HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-08-2016 CCPCH COLUMBIA
HEIGHTS
City of Columbia Heights
590 40th Avenue NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421 -3878 (763) 706 -3600 TDD (763) 706 -3692
Visit our website at: www.columbiaheightsmn.gov
Mayor
Gary L. Peterson
Councilmembers
Robert A. Williams
Bruce Nawrocki
Donna Schmitt
John Murzyn, Jr.
City Manager
Walter R. Fehst
The following is the agenda for the regular meeting of the City Council to be held at 7:00 PM on Monday,
August 8, 2016 in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights, Minnesota.
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, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodation will be provided to allow
individuals with disabilities to participate in all City of Columbia Heights' services, programs, and activities. Auxiliary aids
for disabled persons are available upon request when the request is made at least 96 hours in advance. Please call the
City Clerk at 763 - 706 -3611, to make arrangements. (TDD /706 -3692 for deaf or hearing impaired only.)
1. CALL TO ORDER
IA. APPOINT SECRETARY PRO TEM
2. ROLL CALL
3. INVOCATION- Invocation provided by Bill Hugo, St Matthew Lutheran Church
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
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
Introduction of Sarah Burghardt, Sun Focus reporter for the City of Columbia Heights
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 July 25, 2016
pg 3
B. Accept Board and Commission Meeting Minutes
MOTION: Move to accept the minutes of the EDA meeting of June 6, 2016 pg 6
pg 11
MOTION: Move to accept the minutes of the EDA Special meeting June 13, 2016 pg 16
MOTION: Move to accept the minutes of the EDA meeting of July 21, 2016 pg 42
MOTION: Move to accept the minutes of the HRA meeting of March 14, 2016
pg 46
C. City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota Resolution 2016 -65, Accepting a contribution from the Columbia
Heights Activity Fund in the amount of $17,373 and amending the 2016 Budget for the City's Contributions
Fund 883 for the same amount.
MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Resolution 2016 -65, there being ample copies available to the public.
City of Columbia Heights August 8, 2016
City Council Agenda Page 2
MOTION: Move to adopt City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota, Resolution 2016 -65, being a resolution
accepting a contribution of $17,373 from the Columbia Heights Activity Fund, and amending the 2016 budget
for the City's Contributions Fund 883 for the same amount.
D. Resolution 2016 -66 Awarding the Purchase of a Police Vehicle and Radio, and Amending the pg 48
Related 2016 Budgets.
MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Resolution 2016 -66, there being ample copies available to the public.
MOTION: Move to adopt City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota, Resolution 2016 -66, being a resolution
awarding the purchase of a police vehicle to Ford of Hibbing in the amount of $24,178, the purchase of a police
radio through Anoka County in the amount of $4,550, and amending the 2016 budgets of the Insurance Fund
884 and the Capital Equipment Fund 431 to appropriate these amounts.
E. An Ordinance opting out of the requirements of Minnesota Statutes, Section 462.3593. pg 51
MOTION: Waive the reading of Ordinance No 1632, there being ample copies available to the public.
MOTION: Move to approve Ordinance No 1632, being an Ordinance opting out of the requirements of
Minnesota Statutes, Section 462.3593, on first consideration. The second consideration will take place on
August 22nd, 2016 at approximately 7:00pm in the Council Chambers of Columbia Heights City Hall.
F. Approve Business License Applications pg 54
MOTION: Move to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for August 8, 2016.
G. Payment of Bills pg 56
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 162225 through 162407 in the amount of $ 1,611,981.83.
MOTION: Move to approve the Consent Agenda items.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS
9. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
A. Other Ordinances and Resolutions
B. Bid Considerations
C. New Business and Reports
10. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Report of the City Manager
Report of the City Attorney
11. CITIZENS FORUM
At this time, citizens have an opportunity to discuss with the Council items not on the regular agenda.
Citizens are requested to limit their comments to five minutes. Anyone who would like to speak shall state
his /her name and address for the record.
12.f ADJ RNMEN
Walt Fehst, 6ity Man "ger
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JULY 25, 2016
The following are the minutes for the regular meeting of the City Council held at 7:00 PM on Monday July 25,
2016 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 7:27 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Peterson, Councilmembers Nawrocki, Williams, Schmitt and Murzyn, Jr.
Also Present: Walt Fehst; City Manager, Jim Hoeft; City Attorney, and Katie Bruno; City Clerk /Council Secretary
3. INVOCATION
Invocation provided by Max Richter, Community United Methodist Church
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
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.)
1. Mayor Peterson announced item 8A is being removed; the property was brought into compliance.
2. Councilmember Schmitt requested the addition of a report from the League of Minnesota Cities Policy
Committee meeting be added under New Business and Reports.
6. PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITION, ANNOUNCEMENTS, GUESTS
A. Presentation from Crest View Communities; Shirley Barnes
Shirley Barnes presented a Certificate of Commendation for the City of Columbia Heights and the Columbia
Heights Public Schools, recognizing the recent designation of All America City in 2016.
Mayor Peterson accepted the Resolution on behalf of the City.
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 July 11, 2016
B. Accept Board and Commission Meeting Minutes
MOTION: Move to accept the minutes of the Charter Commission meeting of April 21, 2016
MOTION: Move to accept the minutes of the Library Board meeting of June 1, 2016
C. Adopt Summary for publication of Ordinance No. 1628 being an Ordinance amending Chapter 8, Article
IV of City Code.
MOTION: Move to adopt a summary for publication for Ordinance No. 1628 being an Ordinance amending
3
Chapter 8, Article IV of City Code of 2005 relating to the adoption of the Minnesota State Fire Code.
D. Consideration of approval of attached list of rental housing applications.
MOTION: Move to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for July 25, 2016, in that
they have met the requirements of the Property Maintenance Code.
E. Approve Business License Applications
MOTION: Move to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for July 25, 2016.
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 162033 through 162224 in the amount of $1,010,345.76.
Motion by Councilmember Williams, seconded by Councilmember Nawrocki to approve the consent agenda.
All Ayes, Motion Carried.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Revocation of the license to operate a rental unit within the City of Columbia Heights is requested against
rental properties at 4515 Fillmore Street NE (Resolution No. 2016 -55) for failure to meet the requirements of
the Property Maintenance Codes. (Item removed, property owner has made required corrections.)
9. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
A. Other Ordinances and Resolutions
B. Bid Considerations
C. New Business and Reports
1. Report from the League of Minnesota Cities Policy Committee meeting.
Councilmember Schmitt reported she attended the LMC Policy meeting on July 18th. She reported cities will
need to look at the small houses forhealthcare legislation. City Manager Fehst reported the council is
scheduled to discuss that at the August worksession.
Councilmember Schmitt also noted changes in the retention policy for body cameras. City Attorney Jim Hoeft
reported Columbia Heights has an existing policy, and he will review it with Captain Austin and blend it with
the policy created by the LMC. Statewide Massage Therapist licensure and pawn broker regulation was
discussed as well.
Councilmember Nawrocki also attended the policy meeting; reporting he attended the improving fiscal
futures committee. A copy of the proposed law regarding temporary health care dwellings was distributed.
10. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Councilmember Nawrocki suggested a letter be sent to a resident who assisted stranded travelers during a
recent storm.
Councilmember Nawrocki requested an updated on the total of the new library expenses, including all
expenses as well as revenue sources.
Councilmember Nawrocki reported the parade is not on the cable channel.
Councilmember Nawrocki requested the records be checked regarding the property at 4860 Monroe to
determine when the house was built. City Manager Walt Fehst reported the house is currently lower than the
street.
Councilmember Nawrocki reported he would have liked to see more details in the newsletter article regarding
the tax levy increase.
Councilmember Nawrocki requested the City Manager let the Council know when he will be out of the office.
Mayor Peterson announced National Night Out is Tuesday August 2nd. The four visitors from Lomianki will be
visiting the week of August 2nd as well.
11. CITIZENS FORUM
Connie Buesgens- 102144th Ave NE asked if he temporary dwelling item will be discussed at a future council
meeting, as she would like to hear both sides of the issue. City Manager Walt Fehst explained staff is not
comfortable with the current proposal for a variety of reasons, also noting most other cities have chosen to opt
out.
Frost Simula -1700 49th Ave NE reported that predatory remodeling continues to be a recurrent theme in the
Twin Cities. Mr. Simula suggested a point of sale program could be beneficial. City Attorney Jim Hoeft reported
the City has looked at point of sales programs in the past. Hoeft also commented that there are crooks in all
areas, and it is important for the buyer to beware. Mayor Peterson suggested neighbors also be observant and
aware of work being done in their neighborhoods without the proper permits; encouraging residents to call the
Building Inspector.
Mayor Peterson reminded residents to remember our servicemen and women, as well as our Police Officers
and Firefighters.
12. ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 8:09 p.m.
Respectively Submitted,
Katie Bruno, Council Secretary /City Clerk
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA)
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF
JUNE 6, 2016
The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm by Bruce Nawrocki (Secretary /Treasurer).
Members Present: Donna Schmitt, John Murzyn, Marlaine Szurek„ Bruce Nawrocki and
Gerry Herringer. Bobby Williams arrived at 6:55 pm.
Members Absent: Gary Peterson
Staff Present: Walt Fehst, Joseph Hogeboom, Keith Dahl, Joe Kloiber, Gary Gorman,
and Shelley Hanson.
Legal Counsel: Martha Ingram from Kennedy & Graven
Stacy Kvilvang from Ehlers and David Mullen fi•om Dougherty & Co.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE- RECITED
CONSENT ITEMS
1. Approve the Minutes from April 4, 2016, and May 2, 2016—
2. Approve the Financial Report and Payment of Bills for April 2016 on Resolution 2016-
12.
Questions by Members:
No questions or comments.
Motion by Szurek , seconded by Murzyn, to waive the reading of Resolution 2016 -12 there
being an ample amount of copies available to the public. All ayes. MOTIONPASSED.
Motion by Szurek, seconded by Murzyn, to approve the Minutes and Financial Report and
Payment of Bills for April as presented. All ayes. MOTIONPASSED.
RESOLUTION NO. 2016-12
A Resolution of the Economic Development Authority of Columbia Heights, Minnesota,
Approving the Financial Statements for Month of APRIL, 2016 and the Payment of the
Bills for the Month of April, 2016.
WHEREAS, the Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority (EDA) is required by
Minnesota Statutes Section 469.096, Subd. 9, to prepare a detailed financial statement which
shows all receipts and disbursements, their nature, the money on hand, the purposes to which the
money on hand is to be applied, the EDA's credits and assets and its outstanding liabilities; and
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WHEREAS, said Statute also requires the EDA to examine the statement and treasurer's vouchers or bills
and if correct, to approve them by resolution and enter the resolution in its records; and
WHEREAS, the financial statement for the month of April, 2016 has been reviewed by the EDA
Commission; and
WHEREAS, the EDA has examined the financial statements and finds them to be acceptable as to both
form and accuracy; and
WHEREAS, the EDA Commission has other means to verify the intent of Section 469.096, Subd. 9,
including but not limited to Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports, Annual City approved Budgets,
Audits and similar documentation; and
WHEREAS, financials statements are held by the City's Finance Department in a method outlined by the
State of Minnesota's Records Retention Schedule,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of the Columbia Heights
Economic Development Authority that it has examined the referenced financial statements including the
check history, and they are found to be correct, as to form and content; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the financial statements are acknowledged and received and the check
history as presented in writing is approved for payment out of proper funds; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED this resolution is made a part of the permanent records of the Columbia
Heights Economic Development Authority.
Passed this 6th day of June, 2016.
Motion by: Szurek
Seconded by: Murzyn
BUSINESS ITEM
1. Discussion of Refinancing Tax Increment Refunding Revenue Bonds - Series 2016
for the Huset Park Redevelopment Area Project.
Hogeboom explained that Martha Ingram, the EDA Bond Attorney, had supplied the Board
members with a memorandum dated June 1, 2016 summarizing Refunding Bonds for the Huset
Park Development. This memo addressed the Series 2007 bonds issued under the prior contract
with an outstanding amount of $2,475,000 for public infrastructure improvements and another with
an outstanding amount of $6,650,000 to cover redevelopment costs within the TIF District. Ingram
reminded the members that these are not General Obligation Bonds, but are Revenue Bonds
supported by Revenues fiom the TIF District.
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The Redeveloper has requested a refund of the current bonds because it will lower the interest rate
which means the debt service payments on the Refunding Bonds will be lower. This will result in
some tax increment remaining after payment on the Refunding Bonds, which will be used to pay
down the TIF Note (in addition, you will recall that the Contract requires the Redeveloper to
construct a senior housing facility within the TIF District, which will generate additional tax
increment that will also be used to pay principal and interest on the TIF Note). The Redeveloper
recognizes that refunding the Current Bonds primarily benefits the Redeveloper, and has therefore
agreed to pay all actual costs of issuance related to the issuance of the Refunding Bonds. The EDA
will not pay any costs related to the refunding. In addition, the Redeveloper will pay an
administrative fee of $100,000 to the EDA to be allocated to other redevelopment purposes within
the City.
The EDA must adopt a Resolution awarding the sale of the Refunding Bonds along with approving
several documents required in connection with the refunding. The EDA's action must then be
approved by the City Council. This will be brought to both the EDA and the City Council at the
June 13, 2016 meeting for approval. Ingram further explained the format of the Resolution which
was drafted to allow flexibility for both the timing of the transaction and to get the best rates
possible without the need to wait for additional scheduled meetings. Stacy Kvilvang from Ehlers
and a representative from Dougherty & Co. were present to answer questions of the members.
Questions by members:
Nawrocki asked what the benefit was to the City. Ingram stated that the City will receive the
administrative fee of $100,000 and that the lower interest rate will allow the developer to pay down
the TIF note quicker.
Heninger asked for more detail on the parameter approach to the Resolution approving the Refund
of the Bonds which Ingram provided. He asked what rating the bonds would have. The underwriter
stated that the bonds are not rated. Heiringer then asked how the amount of $100,000 was arrived at
as the administrative fee the City would be paid. Kloiber (Finance Director) told members that an
estimated figure was arrived at based on the interest savings and then the final amount was
established through far-ther negotiations.
Hogeboom told members that no action was needed at this meeting, as the Resolution will be
considered at the June 13th special meeting.
479194v1 CL205 -3 3
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2. Conveyance of Certain Real Property from the EDA to the City - Resolution 2016 -13.
Dahl told members that over the years, the Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority
(EDA) has acquired property within the City of Columbia Heights for economic development
purposes. The property that the EDA acquires is exempt from property tax under Minnesota
Statues, Section 272.02, Subdivision 39 for a specified amount of time. The EDA will start
paying property taxes at the end of the applicable exemption period. If the EDA determines that
the redevelopment for a specific property will take longer than the exemption period or the EDA
determines to utilize specific property for City use, it is in the EDA's best interest to transfer title
of certain properties to the City of Columbia Heights. Staff has identified seven properties that
are in the EDA's best interest to transfer title because these seven properties have been dedicated
for municipal use by the City; these properties are as follows:
825 41 st Ave.
837 41 st Ave.
894 42nd Ave.
4301 Quincy St.
839 41st Ave.
828 40th Ave.
1309 Circle Terrace Blvd.
PID: 35- 30 -24 -14 -0151
PID: 35- 30 -24 -14 -0155
PID: 35- 30 -24 -14 -0157
PID: 35- 30 -24 -14 -0159
PID: 35- 30 -24 -14 -0160
PID: 35- 30 -24 -41 -0114
PID: 36-30-24-24-0025
Dahl told members that the first 5 properties are part of the Public Safety Site, and therefore it
makes sense to have it in the City's name to remain tax exempt. The lot at 828 40th Avenue is
currently the community garden space across the street from the Library. If not transferred to the
City, the EDA will have to start paying taxes on the lot next year. The lot on Circle Terrace is
the site being used to build the community building at the City of Peace Park and as park land it
should be owned by the City.
Staff recommends approval of Resolution 2016 -13, a resolution authorizing the conveyance of
the aforementioned, EDA owned, properties to the City.
Questions from members:
Schmitt asked if the 828 40th Ave site could still be sold with the Library if someone wants it.
Schmitt was told it could still be sold. Herringer asked if the transfer would have any effect on
the restrictions we have on that lot since it was purchased with CDBG funds. Kloiber stated that
the restrictions would still pertain to the site and that it could result in the City having to repay a
proportionate amount of the property value to Anoka County. However, he said Anoka County
has worked with the City in the past to re -grant the funds somehow, or there are several ways to
meet the conditions.
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Schmitt said the legal descriptions should be verified as she didn't think some of them made
sense. Staff will confirm they are correct.
Nawrocki asked how much it would cost to do the transfers. Hogeboom stated that it will only
cost the recording fees to record the Title changes and that it will save the EDA from having to
pay taxes on the properties.
Motion by Szurek , seconded by Schmitt, to waive the reading of Resolution 2016 -13, there
being ample copies available to the public. All ayes. MOTIONPASSED.
Motion by Szurek , seconded by Schmitt, to adopt Resolution 2016 -13, Resolution authorizing the
conveyance of certain property by the Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority to the
City of Columbia Heights. All ayes. MOTIONPASSED.
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
RESOLUTION NO. 2016-13
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CONVEYANCE OF CERTAIN PROPERTY BY
THE COLUMBIA HEIGHTS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY TO
THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
BE IT RESOLVED By the Board of Commissioners ('Board ") of the Columbia Heights Economic
Development Authority ( "Authority ") as follows:
Section 1. Recitals.
1.01. The Authority owns certain property (the "Property") located in the City of Columbia
Heights (the "City "). A description of the Property is attached as Exhibit A.
1.02. The City has constructed a public works facility on five of the parcels snaking up the
Property, a community garden on the sixth parcel, and a children's playground on the seventh.
1.03. The Property thus having been dedicated to municipal uses by the City, the Authority has
determined that it is in the best interest of the Authority and City that the Authority convey the Property to the
City.
Section 2. Authority Approval, Further Proceedings.
2.01. The Authority hereby approves the conveyance of the Property to the City, to be held by the
City for its municipal purposes.
2.02. The President and Executive Director are hereby authorized to execute on behalf of the
Authority any documents required to carry out, on behalf of the Authority, the conveyance of the Property,
including without limitation any deed.
Approved by the Board of Commissioners of the Columbia Heights Economic Development
Authority this 6th day of June, 2016.
President
ATTEST:
Secretary
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EXHIBIT A (Legal Descriptions were corrected from those in agenda)
Property
Public safety facility:
Lot 1, Block 1, Northwestern 2nd Addition, Anoka County, Minnesota
Outlots A, C, E, and F, Northwestern 2nd Addition, Anoka County, Minnesota
825 41St Avenue, PID No. 35- 30 -24 -14 -0151
837 41" Avenue, PID No. 35- 30 -24 -14 -0155
89442 d Avenue, PID No. 35- 30 -24 -14 -0157
4301 Quincy Street, PID No. 35- 30 -24 -14 -0159
839 40 Avenue, PID No. 35- 30 -24 -14 -0160
Community garden:
Lots 47 and 48, Block 63, Columbia Heights Annex to Minneapolis, Anoka County, Minnesota
828 40t'' Avenue, PID No. 35- 30 -24 -41 -0114
Children's playground:
And
That part of Lot Nine (9), Block One (1), lying east of the west line of former Lot forty -three (43),
Block Four (4), Reservoir Hills, Columbia Heights, Anoka County, Minnesota, all in Circle Terrace
2nd Addition, together with an easement for driveway purposes over the southwesterly 4 feet of Lot
8, Block 1, Circle Terrace 2nd Addition, Anoka County, Minnesota. (Torrens)
That part of Lot 9, Block 1, Circle Terrace 2nd Addition which lies in Lots 41 and 42, Reservoir
Hills, together with an easement for driveway purposes over the Southwesterly 4 feet of Lot 8,
Block 1, Circle Terrace 2nd Addition, Anoka County, Minnesota. (Abstract)
1309 Circle Terrace Blvd., PID No. 36- 30 -24 -24 -0025
3. Single Family Rental Home Property Discussion
The Economic Development Authority (EDA) held a goal setting session with the Planning and
Zoning Commission (P &Z) in March to review redevelopment goals within Columbia Heights.
One of the goals reviewed was establishing a comprehensive housing program that will help
increase values, manage and reduce the number of single family rental properties, generate a
wider range of price point options and encourage reinvestment. Following direction from the
EDA, staff was advised to research single - family rental housing and reconvene a separate
meeting to discuss how the City can enhance neighborhood livability through more proactive
management of single - family rental housing. Therefore, staff desires to continue discussions
about the single - family rental housing within Columbia Heights.
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There are many factors that directly and indirectly contribute to local single - family rental
markets — including population, demographics, area median income (AMI), age of housing stock,
and area economics. Columbia Heights experienced a surge in single - family rental housing
starting in 2008 when the collapse of the housing market swept through the Twin Cities. The
economic turmoil of the Great Recession displaced many homeowners as high unemployment
increased the amount of foreclosures. And as foreclosures increased, Columbia Height's rental
market experienced a resurgence of single - family rental housing.
Since 2008, Community Development and Fire Department staff have worked in tandem to
track rental property trends. The figures below were attained by Columbia Heights through the
issuance of rental licenses over the years. 2015 is the most recent data calculated because the
total rental permits issued cannot be attained until the end of a given year. Staff would like to
note, single - family rental housing has been declining over the last few years though rental
permits have gradually increased. Also, attached is the Twin Cities Metro Rental Chart for
comparison of single- family rental housing metro wide.
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Single - Family Permits
Total Rental Permits Issued Issued Percentage of Single - Family
Rental Prouerties
668
444
66.47%
8.16%
721
483
66.99%
8.88%
761
515
67.67%
9.47%
864
572
66.20%
10.52%
872
627
71.90%
11.53%
939
610
64.96%
11.21%
977
569
58.24%
10.46%
971
503
51.80%
9.25%
*Total Single- Family Properties in Columbia Heights is 5439
Rental property trends in Columbia Heights seem to have plateaued and /or started to decrease,
however rental properties are still branded with negative connotations. Community Development
staff met with colleagues from the Fire Department and Police Department to discuss property
maintenance concerns and crime associated with single - family rental housing. Staff's intent was
to determine if these negative connotations associated with rental properties are, in fact, real
problems or actually just preconceived notions.
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June 6, 2016
The conversations derived from the staff meeting concluded that single - family rental housing is
not the real issue and incorporating more proactive management of single - family rental housing
may not enhance neighborhood livability. The real issues that brand rental properties with
negative connotations are, in fact, contributed to rental density and cultural barriers. Attached is
Columbia Heights Single- Family Rental Housing, Crime Overlay Map to represent the
correlation between crime and rental density.
Staff isn't making a recommendation. This is only meant to provide information to the EDA to
identify different options, if any, to proceed with enhancing neighborhood livability through
more proactive management of single- family rental housing.
Comments from members:
Gary Gorman, Fire Chief, stated the figures for 2016 to date are as follows: 984 Total Rental
Units, plus 67 family exempt properties, and approximately 20 more in process.
Szurek thinks we have a much higher percentage of single family homes as rental units than
other suburbs. She thinks it is better for the City to have more owner occupied homes as owners
tend to take better care of their properties. Nawrocki agreed with Szurek.
There was a discussion as to the reasons we have such a high percentage of rental property.
During the housing /foreclosure crisis it became a lucrative investment for buyers to buy up
homes and rent them out. Our homes were especially attractive since they were affordable and
companies came in and purchased dozens of them. Gorman stated prior to the housing crisis
most rental properties were owned by individuals who had just a few homes, compared to the
present where corporations have purchased them in large numbers.
Nawrocki asked what pro- active things the Council should consider. Dahl said there are several
options for the EDA/City Council to consider:
Limit the number of rental. This has been attempted in several cities, but usually in small
towns with colleges. The issue of limiting rentals has gone to litigation all the way to the
Supreme Court, but was never resolved because the parties either were issued rental
licenses or they sold the properties before the case was decided.
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June 6, 2016
2. Higher density rental usually increases crimes rates in the surrounding area. Crime rates
aren't necessarily increased when comparing a specific owner occupied home to a rental
home, but when the density of rentals is significant, the crime rate tends to be higher. So
possibly limiting rentals to so many per block could be considered.
3. Our demographics are also part of the problem. So many of our renters and owners are
immigrants and may not understand how to take care of a home and the expectations of
maintaining a house and yard. She said it might help if there were classes to help educate
them on the basics.
Gorman told members that property maintenance complaints are about the same
on owner occupied residences versus rental property. He said their- department averages
about 400 -500 lawn/weed complaints per year and about 200 complaints for junk/storage
issues.
4. Let the market dictate and just keep monitoring.
5. Hold a class about how to take care of property, especially if cited.
6. Could go back to offering rebates for home improvements but limit them to work that
increases the value such as remodeling or additions, not for maintenance /repair projects.
4. Update on 4303 Reservoir Blvd
Dahl informed the Commission members that Timbercraft has submitted the plans for
the construction of the single farnily home for review.
Nawrocki asked if the item regarding Tollberg Homes was to be considered as part of this
agenda. Dahl explained briefly what the information passed out to the members was about and
said he would have to get more information about this before it could be brought to the EDA for
consideration. Formal action would be required to approve the request which could not happen
at this meeting.
Hogeboom reminded members there will be a special EDA meeting on June 13, 2016 prior to the
Council Meeting to take action on 3 items.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
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Shelley Hanson
Secretary
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA)
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF
JUNE 13, 2016
The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm by Gary Peterson.
Members Present: Donna Schmitt, John Murzyn, Marlaine Szurek„ Bruce Nawrocki , Gerry
Herringer, Bobby Williams and Gary Peterson.
Staff Present: Walt Fehst, Joseph Hogeboom, Keith Dahl, Joe Kloiber, and Shelley
Hanson.
Also present: Martha Ingram from Kennedy & Graven and Frank Hogan from
Dougherty & Co.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - RECITED
BUSINESS ITEM
1. Authorization to Issuance of Tax Increment Revenue Refunding Bonds ( Huset
Park Area Redevelopment Project), Series 2016, and Providing the Form, Terms,
Pledge of Revenues, and Findings, Covenants, and Directions Relating to the
Issuance of Such Obligations - Resolution 2016 -14.
Hogeboom explained that this issue was discussed at the June Oh meeting and that he had
provided the members with a report that provided a brief history of the Columbia Heights
Economic Development Authority's $2,890,000 Tax Increment Revenue Bonds ( Huset Park
Area Redevelopment Project), Series 2007, which currently remain outstanding in the amount of
$2,475,000 (the "Current Bonds "), as well as a summary of the process required to refund the
Current Bonds. The Current Bonds were issued in connection with certain public infrastructure
improvements constructed as part of the Huset Park Tax Increment Financing District (the "TIF
District "), pursuant to the Amended and Restated Contract for Private Redevelopment between
the Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority ( "EDA "), the City of Columbia
Heights ( "City "), and BNC National Bank, as successor in interest to Huset Park Development
Corporation ( "BNC''), dated as of August 1, 2007, as amended (the "Prior Contract "), and
pursuant to the Second Amended and Restated Contract for Private Redevelopment between the
EDA, the City, and Columbia Heights Leased Housing Associates I, LLLP (the "Redeveloper"),
dated as of October 30, 2015 (the "Contract ").
The EDA issued the Current Bonds pursuant to the Prior Contract. The EDA pledged tax
increment generated by all improvements to be constructed on the Redevelopment Property to
the payment of debt service on the Current Bonds. The Current Bonds were issued after the first
phases of construction required under the Prior Contract were complete, and the par amount of
the Current Bonds was based on the flow of tax increment generated by the completed phases,
such that tax increment generated by the completed phases of construction has always been
sufficient to pay principal and interest in full on each payment date.
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EDA Minutes
Page 2
June 13, 2016
The EDA also issued its Taxable Tax Increment Revenue Note, Series 2007A, in the principal
amount of $6,650,000 (the "TIF Note ") to Huset Park Development Corporation ( "HPDC "), to
reimburse HPDC for certain public redevelopment costs incurred by HPDC in development of
the housing improvements within the TIF District. Like the Current Bonds, the TIF Note is also
secured by tax increment generated within the TIF District, but on a subordinate basis to the
Current Bonds. Since HPDC defaulted under the Prior Contract and never completed any
improvements beyond the first phases, there has not been enough tax increment generated within
the TIF District to pay any debt service on the TIF Note. Therefore, the TIF Note remains
outstanding in the full original principal amount. The TIF Note was assigned to the Redeveloper
on October 30, 2015 at the real estate closing on the Redevelopment Property from BNC to the
Redeveloper, and is now held by the Redeveloper.
The Contract with the Redeveloper, which the EDA and City Council approved in April of this
year, provides that the EDA will agree to refund the Current Bonds if requested by the
Redeveloper (see pertinent language in the attached Exhibit A). The Redeveloper has now made
this request. Refunding the Current Bonds is financially beneficial to the Redeveloper because
bonds issued to refund the Current Bonds (the "Refunding Bonds ") will carry lower interest
rates, which means that the debt service payments on the Refunding Bonds will be lower. This
will result in some tax increment remaining after payment on the Refunding Bonds, which will
be used to pay down the TIF Note (in addition, you will recall that the Contract requires the
Redeveloper to construct a senior housing facility within the TIF District, which will generate
additional tax increment that will also be used to pay principal and interest on the TIF Note).
The Redeveloper recognizes that refunding the Current Bonds primarily benefits the
Redeveloper, and has therefore agreed to pay all actual costs of issuance related to the issuance
of the Refunding Bonds. The EDA will not pay any costs related to the refunding. In addition,
the Redeveloper will pay an administrative fee of $100,000 to the EDA to be allocated to other
redevelopment purposes within the City.
The Redeveloper has engaged Dougherty & Company as underwriter (i.e. purchaser) for the
Refunding Bonds. In order to refund the Current Bonds, the EDA must adopt a resolution
awarding the sale of the Refunding Bonds to Dougherty and approving several documents
required in connection with the refunding, and the EDA's action must be approved by the City
Council. The actions being considered by the EDA and City Council on this date and Martha
Ingram ,an associate from Kennedy and Graven was present at both the EDA and the Council
meetings to answer any questions the EDA and /or City Council had about the legal documents,
the financial aspects of the process, or the contractual arrangement providing for this refunding.
A copy of the First Amendment to Paying Agent Agreement between Columbia Heights EDA
and Bond Trust Services Corp was included in the agenda packets for the members to review.
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EDA Minutes
Page 3
June 6, 2016
Questions by members:
Nawrocki wanted confirmation that if the Tax Revenue doesn't generate enough funds that the
City /EDA has no liability financially to the developer or bond holder. Ingram stated that is correct.
Herringer questioned the amount of interest accumulating on the outstanding note. Kloiber stated
that he can look up the exact amount for the members if they want it but the note is subordinate to
the bond and that by taking this action more money can be applied to the Note's principal and
interest. He explained that once again the City /EDA is not responsible for the Note payments.
Motion by Williams, seconded by Nawrocki , to waive the reading of Resolution 2016 -14, there
being ample copies available to the public. All ayes. MOTIONPASSED.
Motion by Williams, seconded by Nawrocki, to adopt Resolution 2016 -14, a Resolution to Issue Tax
Increment Revenue Refunding Bonds (Huset Park Area Redevelopment Project), Series 2016, and
Providing the Form, Terms, Pledge of Revenues, and Findings, Covenants, and Directions Relating
to the Issuance of Such Obligations. All ayes. MOTIONPASSED.
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
RESOLUTION NO. 2016-14
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF TAX
INCREMENT REVENUE REFUNDING BONDS (HUSET PARK
AREA REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT), SERIES 2016, AND
PROVIDING THE FORM, TERMS, PLEDGE OF REVENUES,
AND FINDINGS, COVENANTS, AND DIRECTIONS RELATING
TO THE ISSUANCE OF SUCH OBLIGATIONS
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners (the "Board ") of the Columbia
Heights Economic Development Authority (the "Authority "), as follows:
SECTION 1. BACKGROUND.
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