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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-22-2015OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF COLUMBIA COUNCIL CITY JUNE 22 2015 THE FOLLOWING ARE THE MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL HELD AT 7:00 PM ON MONDAY JUNE 22, 2014 IN THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, 590 40TH AVENUE N.E., COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA 1.CALL TO ORDER Mayor Peterson called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. 2.ROLL CALL Present: Mayor Peterson, Councilmembers Nawrocki, Schmitt and Williams Also Present: Walt Fehst, City Manager; Jim Hoeft, City Attorney; John Larkin, Assistant Fire Chief, Joe Kloiber, Finance Director; Kevin Hansen, Director of Public Works; Katie Bruno, City Clerk/Council Secretary 3.INVOCATION Invocation provided by Dan Thompson, Heights Church 4.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Recited 5.ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA (The Council, upon majority vote of its members, may make additions and deletions to the agenda. These may be items brought to the attention of the Council under the Citizen Forum or items submitted after the agenda preparation deadline.) 6.PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITION, ANNOUNCEMENTS, GUESTS 1. Mayor Peterson announced that Columbia Heights Public Schools is the recipient of three international communication awards. The District earned an Award of Excellence, an Award of Merit and an Honorable Mention for its publications and branding. 2.Presentation on the 2014 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) by David Mol Redpath and Company. David Mol, representing Redpath & Company gave an overview of the 2014 audit review. Councilmember Nawrocki indicated that the he would have preferred the council reduced the tax levy to the residents, rather than have the substantial increase in the fund balance. Finance Director Joe Kloiber reported that as we approach the 2016 Budget meetings, the City's capital funds have been slightly deficient and suggested considering transferring some of the funds from the fund balance. Mr. Mol reported that Top Valu store #2 has seen a decline in revenue, contributed to competition in the market. Councilmember Nawrocki asked how much the city is paying for debt service on the liquor stores. Director Kloiber reported that principal and interest payments were approximately $378,000. Mayor Peterson commented that it is beneficial to own the buildings rather than paying rent. Councilmember Schmitt asked about our ability to eliminate outside funding sources; Fiscal Disparities and Local Government Aid (LGA). Director Kloiber responded noting that it would not be practical for the City to limit dependency on Fiscal Disparity at this time; the city is making progress in limiting LGA. Minutes of June 22, 2015 Council Meeting Page 2 of 8 Councilmember Williams asked if the City has ever considered selling our Liquor Stores. City Manager Fehst commented that we have invested substantially in the buildings. Councilmember Nawrocki forecasted that profitability will likely get worse. Mayor Peterson suggested discussing at a future worksession. David Mol gave a brief overview of the EDA financial audit. 7.CONSENT AGENDA (These items are considered to be routine by the City Council and will be enacted as part of the Consent Agenda by one motion. Items removed from consent agenda approval will be taken up as the next order of business.) A. Approve Minutes of the City Council MOTION: Move to approve the minutes of the City Council meeting of June 8, 2015. B. Accept Board and Commission Meeting Minutes MOTION: Move to accept the Library Board minutes of February 4, 2015 MOTION: Move to accept the Library Board minutes of March 4, 2015 MOTION: Move to accept the Library Board minutes of April 1, 2015 MOTION: Move to accept the Library Board minutes of May 7, 2015 MOTION: Move to accept the Public Arts Commission minutes of May 6, 2015 C. Approval of the attached list of rental housing licenses MOTION: Approve the attached list of Rental Housing Licenses. D. Approve Business License Applications MOTION: Move to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for June 22, 2015 as presented. E. Payment of Bills MOTION: Move that in accordance with Minnesota Statute 412.271, subd. 8, the City Council has received the list of claims paid covering check number 157089 through 157256 in the amount of $ 890,437.42. Councilmember Schmitt commented that she would like the board and commission minutes presented to council following their approval; noting some of the library board minutes were from February. City Clerk, Katie Bruno explained that there has been staff turnover and that was the reason for the delay. Motion by Councilmember Nawrocki, seconded by Councilmember Williams to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. All Ayes, Motion Carried. 8. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Declaration of a nuisance and abatement of violations within the City of Columbia Heights is requested regarding properties at: 3823 Van Buren St. NE and 4411 Third St. NE. Assistant Fire Chief John Larkin explained that the property at 3823 Van Buren has unresolved repairs. Minutes of June 22, 2015 Council Meeting Page 3 of 8 Motion by Councilmember Nawrocki seconded by Councilmember Williams to close the public hearing and to waive the reading of Resolution Number 2015 -45, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried. Motion by Councilmember Nawrocki seconded by Councilmember Williams to adopt Resolution Numbers 2015 -45 being a resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights declaring the properties listed a nuisance and approving the abatement of violations from the properties pursuant to City Code section 8.206 All Ayes, Motion Carried. Assistant Fire Chief John Larkin explained that the property at 4411 Third St NE has unresolved issues, it was noted that the homeowner is working on cleaning up the property, and if the progress is to stop the city could follow through with the process. Motion by Councilmember Nawrocki seconded by Councilmember Williams to close the public hearing and to waive the reading of Resolution 2015 -46 there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried. Motion by Councilmember Nawrocki seconded by Councilmember Williams to adopt Resolution Number 2015 -46 being resolutions of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights declaring the properties listed a nuisance and approving the abatement of violations from the properties pursuant to City Code section 8.206 All Ayes, Motion Carried. B. Revocation of the license to operate a rental unit within the City of Columbia Heights is requested against rental properties at 4320 5 St. NE Assistant Fire Chief John Larkin explained that the homeowner failed to make the required repairs. Motion by Councilmember Nawrocki seconded by Councilmember Williams to close the public hearing and to waive the reading of Resolution Number 2015 -47, being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried. Motion by Councilmember Williams seconded by Councilmember Schmitt to adopt Resolution Number 2015 -47, being Resolutions of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights approving revocation pursuant to City Code, Chapter5A, Article IV, Section 5A. 408(A) of the rental licenses listed. All Ayes, Motion Carried. 9. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION A. Other Ordinances and Resolutions B. Bid Considerations 1. Accept Proposals and Award Contract for Library Bid Package No. 1 for Construction of the New City Library, Project No. 1410. Public Works Director Kevin Hansen explained the construction of the library will be broken into multiple bid packages in order to meet the construction deadline of June 2016. Library package Bid #1 includes; getting the site pad ready, grading, removing of environmental contamination, importing of clean fill and some storm sewer work. Five bids were received; the engineers estimate was $795,000. The low bid came in at $507,000; 36% below the engineer's estimate. Hansen noted that the assumption is to use 1/2 of the excavated material on site. In the event the excavated material is unusable, the cost would increase. Staff recommends the award of the contract to Veit Construction in the amount of $507,772. Minutes of June 22, 2015 Council Meeting Page 4 of 8 Motion by Councilmember Nawrocki seconded by Councilmember Williams to award Bid Package No. I for construction of the new City Library, Project 1410, to the firm of Veit Contracting based upon their based upon their low, qualified, responsible bid in the amount of $507, 772 from Fund 450 -51410 -5185; and, furthermore, to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into a contractfor the same. All Ayes, Motion Carried. 2. Accept Proposals and Award Contract for construction of the Splash Pad Project No. 1512 Public Works Director Kevin Hansen reported the bids for the splash pad installation were very good. Hansen explained this contract will cover the building of the splash pad, including concrete, a trail and plumbing. The following four alternates were included in the bid; shade structure, site landscaping, addition of a seating area and to accelerate the schedule. Staff is recommending alternates 2, 3 and 4. Councilmember Schmitt asked if the splash pad could open during the 2015 season. Director Hanses stated that it is projected to be complete in August, and it would be reasonable to expect it to be open for a few weeks, weather permitting. Motion by Councilmember Schmitt seconded by Councilmember Williams to award construction of the Splash Pad, City Project No. 1512, including Alternates 2, 3 and 4, to the firm of Odesa II LLC of Sauk Rapids, MN, based upon their low, qualified, responsible bid in the amount of $248,930.00 from Fund 412 -51512 -5185 and, furthermore, to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into a contract for the same. All Ayes, Motion Carried. C. New Business and Reports 1. Consideration of Stinson Boulevard Reconstruction Agreement with the City of St. Anthony. Public Works Director Kevin Hansen explained that this project fits into the city's 2016 street program work. The city of St Anthony will take the lead role on the project. The scope of the project includes changing Stinson Blvd. from a concrete surface to bituminous surface. Water mains would be replaced; this area has a history of water main breaks. Columbia Heights would prepare a feasibility report, and report back to the council in the fall of 2015. Councilmember Nawrocki questioned if the pre - construction costs are shared with St Anthony. Director Hansen stated that the pre - construction costs would be shared and will be included in the feasibility report. Councilmember Nawrocki stated that he does not think the project is necessary. Director Hansen explained this project is included in the City's 2016 street plan. Motion by Councilmember Williams seconded by Councilmember Schmitt to enter into a Joint Powers Agreement for Stinson Boulevard street improvements from 37th Avenue to north of 40th Avenue with the City of St. Anthony. 3 Ayes, I Nay, Motion Carried. Ayes: Peterson, Williams and Schmitt. Nay: Nawrocki. 10. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS City Manager Walt Fehst reported that City Staff has been working on a process for inspections to address the recent issue of predatory home remodelers. Staff will bring the item to the council at a worksession in August. Councilmember Nawrocki asked for a report regarding the resident who spoke at the last council meeting regarding her concerns with her neighborhood, west of University Ave. City Manager Fehst reported that there are four officers observing the areas 24 hours daily. The officers noted that there are many vehicles; however the area is residentially dense, and there does not seem to be unnecessary vehicles. Minutes of June 22, 2015 Council Meeting Page 5 of 8 Councilmember Nawrocki reported he has received a complaint regarding an illegally parked vehicle at 3911 Ulysses St. Councilmember Nawrocki noted that copies of the Anoka County Record were delivered to the library; to his attention. Because he did not receive the items, he inquired at the library, the copies were found behind the counter. Mr. Nawrocki was upset that they were not forwarded to him. City Manager Fehst suggested he have items sent to the City Clerk at City Hall. Councilmember Nawrocki stated that he feels the library should have the Anoka County Record available to residents, and by not doing so, is a disservice to the community. Councilmember Nawrocki questioned the appropriateness of the Library Board going into closed session at their June meeting. City Manager Fehst explained the board was discussing a health issue of a member. 11. CITIZENS FORUM Dan Thompson, representing Heights Church announced their congregation will be relocating, and opening a retail coffee shop in the community. The coffee shop will provide a place for worship services on Sundays. 12. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Peterson reminded us not to take ourselves too seriously and to try to do a random act of kindness. Meeting adjourned at 8:43 p.m. Respectively Submitted Katie Bruno, City Clerk Resolution 2015 -45 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 Arthur Walter, Jr. (Hereinafter "Owner of Record "). Whereas, the owner of record is the legal owner of the real property located at 3823 Van Buren Street.N.E. , 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 regular mail to the owner of record on May 5, 2015. 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: Minutes of June 22, 2015 Council Meeting Page 6 of 8 FINDINGS OF FACT 1. That on March 23, 2015, an inspection was conducted on the property listed above. Inspectors found violations. A compliance order was sent via regular mail to the owner at the address. 2. That on April 30, 2015 inspectors re- inspected the property listed above. Inspectors noted that violations remained uncorrected. A compliance order and statement of cause was mailed via regular mail to the owner listed in the property records. 3. That on May 21, 2015 inspectors re- inspected the property and found that violations remained uncorrected. 4. That based upon said records of the Fire Department, the following conditions and violations of City Codes(s) were found to exist, to wit: Shall repair replace any /all broken windows. 5. 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 3823 Van Buren Street N.E. is in violation of the provisions of the Columbia Heights City Code as set forth in the Notice of Abatement. 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. Resolution 2015 -46 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 Linda Gustafson and Clifford Rude (Hereinafter "Owner of Record "). Whereas, the owner of record is the legal owner of the real property located at 4411 Third Street N.E., 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 regular mail to the owner of record on May 29, 2015. 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: Minutes of June 22, 2015 Council Meeting Page 7 of 8 FINDINGS OF FACT That on April 20, 2015, an inspection was conducted on the property listed above. Inspectors found violations. A compliance order was sent via regular mail to the owner at the address. 2. That on May 28, 2015, inspectors re- inspected the property listed above. Inspectors noted that violations remained uncorrected. A compliance order and statement of cause was mailed via regular mail to the owner listed in the property records. That on June 11, 2015, inspectors re- inspected the property and found that violations remained uncorrected. 4. That based upon said records of the Fire Department, the following conditions and violations of City Codes(s) were found to exist, to wit: Shall remove fallen trees in wood area. 5. 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 That the property located at 4411 Third Street N.E. is in violation of the provisions of the Columbia Heights City Code as set forth in the Notice of Abatement. 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. Resolution 2015 -47 Resolution of the City Council for the City of Columbia Heights approving revocation pursuant to City Code, Chapter 5A, Article IV, Section 5A.408(A) of that certain residential rental license held by Jeff Merdan and Kelly Lusian (Hereinafter "License Holders "). Whereas, license holders are the legal owners of the real property located at 4320 Fifth Street N.E. Columbia Heights, Minnesota, Whereas, pursuant to City Code, Chapter 5A, Article IV, Section 5A.408(B), written notice setting forth the causes and reasons for the proposed Council action contained herein was given to the License Holder on May 20, 2015 of a public hearing to be held on June 22, 2015. 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: Minutes of June 22, 2015 Council Meeting Page 8 of 8 FINDINGS OF FACT That on March 11, 2015, inspectors for the City of Columbia Heights, inspected the property described above and noted violations. A compliance letter listing the violations was mailed by regular mail to the owners at the address listed on the Rental Housing License Application. 2. That on May 19, 2015, inspectors for the City of Columbia Heights performed a reinspection and noted that violations remained uncorrected. A statement of cause was mailed via regular mail to the owners at the address listed on the rental housing license application. 3. That on June 1, 2015, inspectors for the City of Columbia Heights checked records for this property and noted that the violations remained uncorrected. 4. That based upon said records of the Enforcement Office, the following conditions and violations of the City's Property Maintenance Code were found to exist, to -wit: a. Shall replace deteriorated South entry door. b. Shall replace missing handle on screen door. c. Shall repair /replace window screen on front window and South window. d. Shall scrape and paint trim on garage. e. Shall repair /replace missing window in overhead garage door. f. Shall pay reinspection fee. That all parties, including the License Holder and any occupants or tenants, have been given the appropriate notice of this hearing according to the provisions of the City Code, Chapter 5A, Article III 5A.306 and 5A.303(A). ORDER OF COUNCIL 1. The rental license belonging to the License Holder described herein and identified by license number F14175 is hereby revoked. 2. The City will post for the purpose of preventing occupancy a copy of this order on the buildings covered by the license held by License Holder. 3. All tenants shall remove themselves from the premises within 45 days from the first day of posting of this Order revoking the license as held by License Holder.