HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-03-2021 City Council Work Session PacketCITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION Mayor
Amáda Márquez Simula
Councilmembers
John Murzyn, Jr.
Connie Buesgens
Nick Novitsky
Kt Jacobs
City Manager
Kelli Bourgeois
Public Safety Bldg—Training Room, 825 41st Ave NE
Monday, May 03, 2021
7:00 PM
AMENDED AGENDA
NOTICE THAT THIS MEETING MAY BE CONDUCTED BY A COMBINATION OF IN-PERSON AND
ELECTRONIC MEANS
Following a determination by City Manager Kelli Bourgeois, and emergencies declared by the United
States, The State of Minnesota, and the Columbia Heights Mayor & City Council, this meeting may,
pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.021, occur by a combination of in-person and electronic means. In all
meeting formats, members of the public who wish to attend may do so by attending in-person, by
calling 1-312-626-6799 and entering meeting ID 891 4134 4862, or by Zoom
at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89141344862 at the scheduled meeting time. For questions regarding
this notice, please contact the City Clerk at (763) 706-3611.
Agenda amended 5/3/21 prior to meeting to add item in red.
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
WORK SESSION ITEMS
1.Update on Sewer Modeling for Sanitary Sewer Collection District 1
2.Cable Franchise Agreement Extension Notice
3.Youth Commission Consideration
4.Other Board and Commission Discussion Items
5.Speakers at City Council Meetings
6.Recycling Certificate
7.East African Community Meeting
8.National Constitution Center Update
9.Closed Session – Critical Incident Response Discussion
This item will be in a closed session under Minnesota Statute §13D.05 Subd. 3(d)
ADJOURNMENT
Auxiliary aids or other accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request when the request is
made at least 72 hours in advance. Please contact Administration at 763-706-3610 to make arrangements.
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CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEMS
MEETING DATE MAY 3, 2021
ITEM: Update on Sewer Modeling for Sanitary Sewer Collection District 1
DEPARTMENT: Public Works BY/DATE: Kevin Hansen 4/29/2021
CITY STRATEGY: (please indicate areas that apply by adding a bold “X” in front of the selected text below)
_Safe Community _Diverse, Welcoming “Small-Town” Feel
_Economic Strength _Excellent Housing/Neighborhoods
_Equity and Affordability X_Strong Infrastructure/Public Services
_Opportunities for Play and Learning _Engaged, Multi-Generational, Multi-Cultural Population
BACKGROUND: The City of Columbia Heights has three collection districts providing sanitary sewer service for
the entire city (attached). The City has previously experienced flow capacity issues in the trunk sanitary sewer
system in Collection District 1, west of Central along 43rd Avenue. Issues such as size of pipe, grades or slope of
the pipe, and flows exceeding the design capacity may be contributing factors reducing flow capacity. With
proposed and/or potential development in Collection District 1, the City Council authorized an in-depth
analysis of the primary trunk mains serving this entire district to evaluate current pipe capacity and provide
recommendations to ensure sufficient future capacity for sewage flows are available, which is in progress.
After receiving the Reuters Walton development proposal, staff conducted a more localized evaluation of the
sewer mainline segments that the proposed development would be discharging into. Staff evaluated the
sewer segments as follows:
Jackson St from 42nd to 43rd Ave
43rd Ave from Central Ave to Monroe St
Monroe St from 43rd Ave to midblock
Midblock Monroe St easement to Washington St
Washington St north to 44th Ave
44th Ave from Washington St to 6th St
The segments were modeled for existing peak flow capacity using a peaking factor of 3.6 to 4.0 (City Comp
Plan) times average base flow, as sewer sizing is determined using peak flow. In addition, two flow meters
were installed on both the Jackson Street and 43rd Avenue pipes to calibrate the model with actual flows. Wet
weather flow data has not been captured due to insufficient rainfall events. In most cases the peaking factor
will approximate wet weather flows, unless significant I-I is present--which will lead to significantly higher
peaking factors.
The following criteria was used to create the model:
Item 1.
City of Columbia Heights - Council Letter Page 2
Table 4: Residential Flow Rate Calculation
Residential flow rates were estimated at 246 gallons per household per day. It was assumed that this flow rate
was representative of all single family homes in Columbia Heights.
Columbia Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan, Chapter 8 Water Resources does not identify a per capita or per
household assessment of residential sanitary sewer flow, but does identify service flow per area of residential
land use types. Table 5 was used to estimate flow rates from all other land uses based on a generalized
volume per day per acre rate.
Table 5: Waste Generation Rates
The land use based estimates identified above were used in this Model based on specific City land uses.
The pipes were then modeled with existing capacity calculated as a percentage flowing full . Full is considered
80% of design capacity. The attached Figure 3 shows existing pipe capacity, and Table 2 shows the modeled
data.
The Collection District 1 modeling effort will look at the entire trunk line, provide additional flow meters and
provide recommendations to accommodate future development. It is anticipated that preliminary results will
be available mid to end June.
DEFINITIONS:
Infiltration and Inflow (I-I): Inflow means water other than wastewater that enters a sewer system directly
from sources such as roof leaders, foundation drains, yard drains, manhole covers, cross connections between
storm sewers and sanitary sewers, catch basins, storm water runoff and other drainage structures.
Infiltration means water other than wastewater that enters the sewer system from the ground through
defective pipe, pipe joints, and manholes.
Residential Flow Rate Calculation
2010 Census Population 19,496
Total Number of Households 7,926
People/Household 2.46
Average Flow per Person (gpd) 100
Residential Base Flow (gpd/household) 246
Waste Generation Rates
Land Use Gal/acre-day
Apartment Unit, Condominium 2,700
Mobile Home Park 2,700
Duplex 1,575
Business 1,000
Public Facility 1,000
Park 0
Item 1.
City of Columbia Heights - Council Letter Page 3
Excessive I-I means the quantity of flow during storm events that results in chronic operational problems
related to hydraulic overloading of the collection system. Chronic operational problems may include
surcharging, backups, bypasses, and overflows.
Peaking Factor: Peak hourly flow + I/I (normal)
ATTACHMENT(S): Sewer District Maps – Figure 2, Figure 3, Table 2
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Item 1.
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEMS
MEETING DATE MAY 3, 2021
ITEM: Cable Franchise Agreement Extension Notice
DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: Ben Sandell, 4/30/2021
CITY STRATEGY: (please indicate areas that apply by adding a bold “X” in front of the selected text below)
_Safe Community X Diverse, Welcoming “Small-Town” Feel
_Economic Strength _Excellent Housing/Neighborhoods
_Equity and Affordability X Strong Infrastructure/Public Services
X Opportunities for Play and Learning X Engaged, Multi-Generational, Multi-Cultural Population
BACKGROUND:
The City of Columbia Heights cable franchise agreement with Comcast is up for renewal. The City’s cable
attorneys have recommended extending the City’s existing franchise agreement with Comcast through 2023.
The City's next steps will be to approve the agreement according to its ordinance amendment process and
then share the approved agreement with Comcast for their execution.
DETAILS:
Language of the 2015 Franchise Agreement (attached) will be updated with extension amendment (attached).
New language reads: “The City and Franchisee hereby agree to extend the Franchise Agreement and the
August 25, 2010 Letter Agreement through May 31, 2023.”
Proposed first reading of updated ordinance: May 10
Second reading: May 24
Requires a super majority vote.
Per the City Charter, publication of the summary ordinance is also required - “A franchise shall be without any
validity whatever until it has been accepted by the grantee, and until it has been given adequate publicity,
either by publication of a summary franchise ordinance in the official paper of the City for two successive
publications after its passages, and by posting of the summary ordinance in City Hall and the City Library for a
period of thirty days after its passage.”
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Review agreement, extension amendment, and seek clarifications as needed
Attachments:
2015 Franchise Agreement
Extension Amendment
Item 2.
FRANCHISE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made as of the __ day of January, 2015, by and between the
City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota (“City”), a municipal corporation, and Comcast of
Minnesota, Inc. (“Franchisee”), collectively (the “Parties”);
WHEREAS, Franchisee operates a cable system in Columbia Heights pursuant to a cable
franchise agreement between the City and Franchisee (“Franchise Agreement”); and
WHEREAS, the Parties desire to resolve certain outstanding legal and franchise issues
through this Agreement.
NOW THEREFORE, IN CONSIDERATION of the mutual covenants, terms,
conditions and representations contained herein, the parties agree as follows:
A. Franchise Extension.
1) The Franchise Agreement is currently set to expire on December 31, 2015. The City and
Franchisee hereby agree to extend the Franchise Agreement and the August 25, 2010 Letter
Agreement through May 31, 2020. By agreeing to this extension, no party is waiving any rights
under Section 626 of the Federal Cable Act, nor shall it be necessary for Franchisee to re-invoke
its renewal rights under Section 626.
B. PEG Channels – HD PEG Channels and Electronic Programming Guide.
2) Section 11.106 of the Franchise Agreement sets forth obligations related to PEG channels
and required the provision of up to four PEG channels.
3) Upon 90 days’ notice, Franchisee will carry one of the existing standard definition (SD)
PEG channels in high definition (HD) format on the cable system such that the City will have 4
PEG Channels, 3 SD and 1 HD PEG channels. The City represents that it has or will have
available by that date sufficient local, non-character generated programming in HD format so as
to provide content of value to viewers and not have a blank channel. Any time after twelve
months from the date of this Agreement, Franchisee will carry an additional PEG channel in HD
in the same manner as the first HD channel, such that the City will continue to have 4 PEG
Channels; 2 carried in SD and 2 carried in HD. Franchisee may choose to simulcast all of the SD
PEG Channels in HD.
4) Franchisee will deliver the high definition signal to subscribers so that it is viewable
without degradation, provided that it is not required to deliver a HD PEG Channel at a resolution
higher than the highest resolution used in connection with the delivery of local broadcast signals
to the public. Franchisee may implement HD carriage of the PEG channel in any manner
(including selection of compression, utilization of IP, amount of system capacity or bandwidth,
and other processing characteristics) that produces a signal as accessible, functional, useable and
of a quality comparable (meaning indistinguishable to the viewer) to broadcast HD channels
carried on the cable system.
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5) The HD PEG Channel will be assigned a number near the other high definition local
broadcast stations if such channel positions are not already taken, or if that is not possible, near
high definition news/public affairs programming channels if such channel positions are not
already taken, or if not possible, as reasonably close as available channel numbering will allow.
6) City acknowledges that HD programming may require the viewer to have special viewer
equipment (such as an HDTV and an HD-capable digital device/receiver), but any subscriber
who can view an HD signal delivered via the cable system at a receiver shall also be able to view
the HD PEG channel at that receiver, without additional charges or equipment. By agreeing to
make PEG available in HD format, Franchisee is not agreeing it may be required to provide free
HD equipment to customers including complimentary municipal and educational accounts and
universal service accounts, nor modify its equipment or pricing policies in any manner. City
acknowledges that not every customer may be able to view HD PEG programming (for example,
because they don’t have an HDTV in their home or have chosen not to take an HD capable
receiving device from Franchisee or other equipment provider) or on every TV in the home.
7) Franchisee will provide a bill message announcing the launch of the HD PEG channel;
however City acknowledges that not all customers may receive the bill message notice in
advance of the channel launch in the interests of launching the channel sooner.
8) Franchisee will make available to the City the ability to place PEG channel programming
information on the interactive channel guide by putting the City in contact with the electronic
programing guide vendor (“EPG provider”) that provides the guide service. Franchisee will be
responsible for providing the designations and instructions necessary to ensure the channels will
appear on the programming guide throughout the jurisdictions that are part of the City and any
necessary headend costs associated therewith. The City shall be responsible for providing
programming information to the EPG provider and for any costs the EPG provider charges to
programmers who participate in its service.
9) The Parties agree that Franchisee will continue to charge a PEG Fee of $0.90 per
subscriber per month until the franchise renews. Franchisee may continue to recover the grant
given to the City out of the PEG Fee and, once the grant is fully recovered, all of the PEG Fee
will be remitted to the City on a quarterly basis. Franchisee shall fully recover the grant on or
before July 31, 2015. The PEG Fee will be paid to the City at the same time as the Franchise
Fee.
C. Franchise Fee Payment Correction.
10) Franchisee will pay the City $3,963.08 in full settlement of the franchise fees due on
bundled services for January 1, 2012 through December 31, 2014. Franchisee's payment shall be
due within 45 days of the City’s approval of this Agreement, unless otherwise agreed by the
parties.
D. Complimentary Cable Services.
11) Section 11.102 (I) of the Franchise Agreement requires Franchisee to provide one device per
complimentary drop listed in Exhibit B to the Franchise Agreement and certain other locations.
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Franchisee agrees to provide upon request up to 3 digital converters (digital converter or DTA at
Franchisee’s option) per complimentary drop location listed in Franchise Agreement Exhibit B and
certain other locations per the franchise if needed to receive the cable service. Franchisee will also
provide an additional 15 HD converter boxes to use at the City’s discretion.
E. Transfer Consent.
12) This Agreement is subject to the City’s adoption of the Transfer Resolution, attached
hereto and incorporated herewith as Exhibit A, no later than its last January 2015 meeting.
F. Transfer Related Costs.
13) Franchisee agrees to reimburse the City for its costs related to the review of the
Transaction in the amount of $15,000 to be paid within 45 business days of the City’s adoption
of the Transfer Resolution referenced below. The Parties agree that this payment shall not be
deemed to exceed the franchise fee cap specified in Section 622(a) of the Cable Act, 47 U.S.C. §
542(a), and shall at no time be offset against or deducted from franchise fee payments, grants or
other financial support or in-kind compensation paid to the City under the Franchise. This
provision is agreed to solely for the purpose of this Settlement Agreement, and does not
prejudice either party from taking a different position regarding the franchise fee issues in the
future.
G. Release.
14) In consideration of the benefits conferred herein, the City releases and forever discharges
the Franchisee, including its agents, employees, parents, subsidiaries and affiliates from any and
all claims and release and forever discharge it from all Franchise-related claims, Franchise
violations, and Franchise-related compliance issues as of the effective date of this Agreement.
H. Miscellaneous Provisions.
15) This Agreement is a compromise. The Parties agree that this Agreement may not be used
to prove that there is a need or interest (or lack thereof) in decreasing, increasing or maintaining
the current number of PEG channels, or in the need or interest (or lack thereof) in providing PEG
in HD, or in other formats.
16) Each Party represents that it has the power and authority to enter into this Agreement.
Any breach of this Agreement shall be subject to all remedies available to the Parties at law or in
equity and shall be enforceable as a franchise obligation.
17) This Agreement sets forth the entire agreement of the Parties with respect to its subject
matter, there being no other promise or inducement to or for the execution of the Agreement
other than the consideration cited above. There are no contingencies, conditions precedent,
representations, warranties, or other agreement, or otherwise, regarding settlement between the
Parties not stated herein.
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18) The Parties acknowledge that this Agreement is the product of negotiations between the
Parties and does not constitute, and shall not be construed as an admission of liability on the part
of any Party.
19) This Agreement shall insure to the benefit of, and shall be binding on, the Parties and
their respective successors and assigns.
20) This Agreement may not be modified or amended, nor any of its terms waived, except by
an amendment signed by duly authorized representatives of the Parties.
21) This Agreement shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State
of Minnesota without regard to conflicts of law principles.
22) The Parties shall not take any action to challenge, or cause another person or entity to
challenge, any provision of this Agreement as contrary to or unenforceable under applicable
laws, regulations, orders and decisions, nor will they participate with any other person or entity
in any such challenge to this Agreement.
23) This Agreement shall be effective upon the date when it is executed on behalf of both
Parties.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed by
duly authorized representatives of each Party on the dates written below.
CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MN
_________________________________
Title:_____________________________
Date: ____________________________
COMCAST OF MINNESOTA, INC.
_________________________________
Title:_____________________________
Date: ____________________________
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Item 2.
Exhibit A
RESOLUTION NO. _____
A RESOLUTION CONDITIONALLY GRANTING THE CONSENT
TO THE TRANSFER OF CONTROL OF THE CABLE TELEVISION FRANCHISE
AND CABLE TELEVISION SYSTEM FROM
COMCAST CORPORATION TO GREATLAND CONNECTIONS, INC.
WHEREAS, the City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota, is a Minnesota Statutory City;
and
WHEREAS, Comcast of Minnesota, Inc., (“Franchisee”) holds a franchise (the
“Franchise”) to operate a cable television system (the “System”) in the City pursuant to a
franchise ordinance (the “Franchise Ordinance”); and
WHEREAS, Section 11.110(E) of the Franchise Ordinance requires the City’s prior
consent to a fundamental corporate change, including a merger or a change in Franchisee’s
parent corporation; and
WHEREAS, the City has the authority to administer and enforce the Franchise; and
WHEREAS, after a series of transfers, Comcast of Minnesota, Inc., was approved by the
City as the Franchise holder, pursuant to prior transfer resolutions (the “Prior Transfer
Resolutions”). The Prior Transfer Resolutions, the Franchise, the Franchise Ordinance, and the
Franchise Settlement Agreement together with any applicable resolutions, codes, ordinances,
acceptances, acknowledgments, guarantees, amendments, memoranda of understanding, social
contracts and agreements, are collectively referred to as the “Franchise Documents;” and
WHEREAS, Comcast of Minnesota, Inc., is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of
Comcast Corporation (“Comcast”); and
WHEREAS, Comcast, as the ultimate parent corporation of Franchisee, has agreed to
divest and transfer the Franchise and Cable System to Midwest Cable, Inc., in a process
described in the Transfer Application (the “Proposed Transaction”); and
WHEREAS, immediately following the closing of the Proposed Transaction, Midwest
Cable, Inc., will be renamed GreatLand Connections, Inc., and, for the purposes of this
Resolution, the transfer applicant will be referred to as “GreatLand” throughout; and
WHEREAS, Comcast filed a Federal Communications Commission Form 394 with the
City on June 18, 2014, together with certain attached materials, which documents more fully
describe the Proposed Transaction and which documents, with their attachments, contain certain
promises, conditions, representations and warranties (the “Transfer Application”); and
WHEREAS, under the Proposed Transaction, the Franchise and Cable System will stay
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with Franchisee, and its ultimate parent company will be GreatLand; and
WHEREAS, under the Proposed Transaction, the ultimate ownership and control of the
Franchisee and the System will change, and it requires the prior written approval of the City; and
WHEREAS, Comcast, through its subsidiaries, provided written responses to some of
the data requests issued by the City, including directing the representatives of the City to publicly
filed and available information, and information posted to Comcast Corporation and other
websites (the “Data Request Responses”); and
WHEREAS, the City reviewed the Transfer Application and considered all applicable
and relevant factors; and
WHEREAS, in reliance upon the representations made by and on behalf of Comcast of
Minnesota, Inc., Comcast, and GreatLand, to the City, the City is willing to grant consent to the
Proposed Transaction, so long as those representations are complete and accurate; and
WHEREAS, the City’s approval of the Proposed Transaction is therefore appropriate if
the Franchisee will continue to be responsible for all acts and omissions, known and unknown,
under the Franchise Documents and applicable law for all purposes, including (but not limited
to) franchise renewal.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY OF COLUMBIA
HEIGHTS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The City’s consent to and approval of the Transfer Application is hereby
GRANTED in accordance with the Franchise Ordinances, subject to the following conditions:
1.1 Neither the Franchise, nor any control thereof, nor the System, nor any part of the System
located in any municipal public rights-of-way in the City or on municipal property, shall
be assigned or transferred, in whole or in part, without filing a written application with
the City and obtaining prior written approval of such transfer or assignment, but only to
the extent required by applicable law.
1.2 The City’s approval of the Transfer Application is made without prejudice to, or waiver
of, its and/or the City’s right to fully investigate and consider during any future franchise
renewal process: (i) Franchisee’s financial, technical, and legal qualifications; (ii)
Franchisee’s compliance with the Franchise Documents , except as set forth in the
Franchise Settlement Agreement; and (iii) any other lawful, relevant considerations.
1.3 The City’s approval of the Transfer Application is made without prejudice to, or waiver
of, any right of the City to consider or raise claims based on Franchisee’s defaults, any
failure to provide reasonable service in light of the community’s needs, or any failure to
comply with the terms and conditions of the Franchise Documents, or with applicable
law, except as set forth in the Franchise Settlement Agreement.
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1.4 Subject to the Franchise Settlement Agreement, the City waives none of their rights with
respect to the Franchisee’s compliance with the terms, conditions, requirements and
obligations set forth in the Franchise Documents and in applicable law. The City’s
approval of the Transfer Application shall in no way be deemed a representation by the
City that the Franchisee is in compliance with all of its obligations under the Franchise
Documents and applicable law.
1.5 After the Proposed Transaction, GreatLand and Franchisee will be bound by all the
commitments, duties, and obligations, present and continuing, embodied in the Franchise
Documents and applicable law. The Proposed Transaction will have no effect on these
obligations.
1.6 GreatLand shall provide an executed written certification in the form attached hereto
within thirty (30) days after consummation of the Proposed Transaction, guarantying the
full performance of the Franchisee. GreatLand shall provide the City with written
notification that the Proposed Transaction closed within ten (10) days after the closing;
1.7 GreatLand will comply with any and all conditions or requirements applicable to
GreatLand set forth in all approvals granted by federal agencies with respect to the
Proposed Transaction and Transfer Application (including any conditions with respect to
programming agreements), such conditions or requirements to be exclusively enforced at
the federal level;
1.8 GreatLand shall provide a written guarantee in the form attached hereto within thirty (30)
days of the effective date of this Resolution specifying that subscriber rates and charges
in the City area will not increase as a result of the costs of the Proposed Transaction;
1.9 After the Proposed Transaction is consummated, GreatLand and Franchisee will continue
to be responsible for all past acts and omissions, known and unknown, under the
Franchise Documents and applicable law for all purposes, including (but not limited to)
Franchise renewal to the same extent and in the same manner as before the Proposed
Transaction, subject to the terms of the Franchise Settlement Agreement.
1.10 Nothing in this Resolution amends or alters the Franchise Documents or any
requirements therein in any way, and all provisions of the Franchise Documents remain
in full force and effect and are enforceable in accordance with their terms and with
applicable law.
1.11 The Proposed Transaction shall not permit GreatLand and Franchisee to take any position
or exercise any right with respect to the Franchise Documents and the relationship
thereby established with the City that could not have been exercised prior to the Proposed
Transaction.
1.12 GreatLand assures that it will cause to be made available adequate financial resources to
allow Franchisee to meet its obligations under the Franchise Documents, including
without limitation operational and customer service requirements.
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1.13 The City is not waiving any rights it may have to require franchise fee payments on
present and future services delivered by GreatLand or its subsidiaries and affiliates via
the cable system;
1.14 The City is not waiving any right it may have related to any net neutrality, open access,
and information services issues;
1.15 Receipt of any and all state and federal approvals and authorizations;
1.16 Actual closing of the Proposed Transaction consistent with the transfer application; and
Section 2. If any of the conditions or requirements specified in this Resolution are not
satisfied, then the City’s recommended consent to, and approval of, the Transfer Application and
Proposed Transaction is hereby DENIED and void as of the date hereof.
Section 3. If any of the written representations made to the City in the Transfer
Application proceeding by (i) Comcast of Minnesota, Inc., (ii) Comcast or (iii) GreatLand, (iv)
any subsidiary or representative of the foregoing prove to be materially incomplete, untrue or
inaccurate in any material respect, it shall be deemed a material breach of the Franchise
Documents and applicable law, and subject to the remedies contained in the Franchise
Documents and applicable law.
Section 4. This Resolution shall not be construed to grant or imply the City’s consent to
any other transfer or assignment of the Franchises or any other transaction that may require the
City’s consent under the Franchise Ordinances or applicable law. The City reserves all its rights
with regard to any such transactions.
Section 5. This Resolution is a final decision on the Transfer Application within the
meaning of 47 U.S.C. § 537.
Section 6. The transfer of control of the Franchise from Comcast to GreatLand shall not
take effect until the consummation of the Proposed Transaction.
Section 7. This Resolution shall be effective immediately upon its adoption by the City.
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Adopted by the City of Columbia Heights, Minnesota this ______ day of January, 2015.
________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
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Item 2.
Attachment 1
Form of Guaranty of Performance
GUARANTY OF PERFORMANCE
GreatLand Connections, Inc., as the ultimate parent entity of Comcast of Minnesota, Inc.,
the Franchisee, upon closing of the proposed transaction (as defined in the City of Columbia
Heights Resolution No. __________) certifies that it has sufficient financial resources and will at
all times make available all necessary financial resources to ensure that the Franchisee has the
capability to operate and maintain the System in accordance with the Franchise and applicable
laws, regulations codes and standards, and to fully comply at all times with the Franchise, and
applicable laws, regulations, codes and standards and guarantees such performance. GreatLand
Connections, Inc., agrees that any failure to adhere to this guaranty shall be deemed a violation
of the Franchise held by the Franchisee.
EXECUTED as of _______________________.
GreatLand Connections, Inc.
By: ________________________
Name: ______________________
Title: _______________________
Address:
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Item 2.
Attachment 2
Form of Guaranty Regarding Rates
GUARANTY REGARDING RATES
GreatLand Connections, Inc., upon closing of the proposed transaction (as defined in the
City of Columbia Heights Resolution No. __________), guarantees that rates and charges for
cable service offered by ______________________, the Franchisee in the City, will not increase
as a result of the cost of the proposed transaction. GreatLand Connections, Inc., agrees that any
failure to adhere to this guaranty shall be deemed a violation of the Franchise held by the
Franchisee.
EXECUTED as of _______________________.
GreatLand Connections, Inc.,
By: ________________________
Name: ______________________
Title: _______________________
Address:
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Item 2.
FRANCHISE EXTENSION AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT, effective as of _________, between the City of Columbia Heights (the
"City"), and Comcast of Minnesota, Inc., a Minnesota corporation ("Comcast").
WHEREAS, the LFA has granted Comcast a non-exclusive franchise to construct, operate and
maintain a cable television system (the "Franchise"); and
WHEREAS, Comcast timely filed a request with the LFA to activate the formal process for
renewing the Franchise pursuant to the provisions of the Cable Communications Policy Act of
1984 ("Cable Act"); and
WHEREAS, the parties are in negotiations concerning a renewal of the Franchise utilizing the
informal procedures set forth in the Cable Act; and
WHEREAS, the parties desire to extend the current Franchise term for three (3) years in order to
accommodate such negotiations.
Section 1
Section ___ of the Franchise is hereby amended by extending the term of such Franchise
through and including May 31, 2023. The Parties do not waive any rights under Section 626 of
the Federal Cable Act and agree that Grantee shall not be required to file an additional
Section 626 Letter to preserve its right to formal proceedings under the Franchise.
Section 2
Except as specifically modified hereby, the Franchise shall remain in full force and effect.
Section 3
Neither party waives any right which it enjoys under law as a result of agreeing to this
Franchise extension.
ATTEST: CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA
By:______________ By:________________________________________
Its: ____Mayor_______________________________
Comcast of Minnesota, Inc.
By: _____________________
Ron Orlando
Vice President External Affairs, Comcast 20
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Item 2.
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEMS
MEETING DATE MAY 3, 2021
ITEM: Youth Commission Consideration
DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: Ben Sandell, 4/30/2021
CITY STRATEGY: (please indicate areas that apply by adding a bold “X” in front of the selected text below)
_Safe Community X Diverse, Welcoming “Small-Town” Feel
_Economic Strength _Excellent Housing/Neighborhoods
_Equity and Affordability X Strong Infrastructure/Public Services
X Opportunities for Play and Learning X Engaged, Multi-Generational, Multi-Cultural Population
BACKGROUND:
Previously, the Mayor, City Manager, and staff discussed the potential for a youth commission at the City . The
idea was first presented to the Council at the March 1, 2021, Work Session to gauge interest. The
Communications Coordinator then contacted a select group of government agencies that have youth
commissions to get a better idea of how best to approach the project in the City of Columbia Heights, should
the Council choose to move forward with the initiative.
DETAILS:
Officials from four government agencies provided extensive detail and testimonial about the youth
commissions at their respective locations: Northfield, Rosemount, Rochester, and Eden Prairie. All agencies
manage their commissions differently, but do share some commonalities across all four: 1.) Kids in grades 10,
11, and 12 are the target demographic. 2.) All agencies emphasize and encourage civic engagement. 3.) Each
group has at least one adult staff member in charge of managing the group, though all require some form of
involvement from a larger variety of staff members and elected officials. 4.) All four adult coordinators
recommend that Columbia Heights move forward with a youth commission in some capacity. 5.) All require a
minimum attendance, though excused absences are provided liberally. Items that were not consistent acro ss
all groups were: 1.) Term limits, 2.) Partnering agencies 3.) Application requirements. 4.) Application selection
process, 5.) Total number of members. 6.) Central focus and format of the group . 7) Frequency of meetings,
8.) Time commitment from staff, 9.) Budget. For more on these differences, please see attached chart.
When asked about the benefits of having a youth commission, each staff coordinator cited the value of youth
insight and feedback, stating that several ideas and policies were generated or influenced at the agencies by
youth commission members. They also cited the value in encouraging youth to engage in the civic process
early on, and in providing important experience and social/political lessons. One of the concerns expressed by
Council members in March was attrition of youth attendance. No agency expressed any serious problems with
attendance, and none had any trouble attracting applicants. The Columbia Heights School District said they
would be supportive of the youth commission and would help market it should the City decide to move
forward. The chair of the Columbia Heights Key Club said that they think local youth would be interested.
Item 3.
City of Columbia Heights - Council Letter Page 2
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Based on staff time and resources available, and the provided feedback from other agencies, staff
recommends approving the development of a youth commission that 1). Meets monthly for two hours, except
July and August, 2.) Develops sub-groups based on interests that engage youth in community projects,
activities, and policy discussions coordinated by the group with guidance from staff liaison, 3.) Opens
applications to all youth in grades 10-12, in any school or homeschool, provided they are a Columbia Heights
resident, and accepts any youth who apply who meet those standards and who provide at least one letter of
recommendation from anyone who isn’t their mom or dad, 4.) Requires no term limits 5.) Allows three
unexcused absences per year and an additional three excused absences, 6.) Works in partnership with area
non-profits, schools and organizations to coordinate projects, marketing, and budget, 7.) Hosts a monthly
educational speaker and/or a monthly educational trip or tour, 8.) Launches its initial application
announcement in the fall City Newsletter, 9.) Is allocated a small budget for food and activities, 10.) Is
managed on a staffing level by the Communications and Events department, 11.) Includes a rotating council
liaison, 12.) Includes regular updates from youth commission liaisons to boards and commissions and council
meetings. With approval to move forward, staff woul d draw up a specific plan and set of standards to be
reviewed and approved by the City Council later this summer, and then adopted as a City Ordinance.
ATTACHMENT:
Comparison chart
Item 3.
Selected Youth Commission Comparisons
Agency/
Basics
Summary of
Approach/Goals
Format/
Logistics
Staff Liaison Com-ments
City of
Rosemount:
Ages: 14-18
23 members
Meet monthly, no
summer meetings
Three unexcused
absences allowed
Must be city resi-
dents
Educational. The group is used
to organize educational tours
of government facilities. Mem-
bers will shadow council mem-
bers and other government
officials. The focus is to “show
them the ropes.” Learn how
to run government meetings.
Leadership training.
Engagement: Members help
with community events, tree
planting, youth booth, 5k runs
Meet as a group
monthly. Break off
into subgroups to
work on city and
community projects.
Coordinated by
Assistant City Man-
ager who spends 3
hours per month on
the group
One council liaison
New applicants
interviewed as
a group. Most
accepted.
Works in part-
nership with area
schools.
The bigger
the group
the better,
since the kids
schedules and
availability
vary so much
Recruiting
members not
a problem.
Some kids
have returned
to join govern-
ment commis-
sions as adults
Recom-
mended
City of Eden
Prairie:
Ages: High school
20-25 members
No meetings as
a group, commis-
sion members
attend other
boards and com-
missions
One-year term
limits
Minimum atten-
dance require-
ments rarely
enforced.
Advisory: Members offer
feedback/ideas at government
meetings. Ideas and insights
presented to the council.
Engagement: Youth are
encouraged to participate in
the civic process. Commission-
ers seek their input.
Coordinated by staff liaison in part-nership with adult liaisons from each board and commis-sion
Members attend city boards and commission meet-ings divvied up by interest. Mostly non-voting. More than one youth member can be assigned per group.
One collective ban-quet per year.
Applicants reviewed and chosen by city manager and com-mission liaisons
No partnership with area school district
Word of mouth used to find new applicants. Not actively mar-keted.
“Other commis-sioners really appreciate it.”
Attendance not an issue
“I make sure that all potential members under-stand the time commitment and what is expected of them.”
24
Item 3.
Selected Youth Commission Comparisons
Agency/
Basics
Summary of
Approach/Goals
Format/
Logistics
Staff Liaison Com-ments
Rochester/Olm-
sted County:
Ages: 14-18
50 members
Meet monthly,
year-round
Allowed three
unexcused
absences
2-year term limits,
or until gradua-
tion, 2-6 hours
per month
Advisory: Youth generate
ideas, advise council, offer rec-
ommendations
Engagement: Members select
events and activities they want
to participate in based on their
interests. Attend advisory
meetings.
Experience: Meetings entirely
youth-led. Learning to compro-
mise. Politics.
Education: Experts and city
staff invited to speak at meet-
ings
Meet once a month,
Coordinated by
halftime staff mem-
ber paid by City/
County split who
spends 20 hours
per week on the
group.
8-10 adults on com-
mission
City/County/School
District partnership,
liaisons from all
three
All who apply are
accepted, includes
residents from
whole county.
Does not need to advertise for more applicants. Word-of-mouth is good enough.
“I would be very surprised if anyone on your council regret-ted starting a youth commis-sion.”
“City and county look at the youth commission as a way to reach a much broader group of kids.”
City of North-
field:
Ages: Sopho-
mores, Juniors
and Seniors
Two groups:
18 members
(meet together
twice a month)
27 members
(attend govern-
ment meetings)
No term limits,
minimum of 2
hours per month
Can’t miss more
than 20 percent
of meetings
Advisory: Youth are asked
for input at meetings. Provide
unique feedback from their
segment of the community.
Engagement: Encourages
involvement in government.
Members will spearhead cer-
tain city projects/policies
Educational: Monthly speakers
present at meetings
City Youth Com-mission meets twice per month, at-large youth commission meets once per month as a group as well as attend various boards and commission meet-ings as liaisons.
Applicants must either live in the city limits, or be enrolled in the school district.
Coordinated by non-profit center, 10 hours per week
No meetings during summer.
Applications scored blindly.
Attendance is not an issue.
Receive twice the number of applicants as spots available
Advertise on Instagram, with posters, and through word-of-mouth.
“If you want true youth engagement and involvement, they need sup-port and guid-ance from city staff and elected officials.”
“Decisions are stronger when you have more people at the table. The youth spark different conversations.”
25
Item 3.
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEMS
MEETING DATE MAY 3, 2021
ITEM: Other Board and Commission Discussion Items
DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: Nicole Tingley, 4/26/21
CITY STRATEGY: (please indicate areas that apply by adding a bold “X” in front of the selected text below)
_Safe Community _Diverse, Welcoming “Small-Town” Feel
_Economic Strength _Excellent Housing/Neighborhoods
_Equity and Affordability _Strong Infrastructure/Public Services
_Opportunities for Play and Learning X Engaged, Multi-Generational, Multi-Cultural Population
BACKGROUND:
The City Council has requested to discuss miscellaneous items related to boards and commissions. Information
on each is included to spark discussion.
Increase Number of Members on Library Board and/or Park and Rec Commission
The Library Board currently has 5 members and the Park & Recreation Commission has 7 members. Below are
the numbers for some other communities for these commissions. I chose communities with comparable
populations and proximity (to the extent possible).
Library Board Member Numbers Park and Recreation Commission Member Numbers
Northfield- 9 members Fridley- 5 members
Stillwater- 9 members Lino Lakes- 7 members
Austin- 9 members Golden Valley- 9 members
Elk River- 5 members West St. Paul- 7 members
Owatonna- 5 members Shoreview- 9 members
Interview Questions
City Councilmembers requested to revisit the Board and Commission interview questions. One question in
particular that was mentioned that should be changed was the question regarding the Comprehensive Plan for
the Planning Commission. Additionally, it was mentioned that the question included for all boards and
commissions regarding the issues and concerns in the next 5-20 years to be specific to the board or
commission. These are included as track changes on the question sheets attached. Please provide feedback on
these changes and let staff know of any other changes (if any).
Application
It was requested that one additional question be added to the application. It is “What unique perspective and
life experience do you bring to a board/commission and the City?” The application with this new question
included is attached. Please provide feedback on this change and any let staff know of other changes (if any).
Item 4.
City of Columbia Heights - Council Letter Page 2
Job Description for Members
The City Council requested job descriptions for each board and commission. Draft Job Descriptions are
currently being reviewed by the staff liaisons and will be sent by email shortly before the work session and
distributed at it. These were added to the packet 5/3/21 prior to the work session.
ATTACHMENTS
Board and Commission Interview Questions (with changes)
Board and Commission Application (with new question)
27
Item 4.
TRAFFIC COMMISSION FIRST CHOICE
BOARD AND COMMISSION INTERVIEW
Name _____________________________________________ Date/Time _________________
1. Briefly describe any training, education, or relevant experience that you have acquired that would benefit
the City of Columbia Heights including civic and community groups.
2. What motivated you to apply to serve on a board or commission (please be specific to the ones you are
interested in)?
3. Why do you feel that you would be a good person to represent the opinions and concerns of the City?
4. What are some of the most important concerns or issues that you think the City’s transportation system
will face in the next 5-20 years?
Item 4.
5. What work or personal situations do you have that may cause a conflict of interest with serving as a board
or commission member? How does the meeting schedule work for you?
Traffic Commission Questions
1. Please describe your understanding of the role of the Traffic Commission and the responsibilities/duties
of its members.
2. What do you feel should be the top priorities of the Traffic Commission?
RATING Least Most
Knowledge of community 1 2 3 4 5
Involvement with community 1 2 3 4 5
Ability to present information orally 1 2 3 4 5
Experience/training/interest beneficial to 1 2 3 4 5
this board or commission
Knowledge of assigned commission 1 2 3 4 5
Overall Impression 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Overall Rating ___________ Interviewed by _______________________
Board or Commission recommended for: ___________________________________________
29
Item 4.
PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION FIRST CHOICE
BOARD AND COMMISSION INTERVIEW
Name _____________________________________________ Date/Time _________________
1. Briefly describe any training, education, or relevant experience that you have acquired that would benefit
the City of Columbia Heights including civic and community groups.
2. What motivated you to apply to serve on a board or commission (please be specific to the ones you are
interested in)?
3. Why do you feel that you would be a good person to represent the opinions and concerns of the City?
4. What are some of the most important concerns or issues that you think the City City’s park system and
recreation programming will face in the next 5-20 years?
Item 4.
5. What work or personal situations do you have that may cause a conflict of interest with serving as a board
or commission member? How does the meeting schedule work for you?
Park & Recreation Commission Questions
1. Please describe your understanding of the role of the Park and Recreation Commission and the
responsibilities/duties of its members.
2. When considering potential parks projects or recreation programs, what do you think needs to be
considered?
RATING Least Most
Knowledge of community 1 2 3 4 5
Involvement with community 1 2 3 4 5
Ability to present information orally 1 2 3 4 5
Experience/training/interest beneficial to 1 2 3 4 5
this board or commission
Knowledge of assigned commission 1 2 3 4 5
Overall Impression 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Overall Rating ___________ Interviewed by _______________________
Board or Commission recommended for: ___________________________________________
31
Item 4.
PLANNING COMMISSION FIRST CHOICE
BOARD AND COMMISSION INTERVIEW
Name _____________________________________________ Date/Time _________________
1. Briefly describe any training, education, or relevant experience that you have acquired that would benefit
the City of Columbia Heights including civic and community groups.
2. What motivated you to apply to serve on a board or commission (please be specific to the ones you are
interested in)?
3. Why do you feel that you would be a good person to represent the opinions and concerns of the City?
4. What are some of the most important concerns or issues that you think the City will face in regards to
planning and land-use in the next 5-20 years?
32
Item 4.
5. What work or personal situations do you have that may cause a conflict of interest with serving as a board
or commission member? How does the meeting schedule work for you?
Planning Commission Questions
1. Please describe your understanding of the role of the Planning Commission and the
responsibilities/duties of its members.
2. What is your opinion and understanding of the Comprehensive Plan? How familiar are you with the
Comprehensive Plan? What role do you think it will play in the evaluation of a typical application which
you will see as a Planning Commissioner? What is your understanding of the Comprehensive plan and
what do you see as the role of it?
RATING Least Most
Knowledge of community 1 2 3 4 5
Involvement with community 1 2 3 4 5
Ability to present information orally 1 2 3 4 5
Experience/training/interest beneficial to 1 2 3 4 5
this board or commission
Knowledge of assigned commission 1 2 3 4 5
Overall Impression 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Overall Rating ___________ Interviewed by _______________________
Board or Commission recommended for: ___________________________________________ 33
Item 4.
LIBRARY BOARD FIRST CHOICE
BOARD AND COMMISSION INTERVIEW
Name _____________________________________________ Date/Time _________________
1. Briefly describe any training, education, or relevant experience that you have acquired that would benefit
the City of Columbia Heights including civic and community groups.
2. What motivated you to apply to serve on a board or commission (please be specific to the ones you are
interested in)?
3. Why do you feel that you would be a good person to represent the opinions and concerns of the City?
4. What are some of the most important concerns or issues that you think the City’s Library will face in the
next 5-20 years?
Item 4.
5. What work or personal situations do you have that may cause a conflict of interest with serving as a board
or commission member? How does the meeting schedule work for you?
Library Board Questions
1. Please describe your understanding of the role of the Library Board and the responsibilities/duties of its
members.
2. In your opinion what are the strengths and weaknesses of the library’s programs and services? What are
your experiences with them?
RATING Least Most
Knowledge of community 1 2 3 4 5
Involvement with community 1 2 3 4 5
Ability to present information orally 1 2 3 4 5
Experience/training/interest beneficial to 1 2 3 4 5
this board or commission
Knowledge of assigned commission 1 2 3 4 5
Overall Impression 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Overall Rating ___________ Interviewed by _______________________
Board or Commission recommended for: ___________________________________________
Item 4.
City Board and Commission Application
Please number your choices according to preference:
(leave blank any one on which you do not wish to serve)
___ Economic Development Authority ____ Planning Commission
___ Park & Recreation Commission ____ Traffic Commission
___ Library Board
____ Charter Commission*
*Note: for the Charter Commission, please
indicate if you are a qualified voter.
____Yes ____No
Name
Phone
Street Address City State
Zip
Email Address Number of years/months resident of Columbia Heights
Property you own in Columbia Heights, if any (other than Residence)
If you are appointed to a City Board or Commission, your Employer and phone number for the purpose of this appointment
will be City Hall. If you have other work, please complete the following.
Employer
Work Phone
Position Title/Occupation
Educational Background:
Volunteer, Civic, Professional and Community Activities:
Professional Designations/Awards/Honors/Previous Government Service:
36
Item 4.
Please describe why you are interested in serving on a board or commission and why you feel you are qualified:
What unique perspective and life experience do you bring to a board/commission and the City?
Please indicate what (if any) evenings you are not available for meetings
___ Monday ___Tuesday ____Wednesday ____Thursday ____Friday
Please list three references
Name Address Phone Email Address
How did you hear about the position? If someone recommended you to apply, may we contact them? If so, please provide
their contact information.
Important Information About Your Application- Data Privacy Notice
Minnesota law requires that you be informed of the purpose and intended use of the information you are providing on this appl ication.
Per Minnesota Statute 13.601, subd. 3a, your name, address, occupation, education, training, civic affiliations, qualifica tions,
experience, and veteran status are available to anyone who requests the information.
This information will be used to identify you as an applicant, enable us to contact you when additional information is required, send you
notices, and assess your qualifications for appointment. This data is not legally required, but refusal to supply the informa tion requested
may affect the City Council’s ability to accurately evaluate your application.
Should you be appointed to a City of Columbia Heights Board or Commission, your residential address and either a phone number or
email address where you can be reached will als o become public information (per Minnesota Statute 13.601, subd. 3b). The purpose is
to list contact information for Board/Commission members on a public roster.
Please select which of the following you will allow listed on a public roster (you must sele ct either email or phone number).
___ Email ___Phone Number ____Both
By typing my name or handwriting my signature, I certify that I have read and understand the Data Privacy Notice and certify
that the statements in this application are true and correct to the best of my knowledge:
Signature: Date:
Return completed application to:
City of Columbia Heights
Attn: City Clerk OR ntingley@columbiaheightsmn.gov
590 40th Ave NE
Columbia Heights, MN 55421 37
Item 4.
Columbia Heights Traffic Commission
Commission Overview and Member Position Description
Traffic Commission Overview
The Traffic Commission is a resident advisory commission that studies and investigates all matters relating to
the regulation of traffic within the city on its own initiative or as referred to the commission by the City
Council or City Staff.
Meeting Date and Time: The first Monday of each month at 5:30 pm
Membership: 5 Columbia Heights residents appointed by the City Council for three-year terms. The City
Engineer and the Chief of Police serve as ex-officio members of this commission. A City Council member serves
a liaison to the City Council
Traffic Commission Member Position Description
Terms: 3 years from April 1 to March 30. Members are limited to two consecutive full terms.
Compensation: Not applicable- members are volunteers
Necessary Qualifications: Be a current resident of the City of Columbia Heights.
Desired Qualifications:
The Traffic Commission is ideally made up of a diverse array of community members with different skills,
experiences, and talents, some combination of the following qualifications are ideal:
A willingness and ability to engage with the public and to understand and represent the views and
opinions of diverse community members
The ability to function well in group discussions, and to work in a flexible way with others who have a
diversity of opinions and interests.
The ability to assess information and make important decisions
Excellent communication skills
A strong sense of legal and ethical conduct appropriate to the position
The courage to state one’s views on important issues and speak openly and directly, though always
respectfully, with staff and other commission members
Some basic understanding of the broader structures of city governance in Columbia Heights, of the
issues facing the city, and of the place of the traffic regulation within those broader contexts
Requirements and Expectations:
Read distributed materials before each meeting
Attend and participate in monthly meetings (length varies but typically 1 hour or less) and let the staff
liaison know if you are unable to attend.
Reviews, drafts and recommends traffic regulation proposals including, but not limited to stop signs,
parking on city streets, crosswalks, and traffic calming measures
Hold public hearings to hear the views regarding traffic regulation proposals
Seek public input
Added to 5/3/21 Prior to the 5/3/21 Work Session.
Item 4.
Columbia Heights Park & Recreation Commission
Commission Overview and Member Position Description
Park & Recreation Commission Overview
The Park & Recreation Commission is a resident advisory commission that guides the use of public park lands,
recreation, and senior citizen programs in the City, includi ng parks, parkways, playgrounds, recreation fields
and buildings, and all related public service facilities. The commission has the authority to make reasonable
administrative rules and regulations, includin g the setting of fees and the public use of park land and buildings.
Meeting Date and Time: The fourth Wednesday of each month at 5:30 pm
Membership: 7 Columbia Heights residents appointed by the City Council for three-year terms. A City Council
member serves a liaison to the City Council
Park & Recreation Commission Member Position Description
Terms: 3 years from April 1 to March 30. Members are limited to two consecutive full terms.
Compensation: Not applicable- members are volunteers
Necessary Qualifications: Be a current resident of the City of Columbia Heights.
Desired Qualifications:
The Park & Recreation Commission is ideally made up of a diverse array of community members with different
skills, experiences, and talents, some combination of the following qualifications are ideal:
An understanding of and commitment to the fundamental services of park and recreation s ervices and
some familiarity with Columbia Heights parks and recreation programming in particular.
A willingness and ability to engage with the public and to understand and represent the views and
opinions of diverse community members
The ability to function well in group discussions, and to work in a flexible way with others who have a
diversity of opinions and interests.
The ability to assess information and make important decisions
Excellent communication skills
A strong sense of legal and ethical conduct appropriate to the position
The courage to state one’s views on important issues and speak openly and directly, though always
respectfully, with staff and other commission members
Some basic understanding of the broader structures of city governance in Columbia Heights, of the
issues facing the city, and of the place of parks and recreation programming within those broader
contexts
Requirements and Expectations:
Read distributed materials before each meeting
Attend and participate in monthly meetings and let the staff liaison know if you are unable to attend.
Added to 5/3/21 Prior to the 5/3/21 Work Session.
Item 4.
Provide input on parks issues, everything from replacement of playground equipment to the park
facility use policy
Provide input on recreational programs to ensure they are affordable, equitable, and meet the current
needs of the community
Assist in future planning of the park system
Make determinations on requests for items such as waiving of rental fees
Seek public input and be an ambassador for the City’s parks and recreation programming
Identify and discuss issues impacting and enhancing our parks and recreation programming
On occasion, when required; represent the Park & Recreation Commission, at various community
functions
Item 4.
Columbia Heights Planning Commission
Commission Overview and Member Position Description
Planning Commission Overview
The Planning Commission is a resident advisory commission on matters relating to zoning, development, and
conditional and interim use permit applications. The Commission acts as the Board of Appeals and
Adjustments of Variance and Appeal Cases. It also helps prepare and maintain a Comprehensive Plan for the
physical development of the City.
Meeting Date and Time: The first Tuesday of each month at 6:00 pm
Membership: 7 Columbia Heights residents appointed by the City Council for three-year terms. The City
Planner, Building Official and City Attorney serve as ex-officio members of this commission. A City Council
member serves a liaison to the City Council
Planning Commission Member Position Description
Terms: 3 years from April 1 to March 30. Members are limited to two consecutive full terms.
Compensation: Not applicable- members are volunteers
Necessary Qualifications: Be a current resident of the City of Columbia Heights.
Desired Qualifications:
The Planning Commission is ideally made up of a diverse array of community members with different skills,
experiences, and talents, some combination of the following qualifications are ideal:
Knowledge of current zoning and land development practices in the region
Ability to make decisions based on the best interests of the community and the Comprehensive Plan,
rather than the interests of the applicant or other special-interest groups or personal preferences and
prejudices
A willingness and ability to engage with the public and to understand and represent the views and
opinions of diverse community members
The ability to function well in group discussions, and to work in a flexible way with others who have a
diversity of opinions and interests.
The ability to assess information and make important decisions
Excellent communication skills
A strong sense of legal and ethical conduct appropriate to the position
The courage to state one’s views on important issues and speak openly and directly, though always
respectfully, with staff and other commission members
Some basic understanding of the broader structures of city governance in Columbia Heights, of the
issues facing the city, and of the place of the planning and development within those broader contexts
Added to 5/3/21 Prior to the 5/3/21 Work Session.
Item 4.
Requirements and Expectations:
Read distributed materials before each meeting
Attend and participate in monthly meetings (length varies but typically 1-2 hours) and let the staff
liaison know if you are unable to attend.
Reviews, drafts and recommends Comprehensive Plan revisions and amendments to the City Council
Reviews, drafts, and recommends Zoning Ordinance revisions and amendments to the City Council
Review site plans for new development ensuring compliance with Comprehensive Plan and Zoning
Ordinance
Hold public hearings to hear the views of neighbors regarding new developments, Comprehensive Plan
updates, rezoning, conditional and interim use permits, variances, and ordinance changes.
Seek public input
On occasion, when required; represent the Planning Commission at various community functions
Item 4.
Columbia Heights Library Board of Trustees
Board Overview and Member Position Description
Library Board of Trustees Overview
The Library Board is a resident advisory board that guides the policy, programs, and use of the City library, and
acts as a liaison between citizens and staff. The board makes decisions regarding library land and equipment.
It also sets the levels of service and staffing. The board recommends improvements for the library and has the
authority to make reasonable administrative rules and regulations, including the setting of fees. All the library
policies and programs are made in accordance with the policies approved by the City Council. Annually, the
Library Board approves and recommends to the City Council a budget for the coming year, and at least semi-
annually the board approves and makes a line item comparison of its performance against the current budget
and recommends transfers of funds among items.
Meeting Date and Time: The first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 pm
Membership: 5 Columbia Heights residents appointed by the City Council. A City Council member serves a
liaison to the City Council
Library Board of Trustees Member Position Description
Terms: 3 years from April 1 to March 30. Members are limited to two consecutive full terms.
Compensation: Not applicable- members are volunteers
Necessary Qualifications: Be a current resident of the City of Columbia Heights.
Desired Qualifications:
The Library Board of Trustees is ideally made up of a diverse array of community members with different skills,
experiences, and talents, some combination of the following qualifications are ideal:
An understanding of and commitment to the fundamental services of a public libr ary, and some
familiarity with the Columbia Heights Public Library in particular
A strong desire to preserve and promote the library as a public forum for the sharing of information
and ideas without prejudice
A willingness and ability to engage with the public and to understand and represent the views and
opinions of diverse community members
The ability to function well in committees and group discussions, and to work in a flexible way with
others who have a diversity of opinions and interests.
The ability to assess information and make important decisions
Excellent communication skills
A strong sense of legal and ethical conduct appropriate to the position
The courage to state one’s views on important issues and speak openly and directly, though always
respectfully, with staff and other board members
Some basic understanding of the broader structures of city governance in Columbia Heights, of the
issues facing the city, and of the place of the library within those broader contexts
Added to 5/3/21 Prior to the 5/3/21 Work Session.
Item 4.
Requirements and Expectations:
Read distributed materials before each meeting
Attend and participate in monthly meetings (length varies but typically 2 hours)
Work with other board members and staff to recommend improvements for the library and develop
reasonable administrative rules and regulations governing public use of the library and its facilities ,
including the setting of fees
Work with other board members to assist the Library Director in developing annual and l ong term
goals for the library
Seek public input and be an ambassador for the library
Identify and discuss issues impacting and enhancing our library services
On occasion, when required; represent the library, or its Board of Trustees, at various community
functions
Item 4.
Columbia Heights Charter Commission
Commission Overview and Member Position Description
Charter Commission Overview
The Charter Commission reviews the City Charter, proposes changes, and makes recommendations to City
Council as needed. The City of Columbia Heights is governed by the City Charter which is the “constitution” of
the city. The City Charter determines the procedures of City government in accordance with state statutes and
the Minnesota State Constitution.
Meeting Date and Time: Quarterly on the third Thursday in January, April, July, and October at 7:00 pm.
Membership: No more than 15 and no less than 7 qualified voters of the City of Columbia Heights that are
appointed by the Chief Judge of the 10th Judicial District. A City Council member serves a liaison to the City
Council.
Charter Commission Member Position Description
Terms: 4 years
Compensation: Not applicable- members are volunteers
Necessary Qualifications: Qualified voter of the City of Columbia Heights
Desired Qualifications:
The Charter Commission is ideally made up of a diverse array of community members with different skills,
experiences, and talents, some combination of the following qualifications are ideal:
A willingness and ability to engage with the public and to understand and represent the views and
opinions of diverse community members
The ability to function well in group discussions, and to work in a flexible way with others who have a
diversity of opinions and interests.
The ability to assess information and make important decisions
Excellent communication skills
A strong sense of legal and ethical conduct appropriate to the position
The courage to state one’s views on important issues and speak openly a nd directly, though always
respectfully, with staff and other commission members
Some basic understanding of the broader structures of city governance in Columbia Heights, of the
issues facing the city, and of the place of the City Charter within those broader contexts
Requirements and Expectations:
Read distributed materials before each meeting
Attend and participate in quarterly meetings and let the staff liaison know if you are unable to attend.
Study the City Charter and make recommendations to the City Council if improvements are needed
Determine if the City Charter guidelines are keeping up with the needs of the community
Periodically review the City Charter and recommend necessary amendments to the City Council that do
not conflict with state law
Added to 5/3/21 Prior to the 5/3/21 Work Session.
Item 4.
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEMS
MEETING DATE MAY 3, 2021
ITEM: Speakers at City Council Meetings
DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: Nicole Tingley, 4/26/21
CITY STRATEGY: (please indicate areas that apply by adding a bold “X” in front of the selected text below)
_Safe Community _Diverse, Welcoming “Small-Town” Feel
_Economic Strength _Excellent Housing/Neighborhoods
_Equity and Affordability _Strong Infrastructure/Public Services
_Opportunities for Play and Learning _Engaged, Multi-Generational, Multi-Cultural Population
BACKGROUND:
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Community Forum portion of the meeting has been removed
from the agenda in an effort to limit the amount of in-person attendance. Residents have been encouraged to
contact the City Council by email or phone outside of a meeting to express their concerns. That being said,
throughout this time, there have continued to be an opportunity for speakers for public hearings as required.
Near the start of her term, the Mayor within her authority as Mayor began to ask speakers to state their name
and if they are a Columbia Heights resident in place of their address. The reason for this being safety/security
concerns.
In anticipation of returning the Community Forum portion to the agenda, City staff wanted to make sure they
have clear direction on speakers at City Council meetings and the Community Forum section.
1. When should the Community Forum portion return?
2. Is the location at the end of the agenda still desired?
3. What should speakers state when coming up to the podium?
4. What information should be provided on the speakers form?
5. What should the wording for Community Forum on the agenda be?
Below is both the current community forum wording on the agenda and a new wording option. The difference
is currently name and address are required to be both stated and filled out on the form. The new option
would require name and connection to Columbia Heights to be stated and filled out on the form.
Current wording on the agenda:
COMMUNITY FORUM
At this time, individuals may address the City Council about any item not included on the regular agenda.
Speakers are requested to come to the podium, sign their name and address on the form for the Council
Secretary's record, and limit their comments to five (5) minutes. Individuals are asked to state their name for
the record. The City Council will listen to brief remarks, ask clarifying questions, and if needed, request staff to
Item 5.
City of Columbia Heights - Council Letter Page 2
follow up or direct the matter to be added to an upcoming agenda. Generally, the City Council will not take
official action on items raised at the Community Forum at the meeting on which they are raised.
New wording option:
COMMUNITY FORUM
At this time, individuals may address the City Council about any item not included on the regular agenda.
Speakers are requested to come to the podium, state their name and connection to Columbia Heights, and limit
their comments to five (5) minutes. Speakers are also asked to fill out this information on a form for the Council
Secretary’s record. The City Council will listen to brief remarks, ask clarifying questions, and if needed, request
staff to follow up or direct the matter to be added to an upcoming agenda. Generally, the City Council will not
take official action on items raised at the Community Forum at the meeting on which they are raised.
Item 5.
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
AGENDA SECTION WORK SESSION ITEMS
MEETING DATE MAY 3, 2021
ITEM: Recycling Certificate
DEPARTMENT: Administration BY/DATE: Kelli Bourgeois, 4/27/21
CITY STRATEGY: (please indicate areas that apply by adding a bold “X” in front of the selected text below)
_Safe Community _Diverse, Welcoming “Small-Town” Feel
_Economic Strength _Excellent Housing/Neighborhoods
_Equity and Affordability _Strong Infrastructure/Public Services
_Opportunities for Play and Learning _Engaged, Multi-Generational, Multi-Cultural Population
BACKGROUND:
Councilmember Jacobs requested to have this item added to the work session agenda and will speak to it.
Item 6.