HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-09-2023 City Council Minutes
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Mayor
Amáda Márquez Simula
Councilmembers
Rachel James
Connie Buesgens
Justice Spriggs
Kt Jacobs
City Manager
Kelli Bourgeois
City Hall—Council Chambers, 590 40th Ave NE
Monday, January 09, 2023
6:00 PM
MINUTES
The following are the minutes for the Meeting of the City Council held at 6:00 p.m. on Monday,
January 9, 2023, in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue NE, Columbia Heights,
Minnesota.
WELCOME/CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Mayor Márquez Simula called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Present: Mayor Márquez Simula; Councilmember Buesgens; Councilmember Jacobs; Councilmember
Spriggs; Councilmember James
Also Present: Lenny Austin, Chief of Police; Kelli Bourgeois, City Manager; Kevin Hanson, Public Works
Director; Jim Hoeft, City Attorney; Sara Ion, City Clerk; Jennifer Piper Muno, City Resident
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to provide the highest quality public services. Services will be provided in a fair, respectful
and professional manner that effectively addresses changing citizen and community needs in a fiscally -
responsible and customer-friendly manner.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to approve the Agenda as
presented. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITION, ANNOUNCEMENTS, GUESTS
A. Oath of Office: Mayor Márquez Simula, Councilmember James, Councilmember Spriggs.
Sara Ion, City Clerk, administered the Oath of Office to re-elected Mayor Márquez Simula.
Mayor Márquez Simula read a statement thanking residents for re-electing her as Mayor.
She stated her pledge to continue to serve the residents of Columbia Heights and working
to make Columbia Heights a better place.
City Clerk Ion administered the Oath of Office to newly elected Councilmember James.
Councilmember James thanked her family, campaign manager, and volunteers for their
support. She stated she was excited to work for a safe community, sustainability,
education, empowerment, justice and equity for everyone and a connected community.
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City Clerk Ion administered the Oath of Office to newly elect Councilmember Spriggs.
Councilmember Spriggs thanked his family. He stated his excitement to drive the City
towards positive change.
B. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Proclamation.
Mayor Márquez Simula proclaimed January 16, 2023 as Martin Luther King Jr. Day and read
the City’s proclamation.
CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Márquez Simula requested that items 6 and 7, “Designating City Council Liaison and Council
President Appointments for 2023” and “Authorization to Purchase Police Vehicles” be removed from
the Consent Agenda for further discussion.
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to approve the Consent Agenda
as presented with Items 6 and 7 removed for further discussion. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
1. Approve December 12, 2022 City Council Meeting Minutes.
MOTION: Move to approve the December 12, 2022 City Council meeting minutes.
2. Accept November 7, 2022 EDA Meeting Minutes.
MOTION: Move to accept the November 7, 2022 EDA Meeting minutes.
3. Accept the September 14, 2022, October 12, 2022, and November 9, 2022 Youth
Commission Meeting Minutes.
MOTION: Move to accept the September 14, 2022, October 12, 2022, and November 9,
2022, Youth Commission meeting minutes.
4. Adopt Resolution 2023-01, Designating official depositories for the City of Columbia
Heights.
MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Resolution 2023-01, there being ample copies
available to the public.
MOTION: Move to adopt Resolution 2023-01, being a resolution designating official
depositories for the City of Columbia Heights.
5. Adopt Resolution 2023-02, Accepting Certain Donations Received by the City of Columbia
Heights.
MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Resolution 2023-02, there being ample copies
available to the public.
MOTION: Move to adopt Resolution 2023-02, being a resolution accepting certain
donations received by the City of Columbia Heights.
6. Pulled from the Consent Agenda for further discussion Designating City Council Liaison and
Council President Appointments for 2023.
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7. Pulled from the Consent Agenda for further discussion Authorization to Purchase Police
Vehicles.
8. Authorize Contract with the City of Hilltop for Fire Fighting and Emergency Medical
Services.
MOTION: Move to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into a one-year
agreement for Firefighting and EMS services and Rental Licensing services with the City of
Hilltop starting January 1, 2023 and ending December 31, 2023.
9. Designation of Legal News Paper for 2023.
MOTION: Move to designate Life as the City of Columbia Heights official legal newspaper
for 2023.
10. Termination of the Youth Commission Membership of Alayna Novitsky.
MOTION: Move to terminate the membership of Youth Commission Member Alayna
Novitsky effective immediately.
11. Capital Equipment Replacement of Unit #80: Single Axle Dump Truck and Attachments.
MOTION: Move to authorize the purchase of one (1) Western Star single-axle 41,000 GVW
dump truck chassis from Boyer Ford of Minneapolis in the amount of $112,786 and
attachments as outlined above in the amount of $166,667 from Towmaster of Litchfield
MN for a grand total of $279,453.
12. Public Works Blanket Purchase Orders for 2023 Purchases.MOTION: Move for approval to
authorize staff to process blanket purchase orders in an amount not to exceed the 2023
budget amounts for:
• De-icing salt for salt/sanding operations purchased off the State of Minnesota Purchasing
Contract.
• Fuel (unleaded and diesel) for City vehicles from the State of Minnesota Purchasing
Contract and the Anoka County Cooperative Agreement.
• Bituminous asphalt for patching/paving city streets and alleys from Commercial Asphalt,
or City of St. Paul, or T.A. Schifsky & Son’s.
• Curb stop and service repairs for delinquent accounts and foreclosed properties.
13. Approve the Purchase of SCADA System Upgrade Components from SJE (Primex).
MOTION: Move to Approve the purchase of SCADA components with SJE (Primex) the
City’s SCADA integrator.
14. Approve Recoating the Interior of the Vactor Combo Truck with TMI Coatings.
MOTION: Move to approve recoating the interior of the Vactor Combo Truck with TMI
Coatings in the amount of $18,400.
15. Rental Occupancy Licenses for Approval.
MOTION: Move to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for
January 9, 2023, in that they have met the requirements of the Property Maintenance
Code.
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16. License Agenda.
MOTION: Move to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for January 9,
2023 as presented.
17. Review of Bills.
MOTION: Move that in accordance with Minnesota Statute 412.271, subd. 8 the City
Council has reviewed the enclosed list to claims paid by check and by electronic funds
transfer in the amount of $3,680,617.35.
ITEMS PULLED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA
6. Adopt Resolution 2022-03, Designating City Council Liaison and Council President
Appointments for 2023.
Manager Bourgeois referenced page 39 in the Council packet and read the listed designations of
City Council Liaison and Council President Appointments.
Mayor Márquez Simula stated she wanted to discuss this item in order to make the public aware
of the Commissions and Boards in the community. She stated Councilmember Jacobs was not
assigned to any of the commissions or boards due to a censured vote on October 12, 2022. She
read the censure resolution regarding Councilmember Jacobs.
Motion by Councilmember James, and seconded by Councilmember Buesgens to waive the
reading of Resolution 2023-03, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes, Motion
Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, and seconded by Councilmember Spriggs to adopt Resolution
2023-03, Appointing Liaisons to City Boards & Commissions and External Boards. All Ayes, Motion
Carried 5-0.
7. Authorization to Purchase Police Vehicles.
Chief of Police Austin stated as a part of the Police Department Capital Equipment replacement
plan to maintain a safe and dependable vehicle fleet, the Police Department typically requests
authorization to purchase two Ford Police Intercep tor patrol vehicles each year. He stated for
2023, the police department is requesting the purchase of four hybrid Police Interceptor vehicles,
one Ford F-150 pick-up for CSO use, and one Chevrolet Blazer “EV” unmarked squad car. He
stated two of the interceptor vehicles and the F-150 were originally ordered in 2022, but these
orders were cancelled in 2022 due to supply chain issues. He stated purchasing of these vehicles
will continue to allow the police department to keep the fleet in better working order, and aids in
controlling costs on replacement parts. He added that it also allows the marked squads to be
rotated out of the police fleet after five years of service, and rotated into another department in
the city, who in turn get a better operating vehicle for conventional uses.
Chief Austin stated the advantages presented by purchasing utility vehicles include the added
space for occupants and gear and increased maneuverability in poor weather conditions. He
stated the hybrid version has improved gas mileage for fuel savings. The added room will be used
to better store and carry police equipment and supplies to include entry tools, first aid
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equipment and tactical gear. He stated in addition, the increased size of the passenger
compartment in the utility vehicle offers better room and comfort for our larger and taller
officers. The vehicle will be purchased from the dealership awarded under the State of
Minnesota Cooperative Purchasing Venture (CPV).
Chief Austin stated in addition, the police department is requesting to replace an older unmarked
squad car with a Chevy Blazer EV unmarked car. This would be the first all-electric vehicle (EV)
the department has purchased and put into service. The EV would be assigned to a police
administrator who utilizes the vehicle daily. He stated to accommodate the charging of the EV, a
charging station would be installed in the police department garage for approximately $2500.00.
Utilizing an EV for this purpose would allow the police department to evaluate EV’s for future
unmarked and marked squad cars.
Chief Austin stated the police department has seen an increase in vendor costs in the area of
squad outfitting due to supply chain issues. Therefore, we are requesting to expend up to
$139,326 outfitting and setting up these vehicles for police use. He stated the amount includes
the standard set-up, plus the purchase of necessary equipment for the squads including laptop
computers and graphics.
Councilmember James asked what the strategy was for hybrid and electric vehicles in the fleet.
Chief Austin stated electric vehicles are seen more in larger agencies within law enforcement for
test and evaluation. He stated within the next 5 years there will be more marked squad electric
vehicles. He stated larger agencies are testing the technology in EV’s as more agencies move
towards electric vehicles. He explained that while the electric vehicle costs more, the hope is to
have the vehicle for a longer period. He noted they have had hybrid vehicles for the last 5-6 years
and have had good luck with them. He stated they have had better gas mileage with the hybrid
vehicles compared to the older SUV’s they previously to use.
Councilmember Buesgens asked if there would be charging station included. Chief Austin stated
there would be one included and commented on the probability of transitioning fully to electric
vehicles in the next 5 years. Councilmember Buesgens asked if there were solar panels on the
public safety building. Chief Austin stated there were.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, and seconded by Councilmember James to authorize the
purchase of the following vehicles from the dealership awarded under the State of Minnesota
Cooperative Purchasing Venture (CPV), and that the Mayor and City Manager are authorized to
enter into a contract for same. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
4 - 2023 Ford Police Interceptor AWD Hybrid SUV $48,000 each ($192,000)
1 – 2023 Ford F150 Police Pick-Up $45,000
1 – 2023 Chevy Blazer EV $60,000
Total: $297,000
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Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, and seconded by Councilmember Buesgens to authorize the
Police Chief to expend up to $139,326 to set up and outfit these police vehicles as outlined above.
All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
CITY COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Report of the City Council
Councilmember Jacobs stated she attended Meth Insight; a seminar sorting the stigma of THC
legislation in the private and public sectors; and an informational meeting regarding the 37 th Avenue
improvements. She did her first plow ride of the season and reminded residents that staff and
neighbor’s safety rely on the parking compliance and notifications for snow emergencies in Columbia
Heights are located on the website. She added Code Red Alert uses the cell phones email and text
messaging to get the message across and encouraged residents to enroll in it. She stated a number of
residents have complained about sidewalks not being cleared and mentioned an individual who had to
walk on the Central Avenue driving lanes in order to do errands. She encouraged residents with a
sidewalk to clear their sidewalks as well as clearing 3 feet around fire hydrants. She welcomed the new
Councilmembers.
Councilmember James stated she plans to attend the Charter Commission and the Traffic Commission
meetings. She invited residents to begin contacting her with any questions or comments , noting they
can find her contact information on the City website. She stated she attended the public meeting at
the library on Thursday night regarding the redevelopment and new tr ail for 37th Avenue.
Councilmember Spriggs encouraged residents to contact him with any questions or concerns , noting
they can find his contact information on the City website. He stated he attended the 37th Avenue
meeting. He plans to attend the Library Board meeting in February. He stated after the events with NFL
player Damar Hamlin collapsing during a game, it is important to know CPR, and encouraged residents
to learn CPR.
Councilmember Buesgens welcomed the new Councilmembers. She stated she attended the MWMO
open house for the Harbor Terminal and stated she is a liaison to the MWMO Board. She stated she
attended the Annual Employee Holiday Luncheon; the Boosters Holiday Potluck Dinner; the City Tour
and Murzyn Hall Party; and Pancakes with Santa. She noted Alatus reached out to begin planning and
land use approval for the Rainbow site. She stated MWMO will be involved with the Road Construction
Project on 37th Avenue and will be installing 27 curbside bio swales and tree trenches to capture the
rainwater from the street.
Mayor Márquez Simula stated she attended the Youth Commission meeting in December; the holiday
luncheon where she announced Jeff Hanson as the employee of the year; the Santa Tour. She stated
the Council would be going through onboarding and training . She stated some fire hydrants have
plastic bags on them for salt protection. She asked Public Works Director Hansen to address the
hydrant issue.
Director Hanson stated not every fire hydrant is covered with plastic, but all newly painted hydrants
are covered. He stated the reason to cover fire hydrants is to prevent corrosion, help with operability,
and extend the life of the hydrant. He stated fire hydrants are selected to be covered and a company
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does it on local streets with more salt usage. Councilmember Jacobs stated she witnessed someone
trying to take the plastic off a fire hydrant and asked residents not to remove the plastic.
Mayor Márquez Simula stated a new waste management company started last week and reminded
residents to leave waste cans on their driveway and not in the street in order for clearance for plows.
She stated she hosted an Equity Team meeting for the Regional Council of Mayors group.
Report of the City Manager
Manager Bourgeois stated Walters and Haulstar are the new waste management companies and
Walters will be the face of both companies. She stated they have an app which will help with
reminders on days of service and any delays. She stated when calling their customer service, residents
are directed right to their local staff.
Manager Bourgeois stated the Outstanding Citizen nominations and the Outstanding Youth Citizen
nomination forms are available on the website and are due in April 2023.
Manager Bourgeois stated that 2023 City calendars are available for $10 and can be purchased at the
reception window at City Hall.
Manager Bourgeois stated Code Red is the notification system the City uses and can register on the
City’s website. She stated the system uses text, voicemail and email notifications to alert of snow
emergencies, waste delays, etc.
Manager Bourgeois stated Snow Blast would be hosted on February 4, 2023 from 4-7 p.m. with
volunteer opportunities. She stated the newsletter and City’s website list the various activities and
events that will be held at Snow Blast.
Manager Bourgeois stated in February the Council would begin working on a strategic plan where the
Council would look at the vision and mission statement as well as goals for the Council.
Councilmember Jacobs asked regarding refuse, if bins could be pulled back in. Manager Bourgeois
stated they should be on a schedule now but if there were any issues to contact public works.
Mayor Márquez Simula had some additional volunteering opportunities: Heights Next and the Library
are holding the Pet Bed ed event on February 11, 2023 at 11 a.m. She stated there are enough supplies
for residents to hand tie and make animal beds to donate to local animal shelter.
Mayor Márquez Simula stated on January 20, 2023 Heights Next annual meeting would be held at 6:00
p.m. at El Tequila.
Mayor Márquez Simula stated the Sister Cities Group meeting would be held on Saturday, January 14,
2023 at 1:00 p.m.
COMMUNITY FORUM
Jennifer Piper Muno, City Resident, stated she lives on a lake off 37th Avenue and is excited about the
upcoming construction because it will greatly improve the water quality of the lake and the Mississippi
River. She stated for the 25 years she has lived in Columbia Heights and has regularly picked up trash to
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keep the lake clean. She would like to see the City adopt similar practices to Minneapolis where
restaurant take out containers are compostable or truly recyclable. In addition, she would like to see if
liquor stores would stop selling tiny bottles of liquor since they litter the streets. She congratulated the
newly elected Councilmembers and Mayor Márquez Simula on her reelection.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to adjourn. All Ayes, Motion
Carried 5-0.
Meeting adjourned at 6:51 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
______________________________________
Sara Ion, City Clerk/Council Secretary