorney about Section 7a, WARDS, in which it states that
"the wards reapportioned by ordinance no later than two years after the year in which a federal census is
taken so that the populations of the wards are as equal as practicable." She felt that the boundaries had to
be changed anytime if the populations between wards varied between a certain percentage. There was
further discussion on this item.
Charter Commission
January 19, 2006
Page 2
Commissioner V ogtman asked if a councilmember moved out of their ward (but still lived in the city)
during their term of office, would they be allowed to finish out their term and then file in the new district
or ward they live in or what? The City Attorney stated that the way the proposed reading stands, if a
councilmember moved from their elected district or ward, it would end their term. However, that person
would not be disqualified if the boundaries changed during their term.
The section of the charter that addresses this is the first paragraph of the proposed Section 9.
V ACANCIES IN THE COUNCIL which is proposed as follows:
A vacancy in the council shall be deemed to exist in case of the failure of any person
elected thereto to qualify on or before the date of the second regular meeting of the new
council, or by reason of the death, resignation, removal from office, cessation as a resident
of the city, or ofthe ward from which elected (except as provided in Section 7a),
continuous absence from the city for more than three months, conviction of a felony of any
such person whether before or after qualification, the failure of any council member
without good cause to perform any of the duties of membership in the council for a period
of three months or for any other cause as may be provided for in Minnesota Statutes, as
amended.
After this discussion, motion by Commissioner V ogtman, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, to
remove the proposed wording "or of the ward from which elected (except as provided in Section 7a)"
from Section 9, VACANCIES IN THE COUNCIL.
There was further discussion on what should happen if a councilmember moved out of their ward (but
still lived in the city). It appeared commissioners felt that if a councilmember moved out of their ward
(but still lived in the city), they should be allowed to finish out their term and then file in the new district
or ward they live in if they wanted to.
Commissioner Druckrey asked if this should be clarified in Section 7. The City Attorney stated he
definitely felt it should be in Section 9. The City Attorney stated he could put different language in
Section 9 to address the situation if a councilmember moves from his or her particular ward, but is still a
resident of the city, they would be able to serve out their term they were originally elected for. If they
wish to continue to serve beyond that, the person would have to run in their new district.
Commissioner Vogtman agreed to amend his original motion, and Commissioner Johnson agreed to
second this amendment to the original motion to redraft wording as part of Section 9 to reflect that a
councilmember moving from his or her particular ward (and still living in the city) would still be allowed
to serve out their elected original term. Amended motion passed unanimously.
Motion by Commissioner Laine to change the wording regarding the review of the ward or district
boundaries to be made by the Charter Commission (not the City Council) and that it needs to be
reapportioned by Charter amendment.
Councilmember Ericson-Diehm stated that if the City Council votes on this amendment and it does not
pass unanimously, the Charter Commission will then have to put the item on the ballot, possibly at a
special election.
Charter Commission
January 19, 2006
Page 3
Commissioner V ogtman stated that the Charter Commission might have to meet more often.
Commissioner Laine had another suggestion that perhaps an independent commission could be set up by
the Charter Commission to review boundaries. The City Attorney stated he felt the city council would
take care of the boundary issues and redistricting as needed, even though it could be challenging. He
stated that the proposed wording put together by his office incorporates the wording of many other city
charters.
Commissioner Vogtman stated he didn't feel the Charter Commission should remove a layer of control
from the City Council. Commissioner Kyseth stated he was in favor of a small group overlooking the
boundaries instead of the having this done by the entire commission.
Commissioner Buboltz wanted to know how many times would we have to redistrict? Discussion then
centered on whether there should be just a simple majority of the council to decide on the boundaries, or a
super majority. Commissioner Hartel stated that after hearing all the discussion tonight, maybe the
Charter Commission should not review the boundaries and redistricting issue, but leave it up to the City
Council.
Many members felt a transition schedule needs to be addressed. The City Attorney stated he felt this was
premature, as the proposed charter changes need to be read again at another Charter Commission meeting
and then passed on to the City Council, where they have sixty days to act on it.
Councilmember Ericson-Diehm stated that philosophically, she does not agree with the proposed charter
changes to divide the city into four wards or districts. The city is only 3.5 square miles in size. She
stated that if there are wards or districts, those elected may consider representing their "special area" only
and may not consider themselves as representing the entire city. She feels that choice of candidates in a
specific ward or district of the city could be very limited. However, she also stated it would be easier to
campaign if there were wards.
Commissioner V ogtman stated that he used to think like Councilmember Ericson-Diehm, but after
discussing this issue for some time now, he has changed his mind. After consideration, he is in favor of
adding more people to the city council and adding members at large. He stated that maybe we should
consider having only two wards or districts, and let the rest of the councilmembers run at large.
Commissioner Laine stated that if you have enough money to run for office, you can use the Post Office.
If not, you need to walk around the entire city. Some members felt that the prevalence of campaign street
signs is a big factor as well.
Voting statistics were discussed. There are approximately 10,000 registered voters, and 7,000 actually
vote. Some members felt that some people don't vote if they don't know who is running. Voting turnout
could be even larger if people were running in specific wards or districts of the city, because those people
would be "known" in their area.
Discussion was held on whether or not to invite the councilmembers to another meeting with the Charter
Commission. Some members did not feel it would be fruitful, as this was attempted before, and
Councilmember Nawrocki was the only councilmember who appeared previously to discuss this issue
with commission members as a whole.
Charter Commission
January 19, 2006
Page 4
Commissioner King stated she is not in favor of wards or districts; ~he does not think it is fair to have just
one or two choices. She likes to select her councilmembers on the basis of business experience and
background. She also stated that it is not that costly to place campaign ads in the local papers, and some
people on this commission support this ward issue because they have run in the past and lost.
President Sturdevant stated that in 1980, there were some people running for office unopposed. He could
recall in 1993 or so, that 16 or 17 people ran for council seats in the primary. All city council members at
the present time live on the east side of Central Avenue. The concern of not every having every area of
the city represented is still a common comment. He also reminded members that the number of places to
go vote would go down from eight to four.
Commissioner Hartel asked the City Attorney about the wording that was crossed out in Section 8,
INCOMPATIBLE OFFICES, that was provided to commission members. The City Attorney stated that
he will check the current charter language, but it appeared that the wording underlined in that section
should be omitted from the changes being considered tonight.
Commissioner Laine's motion died for a lack ofa second.
Motion by Commissioner Buboltz, seconded by Commissioner Laine, to forward to the City Council the
proposed charter language as amended tonight. The language that was being voted on is as follows:
PROPOSED CHANGES TO
CHAPTER 2
FORM OF GOVERNMENT
(Note: Underlined material indicates new language; crossed out material indicates current language to
be deleted.)
Section 6. FORM OF GOVERNMENT. The form of government established by this charter shall be
known as the "Council-Manager Plan."
Section 7. ELECTIVE OFFICES. The council shall be composed of a the Mayor, elected at-large, two
councilmembers elected at-large, and four council members, each of whom whe shall be qualified electors,
and who shall be elected from a separate ward as established or amended pursuant to this charter. at large in
the manner hereinafter provided. The Mayor and councilmembers shall be qualified electors. Each
councilmember elected from a ward shall be a resident of the ward, but a change in ward boundaries does
llQtg.i~gJl'!JifY a councilmember from servin!:! the remainder of a term. Except as hereinafter provided,
councilmembers The four council members shall serve for a term of four years and until theif f! successors is
are elected and qualifie~El. The Mayor shall serve for a term of two years and until a successor is elected and
qualifie~a. The coe~ci! shall be judge cfthe elections e-ffor the Mayor and councilmembcrs shall be held as
provided herein. (Ordinance No. 1466, passed December 15,2003) (Ordinance No. 1300, passed April
10, 1995)
Section 7a. WARDS. The City shall be divided into four separate wards. The boundaries of such
wards shall be determined by ordinance based upon population as determined by the most recent federal
Charter Commission
January 19, 2006
Page 5
census and shall be as equal in population as practicable. A ward must be composed of a compact and
contiguous territory. Review of the ward boundaries must be made by the Council and the wards
reapportioned by ordinance no later than two years after the year in which a federal census is taken so
that the populations of the wards are as equal as practicable. The wards of the City are those described
herein on the effective date of this Charter amendment.
Section 8. INCOMPATIBLE OFFICES. No member of the council shall hold any paid municipal office
or employment under the City of Columbia Heights, and until one year after the expiration of that member's
term as council member no former member shall be appointed to any paid office or employment under the
city which office or employment was created or the emoluments of which were increased during that
member's term. (Ordinance No. 1086, passed June 11, 1984)
Section 9. VACANCIES IN THE COUNCIL. A vacancy in the council shall be deemed to exist in
case of the failure of any person elected thereto to qualify on or before the date of the second regular
meeting of the new council, or by reason of the death, resignation, removal from office, cessation as a
resident of the city, continuous absence from the city for more than three months, conviction of a felony
of any such person whether before or after qualification, the failure of any council member without good
cause to perform any of the duties of membership in the council for a period of three months or for any
other cause as may be provided for in Minnesota Statutes, as amended. (New language will be inserted
here that if a councilmember moves out of their ward (but still lives in the city), they may serve out
their original elected term.) In each such case, at the next regular meeting following receipt of notice by
the council of one of the foregoing conditions, the council shall by resolution declare such vacancy to
exist unless further investigation is required. Notice of said vacancy shall be posted at city hall for a
period of two (2) weeks from the date of the adoption ofthe resolution declaring said vacancy. Notice
shall also be published in a designated city newspaper for a period of two (2) weeks as soon as possible
after the date of the adoption of said resolution, with the publication being completed no later than thirty
(30) days from said date. Applications shall be sought and accepted from individuals interested in filling
the vacancy, which applications shall be submitted to city hall, to the attention of the City Clerk, within
45 days from the date of said resolution. The council shall interview each of the applicants within 30
days from the close of the application period, and shall conduct said interviews in an agreed upon
uniform manner as a council. After said 30 day period, the council shall make its appointment from the
pool of applicants within 15 days, whether done so at a regular council meeting or a special meeting. The
individuals so appointed shall till said vacancy until the next regular municipal election, when the office
shall be filled for the unexpired term by an eligible person elected at large in the manner hereinafter set
forth; provided, however, that if a vacancy is declared by resolution after March 31 st in the year of a
regular municipal election, then the appointment process as set forth herein shall not take effect and any
such vacancy shall continue to exist until said election, at which time the vacancy shall be filled for the
unexpired term by an eligible person elected at large in the manner hereinafter provided.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, any vacancy resulting from a recall election or from a
resignation following the filing of a recall petition shall be filled in the manner provided in such case.
(Ordinance No. 1331, passed September 23,1996) (Ordinance No. 1086, passed June 11, 1984)
It was pointed out that the proposed charter language being reviewed tonight could not just be forwarded
to the City Council, as it needs two readings at the Charter Commission level.
Motion was amended and seconded that this be considered the first reading at the Charter Commission
level on the proposed charter language as amended tonight. Roll call vote was as follows.
Charter Commission
January 19, 2006
Page 6
Ayes: Buboltz, Druckrey, Gertsema, Hartel, Johnson, Kyseth, Laine, Patiuk, Ritzko, Sturdevant,
Sturdevant, Vogtman. Nays: King. Abstain: None. Absent: Korday, Scl1midt. Motion passed.
New Business
2005 Annual Report
Motion by Commissioner V ogtman, seconded by Commissioner Hartel to approve the 2005 Charter
Commission Annual Report as presented. The Recording Secretary will forward a copy to the Chief
Judge and City Clerk.
Next Meeting Date
The next regular Charter Commission meeting date is April 20, 2006, at 7 p.m. at Murzyn Hall.
President-Elect Hartel stated there could be a special meeting called of this commission before then.
Adjournment
Motion by Commissioner Vogtman, seconded by President-Elect Hmiel to adjourn the meeting at 8:20
p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Carole J. Blowers,
Recording Secretary
Charter Commission
January 19, 2006
Page 7
OFFICIAL MINUTES OF THE
CHARTER COMMISSION
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20,2005
7:00 P.M.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
CITY HALL
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by President Joseph Sturdevant at 7:02 p.m.
Roll Call
Members present: Bob Buboltz, Nicole Druckrey, Barb Gertsema, Mike Hartel, Jim Johnson, Katy
Korday, Scott Kyseth, Carolyn Laine, Mike Patiuk, Lori Ritzko, Joe Sturdevant,
Joseph Sturdevant, Dan V ogtman
Members absent and excused: None
Members absent and unexcused: Nancy King, Clare Schmidt
Council Liaison, Mayor Gary Peterson, was not present.
Also present: Jim Hoeft, City Attorney; Bruce Nawrocki, Councilmember; Carole Blowers, Recording
Secretary; Citizen Harold Hoium
Approval of Minutes of July 21, 2005
Motion by Commissioner Hartel, seconded by Commissioner Sturdevant, to approve the minutes as
submitted for the July 21,2005, meeting. Motion passed unanimously.
Joint Meeting with the City Council/Charter Commission Scheduled for Tonight
The following is the sequence of events leading up to tonight's meeting:
. Following a motion made at the July Charter Commission, a request was immediately made to
the City Manager and Mayor for a joint meeting with the City Council and the Charter
Commission regarding wards/districts.
. After various attempts to set a date, Charter Commission President Sturdevant got the date of
October 20th agreed upon as the date for a joint meeting.
. On September 26,2005, the City Council established a joint meeting of the Charter Commission
and City Council for Thursday, October 20,2005, at 7 p.m.
. Agenda packets for this joint meeting went out Wednesday, October 12,2005.
. The Recording Secretary, City Manager, and Mr. Sturdevant were notified by the Mayor late on
Monday, October 17,2005, that at least two city council members could not make the joint
Charter Commission/City Council meeting of October 20th. The Mayor felt that since not all
COllncil memhers COllIe! 8ttene! this meetimr~ 8 ioint meetimr ShOllle! not he hele! 8ne! he W8S
- -. -..-- - -- --- - --- - -- - - - -.- -- -- - - --- -- ----- --- - - ----0' -- J - ---- --- - - ----0 --- - --.- -- -- - - - - -- - - --, -----.. -- - , ---
canceling the council's part of the meeting. Therefore, the regular meeting of the Charter
Commission would still be held. President Sturdevant stated he felt the joint meeting still could
h::t...vp nppn nplrl v,rith lH~t thrpp: ffipl11hpr, nfthp elt",. r,nnnr:il fl'Jntp. Tnp rltv ronnril work
~~_... - ~--~~ ------ ...........-J---......... ......------ _....__...._...~-_..... ~-- -.......- ---,; -~......_-_..._. \- .-..-- ---- -......,; --------- .. .....---
session scheduled for October 20,2005, at 5:30 p.m. was also cancelled.)
Old Business
Discussion on Districts/Wards
This topic is ongoing from the past several commission meetings. President Sturdevant asked if there
Charter Commission
October 20, 2005
Page 1
was further information that needed to be discussed regarding this topic from the agenda material
provided to members.
Commissioner Johnson stated that he was in favor of the map that showed Central Avenue and 44th
Avenue as the dividing lines. Using this map, the population by quadrant would be as follows: NW-
4,550; NE-4,115; SW-4,911; and SE-4,994. This map brings the population figures more into line for
each quadrant. He also stated that he was in favor of using either the word "district" or "precinct" rather
than "ward".
The City Attorney stated that input from the city council was desired on this subject, and that is why the
joint meeting scheduled for tonight was asked for.
There was discussion again about the Council Liaison to the Charter Commission, Mayor Peterson, not
being present at the meetings. Some members wanted to know how liaisons were picked. President
Sturdevant stated that the Mayor and Councilmembers decide amongst themselves who wants to be
liaisons to what boards/commissions each year.
Since Councilmember Nawrocki was present at the Charter Commission meeting tonight, President
Sturdevant asked him for his comments on this topic. Nawrocki stated that this is not a new subject; it
was discussed several years ago. He stated that he was in favor of this change years ago. For a candidate,
he could see where this would be desirable. However, he feels with council positions being at large,
councilmembers are more answerable to the whole city, and it does not make the council less responsive.
Citizens can call or write to five people with a concern.
Commissioner Buboltz also brought up the issue of expanding the council. Commissioner Hartel stated
he could see the council expanded by at least two more people. Commissioner Laine stated we could
have four districts and have two members running at large, plus the Mayor at large.
President Sturdevant stated that the Mayor's term should stay at two years, since that position is in
control of the Police Department. He felt councilmember terms should stay at four years. Many felt three
positions could be elected one year and four the next.
Commissioner V ogtman stated there are pros and cons to this issue. If someone does not run in a precinct
or ward, a write-in person could win with just 5 or 10 votes. He cited that it would be costly to redistrict
due to changes in population, and population changes will continue to happen for years with the
development/redevelopment going on in the city. We could have an increase of 800 people in one year.
(We realize that a specific percentage in population differences between wards is allowed per state
statutes.) He felt that a lot of human energy and money could be spent on this issue and questioned if this
would this be the best use of both. Perhaps working on blighted areas of the city would be more
important. He also wants to vote for the most qualified people who are running for counciL In hearing
additional comments from commission members, he felt he would be in favor of adding more people to
the city council. This was after consideration of some councilmembers running at large as well as by
district. He also realized that having wards would be better for candidates that run because it would be
less expensive for them.
Commissioner Hartel stated that we have made several changes to the charter over the years, and we have
even had things on the ballot. All these things take a lot of time, work, and money, but this is what we
are here for-to propose changes as needed or wanted.
Charter Commission
October 20,2005
Page 2
Commissioner Johnson felt more people would vote if there were districts. He asked Councilmember
Nawrocki ifhe ever lost in his own precinct, to which he stated yes. Johnson also inquired if Nawrocki
ever carried every precinct.
President Sturdevant stated that the number of places to go vote would go down from eight to four. Right
now, there are some instances where two precincts are held in one building. Dividing the city into
wards/districts will not make it any further distance for people to go vote.
Councilmember Nawrocki stated that what really gets people out to vote is the Presidential race. In all
other elections (from state on down to city level), fewer and fewer people turn out to vote. He also stated
that most of the issues that corne before the council relate to large areas of the city, not specific areas.
Commissioner Laine stated that if you have money, you can run. If you don't, it makes it more difficult
or impossible.
The concern of not every having every area of the city represented is still a common comment.
President Sturdevant asked commission members if they wished to proceed on this issue or not. That is
what must be decided.
Motion by Commissioner Buboltz, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, to direct the City Attorney to
prepare proposed language for a charter change to reflect:
. adding two at-large councilmembers
. dividing the city into four quadrants using dividing lines of 44th Avenue and Central Avenues and
. keeping the Mayor's term at large and for two years.
More discussion ensued. Concern was expressed about the growing population in certain sections of the
city. With development in the SW quadrant (the Industrial Park area), an increase in population from
very little to possibly 200 to 400 new homes could make a big difference in that quadrant. Population
totals could also rise anywhere from 380-400 people in the NE quadrant due to the addition of The Lofts.
There are other possible sites that could change quadrant totals slightly. Some commission members felt
that dividing these lines to adjust for these increases in population could become political.
It is realized that there would also be parts of the existing charter that would have to be amended or added
to relating to elections, the division of the city into four sections, the addition of two at-large city council
members, and the staggering of those terms.
Commissioner Hartel suggested that an addition to the above motion would be to include that the Charter
Commission will oversee the redistricting boundaries if and when needed. Commissioners Buboltz and
Johnson both agreed to this amendment.
It was then questioned about the locations in the city where all Charter Commission members live.
President Sturdevant stated that our commission members are scattered through the city, and they are
appointed by the Chief Judge.
Councilmember Nawrocki asked how this charter change would be implemented, and would it be taken
to the vote of the citizens.
Charter Commission
October 20,2005
Page 3
Commissioner Laine wondered how would the terms be staggered: would all at-large candidates be voted
upon one year and all regular candidates from wards voted upon at once or what? Would all at-large
candidates be voted on during the years of presidential elections to get more people to vote or what? She
also questioned if we would have to move the boundary to 43rd Avenue to get a better balance in certain
quadrants based on projected increases in population of some areas of the city.
Commissioner Vogtman stated a transition schedule would be needed. To get more input on these types
of things, perhaps the City Council would be willing to meet jointly with the Charter Commission in
January.
President Sturdevant called the question and asked for a roll call vote:
Voting yes: Buboltz, Druckrey, Gertsema, Hartel, Johnson, Korday, Kyseth, Laine, Patiuk, Ritzko,
Sturdevant, Sturdevant
None
Vogtman
King and Schmidt
Voting no:
Abstain:
Absent:
Motion passed.
Commissioner Hartel stated that with the city council canceling out on tonight's meeting, it showed no
respect to the Charter Commission. We put forth a good faith effort; a meeting was set and approved by
the council; and at the last minute they cancelled out. Commissioner Buboltz stated that even if only
three councilmembers could have met with the Charter Commission, the joint meeting could have been
held. The attendance and comments of Councilmember Nawrocki tonight were appreciated by the
Charter Commission members.
Other Topics of Discussion
Status of Chapter 7. Section 72. of the City Charter Pertainin2 to Bonded Debt/Debt Limit
The Recording Secretary stated that on August 8, 2005, the City Council held its first reading on
Ordinance No. 1492, amending Chapter 7, Section 72 of the City Charter pertaining to bonded debt and
debt limit. On September 12,2005, the City Council held its second reading on the above ordinance.
The change will become effective 90 days from then.
Annual Board/Commission Reco2nition Dinner
The annual board/commission recognition dinner will be held on Wednesday, December 14,2005, at
Murzyn Hall. Hors d'oeuvres will be served at 6 p.m., and dinner is planned for 6:30 p.m. Invitations
will be sent in the near future.
Inappropriate Behavior at Council Meetin2s/Elsewhere
Commissioner Laine brought up the last city council meeting of October loth where the Mayor read a
letter about the inappropriate behavior of a councilmember outside of a council meeting. Her concerns
were about the city being sued for a hostile/abusive work environment.
The City Attorney stated problems with a hostile/abusive work environment are handled by state and
federal laws, not at the Charter Commission level. He stated that behavior at some of our council
meetings may be disrespectful, but it is not abusive or hostile. Other cities have councils that display a lot
Charter Commission
October 20,2005
Page 4
existing bonds shall be authorized bv four fifths vote of the council bv resolution.
Following its passage, the ordinance shall be published at least once by publication in a
legal newspaper having general circulation in the city. The registered voters of the city
shall have thirty days from the date of publication to initiate a referendum on the ordinance
authorizing the issuance. Subsequent to the passage of the authorizing ordinance, its
publication, and the thirty-day period, the bond sale shall occur within sixty days. During
said sixty day period, the City Manager shall have the authority to establish a special
meeting upon at least seventy-two (72) hours advance notice to each member of the
council. At that special meeting, the City Manager is authorized to receive the actual bides)
or sale of the bonds to be negotiated. The actual award or sale of the bonds shall be
approved by a resolution passed by a four-fifths vote of the council.
Commissioner V ogtman stated he didn't think the charter should make it too easy for the Council on the issue
of bonding, and the council should use due diligence. Bond rates can fluctuate (go higher or lower), but he
didn't feel they would fluctuate that quickly. He suggested changing the waiting period to 10-15 days instead
of changing the whole process or method.
Some felt we should do something on this issue before the next bonding event may arise, so that the city could
take advantage of possible savings. Commissioner Korday views the stock market as more volatile than the
bond market. She wondered what other cities have in their charters regarding this issue, and feels more research
needs to be done.
The Recording Secretary will contact the Research Department at the League of Minnesota Cities to learn how
other cities handle this subject, and to obtain any further information they may have regarding this issue.
Mayor Peterson felt we should ask our financial advisors (Mark Ruff from Ehlers and Associates) to clarify if it
has been an issue the way the city charter currently reads. After further discussion, it was the consensus of
members present to invite our city's financial consultant to come to our next Charter Commission meeting to
discuss this issue further.
Motion was made by Commissioner V ogtman, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, to table the second reading
on this proposed charter change until we have more information. Motion passed 6-5-4 absent.
NEW BUSINESS
Upcoming 2005 Community Prayer Breakfast
Mayor Gary Peterson invited all commission members to attend the 2005 Community Prayer Breakfast which
will be held on May 11, 2005, at 7 a.m. at Murzyn Hall. The guest speaker is Andrew Wyatt, and musical
selections will be provided by Youth Encounter. Tickets are $20 and are available at City Hall, Bobby &
Steve's Autoworld, and from the Mayor.
Discussion on Topic ofWardsiDistricts in the City
In January, the Recording Secretary was asked to contact the League of Minnesota Cities for any research they
had on this issue, including pros and cons and size of cities that do have wards/districts. All commission
members received this packet of information prior to tonight's meeting for their review.
Different ideas, such as having some representation at large and some from districts, were discussed. There are
definite advantages and disadvantages to having the city divided into wards or districts. Some major
advantages were cited, such as campaigns could be more focused and less costly, therefore possibly raising
Page 3
April 21, 2005
interest levels for candidates who have limited funds. Being responsible for calls/complaints about a certain
area of the city could also be considered an advantage for some to run. It was stated that some citizens feel they
are left out if they don't have a councilmember representing them from their area.
The Mayor stated at a recent council meeting a resident suggested we increase the number of people on the city
council and since we are talking about wards/districts, it would probably be a good idea to discuss this idea as
well. Some felt since we are a growing community and first ring suburb, considering more councilmembers
could be a good idea.
Another suggestion was to increase the Mayor's term from two years to four years.
Vice President Patiuk stated he had some questions for the City Attorney regarding this issue, i.e., if there has to
be a specific number of people in each ward, what would determine the boundaries, and questions about the
process itself so we do not invite litigation. The City Attorney could provide more information to the
commission on these questions at our next meeting.
The Mayor stated he would like to see more young people run for council and more people get involved from
our different cultures to reflect our city's diversity.
If the city was equally divided in four districts size-wise, the question was asked what would the population be
in each quadrant. There would have to be a fairly equal number of voting residents in each quadrant. The
Recording Secretary will contact the Public Works Department to see if their GIS system could provide this
information for our next meeting.
Charter Commission members were also encouraged to discuss this issue with their neighbors and friends to get
more informal input on this subject before our next meeting.
NEXT MEETING DATE
The next Charter Commission meeting will be July 21, 2005, at Murzyn Hall at 7 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Commissioner Hartel, seconded by Commissioner Korday to adjourn the meeting at 7:58 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
Carole J. Blowers
Recording Secretary
Page 4
April 21, 2005
Discussion on Topic of Wards/Districts in the City
President Sturdevant brought up the idea of having more geographically distributed council representatives
throughout the city by having wards/districts. Commissioner Buboltz stated that we have very different
neighborhoods in the city now. There are a lot of pros and cons to this issue. The Recording Secretary was
asked to contact the League of Minnesota Cities for any research they have on this issue, including pros and
cons and size of cities that do have wards/districts.
Discussion on Politicians Buying Property in the City
Commissioner Korday had questions for the City Attorney about the recent transactions that took place between
current politicians and buying property in the city. She wanted to know if there were any stop guards in place
now to avoid this happening again, or if ones could be put in place. The City Attorney explained that he was
asked about this situation, and he advised that they could not vote or take part in any discussions on this issue
on a council level. At the EDA level, then the politicians involved decided to abstain from voting or holding
discussions at that level. When asked if there are any laws to prevent this from occurring, the City Attorney
also advised that there are stop guards in place now (in the state statutes).
Commissioner King left the meeting at 8:12 p.m.
Commissioners discussed having trust in their city officials; others felt the public trust was broken because their
fudiciary duty to the general public was broken.
NEXT MEETING DATE
The next Charter Commission meeting will be April 21, 2005, at Murzyn Hall at 7 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Commissioner Schmidt, seconded by Commissioner Buboltz to adjourn the meeting at 8:18 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
~.fl1~
Carole J. Blowers
Recording Secretary
Page 4
January 20,2005