HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-13-2023 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, 3989 Central Ave NE
Monday, November 13, 2023
6:00 PM
MINUTES
The following are the minutes for the Meeting of the City Council held at 6:00 pm on Monday,
November 13, 2023, in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 3989 Central 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; Ander Boucher, City Planner; Aaron Chirpich, Community
Development Director/ Assistant City Manager; Kevin Hansen, Interim City Manager; Jim Hoeft, City
Attorney; Sara Ion, City Clerk; Erik Johnston, Police Captain; Dan O’Brien, Assistant Fire Chief; Brad
Johnson, Anoka County Attorney; Derek Lind, City Resident
MISSION STATEMENT
Columbia Heights is a vibrant, healthy and connected City. We are here to actively support 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
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag: "I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America,
and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for
all,"
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, to approve the Agenda as
presented. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
ATTENDANCE INFORMATION: This portion of the meeting is closed pursuant to Minn Stat. 13D.05,
subd. 3(b), members of the public will not be able to attend. For questions regarding this notice, please
contact the City Administration 763.706.3610.
1. Discuss Confidential Attorney-Client Communications and Strategy Related to the
Current Legal Case of: Kay "KT" Jacobs vs City of Columbia Heights and Sara Ion, in her
official capacity Columbia Heights City Clerk. (Court Case File 02-CV-23-5152).
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 2
Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember James, to recess to Closed
Session pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 13D.05, subdivision 3(b) and the attorney -
client privilege to engage in confidential attorney-client communications and strategy
related to the current legal case of: Kay "KT" Jacobs vs City of Columbia Heights and Sara
Ion, in her official capacity Columbia Heights City Clerk. 4 Ayes, 1 Abstained. Motion Carried
4-1. Ayes: Márquez Simula, Spriggs, Buesgens, James. Abstained: Jacobs.
The Council has reviewed information in regard to this issue and in balancing the purposes
of the attorney-client privilege against the purposes of the open meeting law, the need for
absolute confidentiality has been demonstrated in this particular case.
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to reconvene the
Open Session. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITION, ANNOUNCEMENTS, GUESTS
A. Introduction of Anoka County Attorney Brad Johnson.
Anoka County Attorney Brad Johnson explained the role of the County Attorney is to be the
chief prosecutor for all felony and juvenile crimes in the County. His personal responsibility
is to ensure that the County is doing their best to give good legal advice to all of the County
departments and the County Board. There are 46 attorneys in the office and 105 staff. He
noted that the department is at full staff. The plan in 2024 is to add three new attorneys,
three support staff, and one investigator to the ranks.
Anoka County Attorney Johnson mentioned that part of his long-term plan is to assign a
relationship attorney from the criminal division to each of the police departments in the
County. Columbia Height’s has also been assigned a relationship attorney. The purpose of
including a relationship attorney is for law enforcement to have someone they can call
when they need to find out about a case, a decision or evolution in the law. A relationship
attorney will also be assigned to each of the public high schools in the County. In 2024, a
juvenile attorney will be assigned to Columbia Heights High School.
Anoka County Attorney Johnson noted some policies changed due to Covid where lower-
level drug offenses were not prosecuted. He mentioned that he did not like that and was
working on changing some of the policy. It is the Anoka County attorney office’s job to
identify some of the cases they believe can meet their goals of rehabilitation without even
involving the criminal justice system. He added that these changes have been made in
order to create a healthier criminal justice system.
Anoka County Attorney Johnson stated that it has been an honor to work with Police Chief
Austin. He highlighted various items that make Columbia Heights special such as Mayor
Márquez Simula being on the Joint Law Enforcement Council. He mentioned that no other
County has a Joint Law Enforcement Council. The Joint Law Enforcement Council includes
representatives from every city that has a police department in Anoka County, the Sherriff,
County Commissioners, and himself. The representatives from the City include the Police
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 3
Chief, a representative from the Council of a city. By having a variety of people, it helps
with collaboration on important issues. He noted the recent discussions in the Joint Law
Enforcement Council has centered on the new legislation about the school resource
officers. He noted that Columbia Heights has been a leader in embedding a social worker in
their Police Department. He explained that because of the leadership of the City, it has
motivated other cities to make the same decision. He thanked the Council for their
leadership.
Mayor Márquez Simula thanked Anoka County Attorney Johnson for coming and his
encouraging words about the City’s Police Department.
Councilmember Buesgens expressed her excitement of other cities adopting the City’s
program. She noted that by embedding the program into the Police Department, it means
that there is more help for mental health which will mean households in the County wil l
continue to improve.
CONSENT AGENDA
Councilmember Jacobs requested Item 2 “Approve the November 6, 2023 City Council Work Session
Meeting Minutes” be removed from the Consent Agenda for further discussion.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, to approve the Consent
Agenda as presented with Item 2 removed for further discussion. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
1. Approve the October 23, 2023 City Council Meeting Minutes.
MOTION: Move to approve the October 23, 2023 City Council Meeting minutes.
2. Pulled from the Consent Agenda for further discussion “Approve the November 6, 2023
City Council Work Session Meeting Minutes.”
3. HVAC Maintenance Proposals.
MOTION: Move to accept the bid for HVAC Preventive Maintenance Services from
Northland Refrigeration Inc. for City facilities, based upon their low, qualified, responsible
bid and, furthermore, to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to enter into a 3 -year
contract for the same.
4. Approve Legislative Service Agreement with Lockridge, Grindal and Nauen P.L.L.P.
MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Resolution 2023-71, there being ample copies
available to the public.
MOTION: Move to approve Resolution 2023-71, a resolution of the City Council for the City
of Columbia Heights approving legislative service agreement with Lockridge, Grindal and
Nauen P.L.L.P.
5. License Agenda.
MOTION: Move to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for
November 13, 2023, as presented.
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 4
6. Rental Occupancy Licenses for Approval.
MOTION: Move to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for
November 13, 2023, in that they have met the requirements of the Property Maintenance
Code.
7. 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 $1,739,843.44.
Councilmember James expressed her excitement about the legislative agreement with a lobby ist
since now a lobbyist can work on the behalf of the citizens and the City. She thanked the Staff for
going through the bids to make it happen. Mayor Márquez Simula agreed. Councilmember
Buesgens thanked Senator Mary Kunesh for bringing the idea up to the City.
ITEMS PULLED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA
2. Approve the November 6, 2023 City Council Work Session Meeting Minutes.
Councilmember Jacobs explained that the November 6, 2023 City Council Work Session Meeting
minutes contain a lot of the pieces of the statement that Councilmember Buesgens read in
regard to the proposals to get a search firm for a City Manager. Councilmember Jacobs stated
that she would like to make a motion to include Councilmember Buesgens’ letter into the
minutes.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, that the letter by
Councilmember Buesgens regarding the proposal to the search firm for a City Manager be
included in the November 6, 2023 City Council Work Session Meeting Minutes. All Ayes. Motion
Carried 5-0.
Mayor Márquez Simula noted on page 4 of the minutes, under “Finances & Liquor”, paragraph 4,
it reads “Mayor Márquez Simula stated that she would like the sale of miniature liquor bottles to
be ended…”. She would like it changed to “Mayor Márquez Simula stated that she has concerns
on the sale of miniature liquor bottles and the corresponding litter and would like to see
information related to the sales statistics.”
Mayor Márquez Simula noted on the same page, it reads “Mayor Márquez Simula would like
additional support for the staff in training them in liquor and beer education. She would like to
have staff be more educated and to add this to the budget.” She explained that she did not
request that it would be added to the budget but instead requested for it to be discussed
beneficial budget implications if there were more education happening.
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to approve the above
changes to the November 6, 2023 City Council Work Session Meeting minutes. All Ayes. Motion
Carried 5-0.
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 5
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to approve the
November 6, 2023 City Council Work Session Meeting minutes as amended. All Ayes. Motion
Carried 5-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
8. First Reading of Ordinance No. 1690, an Ordinance Amending Chapter 9.111 of the City
Code of 2005 to Establish Limited Retail Sales as a Permitted Use in the City’s Light
Industrial (I-1) and General Industrial (I-2) Districts.
City Planner Boucher stated the City has received an application for a zoning ordinance
amendment to accommodate the introduction of limited retail sales to the City’s I-1 Light
Industrial and I-2 General Industrial Districts called SACA. Tim LaCroix is representing SACA
in their zoning text. They are proposing a limited retail sales as a permitted use in both the
Light and General Industrial Zoning Districts. Zoning text amendments are required to have
four findings of fact per 9.104(f). The finding of facts include that the amendment is
consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, it is in the public interest and not in the sole
interest of the property owner, and the zoning request is consistent with the existing use of
the property and zoning classification within the general area. He noted that there is not a
proposal for a zoning change so the finding of fact is not applicable. The last criteria for
finding of fact is to see if there is a change to the character or trend in the general area that
has taken place since the property was placed in its current zoning classification.
City Planner Boucher explained the first two criteria are the most relevant to the proposed
request. He added that they would like to amend section 1.03 which is the definition
section of the Zoning Code to provide clarity regarding the scope and intensity of limited
retail sales. The amendment would read “Retail sales of products manufactured, process,
or delivered in bulk and repackaged for sale on the site, provided that the sales area does
not exceed 20% of the gross floor area of the principal building and must adhere to the
performance standards set forth in section 9.106.”
City Planner Boucher noted that it is not a development proposal and instead is to allow
the use. SACA would still be required to come in for building permits and would have an
additional opportunity to review it administratively.
City Planner Boucher stated the other addition would be the addition of Limited Retail
Sales as permitted uses in both the Light and General Industrial Districts. He mentioned
that it is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and the goals of the industrial guiding for
a mix of industrial development and vehicle repair uses as an accessory use to warehousing
and distribution.
City Planner Boucher explained that major and minor automobile repair, office space, show
rooms, warehousing, pawn shops, tattoo shops, body piercing shops, motor vehicle part
stores, and brewery tap rooms are currently permitted in an Industrial District.
Councilmember Jacobs asked if it would affect the surrounding neighborhoods that are
adjacent to the industrial area. City Planner Boucher replied that Staff have notified the
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 6
neighborhoods but explained that this is simply to permit the use and that there would be
additional notification if there was an application for a building permit. He added that
there were two public comments at the Planning Commission meeting with one in support
and one against. The individual who was against the project is within 300 feet of the radius
and had concerns regarding the traffic, and crime in the area.
Councilmember Jacobs asked if a home could be converted into a retail business with the
changes. City Planner Boucher replied that it only applies to the industrial zoned
properties.
Mayor Márquez Simula opened the public hearing. There were no public comments.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember James, to close the public
hearing and waive the reading of Ordinance No. 1690, there being ample copies available
to the public. All Ayes. Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember James, to set the second
reading of Ordinance Amendment No. 1690, an Ordinance amending Chapter 9.111 of the
City Code of 2005 to establish Limited Retail Sales as a permitted use in the City’s I-1 Light
Industrial and I-2 General Industrial Districts, for November 27, 2023, at approximately 6:00
p.m. in the City Council Chambers. All Ayes. Motion Carried 5-0.
9. Adopt Resolution 2023-65 for Abatement at 3912 Ulysses St. NE. Pursuant to City Code.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien explained the resolution was in regard to declarations of
violations 3912 Ulysses Street NE and for an approval of abatement measures. The original
matter can be traced back to the complaint filed in late April 2023 which detailed violations
pertaining to a damaged fence and a failing retaining wall on the property. Staff have
performed multiple inspections and several notices were sent to the property owner, they
have not responded, and the violations remain uncorrected. He displayed photos of the
property to the Council to view.
Mayor Márquez Simula opened the public hearing. There were no public comments.
Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to close the public
hearing and waive the reading of Resolution 2023-65, there being ample copies available to
the public. All Ayes. Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, to adopt
Resolution 2023-65, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights
approving abatement, pursuant to City Code, of the property listed. All Ayes. Motion
Carried 5-0.
10. Consideration of Resolution 2023-66, Revocation of the License to Operate Rental Units
Within the City of Columbia Heights Against the Rental Property at 1153/1155 Cheery
Lane NE for Failure to Meet the Requirements of the Residential Maintenance Codes.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien stated the item was one of two rental license revocation for the
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 7
property. The two hearings are for the same license but the City is required to separate it
into two public hearings. The intent is to address both issues separately. If the license is
revoked in one or both cases, it only counts as a single revocation against the property
owner, which leaves the property owner an opportunity to reapply for a license. He
explained that there are three elements of renewal. The property owner must schedule an
inspection, submit a completed license application, and pay the licensing fee s. The
responsible party scheduled the inspection but failed to submit the licensing fees by the
due date.
Councilmember James asked what the licensing history of the property was. Assistant Fire
Chief O’Brien replied that they have previously been licensed which began in 2019 and
have had a license every year since then.
Councilmember James asked if it was the second time the property owner was renewing
their license. Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien replied that it was likely their fifth time.
Councilmember James commented it shows that the property owner is fam iliar with the
renewal process.
Mayor Márquez Simula opened the public hearing. There were no public comments.
Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to close the
public hearing and waive the reading of Resolution 2023-66, there being ample copies
available to the public. All Ayes. Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to adopt
Resolution 2023-66, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights
approving revocation, pursuant to City Code, of the rental license listed. All Ayes. Motion
Carried 5-0.
11. Consideration of Resolution 2023-67, Revocation of the License to Operate Rental Units
Within the City of Columbia Heights Against the Rental Prope rty at 1153/1155 Cheery
Lane NE for Failure to Meet the Requirements of the Residential Maintenance Codes.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien explained that the revocation was in regard to failure to correct
violations on the property. The inspectors were unable to obtain entry on the original
scheduled inspection on September 1, 2023 because the licensee did not notify the
property manager so the inspectors did not know if the tenants had been properly notified.
On September 15, 2023, the inspectors conducted an initial inspection and found 11
violations to the Code including smoke alarm and egress window safety violations. On
October 18, 2023, the day before the next scheduled inspection, the property manager
requested an extension. Per the policy, it is not per mitted to have an extension on life
safety violations. The inspectors offered the property manager to supply a signed contract
for repairs in order to give an extension to the repairs. The inspectors were not allowed on
the site again since the tenants were not properly notified. On November 3, 2023 an
additional inspection was performed and only one of the violations was completed , which
was a clogged drain.
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 8
Councilmember James asked what the procedure was to make sure tenants are notified.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien replied that when the inspectors arrive, they ask tenants if they
knew there was going to be an inspection to verify notice. If a tenant is not around, then
they assume the property manager informed that tenant.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember James, to close the public
hearing and waive the reading of Resolution 2023-67, there being ample copies available to
the public. All Ayes. Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember James, to adopt Resolution
2023-67, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights approving
revocation, pursuant to City Code, of the rental license listed. All Ayes. Motion Carried 5-0.
12. Consideration of Resolution 2023-68, Revocation of the License to Operate Rental Units
Within the City of Columbia Heights Against the Rental Property at 1401/1403 Circle
Terrace Blvd. NE for Failure to Meet the Requirements of the Residential Maintenance
Codes.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien stated that the property owner failed to renew the license by
the due date for a duplex. Notice for the rental license went out on July 1, 2023. The three
items for renewal included call and schedule an inspection of the proper ty, submit a
completed application and pay the licensing fees. A check on October 10, 2023 revealed
that the responsible party had not initiated any of the three items for renewal. A statement
of cause and notice for the public hearing were sent on the same day. The brother of the
licensee explained that the licensee had a medical issue and was hospitalized that day prior
to November 5, 2023 and that the licensee’s mother was ill. There was no other
explanation of why the renewal items for the license were not completed at the time. If
revoked, this would be the only revocation the owner has had. The renewal for the license
is overdue by 98 days.
Councilmember Jacobs asked if there was any additional communication or proof that
there has been hospitalizations with the licensee. Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien replied that
no proof was provided.
Mayor Márquez Simula opened the public hearing. There were no public comments.
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to close the public
hearing and waive the reading of Resolution 2023-68, there being ample copies available to
the public. All Ayes. Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to adopt Resolution
2023-68, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights approving
revocation, pursuant to City Code, of the rental license listed. All Ayes. Motion Carried 5-0.
Mayor Márquez Simula recessed the regular meeting for five minutes The regular meeting then
reconvened.
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 9
ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
Ordinances and Resolutions
13. First Reading of Ordinance 1691, being an Ordinance to Update Regulations Regarding
Animal Control.
Captain Johnston explained that the item has been discussed in a work session. The update
to the City Code would be to align the City Code with the State statutes relating to animal
control. He used the feedback from the Council work session and made the changes to the
City Code. He mentioned that there was a minor correction to the second motion on the
second line it reads “Chapter 8” but instead it should read “Article 1”.
Councilmember Buesgens thanked Captain Johnston for making the changes to the
language. Mayor Márquez Simula agreed.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to waive the
reading of Ordinance No. 1691, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes.
Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to set the second
reading of Ordinance Amendment No. 1691, an Ordinance amending Chapter 8 Article 1 of
the Columbia Heights City Code to update regulations regarding animal control to align
with the State statute for November 27, 2023, at approximately 6:00 p.m. in the City
Council Chambers. All Ayes. Motion Carried 5-0.
14. Consideration of a Rental License Exemption for 4820 4th Street NE
City Planner Boucher stated the property owner applied for a rental license. Staff found
that that block was at the rental cap. The property owner was made aware of the
exemption process with the understanding that it is a temporary license and can only be
renewed twice and cannot have it more than two years in a row. He noted that there is a
written statement by the property owner that is attached to the Council packet.
Councilmember Buesgens mentioned that she did not notice any extenuating
circumstances and that they simply want to rent it. City Planner Boucher replied that Staff
do not have any specific criteria on why they would like to rent the property out.
Councilmember Jacobs noted that she had the same concern as Councilmember Buesgens.
She added that the letter mentions that the property was purchased in order to be a
rental. She mentioned that it would be difficult for her to move it forward.
Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to waive the
reading of Resolution 2023-63, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes.
Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to adopt
Resolution 2023-63, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 10
approving the Single-Family Rental Exemption Request for the rental application at 4820
4th Street NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421. All Nays. Motion failed 0-5.
15. Extension of ACRED Memorandum of Understanding.
Community Development Director/Assistant City Manager Chirpich explained that the
initiative began in 2017 and set out to establish a relationship with the County and the
business community to look at economic perspectives across the County. During that time,
a market analysis and strategic plan were developed by a consultant hired by Anoka County
to create the initiative. In 2019, the City signed onto the initiative for five years. The five
years are set to expire January 10, 2024. ACRED is in the process of hiring another
consultant to see where the organization is now and how it will move forward in the
future. The County and cities involved agreed to approve a one-year extension instead of
signing up for an additional five years in order to allow the partnership to complete the
new strategic plan. Staff are in favor of the one-year extension. The City has drawn funds
from the special EDA levy that is provided by the County.
Mayor Márquez Simula commented that she has appreciated the collaboration with
ACRED.
Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, to waive the
reading of Resolution 2023-64, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes.
Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to approve
Resolution 2023-64, Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights approving
the form and substance of the agreement extending and amending the Memorandum of
Understanding for Anoka County Economic Development, and authorizing the City Manager
to take all actions necessary to execute and implement the agreement on behalf of the City.
All Ayes. Motion Carried 5-0.
CITY COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Report of the City Council
Councilmember Buesgens extended her condolences to the family of Brian Drews. She mentioned that
she helped clean the flower pots at Murzyn Hall, and attended the Planning Commission meeting and
the SACA fundraiser. She added that she volunteered for trunk -or-treat with HeightsNext. She
attended the Library Board meeting as a liaison to fill in for Councilmember Spriggs, and the 40 th
Avenue open house. She explained that the City has installed an outdoor wireless network for the
public to access for free in the City Hall. The social worker program was recently featured in a
publication in the Police Executive Research Forum. She thanked everyone who adopted a new tree
and staff who helped plant the trees.
Councilmember James stated she attended an informational levy meeting with the Columbia Heights
School District, the SACA fundraiser, and the trunk-or-treat event. She thanked City Staff and County
staff for show up to the 40th Avenue meeting and noted they are still accepting online comments. She
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 11
attended a League of Women Voters meeting and a Veterans Day event that the Mayor hosted. She
mentioned that there was a Gaza community teaching that she attended. She completed one online
course through the League of Minnesota Cities on how to legally close a meeting.
Councilmember Jacobs noted that she attended a presentation called “Moving upstream. Using
effective strategies.” She mentioned that she was in two different interviews, one regarding the effect
on rental and high-density housing on the community, and the other regarding commercial enterprise
hiring opportunities and tax allocations in the City. She attended trunk-or-treat and shared a table with
Councilmember Buesgens. She added that she attended the public safety lunch , the Big Brothers Big
Sisters presentation, the 40th Avenue open house, and facilitated nine resident reach outs. She
mentioned Officer Monberg is leaving his position as Community Coordinator and will be moving into
the Investigation Department in the Police Department.
Councilmember Spriggs stated that he attended the Council work session and the 40 th Avenue open
house. He noted that he continues to meet with the residents at The Legends.
Mayor Márquez Simula thanked veterans for their service and everyone who attended the Veterans
Day event. She attended the community teaching on Gaza , spoke at Mission Heights, and met with the
residents. She explained that she met with the consulate from Poland to discuss the connection with
the City’s sister city. She stated she toured the S & S Grind. She mentioned that she voted at the
election and congratulated new School Boardmember Michelle Pettway. She had her monthly meeting
with the Police Chief and Captain Johnston. She attended the Columbia Heights High School Alumni
Scholarship Foundation dinner, the Joint Law Enforcement meeting, the SACA fundraiser, the Parks and
Recreation meeting, a climate coalition meeting, a leadership outreach meeting with First Lutheran
Church, and the Regional Council of Mayors meeting. She added that she will be doing a ride-along
with the street sweepers.
Councilmember Jacobs mentioned that there will be a fundraiser for Beany Drews at Tasty Pizza on
November 18th at 6 pm.
Report of the City Manager
Interim City Manager Hansen recognized Sergeant Timothy Knoll will be graduating from the
Northwestern School of Police Staff. He noted that the school is to prepare leaders for a senior level.
Sergeant Knoll was elected as a Class Activity Director. Sergeant Knoll will be returning to work in the
beginning of December.
Interim City Manager Hansen recognized the Communication Department and noted that they have
been recognized by a State-wide agency. They have received three awards for their work over the past
year. The State-wide agency is the Association of Government Communications. It includes city and
county workers that work in the communication industry. They received first place for their trunk -or-
treat event and third place for conversation circle that has been facilitated through them. The City
newsletter will go out before Thanksgiving.
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES November 13, 2023
City Council Meeting Page 12
Interim City Manager Hansen explained that there would be a joint meeting on Thursday with the
Planning Commission and City Council to review the Comprehensive Plan for the redevelopment of the
Medtronic site.
Interim City Manager Hansen stated that November is Winter Hazard Awareness Month. They will be
providing safety tips relating to hazards in the winter months. He reported there is a water main break
in Minneapolis and they are working to resolve the issue. He mentioned that the construction season is
ending and both 37th Avenue and 53rd Avenue will be completed. Finishing work and restoration will
resume in the spring. He encouraged the Council to do a ride-along with street sweeping or snow
plowing. Since bituminous is still available, the Public Works Director has shifted the focus to fill pot
holes before the winter season.
Mayor Márquez Simula reminded the community that winter parking will go into effect on November
15, 2023 and that it was pushed back a couple of weeks to give people more time to park on the
streets.
COMMUNITY FORUM
Derek Lind stated he lives in Ramsey but is speaking on behalf of a citizen advocacy group for Anoka
County for election reform. He mentioned the goal of his group is to reform elections to how they were
done 30 years ago. He noted that they would like to take electronics out of the election for “more
transparency”.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to adjourn. All Ayes, Motion
Carried 5-0.
Meeting adjourned at 7:40pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
______________________________________
Sara Ion, City Clerk/Council Secretary