Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-14-2015OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 14, 2015 THE FOLLOWING ARE THE MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL HELD AT 7:00 PM ON MONDAY SEPTEMBER 14, 2015 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 7:05 pm. 2. ROLL CALL Present: Mayor Peterson, Councilmembers Nawrocki, Schmitt, Williams and Murzyn Jr. Also Present: Walt Fehst, City Manager; Jim Hoeft, City Attorney; Kevin Hansen, Public Works Director; Joe Kloiber, Finance Director; Katie Bruno, Council Secretary 3. INVOCATION Invocation provided by Pastor Dan Thompson, Heights Church 4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - The Pledge of Allegiance was 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 A. Constitution Week Proclamation. Mayor Peterson read the proclamation. Sandra Connor, representing "Daughters of the American Revolution" gratefully accepted the proclamation, and thanked the council for their continued support. B. Presentation from Julie Jeppson, representing Stepping Stone Emergency Housing. Ms. Jeppson, Development Director of Stepping Stone Emergency Housing gave an overview of the services provided, noting that they are the only homeless shelter serving Anoka County. It was reported that approximately 5% of their clients are from Columbia Heights. Mayor Peterson thanked Ms. Jeppson for the work they are doing in the community. Mayor Peterson announced Police Chief Scott Nadeau will be speaking on Community Policing strategies at the Compassion Action Network Connect Meeting. The event is at Unity Hospital on Thursday September 24th at 10:00 AM. Mayor Peterson announced the Science of Spirituality Meditation Center has recently opened for business in the City. The center occupies the former Heights Church Building at 4054 Van Buren St NE. Pastor Dan Thompson of Heights Church announced they have relocated to 560 40th Ave NE, and are in preparing to open a coffee shop as well. 7. CONSENT AGENDA (These items are considered to be routine by the City Council and will be enacted as part of the City Council Minutes September 14, 2015 Page 2 of 8 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 worksession of September 8, 2015 MOTION: Move to approve the minutes of the City Council meeting of August 24, 2015 B. Accept Board and Commission Meeting Minutes MOTION: Move to accept the Library Board Minutes from August 5, 2015 MOTION: Move to accept the EDA Commission Minutes from August 3, 2015 C. Change Order No. 1 for Library Bid Package CP -1. *Removed for discussion. D. Adopt Resolution 2015 -62 being a Resolution ordering Preparation of a Report for Stinson Boulevard Rehabilitation. *Removed for discussion. E. Approve Business License Applications MOTION: Move to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for September 14, 2015 F. 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 158036 through 158291 in the amount of $ 1,347,840.30 Councilmember Nawrocki requested items C and D be removed for discussion. Motion by Councilmember Nowrocki, seconded by Councilmember Murzyn, Jr. to approve items A, B, E and F from the Consent Agenda. All Ayes, Motion Carried. The following items were removed for discussion: C. Change Order No. 1 for Library Bid Package CP -1 Public Works Director Kevin Hansen stated there were several items contributing to the change order, with two of them being large. Because significant contamination was discovered, an additional 9,672 tons needed to be trucked off site. Asbestos removal and disposal resulted in significant costs as well. The net change was an additional $126,168.21 after deducts were factored in. The cost will be covered by the library's contingency. Motion by Councilmember Williams, seconded by Councilmember Schmitt to approve contract Change Order No. 1 for Library Bid Package CP -1, Project 1410, to Veit & Company in the amount of $126,168.21 for a new contract amount of $633,941.07. All Ayes, Motion Carried. D. Adopt Resolution 2015 -62 being a Resolution ordering Preparation of a Report for Stinson Boulevard Rehabilitation City Council Minutes September 14, 2015 Page 3 of 8 Public Works Director Kevin Hansen reported that the recent cooperative agreement with the City of St. Anthony stipulates the City of Columbia Heights will cost share on a 50/50 basis. The requested feasibility report would indicate necessity, payment options and project cost. Motion by Councilmember Williams, seconded by Councilmember Schmitt to waive the reading of Resolution 2015 -62, there being ample copies available for the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried. Motion by Councilmember Williams, seconded by Councilmember Schmitt to adopt Resolution 2015 -62, being a resolution ordering preparation of a Feasibility Report for Stinson Boulevard Street Reconstruction. All Ayes, Motion Carried. 8. PUBLIC HEARINGS 9. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION A. Other Ordinances and Resolutions 1. Consideration of Resolution 2015 -59 adopting a proposed budget for the year 2016, setting the proposed city levy, approving the HRA levy, approving a tax rate increase, and establishing a budget hearing date for property taxes payable in 2016. Motion by Councilmember Williams, seconded by Councilmember Schmitt to waive the reading of Resolution 2015 -59, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried Finance Director Joe Kloiber gave a summary of the 2016 proposed levy, noting that the library referendum resulted in a 4.4% levy increase for 2016. The remainder of the levy is a 1.9% increase, the lowest in nearly ten years. Kloiber reported that tonight's action is the required first step in the truth in taxation process. Councilmember Nawrocki stated he is opposed to certifying the maximum levy at tonight's meeting, and would prefer to do so at the September 28th meeting in order to have more time for reviewing the proposed budget. Councilmember Nawrocki asked why the HRA levy not being eliminated since Parkview Villa will be sold. Director Kloiber clarified that the HRA levy also serves the EDA. Councilmember Nawrocki questioned the debt levy increase. Director Klaiber explained that is for the new library, specifically 7,000,000 in new debt was issued by the council in March 2015. Councilmember Nawrocki questioned the Cable TV budget increase. Director Kloiber reported the increase is for upgrades to equipment. Staff noted that there will be detailed department budget worksession meetings in the coming weeks. Councilmember Nawrocki questioned the upcoming State Aid construction projects. Public Works Director Kevin Hansen reported anticipated projects include safety improvements on Central Avenue, Stinson Blvd, and mill and overlay on state aid streets. Councilmember Nawrocki asked why the Public Arts Commission is receiving $1,400, it was thought they were going to be a self - supporting commission. City Manager Fehst clarified that the decision of whether or not to fund the commission was never made. Councilmember Nawrocki had questions regarding the liquor store profits. Manager Fehst reported there will be a detailed discussion at the scheduled worksession to address the liquor store operations. Councilmember Nawrocki questioned if the $55,000 included in the capital improvement is included in the library construction budget. City Manager Fehst reported it is not because it was not part of the bonding, and would note that Councilmember Nawrocki requests it be moved to the general budget. Councilmember Nawrocki stated that he thinks the $195,595.00 increase in the proposed levy should be eliminated, noting there is enough of an increase in the library levy. City Council Minutes September 14, 2015 Page 4 of 8 Motion by Councilmember Nawrocki to decrease the property tax levy by $195,595.00. Motion failed for lack of a second. Councilmember Nawrocki suggested waiting until the September 28th meeting to adopt the preliminary levy, to allow more time for review. City Manager Walt Fehst noted that to assure publication in the City's Newsletter, the item would need to be acted on this evening. Motion by Councilmember Williams, seconded by Councilmember Schmitt to adopt Resolution 2015 -59, being a resolution adopting a proposed budget for the year 2016, setting the proposed city levy, approving the HRA levy, approving a tax rate increase, and establishing a budget hearing date for property taxes payable in 2016 of December 14, 2015, at approximately 7:00 p.m. in the city council chambers. 4 Ayes, 1 Nay Motion Carried. Ayes: Peterson, Williams, Schmitt, Murzyn, Jr. Nay: Nawrocki B. Bid Considerations 1. Library Sewer And Water Services, City Project No. 1410 Public Works Director Kevin Hansen reported four bids were received, and the low bid was from St. Paul Utilities in the amount of $84,900. Hansen explained the project. Motion by Councilmember Williams, seconded by Councilmember Murzyn, Jr. to accept bids and award Water and Sewer Services for the New Library, City Project No. 1410, to St. Paul Utilities, Inc. of Little Canada, Minnesota, based upon their low, qualified, responsible bid in the amount of $ 84,900.00 from Fund 450- 51410 -5185; and, furthermore, to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into a contract for the same. All Ayes, Motion Carried 2. Chatham Road Lift Station Rehabilitation, City Project 1414 Public Works Director Kevin Hansen reported Chatham Rd. is the fourth of four lift station rehabilitated in the past twelve years. Nine alternates were included in the bids. Material costs have increased significantly, resulting in higher than anticipated bids. The low bid was received from Meyer Contracting, Inc., none of the alternates were included. Councilmember Schmitt questioned if any of the alternates can be completed by the City. Director Hansen stated they will be considered in future budget years. Motion by Councilmember Williams, seconded by Councilmember Murzyn, Jr. to accept bids and award Chatham Road Lift Station Rehabilitation, City Project No. 1414, to Meyer Contracting, Inc. of Maple Grove, MN, based upon their low, qualified, responsible bid in the amount of $456,238.00 from Fund 652 -51414 -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 10. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Report of the City Manager City Manager Walt Fehst reported the Rice Creek Watershed District is seeking members, noting the City has a very small area in Silver Lake served by the RCWD. Manager Fehst reported the City is receiving the Anthony Sutin Civic Imagination Award for collaborative City Council Minutes September 14, 2015 Page 5 of 8 efforts with the school district, commenting that the Police Department has made significant improvements in recent years. It was announced that both the Splash Pad at Huset Park and improvements at LaBelle Park are complete. The council was reminded of the Chamber of Commerce's Movie Night coming up on September 24th at the Heights Theater. Report of the City Attorney Nothing to report 11. CITIZENS FORUM Councilmember Nawrocki asked Frost Simula (1700 49th Ave NE) if there has been any updates to his predatory remodeling issue. Mr. Simula stated that there have been no changes. Mayor Peterson reminded residents to remember our servicemen and women, and our police and firefighters, and to try to enjoy life, and to do a random act of kindness. Meeting adjourned at 8:34 p.m. Respectively Submitted Katie Bruno, City Clerk /Council Secretary RESOLUTION 2015 -59 ADOPTING A PROPOSED BUDGET FOR THE YEAR 2016, SETTING THE PROPOSED CITY LEVY, APPROVING THE HRA LEVY, APPROVING A TAX RATE INCREASE, AND ESTABLISHING A BUDGET HEARING DATE FOR PROPERTY TAXES PAYABLE IN 2016. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA: that the following is hereby adopted by the City of Columbia Heights: Section A. The budget for the City of Columbia Heights for the year 2016 is hereby approved and adopted with appropriations for each of the funds listed below. Expense General Fund 11,336,117 Planning & Inspections 296,498 Economic Development Authority Admin. 301,193 Cable Television 141,522 Library 856,431 After School Programs 44,000 Special Project Fund 25,000 Public Safety - Other 169,412 City Council Minutes September 14, 2015 Page 6 of 8 Capital Project Funds 3,350,933 Planning & Inspections 296,498 Debt Service 1,928,500 Admin. 300,027 Funds 1,755,169 Television 253,500 Library 856,431 Capital Bond Special Project Funds 25,000 Assets Principal Water Fund 3,073,042 935,290 241,028 Sewer Fund 2,352,584 82,290 35,000 Refuse Fund 1,981,991 0 0 Storm Sewer Fund 781,625 933,000 120,256 Liquor Fund 9,264,061 0 180,000 Central Garage 715,088 0 0 Building Maintenance 163,432 0 0 Information Systems 372,452 0 0 Total Including Interfund Transfers 36,980,550 1,950,580 576,284 Section B. The estimated gross revenues to fund the budget of the City of Columbia Heights for all funds, including general ad valorum tax levies and use of fund balances, as hereinafter set forth for the year 2016. Revenue General Fund 11,292,117 Planning & Inspections 296,498 Economic Development Authority 1,928,500 Admin. 300,027 Cable 709,600 Television 253,500 Library 856,431 After School Programs - Special Project Funds 25,000 Public Safety - Other 169,412 Capital Project Funds 3,411,599 Debt Service Funds 1,828,947 Water Fund 3,210,400 Sewer Fund 1,849,500 Refuse Fund 1,928,500 Storm Sewer Fund 709,600 Liquor Fund 9,473,050 Central Garage 708,370 Building Maintenance 163,500 Information Systems 335,000 169,099 Total Including Interfund Transfers 36,980,550 City Council Minutes September 14, 2015 Page 7 of 8 Section C. The following sums of money are levied for the current year, collectable in 2016 upon the taxable property in said City of Columbia Heights, for the following purposes: Estimated General Fund Levy 8,964,101 Estimated Library Levy 824,499 Estimated EDA Fund Levy 84,000 Tota 1 9,872,600 Section D. The City Council of the City of Columbia Heights hereby approves the Housing and Redevelopment Authority Tax Levy for the fiscal year 2016 in the amount of $202,364. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the public budget hearing is scheduled for December 14, 2015 at approximately 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the County Auditor is authorized to fix a property tax rate for taxes payable in the year 2016 that is higher than the tax rate calculated for the City for taxes levied in 2014 collectable in 2015. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City, pursuant to Resolution 2015 -07, has previously called and redeemed all bond principal and interest payments on General Obligation Bond Series 2007A applicable for taxes payable in 2016 in the amount of $137,255 and that the County Auditor is authorized to cancel the related Bond Levy in its entirety for taxes payable 2016. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City has adequate fund balances and reserves to pay bond principal and interest payments on General Obligation Bond Series 2008B in the amount of $324,945 and that the County Auditor is authorized to cancel $324,945 of the related Bond Levy for taxes payable in 2016, leaving a balance of $332,825 to be levied for taxes payable in 2016 for Series 2008B. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City has adequate fund balances and reserves to pay bond principal and interest payments on General Obligation Bond Series 2009A in the amount of $4,091 and that the County Auditor is authorized to cancel $4,091 of the related Bond Levy for taxes payable in 2016, leaving a balance of $223,872 to be levied for taxes payable in 2016 for Series 2009A. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City has adequate fund balances and reserves to pay bond principal and interest payments on General Obligation Bond Series 2013A in the amount of $104,787 and that the County Auditor is authorized to cancel the related Bond Levy in its entirety for taxes payable 2016. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City has adequate fund balances and reserves to pay bond principal and interest payments on General Obligation Bond Series 2015A in the amount of $5,454 and that the County Auditor is authorized to cancel $5,454 of the related Bond Levy for taxes payable in 2016, leaving a balance of $480,000 to be levied for taxes payable in 2016 for Series 2015A. The Finance Director /Treasurer is hereby instructed to transmit a certified copy of this resolution to the County Auditor of Anoka County, Minnesota. City Council Minutes September 14, 2015 Page 8 of 8 RESOLUTION 2015 -62 A resolution of the City Council for the City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota,. WHEREAS, the City Council of Columbia Heights is proposing to rehabilitate local streets in Zone 2 that have not been rehabilitated under the street program, and WHEREAS, Stinson Boulevard from 37th Avenue to north of 40th Avenue is part of Zone 2 scheduled for 2016, and WHEREAS, A Cooperative Agreement has been approved between the cities of Columbia Heights and St. Anthony (attached) that defines the responsibilities of each city for the project work, and WHEREAS, the City Council intends to assess the benefitted property for all or a portion of the cost of the improvement, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section 429.011 to 429.111 (Laws 1953, Chapter 398, as amended), and Section 10313.201 to 103B.251, as follows: 1508 STINSON BOULEVARD RECONSTRUCTION FROM 37TH TO NORTH OF 40TH AVENUES Now, therefore, in accordance with the foregoing, and all ordinances and regulations of the City of Columbia Heights, the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights makes the following: FINDINGS OF FACT That the proposed improvements be referred to Mr. Kevin Hansen, City Engineer, for study and that he is instructed to report to the Council with all convenient speed advising the Council in a preliminary way as to whether the proposed improvements are necessary, cost effective, and feasible and as to whether it should best be made as proposed or in connection with some other improvement, the estimated cost of the improvement as recommended and a description of the methodology used to calculate individual assessments for affected parcels.