HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-27-2023 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 27, 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 27, 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; Aaron Chirpich, Community Development Direct or/
Assistant City Manager; Jim Hoeft, City Attorney; Sara Ion, City Clerk; Joe Kloiber, Finance Director; Dan
O’Brien, Assistant Fire Chief; Jason Aarsvold, Elhers Senior Municipal Advisor; Edyta Dudek, President
of PACIM
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
Mayor Márquez Simula asked that item 18 be moved to C under Proclamations, Presentations,
Recognition, Announcements, Guests.
Motion by Mayor Márquez Simula, seconded by Councilmember James, to approve the Agenda as
revised. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITION, ANNOUNCEMENTS, GUESTS
A. Immaculate Conception Day Proclamation, December 8, 2023.
Mayor Márquez Simula proclaimed December 8, 2023 as Immaculate Conception Day and read
the City’s proclamation. Father Matthew Quail accepted the proclamation.
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B. Update from School Board Liaison.
Michelle Pettway thanked the Council and community members of the Columbia Heights School
District for reelecting her on the School Board and for passing the referendum and capital
projects levy renewal. She noted that the School Board is working on the strategic plan and
moving forward with efforts to provide the most equitable academic environmental for all
students. They will be reassessing the needs of staff, students, and community members in order
to create the best strategic plan through various surveys, and focus groups.
Ms. Pettway noted that she is a part of a subcommittee for community engagement for the
school board. They are working on implementing City and community events in order to be more
accessible to everyone and to be more present at events. She noted that they desire to
communicate more effectively and would take suggestions.
Ms. Pettway explained that there were a number of events coming up. On Thursday, there would
be a community resource fair at the district family center from 5-8 pm and there is more
information on the district website. The high school will be performing Cinderella this winter.
Show times will vary from Thursday, December 7, through Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 7 pm
with one show on Sunday, December 10, 2023 at 2 pm. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for
students. Students and staff of the district are free. There will be a high school band concert on
December 13 at 7 pm and a middle school band concert on December 14 at 7 pm. Winter break
will be Monday, December 25, 2023 through Tuesday, January 2, 2024. School Board meetings
are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 pm and work sessions are on the
third Tuesday of the month at 5:30 pm. All are welcomed to attend.
NEW BUSINESS AND REPORTS
18. Public Art at Huset Park.
Interim City Manager Hansen stated that Columbia Heights has been a Sister City with Łomianki
Poland since 1991. City officials and members have traveled back and forth to both cities to
establish relationships. 2023 was the last time a group went to Łomianki Poland. A monument
was placed in Łomianki Poland in 2022. There has been discussion whether Columbia Heights
should put in a monument to represent and honor service members that were lost in World War
2. It has been established to put up a similar monument in the City in 2024. There would be no
cost for the City for the monument and would be paid through by other organizations. The idea is
to put the monument in Huset Park. The monument would be able to be relocated in the future.
President of PACIM Edyta Dudek displayed an insert from the POLAM magazine explaining the
1944 Warsaw US Airlift Memorial. She noted that there were eight people on the plane and that
six of them died. She noted that Mayor Márquez Simula has a picture with the Łomianki mayor
and the Speaker of the House in Poland. When the Polish council was in Chicago in November 11,
2023 they encouraged PACIM to apply for funds from the Polish government to build the
monument. PACIM is also raising funds to pay for some of the costs of the monument.
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Councilmember Buesgens thanked Ms. Dudek and noted that it would strengthen the
relationship between the Sister Cities.
Ms. Dudek explained that she grew up in Warsaw and did not grow up hearing about the history.
During communism, it was not allowed to discuss that the Americans were helping.
Councilmember Jacobs asked if there would be the ability to light the monument. Interim City
Manager Hansen replied that there was, as the park is wired to support this.
Mayor Márquez Simula stated that having more art is something that the City is looking forward
to having. She noted that the City does not have a marker to talk about the tragedy that
happened and that it would be remarkable if they did. PACIM has discussed where they would
want a monument in Minnesota and they agreed that Columbia Heights would be a good option.
She thanked the donors involved, noting the hope is to have the unveiling in August.
Ms. Dudek stated there is a possibility that it could be install in April 2024. August 1, 2024 will be
the 80th anniversary of the Warsaw uprising. The goal is to open the monument on August 1,
2024 and invite the mayor of Łomianki.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, to accept the
monument from PACIM and Sister Cities Columbia Heights as a sister monument to Łomianki
Poland, and authorize staff to prepare a site in Huset Park West. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
CONSENT AGENDA
Councilmember James requested Item 3, “Adopt Resolution 2023-72, Appointing Economic
Development Authority Commission Members” be removed from the Consent Agenda for further
discussion.
Councilmember Spriggs requested Item 7, “Approve Joint Powers Agreement with Anoka County
Sheriff’s Office for Columbia Heights participation in Special Weapons and Tactics Team” be removed
from the Consent Agenda for further discussion.
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to approve the Consent Agenda
as presented with items 3 and 7 removed for further discussion. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
1. Approve the November 13, 2023 City Council Meeting Minutes.
MOTION: Move to approve the November 13, 2023 City Council Meeting minutes.
2. Approve the November 13, 2023 City Council Work Session Meeting Minutes.
MOTION: Move to approve the November 13, 2023 City Council Work Session Meeting
minutes.
3. Pulled from the Consent Agenda for further discussion “Adopt Resolution 2023-72,
Appointing Economic Development Authority Commission Members.”
4. Second 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
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Industrial (I-1) and General Industrial (I-2) Districts.
MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Ordinance No. 1690, there being ample copies
available to the public.
MOTION: Move to approve 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, and direct staff to send a
copy of the ordinance as presented for publication in the legal newspaper.
5. Second Reading of Ordinance 1691, being an Ordinance to Update Regulations Regarding
Animal Control.
MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Ordinance 1691, an ordinance to update
regulations regarding animal control, there being ample copies available to the public.
MOTION: Move to approve Ordinance No. 1691, updating regulations regardin g animal
control. Additionally direct staff to send the summary ordinance for publication in the legal
newspaper.
6. Authorize Mayor and Interim City Manager to enter into Contract for Police Service with
the City of Hilltop.
MOTION: Move to authorize the Mayor and the Interim City Manager to enter into a Police
Service Contract with the City of Hilltop for the years 2024 to 2026 at the rates specified in
the contract.
7. Pulled from the Consent Agenda for further discussion “Approve Joint Powers Agreement
with Anoka County Sheriff’s Office for Columbia Heights participation in Special Weapons
and Tactics Team.”
8. Authorizing Change to Police Vehicle Purchase.
MOTION: Move to authorize the purchase of two (2) 2023 Dodge Chargers for patrol use
from Guardian Fleet Safety as a sole source purchase for $81,755, and that the Mayor and
City Manager are authorized to enter into a contract for same.
*Purchase price corrected from $77,039.50 to reflect cost of $4,958.50 per vehicle.
9. Approval Resolution 2023-73 Transfer Funds to the Fire Department 2023 Budget.
MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Resolution No. 2023 -73 there being ample copies
to the public.
MOTION: Move to adopt Resolution 2023-73, being a resolution amending the 2023 Fire
Department budget
10. Rental Occupancy Licenses for Approval.
MOTION: Move to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for
November 27, 2023, in that they have met the requirements of the Property Maintenance
Code.
11. License Agenda.
MOTION: Move to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for
November 27, 2023, as presented.
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12. 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 $1,740,458.84.
ITEMS PULLED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA
3. Adopt Resolution 2023-72, Appointing Economic Development Authority Commission
Members.
Councilmember James stated that the Council had the opportunity to conduct interviews for the
Economic Development Authority Commission and noted that there were great applicants and
selected Lamin Dibba and Marlaine Szurek. She congratulated both members and thanked those
who applied.
Mayor Márquez Simula agreed and welcomed the new members. She noted that the EDA is
where development projects are discussed and typically takes place on the first Monday of the
month.
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to waive the reading of
Resolution 2023-72, 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
2023-72, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights appointing Lamin
Dibba and Marlaine Szurek as City of Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority
Commission Members. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
7. Approve Joint Powers Agreement with Anoka County Sheriff’s Office for Columbia
Heights participation in Special Weapons and Tactics Team.
Councilmember Spriggs asked the Police Chief to explain the background of the agreement and
why it is being proposed. Police Chief Austin stated that the Sheriff’s office has been wanting to
do this agreement for some time due to the population growth in Anoka County and for staffing
issues. The Anoka County Sheriff’s office also would like the ability to expand which could open
the opportunity for grants to fund the team. He noted that this would not be a full -time
assignment but it would be part time with monthly trainings. He explained another reason that
the County Sheriff’s office desires to expand is due to the increased need for negotiators on their
team.
Councilmember Spriggs asked which cities were joining the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA). Police
Chief Austin replied that cities having been coming on board in the recent weeks. The only city
that has been approved so far is Blaine. There were final touches to the JPA which is why there is
only one city that has been approved so far.
Councilmember Spriggs asked if the portion of the JPA that states “the requesting party” is
referring to the mayor of each city. Police Chief Austin replied that it is generally referring to the
police chief or in the case of Columbia Heights, the captains would begin the process with the
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final approval of the police chief. He added that just because a request is placed, does not mean
there will be a response.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, to Authorize the
Mayor, Interim City Manager and Police Chief to enter into a Joint Powers Agreement with the
Anoka County Sheriff’s Office to participate in its Special Weapons and Tactics Team. All Ayes,
Motion Carried 5-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
13. Consideration of Resolution 2023-74, Revocation of the License to Operate Rental Units
Within the City of Columbia Heights Against the Rental Property at 4100 Monroe Street
NE for Failure to Meet the Requirements of the Residential Maintenance Codes.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien stated the revocation is in regards to failure in correcting
violations on the property. The outstanding violations were originally one of nine violations
written up on August 30, 2023 as part of the properties exterior license renewal inspection
and a complaint inspection combined. The inspectors performed two additional inspections
on October 2, 2023 and October 30, 2023 and found that the responsible party had made
some progress repairing seven of the nine violations. The two remaining violations were
replacement repair of a water damaged floor cabinet and investigation and mitigation of
the water leak that caused the damage and then repair replacement of a laboratory drain
plumbing works in the basement.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien noted that the inspectors failed the two violations because they
found standing water in the cabinet on the final re-inspection untreated and incomplete.
The PVC piping on the laboratory drain did not have primer and a plumbing permit had not
been pulled for the repair. If revoked, it would be the only revocation that the owner has
had in the past five years. Since it is a single-family residence, a check of the rental cap
density map shows that the block is below the density cap which would make the property
eligible to require the rental license prior to the property becoming unlawful to occupy.
Councilmember Jacobs asked if Mr. Richardson was in California or local. Assistant Fire
Chief O’Brien replied that he did not know. Councilmember Jacobs explained that the
house is in her neighborhood and she had reached out to Mr. Richardson with concerns
about the exterior. She added that he did not seem enthused about coming to the property
to look at it. Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien stated that after checking the address, Mr.
Richardson is local in St. Paul.
Mayor Márquez Simula opened the public hearing. There were no comments.
Councilmember James noted she was in favor of the revocation due to the standing water
and failure to fix the issues. She reminded the property owner that they would be able to
reapply and go through the process to make sure that the house is safe for the people
living in it.
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Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to close the
public hearing and waive the reading of Resolution 2023-74, 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 2023-74, 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.
14. Consideration of Resolution 2023-76, Revocation of the License to Operate Rental Units
Within the City of Columbia Heights Against the Rental Property at 4144 Quincy Street NE
for Failure to Meet the Requirements of the Residential Maintenance Codes.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien explained that this was the first of two rental license revocation
hearings for the duplex property. The two hearings for the revocation of the same license is
a procedural matter. The need for two public hearings arises from distinct and separate
issues prompting the consideration of revocation in each case. The intent is to address
each issue through separate hearings to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the matters
under consideration. It does not count as two separate instances of license revocation
against the licensee. The licensee had not had a revocation in the last five years and would
be eligible to re-acquire a license.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien noted that the first consideration is due to failure to correct
violations on the property. The initial licensing inspection was performed on July 26, 2023.
The inspectors noticed the construction of an illegal third unit in the basement of the
property. A violation notice was sent to the owner on record on August 8, 2023 and an
amended violation notice was sent containing further details on the illegal third unit and
two timelines for compliance. The first timeline was a complete interior and exterior
inspection of the entire property which needed to be scheduled by September 1, 2023 and
the second timeline was the removal of the illegal third unit by October 1, 2023.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien mentioned that inspectors performed an interior inspection on
all the units on September 12, 2023 and found 15 violations. On November 20, 2023 there
was a pre-Council inspection and the violations listed remained uncorrected. Staff have
been able to verify that with the building official that some of the violations listed have
since been corrected. Items E and G listed in the Agenda Packet have been corrected. He
listed the remaining items that have not been corrected and what needed to be corrected:
a) Shall have all electrical wiring inspected by the state electrical inspector and provide
proof that the wiring is properly installed/approved. Shall remove any non -code
compliant and unapproved wiring.
b) Shall install a hard-wired smoke alarm in the basement. Smoke alarm shall be installed
by a licensed low-voltage contractor.
c) This property is licensed as a duplex rental property. Inspectors have noted that a third
unit has been added and multiple families are occupying the property. Shall remove the
illegal third unit, as the property cannot legally be converted to a triplex.
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d) Remove remaining un-permitted plumbing in basement “bathroom” area.
e) Shall properly cap all copper water pipes in the basement “kitchen” area under the
floor that are capped with galvanized steel caps. Dissimilar metals are not allowed.
f) Shall remove all drywall and framing installed without permits in the basement. The
basement had previously been an open floor plan.
g) Shall seal or properly cap, repair or replace the open sewer pipe in the basement
“kitchen” area.
Mayor Márquez Simula opened the public hearing.
Landlord Oladimeji Sule expressed his appreciation for the effort the City puts in to make
sure proper housing is provided for residents. He added that they are working to remedy
the issues and have repaired all of the items listed. He noted that they have torn down the
basement unit. Regarding item 4a, they have had the electrical wiring inspected by the
State inspector and had electricians out to fix any issues that were there. An additional
inspection is scheduled for tomorrow to make sure everything is completed. Regarding 4b,
a hard wire smoke alarm has been installed and mentioned that he has a photo o f it as well
as an invoice from the electrician. Regarding item 4c, everything has been torn down in the
basement and no one is living there. For item 4d, roto-rooter has done all of the plumbing
work and gas lines. The City inspector passed the inspection on November 20, 2023.
Mayor Márquez Simula asked if the Building Inspector approved item c but that it was not
communicated to the Fire Department when it was completed. Mr. Sule replied that the
plumbing work was inspected by the State. Mayor Márquez Simula noted that the
plumbing inspection would be through the City. Mr. Sule stated that he had a photo of the
signed inspection.
Mr. Sule mentioned item 4e has been completed and passed an inspection. The drywall has
been removed for item 4f and noted that he has video and photos of it. Item 4g has been
completed by the same plumber and received a passed inspection.
Mayor Márquez Simula asked if there was anything on the list that has not been
completed. Mr. Sule replied there is not. He noted that there was an additional panel that
was found when the third unit was taken down and they have an electrician and inspector
coming to make sure that it is fixed but added that was not a part of the list of violations.
Mayor Márquez Simula asked if a permit was needed to remove the drywall and framing
from the basement. Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien replied that he would have had to obtain a
demolition permit. The property owner obtained a demolition permit but it had not been
satisfied since there were still items in the room that had not been completely removed.
Councilmember Jacobs asked what the last inspection to remedy the violations was.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien replied November 20, 2023. Councilmember Jacobs asked why
the work was not completed in the 2½ months. Mr. Sule replied that there was a
misunderstanding of the work that needed to be done and scheduling of the contractors to
come in and review the items. There were two floods that delayed the work.
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Councilmember Jacobs asked what caused the flood. Mr. Sule replied that sewage backed
up twice and may be due to tree roots. Councilmember Jacobs asked if those problems had
ever happened in the unit before. Mr. Sule replied that it had happened at least one time
before.
Councilmember Jacobs expressed her concern of adding a unit that was not licensed and
that there were 2½ months to reconcile the issues but did not do so. She asked if Mr. Sule
was the owner or the management team. Mr. Sule replied that he was the owner.
Councilmember Jacobs stated that it was his responsibility to know what the
responsibilities are as the business owner.
Councilmember James stated that she would like to see the paperwork that Mr. Sule could
provide. She asked what permits had been pulled so far. Mr. Sule replied two electrical, a
plumbing, and a demolition permit had been pulled.
Councilmember James asked what contractors Mr. Sule has worked with. Mr. Sule replied
Roto-Rooter and Early Bird.
Mayor Márquez Simula asked Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien to confirm that the photos Mr.
Sule provided were the correct rooms. Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien confirmed that it was
the correct room.
Mr. Sule explained that the goal is to fix everything and has been working on doing so. He
explained that when he realized the consequences, he felt bad and is concerned about his
tenants.
Resident of the property Qenya Smith mentioned that Mr. Sule is trying to get everything
done and to cooperate with everything. She noted that it will cau se a major hardship for
her family since she has been in the area for six years and all of her children go to school in
the area and she does not have a mode of transportation. She added that she does not
have help with moving since her father recently passed away.
Councilmember Jacobs expressed her condolences for Ms. Smith’s loss.
Councilmember James asked if Ms. Smith had been in the apartment for the last six years.
Ms. Smith replied that she had and mentioned that the previous property manager did no t
do a good job but Mr. Sule had stepped in and changed property managers.
Councilmember James asked Ms. Smith if she appreciated the work that was being done.
Ms. Smith replied that she did and could vouch for Mr. Sule. She added that Mr. Sule has
been communicating with the tenants regarding when workers will be coming in.
Councilmember Spriggs asked what the reason was for adding the third unit in the
basement. Mayor Márquez Simula asked if there was a bathroom and unit in the basement
when Mr. Sule had purchased the property. Mr. Sule replied that there were closets and
the toilet hole was there. He added that since they were fixing so many items on the first
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two floors, he figured it would be good to clean up the basement. He mentioned that he
did not know that the third unit was illegal and would not have done so if he had known
that.
Mayor Márquez Simula asked when the first inspection was. Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien
replied that it was July 26, 2023. Mayor Márquez Simula asked if the violations were mailed
to the property owner on July 26, 2023 or on September 12, 2023. Assistant Fire Chief
O’Brien stated that a mailer was sent on July 26, 2023 instructing to take down the th ird
unit and an additional letter was sent in August with updated information. Mayor Márquez
Simula asked if the owner has been cooperative. Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien replied that
the property owner has been.
Councilmember James commented that since the work has been ongoing and not had a
chance to be reviewed by the building inspector, she would be interested in tabling the
item. Mayor Márquez Simula agreed.
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to close the public
hearing and waive the reading of Resolution 2023-76, there being ample copies available to
the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
Councilmember Buesgens stated it is great that a lot of the work has been done and is
hoping in the future to go to the City if changes are going to be made to the property. She
added that she would like to see Staff inspect the property and verify that everything has
been completed.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to
table item 14 “Consideration of Resolution 2023-76, Revocation of the License to Operate
Rental Units Within the City of Columbia Heights Against the Rental Property at 4144
Quincy Street NE for Failure to Meet the Requirements of the Residential Maintenance
Codes” to the next City Council meeting.
Mayor Márquez Simula mentioned that with the holidays coming up, and would like to
amend the motion to table the item until the first City Council meeting in January.
Councilmember Buesgens agreed.
Substitute motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember James, to
table item 14 “Consideration of Resolution 2023-76, Revocation of the License to Operate
Rental Units Within the City of Columbia Heights Against the Rental Property at 4144
Quincy Street NE for Failure to Meet the Requirements of the Residential Maintenance
Codes” to the January 8, 2024 City Council Meeting. 4 Ayes, 1 Nay, Motion Carried 4-1.
Ayes: Márquez Simula, Buesgens, Spriggs, James. Nay: Jacobs.
15. Consideration of Resolution 2023-77, Revocation of the License to Operate Rental Units
Within the City of Columbia Heights Against the Rental Property at 4144 Quincy Street NE
for Failure to Meet the Requirements of the Residential Maintenance Codes.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien noted that this is the second license presentation for the same
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property. The violation is for the repair and removal of an exhaust fan which failed the final
pre-Council inspection on November 20, 2023 because the fan had been removed and left
exposed electrical wiring. No information was provided to the City on if the work was
performed by a licensed electrician.
Mr. Sule stated that an electrician came out to do the safety check in the basement as well
as the fan and thought that it had been fixed. After he discovered that it was not properly
fixed, he had Early Bird come out to fix it. He added that he does not know how the
scheduling works and would like to have inspectors come in soon so he can resolve any
issues that are found. Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien explained that Mr. Sule can call the City
now and schedule it.
Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember James, to close the public
hearing and waive the reading of Resolution 2023-77, there being ample copies available to
the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to table item 15
“Consideration of Resolution 2023-77, Revocation of the License to Operate Rental Units
Within the City of Columbia Heights Against the Rental Property at 4144 Quincy Street NE
for Failure to Meet the Requirements of the Residential Maintenance Codes” until the
January 8, 2024 City Council meeting. 4 Ayes, 1 Nay, Motion Carried 4-1. Ayes: Márquez
Simula, Buesgens, Spriggs, James. Nay: Jacobs.
Councilmember Jacobs clarified that she is voting against the motion due to the length of
the tabling of the item, but not voting against tabling the item.
16. Consideration of Resolution 2023-78, Revocation of the License to Operate Rental Units
Within the City of Columbia Heights Against the Rental Property at 4510 Taylor Street NE
for Failure to Meet the Requirements of the Residential Maintenance Codes.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien stated the license is considered for revocation due to failure to
correct violations. The outstanding violation is for the 2022 exterior rental license
inspection on August 10, 2022. The violation was to repair/replace two rotting,
deteriorated window frames casing sills on the north side of the structure. There were
several inspections performed by Staff and a seasonal extension was granted until spring
2023. The matter was scheduled to come before Council in May but it was postponed
because the notice had in the incorrect address for City Hall and the property management
company had contacted the City for additional details on the window violations. The
inspectors failed the inspection because the work was incomplete and unworkmanlike
manner. The final pre-Council inspection was on October 27, 2023 and the violations
remain uncorrected. The single-family rental cap in the area permits two licenses including
this property and they may require the rental licenses by completing the process before
any subsequent applications to the single-family rental license within the block. If revoked,
it would be the only revocation the owner has had in the past five years.
Mayor Márquez Simula opened the public hearing. There were no public comments.
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Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to close the
public hearing and waive the reading of Resolution 2023-78, 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 2023-78, 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.
ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
17. Resolution 2023-79 and 2023-80 Sale of Bond Series 2023A and 2023B.
Finance Director Kloiber stated during the October 23, 2023 City Council meeting, a
resolution was passed to set today as the day to issue two series of municipal bonds for
two different activities. One of the actions is a three year temporary bond to refinance th e
existing project at 43rd Avenue and Central Avenue. The second activity is ten-year
improvement bond to finance the City to give property owners ten years to pay their
special assessments.
Finance Director Kloiber explained that the City’s municipal advisor, Elhers, went to the
market and conducted the bond sale today. He noted that there was an update for the
results of the sale and an update to the bond resolution with the final amounts. He
introduced the Elhers representative, Jason Aarsvold.
Mr. Aarsvold noted that there were two bond sales held today. The 2023 A bonds are
taxable tax increment bonds. Since the October City Council meeting, they had bond issues
rated by Standard & Poor’s which is a standard practice for Columbia Heights and all bo nd
issues. They were able to uphold the City’s double-A rating with a stable outlook. Standard
& Poor’s highlighted the strong growth in the City’s tax base, the strong financial
management of the City, and the strong debt profile.
Mr. Aarsvold explained that there were four bidders for the 2023 A bonds with the lowest
bidder being Baird stationed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The true interest rate cost was
5.4915 which is about 0.5% lower than what was anticipated. The size of the issue was
reduced to $6,615,000.
Mr. Aarsvold mentioned that the process for B bonds is similar to the A bonds. The B bonds
were rated for the special assessment projects. They are ten year bonds and are tax
exempt bonds. There were seven bidders for this issue. The low true interest costs on
these bonds was 3.3165 which is lower than anticipated. There was a premium on the
bonds meaning that they paid more than the face value of the bonds. Adjustments were
made including lowering the par amount of the bonds. This one was lowered to $2,635,000
and will still net the same proceeds for the projects that are being financed.
Councilmember Buesgens commented that it is nice to hear that the City is maintaining
good credit and that the rates are lower than expected.
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Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember James, to waive the
reading of Resolution 2023-79, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes,
Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember James, to adopt Resolution
2023-79, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights awarding
the sale of taxable general obligation temporary tax increment refunding bonds, series
2023A, in the original aggregate principal amount of $6,615,000; fixing their form and
specifications; directing their execution and delivery; providing for their payment; and
authorizing the execution of documents in connection therewith. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-
0.
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, to waive the
reading of Resolution 2023-80, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes,
Motion Carried 5-0.
Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs, to adopt Resolution
2023-80, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights awarding
the sale of general obligation improvement bonds, series 2023B, in the original aggregate
principal amount of $2,635,000; fixing their form and specifications; directing their
execution and delivery; providing for their payment; and authorizing the execution of
documents in connection therewith. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0.
Ordinances and Resolutions
Bid Considerations
New Business and Reports
18. Public Art at Huset Park.
This item was considered prior to the Consent Agenda.
CITY COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Report of the City Council
Councilmember Buesgens mentioned that she attended the Mississippi Water Management
Organization (MWMO) board meeting. She noted that City Staff did a presentation before the
Minnesota Bond Committee asking for $12 million to help pay for the replacement of the old public
works building. Four of the Councilmembers were able to attend along with six other cities that had
presented. The Council and Planning Commission met to create a vision for the Medtronic site. She did
a ride along in a street sweeper with Jackie from the Public Works Department.
Councilmember James agreed with Councilmember Buesgens that it was wonderful to see Staff
present to the legislative committee and thanked the Mayor, Interim City Manager , and Community
Development Director for presenting. She added that Representative Fiest and Representative Koegel
were in attendance on the City’s behalf. She stated that she attended the joint meeting with the
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Planning Commission and the Council. She thanked the Library for their ongoing programming. She
noted that she spoke with the Public Works team about where to drop off plastic bags for recycling and
who are hoping to develop a drop box for those who are busy on Saturdays. She mentioned that she
signed a letter of local City officials to the Office of Management and Budget. There is currently a
federal rule that prevents local targeted hiring requirements in federally funded programs. Local
programs and organizations are asking a rule change that there could be local control over who is
hired. She added that she has been meeting with HOME Line which is a nonprofit Minnesota tenant
advocacy organization in order to learn about their process and advocacy for renters.
Councilmember Jacobs explained that she attended the Capital Bonding Investment Committee and
thanked the Staff for their attendance and presentation. She was unable to attend the joint Planning
Commission and Council meeting due to having surgery and will be meeting with Staff tomorrow to go
over the information. She added that she attended the second of four lectures on substance misuse
prevention outcomes for municipal programs and facilitated two resident reach outs.
Councilmember Spriggs noted that he has been looking for opportunities on the League of Minnesota
Cities about different webinars and teachings and is trying to do a couple more every month. He was
not able to attend the joint meeting about the Medtronic site but met with the Community
Development Staff regarding it.
Mayor Márquez Simula stated that she attended the planning meeting about the Medtronic site, the
Fridley/Columbia Heights Rotary meeting, the Rotary Charter dinner, and did a ride along with the
street sweeper. She added that she did a Rotary dictionary drive and attended the Alexandra House
Development Committee meeting, Metro Cities Policy meeting, a Sister City meeting, and on Thursday
will be attending the Community Resource Fair at the school. She attended a webinar for the MPCA
about composting and was a part of a group of elected officials and City officials giving input on how
the composting grants should work. She attended the Capital Bonding Investment Committee meeting
and thanked the Staff for their work and for speaking on behalf of the City.
Report of the City Manager
Interim City Manager Hansen reviewed the events coming up in the City. The holiday train is coming
back on December 11, 2023 and will be at Lion’s Park at 8 pm. There will be musical performances
from 8:15-8:45 pm. The City is participating in a holiday light map. Residents will be able to go to the
City’s Facebook page and submit their address if their house is lit up and get on a route for people to
go see lights. An aerial map of the City will be displayed in the Shared Vision room at City Hall.
Interim City Manager Hansen mentioned that Truth in Taxation notices went out last week and
properties will see increases not just from Columbia Heights but across the board. He reminded
residents that when property taxes increase, it is a good time to go the State website and look for
property tax refunds. He thanked the Council for attending the State bond tour and for the support for
the new Public Works building.
COMMUNITY FORUM
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ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Councilmember Jacobs, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, to adjourn. All Ayes, Motion
Carried 5-0.
Meeting adjourned at 7:48 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
______________________________________
Sara Ion, City Clerk/Council Secretary