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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-12-2023 City Council Minutes CITY COUNCIL MEETING Mayor Amáda Márquez Simula Councilmembers Connie Buesgens Kt Jacobs Rachel James Justice Spriggs Interim City Manager Kevin Hansen City Hall—Council Chambers, 590 40th Ave NE Monday, June 12, 2023 6:00 PM MINUTES The following are the minutes for the Meeting of the City Council held at 6:00 pm on Monday, June 12, 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 pm Present: Mayor Márquez Simula; Councilmember Buesgens; Councilmember Jacobs; Councilmember Spriggs; Councilmember James Also Present: Lenny Austin, Chief of Police; Aaron Chirpich, Community Development Director/Assistant City Manager; Jim Hoeft, City Attorney; Sara Ion, City Clerk; Sulmaan Khan, Interim City Engineer; Patricia Goetz, City Resident; Austin Leehae, City Resident; Stacy Johnson, City Resident, Warren Kapsner, Rapid Graphics Owner; Sheri Newago, City Resident; Jane Stromquist, City Resident; Steve Stormquist, City Resident; DiAnn Meyer, City Resident; Kaye Meyer, City Resident MISSION STATEMENT Columbia Heights is a vibrant, healthy and connected City. We are here to actively supp ort the community, deliver equitable services, build and strengthen connections, improve upon our past, and uphold our successes. We strive to be better and ensure Columbia Heights is a great place for everyone, today and in the future. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITION, ANNOUNCEMENTS, GUESTS A. Business of the Year Presentation. Mayor Márquez Simula noted it was the first year doing a Business of the Year presentation. She read information about Rapid Graphics, the Business of the Year. Mayor Márquez Simula read, “This spring, the Columbia Heights’ Economic Development Authority reviewed a list of submitted nominees and selected locally owned Rapid Graphics & Mailing to be the City’s first Business of the Year award recipient. Rapid Graphics has been in the same location at Columbia Heights for 52 years. A lot has changed since its current owner, Warren Kapsner, purchased the business in 1985. “We had a dark room and a huge cast iron camera about 10-feet long that weighed at least a ton,” Warren said. The camera would shoot negatives that would be used to burn images and text onto metal printing plates. Almost all prints were black and white. “Lots of chemicals. Typesetting, manual layout, design work. If we needed to print a photo, that was a major deal.” In the City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 2 mid-90s, Xerox digital printers became available and Rapid Graphics invested in one. “That was the start of it,” Warren said. “Now we have seven digital printers. Now we can print anything.” And they do. With a staff of five, Rapid Graphics runs print projects for local organizations and individuals as well as for major national companies, including Medtronic. Brochures, envelopes, photographs, books, newsletters, postcards, signs, you name it—and always from the same building on Central Avenue just north of 40th. The business recently made headlines in the local papers and on KSTP 5 for its creative holiday display. Over the last three years, the November/December window display at Rapid Graphics has featured a three-dimensional diorama and collage of world religions and cultural groups with placards and designs representing Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, atheism, Judaism, LGBTQ groups, and BIPOC populations, to name a few. “I wanted to bring a little more understanding, a little more history to these ideas and organizations,” Warren said. “You can build trust and friendship when you learn more about other groups and cultures, when you start understanding people better. That’s what we’ve got to do.” The Business of the Year Award will be an annual recognition like the Outstanding Citizen awards. Nominations for 2024 will be accepted starting this fall. Check back at www.columbiaheightsmn.gov/business for updates. Congratulations, Rapid Graphics” Rapid Graphics Owner Warren Kapsner stated he bought Rapid Graphics over 40 years ago and expressed his appreciation for the Police and Fire Department. He expressed his appreciation for the award. B. Youth and Adult Citizen of the Year Presentation. Mayor Márquez Simula announced Mary Tholkes as the Adult Citizen of the Year. She read “In her circle she’s known as The Garden Lady. But now she has another title to go by. Mary Tholkes, Columbia Heights resident of more than 40 years, was recently named Columbia Heights’ 2023 Outstanding Citizen of the Year (OCY), adult category. She was selected by Mayor Amáda Márquez Simula and last year’s OCY winner Veronica Johnson from a group of submitted nominations. Thirteen years ago, Mary established the community gardens at 40th and Jackson. She outlined a proposal and leveraged some partnerships to turn those abandoned lots into community gardens that now support up to 22 gardeners. Mary coordinates and oversees the use of the land while also tending to her own two garden plots where she grows and harvests between 500 and 1,000 pounds of produce every year. She donates all of it to the SACA Food Shelf. “I’m honored. And I’m humbled,” Mary said of receiving the OCY award. She then repeated the sentiment that nearly every outstanding citizen winner shares: “I don’t feel I do anything more than many other people do in the community.” That’s maybe because she surrounds herself with other volunteers and community partners. In addition to her garden work, she chairs the outreach committee at Community United Methodist Church, organizes backpack food donations for children in need through the Every Meal program, and leads environmental education initiatives. She also recently spent five years volunteering for her church’s refugee resettlement program helping to support a single mom and her five children as they found their footing. That doesn’t even come close to covering all of it. Mary summed up her community involvement philosophy in one sentence: “I just feel the need to leave the world a better place than when I came.” We thank you for your service, Mary. Congratulations!” City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 3 Citizen of the Year Mary Tholkes thanked the Council and hoped it would encourage others to participate in community life. Mayor Márquez Simula announced Roger Rogne as the Youth Citizen of the Year. She read “Roger Rogne, 16, has lived in Columbia Heights his whole life. He loves the City, he said, but that’s no reason to get complacent when it comes to making positive changes. “This is a very accepting community,” Roger explained. “People from any background are welcomed in Columbia Heights. Though we still have a ways to go.” This sense of purpose has pushed Roger to take part in several community programs and volunteer projects. It’s the reason he was nominated and selected to be the 2023 Outstanding Citizen of the Year in the youth category (ages 14-18). At 15, Roger was among the founding 10 members of the Columbia Heights Youth Commission. In March of 2022, his fellow commissioners appointed him to be vice chairperson. They reelected him to the role at the start of the new term. “I want to see more youth involvement in the community,” Roger said. “It’s one reason I joined the commission.” Youth Citizen of the Year Roger Rogne thanked the Council and stated how much he enjoys volunteering within the community and would like to see more youth involved. Mayor Márquez Simula stated there would be another opportunity to nominate an adult and youth citizen of the year next year. C. Juneteenth Proclamation. Councilmember Spriggs read the City’s proclamation and Mayor Márquez Simula proclaimed June 19, 2023 as Juneteenth. Community member Tayna Moore accepted the proclamation. CONSENT AGENDA Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. 1. Approve the May 22, 2023 City Council Meeting Minutes. MOTION: Move to approve the May 22, 2023 City Council meeting minutes. 2. Accept the May 1, 2023 EDA Meeting Minutes. MOTION: Move to accept the May 1, 2023 EDA meeting minutes. 3. Approval of Resolution 2023-31, being a Resolution to Amend the Public Safety Fence Project Budget (City Project 2207).(numerical update due to ministerial error) MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Resolution 2023-31, there being ample copies available to the public. MOTION: Move to the adopt Resolution No. 2023-31 amending the budget for the public City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 4 safety fence project and appropriating $25,000 from the Governmen t Buildings 431 fund to City Project 2207. 4. Approval of Resolution 2023-30, being a Resolution Adopting Optional Appendices of the Minnesota State Fire Code. MOTION: Move to approve Resolution 2023-30, adopting optional appendices of the Minnesota State Fire Code. 5. Approve the Gambling Permit for Immaculate Conception Church, August 4 -6, 2023. MOTION: Move to direct the City Manager to forward a letter to the State Charitable Gambling Control Board indicating that the City of Columbia Heights has no objection to a gambling permit for Immaculate Conception Church to conduct bingo, pull-tabs, a raffle from August 4-6, 2023 (raffle drawing to be held on August 6, 2023) at 4030 Jackson Street NE, Columbia Heights; and furthermore, that the City of Columbia Heights hereby waives the remainder of the thirty-day notice to the local governing body. 6. Accept Corrective Asphalt Materials Proposal For Bituminous Street Surface Treatment And Allied Blacktop Co. for Crack Sealing, Project 2301. MOTION: Move to accept the proposal from Corrective Asphalt Materials to apply Reclamite to select city streets, Project 2301, for an estimated cost of $43,797.75 appropriated from Funds 430.3100.45185.2301 and 212.3190.45185.2301. MOTION: Move to accept the proposal from Allied Blacktop Co. to complete roadway crack sealing on select city streets, Project 2301, for an estimated cost of $20,840.00 appropriated from Funds 430.3100.45185.2301 and 212.3190.45185.2301. 7. Rental Occupancy Licenses for Approval. MOTION: Move to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for June 12, 2023, in that they have met the requirements of the Property Maintenance Code. 8. License Agenda. MOTION: Move to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for J une 12, 2023 as presented. 9. 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 $2,183,940.61. PUBLIC HEARINGS 10. Conversion of 7th Street from a One-Way to a Two-Way Street Between 52nd Avenue and 53rd Avenue, and Removal of the Bump Out. Interim City Engineer Khan stated he would explain the reason of converting 7th Street from one-way street to a two-way street between 52nd Avenue and 53rd Avenue as well as removing the bump. He noted 53rd Avenue from University Avenue to Central Avenue is City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 5 anticipated to begin construction in July 2023. A 10 -foot wide trail will be included on the south side of 53rd Avenue while a six-foot wide sidewalk will be included on the north side of the roadway. In order to create enough room for the 10-foot wide trail, the curb needs to be shifted to the north by 10 feet. The bump-out on 7th Street will also need to be removed in order to make proper grades and be smooth with the street. It is possible to create a new bump-out if needed. Interim City Engineer Khan explained due to the current off-set curb lines, cars driving northbound on 53rd Avenue are required to drive at an angle in order to avoid hitting the trail on the north side of 53rd Avenue. Due to this, his opinion is to remove the bump-out. In addition, striping can be added in order to help make a straight path acr oss the intersection. Interim City Engineer Khan noted that parking would not be effected during construction. If the street is converted to a two-way street then cars parked on the west side of 7th Street would be impacted and required to park the other way. Interim City Engineer Khan explained there is currently a bus stop at 53 rd Avenue and 7th Street and the bump-out is used as a waiting area. The new trail will allow additional room for people waiting for the bus and will be a safer option. Staff have been working with Metro Transit. Metro Transit is planning on building bus line F along 53 rd Avenue. The two stops that are proposed for the F line are 53 rd Avenue and University Avenue, and 53rd Street and Monroe Street. The current bus stop on 53 rd Avenue and 7th Street will be removed when the F line is constructed in 2026. Interim City Engineer Khan stated a concern has been truck traffic southbound on 7 th Street and using 7th Street as a cut through. He noted 7th Street is not an ideal street for trucks to go through since it is highly residential and only 30 feet wide. Interim City Engineer Khan mentioned it takes more Staff time and resources to snow plow the area properly since a smaller plow is required to get through the area due to the bump - out. Interim City Engineer Khan stated making the road a two -way would allow more flexibility. Based on data from MnDot traffic, 2,700 vehicles that go through the area. It is not a high traffic volume that would be coming down 7th Street and does not have additional traffic generators. He explained that while there will be additional cars, it is not enough to create more traffic and cause less safety. Mayor Márquez Simula explained the public hearing was now opened for comments and Interim City Engineer Khan will take note of questions to ensure follow-up. Stacy Johnson, City resident, stated she walks to the bus Monday through Friday to 53rd Avenue and the area is already “crazy” while trying to cross the street. She expressed concerns on it being more “crazy” if they open the street to a two-way street and believed it would be wrong to do so. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 6 Steve Stromquist, City resident, noted he has lived in the City for 40 years. He stated his wife’s aunt lived on 52nd Street and 7th Street and where the aunt’s son was severely injured, crippled, and brain damaged due to a speeding car driving down 7th Street. He noted traffic cannot be compared north and south of 53 rd Avenue and it could not be predicted how traffic would be after the conversion. He described the amount of speeding that occurs near 51st Avenue. He understands the reason for the bump-out change and including a trail. He noted there was no discussion on the use of the alleys between 7 th Street and 6th Street. He expressed his concern on traffic increasing with children on the block and residents not receiving much notice. He mentioned the history of the road and wondered if it was reduced to a one-way to slow down traffic. Patricia Goetz, City resident, mentioned she has lived on 57th Street since 1964 and was there when the traffic was originally a two-way road and truck traffic was horrendous at that time. She added the residents paid for State aid to Washington Street during the conversion in order to repair the roads. In addition, traffic on alleys will increase since currently there is a lot of traffic on the portion where there is a two-way road. She stated there are several children who live on the block and she is worried about kids getting hit since many cars speed through the area. She asked if State aid would be brought back to 7th Street from Washington Street in order to repair the street due to the additional traffic. She stated there are current issues and including a two-way road would not change it. Jane Stromquist, City resident, noted residents are effected from 53rd Avenue to 40th Street, not just the small block, and all residents along 7th Street should have been notified about the Public Hearing. She knew of only one person who received a notice w hile other residents found out through social media since the resident had posted it online. She stated her concerns on student buses, and having no sidewalks on one side of the street. Sheri Newago, City resident, stated she lives next to the stop sign that many cars blow through. She used to drive in the area when 7th Street was a two-way road and cars were speeding through as if it was a freeway. She noted many cars drive through the stop sign and she has called numerous times with concerns about people’s safety. She feels that including a two-way road will increase traffic and speeding. She asked if the stop sign by her home would be removed and where other stop signs could be added. She was worried someone was going to get hit since there have been many times she has almost been hit while trying to leave her driveway. She asked what the benefit was in making the road a two-way, adding she would like someone to spend a day watching the street to see how traffic moves in the area. Austin Leehae, City resident, stated if the road is converted to a two-way, there will be more accidents, and more people will be hit. He noted his neighbor had to replace four car mirrors due to drivers speeding down the street both ways and his daughter has almost been hit a few times due to cars driving down the street the wrong way. Since many of the driveways have hills on them, snow banks prevent drivers from being able to see as they are backing out, which can create more accidents if there is increased traffic. In addition, the road is typically the last road plowed in the winter and there have been large plows in City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 7 the past that have plowed the street without an issue. He stated there is no reason to convert the road into a two-way. Ms. Goetz added that in the past, many residents blocked the Council from adding bicycle paths and sidewalks because the people who live on the east side of 7th Street have driveways that have a hill and losing some of their driveway would make it difficult to get cars in and out of their driveways. Interim City Engineer Khan thanked the residents who spoke and shared their opinion. He stated one of the questions was if the bike path would hurt the homes or need to acquire property for the bike path. He stated there would not be a s the bike path would be constructed with City right-of-way. He noted many residents spoke about speeding in the area and expressed his understanding on speeding issues, noting the bump-out on the one- way helps with traffic on the roadway. He agreed that taking out the bump-out for a two- way would create more cars driving on the road. He did not have an answer on why people were not stopping at stop signs and would look to Police Chief Austin to share his perspective. From an engineering perspective, if there are no stop signs for a period of space, or if there is not enough traffic at an intersection to stop each time, drivers will zone out and go through a stop sign. In addition, drivers may not see the stop sign due to trees in the way. Interim City Engineer Khan stated there was a question on the amount of traffic on 7th Street. He referred to a slide in his presentation that showed data from MnDot on how many cars are on the road at various times, but the slide could not be displayed due to technical difficulties. He explained that north of 53rd Avenue on 7th Street, there are about 2,700 cars traveling on the stretch north and south bound. South of 53 rd Avenue on 7th Street there are about 500 cars traveling on the road. He stated there is less traffic on that stretch of road since it is a one-way and residential area. Interim City Engineer Khan stated there was a comment on not being able to predict how much more traffic there would be if there was a two-way conversion. He explained when there is a new development, Staff look at the area to see what traffic generators there are. He mentioned there is no high traffic generators along 7th Street and while it could be the case that drivers will use 7th Street as a cut through, since it is a residential area, it is not anticipated to have high traffic. Councilmember Buesgens mentioned that one of the resident comments was around the original conversion to a one-way due to high truck traffic in the area. She wondered what businesses in the area would drive on 53rd Avenue and asked if Staff were looking into that as traffic generators. Interim City Engineer Khan stated Staff looked into potential destinations that trucks would be traveling to. East of 49th Avenue is a school and several businesses but it would not add truck traffic on 53rd Avenue and 7th Street. Interim City Engineer Khan pointed out another commented stated there was no reason to make the conversion to a two-way and remove the bump out. The reason to make the change include resolving the trail from traveling at an angle across the intersection. He City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 8 explained there could still be speeding down 7th Street and keeping it a one-way prevents more cars from traveling down it but based on his opinion, he does not see there being more traffic than what currently exists. Councilmember Jacobs explained she lives on a one-way street and understood the residents’ concerns. She noted her understanding on why the bump -out needed to be removed and is in agreement with it since it will allow disability access , once completed, and make plowing easier. She did not understand why the street needed to be converted to a two-way street and would like to see it remain a one-way traveling north. She added there may have been many people who considered a one-way street when they were purchasing their home. She suggested to remove the bump-out, increase the stop signs, and keep it one-way. Councilmember Buesgens asked if the road was converted to a two-way, would it line up the intersection better. Interim City Engineer Khan explained his proposal would be to stripe the southeast corner of the intersection in order to shift vehicles to go straight through the intersection. Councilmember Buesgens asked if that could work on a one -way road. Interim City Engineer Khan replied it is possible but the bump-out would narrow the road and wouldn’t allow space for cars to pass through. Mayor Márquez Simula noted a resident had mentioned that only one person received a letter with notice and asked Staff to share how many people received notices and where the boundary was. Interim City Engineer Khan replied that the letter was sent out to all residents on the block between 52nd Avenue and 53rd Avenue and also published the notice of the public hearing in the newspaper. Councilmember James thanked the City residents who spoke and expressed her concern about drivers going the wrong way on a one-way as well as cutting through alleys. She noted the road is the only one-way in the area and wondered if drivers are missing the signage since it is not common to have a one-way in this area. She asked if by converting the road to a two-way, would that solve the issue. She also asked how the width of 7th Street compare to 6th Street and 5th Street and how the Safe Streets for All grant would impact it. Interim City Engineer Khan stated he did not have data to share regarding the use of vehicles cutting through alleyways being reduced or why vehicles are using the alleyways to cut through. Hypothetically speaking, if many people are driving through the alleys because the road is a one-way, that could be reduced with a two-way road conversion. Interim City Engineer Khan stated all of the roads in the area are 30 feet in width. Interim City Engineer Khan noted the Safe Streets for All grant will look at safety in intersections, corridors, curbs, speeding, etc. All the area s City residents mentioned can be studied and looked at through the grant. Staff have the flexibility to use the grant how they want and are currently putting together a RFP for the grant to communicate exactly what the City is looking for. Councilmember Jacobs asked Staff to explain what an RFP is. Interim City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 9 City Engineer Khan replied an RFP means Request For Proposal and is a document that is put together to explain expectations for safety studies. Councilmember Spriggs asked about the widths of the large plows and the area leading up to 53rd Avenue. Interim City Engineer Khan replied that he did not have the exact widths but had discussions with the individuals who handle snow removal in the City. The streets group mentioned to Staff that they are not able to send a regular plow truck through the area and need to send another Staff member in a smaller plow. He noted he could come back to the Council with additional information. Councilmember Spriggs commented that he is in favor of removing the bump-out since it could increase safety for people traveling north up to 53rd Avenue. He did not see the utility of converting it back to a two-way road due to the concerns of residents and the chance of going through stop signs since there are not many until the are a. He stated it is beneficial to limit the amount of traffic and speeding going through due to many children playing in the area. Mayor Márquez Simula asked Councilmember Jacobs to share her experience of additional safety measures being added to her area. Councilmember Jacobs explained when she first moved in, it was rare to see someone drive the wrong way on the one-way. In the last two to three years, cars speed and if a car is driving the wrong way, they keep going down the street. She worked with the neighbors to get more signage and she would be happy to sit down with Staff to discuss how to get more signage in the area. She added it will take the neighborhood, some organization, and going door-to-door to residents. She stated the signage as greatly helped prevent cars driving on the wrong way on a one-way. Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to close the public hearing. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. Councilmember Buesgens mentioned she understood the concerns regarding speeders and described personal experience of speeders on her street. She supports getting rid of the bump-out for the trail. She expressed her concern of creating a safety issue if the streets are not lined up. She explained that many people will ask if they can convert their street to a one-way road and encouraged the Council and City to look at converting some of the streets throughout the City. She mentioned that stop signs do not work since only 20% of drivers stop at stop signs. Roundabouts decrease traffic accidents and problems and speeders by 80% so she asked if the Council and Staff could look into alternative options like a roundabout. She noted she could see a decrease in drivers cutting through alleys b y converting the street to a two-way. Councilmember Jacobs explained the approach to developing a one-way street and having an existing one-way street are different. Councilmember Buesgens replied that there is an opportunity to change it, to make the intersection safer, and it is a consideration to include one-ways in the City and see it as the same. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 10 Mayor Márquez Simula stated when looking at 7th Street north and south, she does not see businesses or warehouses where trucks would be coming out of. She felt having it remain a one-way made sense and if it was her way, she would copy what Minneapolis does with one-way and two-way roads. She agreed with Councilmember Buesgens’ comments regarding roundabouts and added while there could be a fender bender, there would not be a death like drivers going through an intersection at 70 miles per hour. The Council has asked for a survey on safer streets that will come out later in the summer to understand how people use the streets. She would like to keep the street a one-way and is indifferent on what to do with the bump-out since the 10-foot trail will create change. Councilmember Spriggs asked if the current bump-out was removed, was it possible to add a bump-out on each side of 7th Street to line it up with the northbound lane in Fridley. Councilmember Buesgens noted it would still be diagonal if the road remained a one -way. Interim City Engineer Khan explained it would be possible to put a bump-out on the southeast corner, but proposed stripping the curbs line up on the west side of 7th Street Mayor Márquez Simula noted one of the resident’s comments was about the State aid being moved to Washington Avenue and asked to clarify the State aid. Interim City Engineer Khan explained that selecting State Aid routes is based on the type of traffic that the roadway carries. In order to be classified as a State Aid street, it has to be a collector arterial roadway. Since 7th Street is a residential street it does not qualify as a collector arterial roadway. Mayor Márquez Simula asked if it was the same for 6th Street and 5th Street. Interim City Engineer Khan agreed that it was the same. Mayor Márquez Simula asked if it was possible to do small bump-outs to create a roadway for people to cross. Interim City Engineer Khan mentioned that Staff could look into it but 7th Street is not a wide roadway and typically bump-outs occur when the roadway is wider than 30 feet. Councilmember Spriggs asked if he could make a motion to divide the action into two parts. One motion would be to remove the bump -out and the second motion would be the one-way to two-way conversion. City Attorney Hoeff clarified that he could make any motion on the matter that he would like. Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to convert 7th Street from a one-way roadway into a two-way roadway between 52nd Avenue and 53rd Avenue. A roll call vote was taken. All Nays, Motion Failed 0-5. Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to remove the concrete bump out in the southwest corner of the 7th Street and 53rd Avenue intersection. A roll call vote was taken. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. Councilmember Jacobs explained to the City residents that the vote was to keep the road a one-way and to remove the bump-out. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 11 Austin Leehae, City resident stated he needed to address the Council on a question. Mayor Márquez Simula stated the Council would like to hear the question, but the vote was already completed. She added the Councilmembers have read the packet and listened to all the feedback that was submitted and needs to consider the City as a whole. She understood the opposition, but the vote is completed and while it does not mean they are unwilling to listen to further comments, the meeting needs to move forward since it is the process to do so after the public forum has been closed. Community Development Director/Assistant City Manager Chirpich added that the public hearing did not have a set parameter or requirement to give notice to residents. City Staff understood there may be concern related to removal of the bump -out and therefore took the extra step to give notice to surrounding residents and put the notice in the newspaper. He stated there were no residents missed because there was not a designated requirement. Austin Leehae, City resident mentioned that residents did not receive a notice in the mail. Mayor Márquez Simula stated they would take note of it and asked if anyone had comments to add, to make a note of it so Staff could follow up. She stated while the vote is done, the conversation will continue. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION New Business and Reports 11. Request for Temporary Increase in Police Department Staffing Level to 30 Officers. Police Chief Austin noted the 2023 budget allows for 29 authorized officers. The department is currently staffed with 27 officers, with one officer who began on June 12, 2023. An additional officer will begin in August, 2024 while the 29th officer will begin January, 2024. He noted there are staffing issues regarding recruitment within law enforcement. Police Chief Austin explained that Captain Markham conducted a staffing study research project as part of his Northwestern School of Staff and Command curriculum with a focus on the investigation division. In that staffing study, he outlined the need to increase the number of police officers assigned to the Investigations Unit from two to three due to the high volume of cases carried by each of the two investigators. Police Chief Austin mentioned to accommodate that, the Police Department will be including a request with its 2024 budget to increase police officer staffing from 29 to 30 officers. That additional officer will give the ability to assign an additional officer to the Investigations Unit. Since the Council does not vote on the budget until December, there is an opportunity to onboard the new officer through the Pathways Program, which goes through Hennepin Technical College and be sworn in as an officer in January 2024 and bring the department up to 30 officers. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 12 Police Chief Austin stated the department is anticipating a retirement in the spring of 2024 and is asking the Council to consider at least a temporary strength of 30 officers through May 1, 2024. Police Chief Austin explained the difficulties in finding qualified candidates for the position and noted it is a nationwide issue. He added the applicant has been very qualified which is why he would like to ask for a temporary approval of having 30 officers. Councilmember Buesgens asked Police Chief Austin to explain the additional reason of having extra work loads on the two current detectives. Police Chief Austin stated there was a case count two weeks ago, and each investigator is holding a caseload of approximately 125 cases each. With the amount of work, the officers and investigators are not able to invest the time needed into each case. Councilmember Jacobs commented that it is alarming to hear the number of cases has doubled since the last time the Council has heard about it. Police Chief Austin noted during this time of year, the department typically sees an increased volume and has seen an increase in call volume over the past few years. Mayor Márquez Simula mentioned when hearing that call volumes have increased, it sounds like crime has increased and asked to clarify the statement. Police Chief Austin stated the vast majority of the calls are for service and not necessarily criminal. The majority of increased calls are due to crisis calls and how the response is which takes additional time. He reviewed the history of the department and noted in 2008 the department had 3 investigators but chose to move one of the investigators to help with the COP initiatives and never replaced the position. How and what is investigated has changed over the years. He gave an example of the process in handling sex crimes, noting there has been a 10-15% increase in call volume over the last few years. Councilmember James expressed her excitement in hearing there are qualified applicants applying for the position while other departments in the Twin Cities are struggling to find applicants. She noted the worst-case scenario is to make a police report and not have an investigator follow up on it. She is in favor of adding an investigator. Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs , to approve the Police Department’s request for a temporary increase in Police Officer staffing numbers from 29 to 30 officers, effective January 2024. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. Mayor Márquez Simula explained this was a temporary increase that would be re- evaluated when the 2024 budget is approved. Police Chief Austin agreed and added if the Council approves the budget for 30 officers, then they would add the third investigator. 12. Request to Purchase Mobile Pro Systems Commander 3400 Camera Trailer. Police Chief Austin stated the Police Department is requesting to purchase a Mobile Pro Systems Commander 3400 camera trailer in order to leverage technology to address crime and disorder issues, in alignment with our Strategic Plan. This unit is a mobile video and City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 13 security system designed for use in areas to help with security and safety concerns. It is a police force-multiplier and is an excellent deterrent in areas that have seen issues with disorder and criminal activity. Police Chief Austin explained that the units are very visible and are designed so that people see the trailers and feel comfortable that the Police Department is paying attention to and taking interest in their livability and their sense and feeling of safety. It can also be used as a security component for special events such as park events, large-scale events like the annual holiday train, and for emergency management purposes in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency management applications. Police Chief Austin noted the design of the unit allows for nearly 24-hour usage, so there will be limited downtime. As the only provider of customizable surveillance trailers completely manufactured in the USA, Mobile Pro Systems is a sole source vendor. Their quote for this unit is $76,783.00. This is an unbudgeted expense; however, there are adequate funds to cover this purchase in the Police Department’s 2023 operating budget. Mayor Márquez Simula noted that during a rotary meeting, the Fridley police chief was speaking highly about the camera trailer and mentioned it was like having an additional officer. Police Chief Austin stated the department was given permission to borrow it for a few days during the jamboree. Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to approve the Police Department’s purchase of a Mobile Pro Systems Commander 3400 camera trailer in the amount of $76,783.00, with the expenditure coming from the Police Department’s operating budget. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. CITY COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Report of the City Council Councilmember Buesgens extended condolences to the family of Gerry Herringer who passed away the past Friday, was very involved in the community for decades, and will be missed. He was a current member on the Economic Development Authority Commission. She noted she is involved with the beautification committee and taking care of the flower pots at Murzyn Hall. She attended the local government meeting with the Mayor at Anoka County, the pet festival, sat at the Council table at the art festival, and a powwow for Native American high school graduates. She noted she continues to work with Blooming Sunshine Garden and had stopped by garage sales during the City wide garage sale. Councilmember James stated she attended a meeting with the Fire Chief, Assistant Fire Chief, Police Chief, and the Mayor and a meeting with the Police Chief, Captain Markham, and residents off Stinson Boulevard to discuss safety in the area. She attended the League of Minnesota Cities, and a two-day conference with the local progress group with the Mayor, where she received training on housing issues. She attended Art in the Park and congratulated Shattered Hill Art Collective for hosting the event. She also attended the powwow to congratulate the eight seniors graduating. She congratulated City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 14 all Columbia Heights high school graduates. She met with Councilmember Spriggs and a local resident and who is a housing advocate to work on housing issues in the City. Councilmember Spriggs stated he attended the EDA work session meeting, a meeting with the Assistant Fire Chief and Police Chief to discuss rental licensing, Pets in the Park, Art in the Park, the high school powwow, the Library Board meeting, and watched the League of Minnesota Cities webinar. He also went to a few of the garage sales during the City wide garage sale. Councilmember Jacobs stated she will be making a statement in the coming weeks about her future. Mayor Márquez Simula agreed with Councilmember Buesgens comments expressing sympathy for Gerry Herringer’s family, noting he would be missed. She attended the Park and Recreation meeting, Latin A meeting, Anoka County elected officials meeting with Councilmember Buesgens, an art exhibit at The Grand Hand Gallery in St. Paul, the local progress conference with Councilmember James, as well as many graduation parties. She congratulated the 2023 high school graduates. She attended the Regional Council of Mayors, the EDA work session, brought MnDot to the Rotary meeting, and attended a luncheon for Women Winning. Report of the City Manager Community Development Director/Assistant City Manager Chirpich shared condolences for the Herringer family and noted Gerry Herringer was a longtime public servant and will be dearly missed. Assistant City Manager Chirpich stated the City held its sixth annual City wide garage sale with 71 addresses registered for the event. The Pets in the Park event had over 150 attendees with 19 registered booths, canine demonstrations from Fridley Police Department, free popcorn, and professional pet photographs taken. Assistant City Manager Chirpich explained the upcoming events include the 2023 Community Art and Info Fair on Wednesday, June 14, 2023 from 4 -7 pm at Huset Park West. There are 41 booths and 16 art vendors registered and there will be a llama petting zoo, performances by Columbia Academy Marimba Band, free sambuusa’s while supplies last, and a corn dog food truck. Music in the Park series begins on June 28, 2023 at Huset Park East at 6:30 pm with the Changeups as the series opener. Assistant City Manager Chirpich added that City Staff were featured on Fox 9 news for Pets in the Park. City Staff took a Star Tribune reporter on a tour of the new City Hall and current City Hall. The Sustainability Commission application deadline is Friday, June 16, 2023. Applications can be found on the City’s website. The splash pads and wading pools are currently opened. The rec and library programming will begin shortly and people can register for programs on the City website. Councilmember James asked if there was a tenants meeting. Mayor Márquez Simula stated there is a rental meeting at the library tomorrow night at 6 pm. There is a meeting at Silver Lake Beach tomorrow night to speak with neighbors and the Police Chief at 5:30 pm on June 13, 2023. COMMUNITY FORUM City of Columbia Heights MINUTES June 12, 2023 City Council Meeting Page 15 DiAnn Meyer, City resident, stated on 2nd Street at 4201 and 4203 15-16 cars park on the street each night. The cars are parked from 10:30 pm and usually leave around 6:30 am. She stated 4236 2nd Street has at least eight cars parked at the house, 4246 Main Street has a motor home that has not moved in 10 years and looks like a City junkyard, and 4207 Main Street dumped ruined furniture on the curb. She expressed her frustration in not seeing much action from the Council. She added on 3rd Street and 41st Street there were three orders to get potholes repaired and they are still not repaired. She noted the Police Department has been great and helpful. She has asked for additional stop signs and has not received more stop signs and commented on how bad the speeding and accidents are. Councilmember Buesgens asked to clarify the addresses. Ms. Meyer st ated it was 4201 and 4203. Councilmember Buesgens asked if the cars looked alike. Ms. Meyer replied that they did not. Councilmember Buesgens asked if the properties were rentals. Ms. Meyer answered that they were. Kay Meyer, City resident, stated the Council listens but does not hear and noted the resident who left must be discouraged. She expressed her sadness that this is government. She thanked the police for their help for a nonemergency incident. She wished the City was as kind to her as the Police Department was to her. She added the Council did not hear what the residents were saying regarding the street and explained that residents were saying children could get hurt and the response was to change the street. Mayor Márquez Simula thanked all residents who came and spoke. She explained the role of the Council is to listen with an open mind including City Staff since they are hired to be the experts . She believes there are qualified Staff that do a good job researching and answering questions. She noted the Council needs to have a neutral face in order to be fair in listening. She explained she is there to make a decision and does not want to take other’s stories away by being emotional. She added this does not mean she does not have a heart. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to adjourn. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. Meeting adjourned at 8:20 pm. Respectfully Submitted, ______________________________________ Sara Ion, City Clerk/Council Secretary