HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-03-2024 CIty Council Work Session Minutes
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
Mayor
Amáda Márquez Simula
Councilmembers
Connie Buesgens
Kt Jacobs
Rachel James
Justice Spriggs
City Manager
Aaron Chirpich
City Hall—Shared Vision Room, 3989 Central Ave NE
Tuesday, September 03, 2024
6:00 PM
MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Márquez Simula at 6:05pm.
Present: Mayor Márquez Simula; Councilmember Buesgens; Councilmember James, Councilmember
Spriggs
Not Present: Councilmember Jacobs
Also Present: Aaron Chirpich, City Manager; Kevin Hansen, Public Works Director; Sara Ion, City Clerk;
Erik Johnston, Police Captain; Joe Kloiber, Finance Director; Sulmaan Khan, Assistant City Engineer;
Brian Nemeth, Bolton and Menk. Connor Cox, Bolton and Menk; Elizabeth Burton; Jerry Auge, Assistant
County Engineer; Jack Forslund, Anoka County Transportation Planner; Kevin Reich, Executive Director
MWMO; Nancy Stowe, Projects and Outreach Director MWMO.
WORK SESSION ITEMS
1. Proposed Changes to the Fire Department Relief Association By-Laws.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien introduced Fire Relief Association President Jennifer Peña to
give an update on the items that the relief association had recently voted to approve to
enact changes that will go before the Council for approval at the September 9th meeting.
The items were all updates consistent with the way the City handles onboarding of full
time fire fighters as well as increasing pay for the officer positions in the relief association.
Mayor Márquez Simula clarified that she had attended these meetings and spoke in favor
of the changes. There were no other questions that the Council had related to this item.
Assistant Fire Chief O’Brien thanked the Council and stated that they will have the item
prepared for the Consent Agenda on September 9th.
2. Overview of Proposed 2025 Budget.
Finance Director Joe Kloiber gave a brief overview of the background leading up to the
preliminary budget. He informed the Council that the preliminary budget is traditionally
approved at the September 26th Council meeting. He also clarified that the budget cannot
increase, but only decrease after it is approved. Director Kloiber stated that his
presentation is based on pages 1-7 from the City Manager’s 2025 Proposed Budget
distributed to the City Council on August 26th. Copies of that document are also available
within the Finance Department section of the City website. Kloiber instructed the Council
that the final budget is voted on at the December 9th City Council meeting. He also
mentioned that there is a notification requirement related to the EDA Levy that was
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reviewed at the earlier EDA Meeting. This information will be noticed, and a separate
resolution passed.
Councilmember Buesgens inquired about publishing the 2025 pie chart information related
to where funds go into the City’s newsletter. She also inquired about adding additional
staff to the budget for 2025, 2026 and beyond. She is concerned about the upcoming
project needs in the next four years, especially related to upcoming projects that will be
discussed by Council later in the meeting.
City Manager Chirpich confirmed that Finance and Communications have been working on
a way to better relay this information to residents in both the City Newsletter and social
media. He additionally addressed the upcoming agenda items for this work session and
that there are long-term items to be considered related to additional budget needs. He
additionally clarified that budgets are set with the mindset of not adding additional staffing
and that there will be a strategy for building that in as contracted services as well as FTE’s
as needed. He stated that the Public Works department has a long history of doing a lot
with a little budget, and this needs to be explored.
Mayor Márquez Simula stated that she is in favor of planning for these items during the
2025 Council Goal Planning Sessions that will occur during the first few months of 2025.
Finance Director Kloiber confirmed that operating expenses are developed in consultation
with the City Manager and Division Heads. There is no assumption of adding additional full-
time employees as there is also turnovers and vacancies to be considered.
Mayor Márquez Simula requested a copy of the updates related to the EDA be sent to the
Council for review prior to the September 26th meeting.
3. Safe Streets for All Citywide Safety Action Plan Update.
Assistant City Engineer Sulmaan Khan introduced Connor Cox with Bolton and Menk to give
the Council an update on the City’s Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Citywide Safety Action Plan
project that kicked off in June 2024.
Project Manager Cox gave an overview of the goals of the action plan with emphasis on
preventing accidents and deaths on roadways within the City. This study is being
conducted over the course of one year. The scope of the project is engaging the
community, conducting comprehensive safety analysis throughout the City, determining
where there are higher density of crashes, identifying a high injury network, reviewing
design concepts to reduce future crashes, and analysis city speed limits. All these
components will be pulled together so that the City can use this plan to pursue future grant
funds from a state and federal level to put recommended actions into place.
Councilmember James inquired if there were State and County Highways being considered
in this project. She was also interested in if there is an opportunity to solicit information
from non-English speakers. She indicated that there is a lot with information that the
school district has related to Spanish and Arabic speaking families. Additionally
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Councilmember James hopes that overall policies could be addressed, i.e. uncontrolled
intersections and painting of roadways.
Project Manager Cox confirmed that the data and community engagement includes these
areas, and that there are safety enhancements that will be recommended.
Mayor Márquez Simula emphasized that she would like to see more traffic calming
measures and partnering with the School District to reach more community members
(especially during school open houses). She mentioned that there is a Spanish language
resource fair that will be coming up that would be a good opportunity to solicit feedback.
She would like a preview presentation prior to the open house for residents in October.
Councilmember Buesgens asked if there will be follow up related to the plan when it is in
its final stages. Additionally, she would like to see colorful cross walks in the community.
Councilmember Spriggs clarified that the work being done is only planning and not funding
for the projects to impact safety.
Project Manager Cox commented that there are engineering requirements related to the
painting of roadways. He will send the presentation and board templates to the Council
prior to the October meeting where additional information will be presented and solicited
from the community.
Assistant City Engineer Khan mentioned that they will be focusing and trying to understand
proven methods to reduce accidents. He clarified that Bolton and Menk project scope is
not assisting with getting the grants but additional work related to that could be
contracted if needed. Having the plan in place is the first step in getting County, State and
Federal Funding.
There were no additional questions or concerns from the Council.
4. Anoka County Update: 40th Avenue, Central to Main Final Layout and Report.
Public Works Director Kevin Hansen introduced Bryan Nemeth from Bolton & Menk along
with Jerry Auge, Assistant County Engineer, and Jack Forslund, Transportation Planner,
from Anoka County to provide a presentation related to 40th Avenue. Additionally, he
reviewed the final site layout, public process from the two community open houses,
project website and the staff review related to the 40th Avenue Project. Overall, it is
intended to use this final corridor plan to apply for funding at both the State and Federal
levels.
Mr. Nemeth presented the recommend concept and asked the Council for additional
feedback. The first portion of the work to be completed will occur in 2026, from University
to Mill street estimated to cost about three million dollars. The second portion of the work
from University to Central will occur in potentially 2028 (or later) and will be approximately
eleven million dollars.
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Councilmember Buesgens stated that she is excited about the updates from 40th to Main
Street.
Mayor Márquez Simula clarified that there would be new signage and traffic lights where
needed in the project. She also inquired about the infrastructure in the area that needs to
be updated as well as boulevard planting and an adopt a tree program.
Director Hansen stated that there is planning by the public works team to televise these
areas and complete repairs / maintenance on the infrastructure under 40th prior to the
road work being completed. Additionally, he stated that from his perspective and the City
cost share there would absolutely need grant funding. He also addressed that the
boulevard plantings would need to be in partnership with Anoka County to make sure it is
within their guidelines.
Councilmember Spriggs clarified that covered bus shelters in this project should be
addressed with the MN Department of Transportation.
Overall Council consensus was to have a cul-de-sac at the entry to the former City Hall site
at Mill Street. They want to reduce the through traffic in the area and potentially have less
parking at the corner of 40th and Central where there is a narrow path for buses.
5. MnDOT - Central Avenue Future Planning and Funding.
Chris Bower with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) stated that he has
spearheaded a comprehensive planning study (PEL) over approximately the past four
years, encompassing Central Avenue and University Avenue. Overall, there is a focus on
enhancing several intersections on both Central and University within Columbia Heights.
He stated that there is ongoing evaluations related to how to positively impact these
roadways including a focus on: two lanes vs. four lanes, traffic signals vs. roundabouts and
pedestrian grade separation.
The finalization of the report for this study is in process at the Federal level and anticipated
to be approved by the end of the year. Metro Transit is also actively engaged in the
preliminary design phase of a new bus rapid transit (BRT) line, known as the F Line, which is
planned to traverse Columbia Heights via Central Avenue. Originally projected to
commence construction in 2026, the F Line represents a significant transit initiative. To
minimize disruptions, MnDOT's Central Avenue preliminary design is being done
concurrently with the Metro Transit's F Line project. Both projects are planned to be
constructed at the same time in 2028. MnDOT, Metro Transit, and the City of Columbia
Heights have been collaboratively working together to finalize the layout of Central
Avenue, ensuring that both projects are aligned for concurrent construction.
Councilmember Buesgens was concerned about using roundabouts on University Avenue.
She additionally questioned what amenities are available when construction occurs.
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Mr. Bower stated that reducing speeds can be accomplished by adding roundabouts in
areas with pedestrian crashes. There will be major public outreach occurring in October
2024 related to the proposed plans. Additionally, Anoka County and City Staff have been
meeting with property owners on Central to inquire about how these improvements will
impact their business both during construction as well as after the project is competed. He
highlighted that they are committed to continued business access during construction.
Mayor Márquez Simula asked that the business outreach feedback be given to the Council.
Mr. Bower clarified that MNDOT is not well equipped to handle the maintenance for the
amenities that are constructed as part of this project. Maintenance is one of the biggest
things to discuss related to sidewalks, bike lanes, landscaping and amenities like benches
and trash cans. Maintenance like this can be covered by a special service district. There
would need to be State Legislative approval to have a Central Avenue Special Service
District.
City Manager Chirpich informed the Council that he would like to focus on the
redevelopment contract for Central Avenue at the Rainbow Redevelopment Site, and to
have maintenance contracts considered with this project.
Mr. Bower informed the Council that MNDOT would like to make sure that the City is
getting the word out to get feedback and upcoming public engagement opportunities. If
there are questions from the community and constituents, please get them to MNDOT as
soon as possible because it is important to get these critical issues addressed.
Councilmember Buesgens inquired if changes are made to the road would alternate routes
be utilized? She is also looking forward to the use of roundabouts in this area.
Mr. Bowers indicated that approximately 80% of the traffic on Central Avenue is ending or
beginning their trip in Columba Heights. The goal is not to displace traffic from Central and
creating issues on side streets; they do not want to shift this traffic and cause massive
displacement. They are looking at both University and Central as a pair to improve
operations. They are also factoring in the frontage road as well, and how they limit access
challenges. He will have additional information related to this project for the Council in the
future.
6. Sullivan Lake Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Study.
Director Hansen gave an overview of this item and some of the key terms being discussed.
City Manager Chirpich added that the meeting about Sullivan Lake that was recently held
with the MWMO, Councilmember Buesgens and Engineering Tech Lauren Letsche was very
productive and enlightening. He feels that there is a broader conversation involving the
Council and Staff learning about the financial and legal implications that are created if
moving forward with some of the suggested actions leading to a TMDL Study.
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MWMO Engineer Nancy Stowe reviewed that Sullivan Lake, referred to as Sandy Lake by
the DNR, located in Columbia Heights has a surface area of 16.8 acres. The maximum depth
of Sullivan Lake is 9 feet, this classifies the lake as a shallow lake. In 2002 the lake was listed
as impaired for aquatic recreation due to excess nutrients. Ms. Stowe clarified that once a
body of water is added to the Minnesota Impaired Water List, both the EPA and MNPCA
prescribe that a total maximum daily load (TMDL) must be developed for it. A TMDL is the
maximum amount of a pollutant a body of water can receive without violating water
quality standards, and an allocation of that amount to the pollutant’s sources. The TMDL
process identifies all sources of a pollutant and determines how much each source must
reduce its contribution to meet the standard. The primary purpose of a TMDL is to reduce
pollutant levels in impaired waterbodies so they can support their designated uses, such as
drinking water supply, recreation, and aquatic life.
Ms. Stowe further clarified that TMDL’s can have significant implications. Municipalities
often manage stormwater systems which may be identified as point source pollutants.
Once a TMDL is established, a city must work to comply with its requirements as it is a
legally binding document. Non-compliance can lead to enforcement actions, including fines
or mandates to implement additional pollution control measures.
Director Hansen stated that there is a cost benefit analysis at play related to Sullivan Lake
and water treatment. His concerns are related to the legal requirements related to the
TMDL. The legal obligation falls directly on the City.
Kevin Reich stated that he feels that there is a major benefit related to environmental
concerns. The MWMO does not serve as a regulatory body and Sullivan Lake has a broader
impact on the watershed of the entire community not just Columbia Heights. There are
nine pipe sheds feeding into this body of water. Many interventions are going to need to
occur with or without a TMDL, and the MWMO is trying to be aggressive in moving forward
to focus on improving this lake.
City Manager Chirpich clarified if surrounding communities must contribute to the costs?
Councilmember Buesgens inquired about how long the City would have to complete the
TMDL requirements.
Ms. Stowe recommended that the City would need to show intent and movement on the
projects. The 319 grants do give preference to TMDL’s. She indicated that she will do some
additional research on the timeline for the implementation plan, as well as what the
impact on surrounding communities would be.
Mayor Márquez Simula inquired about what Staff needs from Council related to this topic.
Director Hansen clarified that he would like the Council to understand the differences and
uses of the lakes within the City. He clarified that Silver Lake is a fishing, recreational and
swimming lake, however most of the remaining water bodies within the City are shallow
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lakes and they might not have the same benefits to the community. He is not sure if this
item fits into the overall budget and plan for the City with so many other issues needing
attention. He stated that even after a potential TMDL that Sullivan Lake will still be
entropic, it is just a matter of slowing it down.
Councilmember Buesgens would like to move forward and explore the status of the lake
and take steps to improve it. She has no problem with the legal commitment related to a
TMDL and believes that we could take ten to twenty years to achieve progress on this. She
wants to make sure that the budget is built with these issues in mind. If the taxpayers see
and experience the changes that occur at Sullivan Lake, they will understand why tax
money is being spent on the project. Additionally, Councilmember Buesgens wanted to
know if this is a Council choice to move this item forward. She mentioned that there is
already work being done by the City of Fridley supported by the MWMO related to Sullivan
Lake. She would like to see a feasibility study conducted by the MWMO.
Mayor Márquez Simula would like to see this investigated further to know how to improve
the asset especially related to the Medtronic Site redevelopment. She would like to make
sure it is accessible to all residents. She would like to proceed until there is an actual
stopping point related to when we would trigger a TMDL.
City Manager Chirpich clarified that this is the Council’s decision to make, and staff is trying
to give finite information to guide policy. There are many points to be considered, as well
as a timeline for redevelopment of the Medtronic Site. The proposed development of the
Medtronic site adjacent to Sullivan Lake may provide an opportunity for collaborative
efforts that could lead to more effective and efficient stormwater management solutions.
Ms. Stowe proposed an initial solution of the MWMO completing an implementation
strategy / analysis before proceeding with a TMDL. They would need at least a year and a
half for the EPA to approve a TMDL, and this work would likely need to be completed
anyways.
Mayor Márquez Simula stated that she would like to have council contemplate the
information presented, and to have staff circle back on a strategy to move towards a
potential feasibility study.
Councilmember James stated that she would like to have more information related to the
cost benefit concern. She would like to know what the costs are before moving forward.
Councilmember Spriggs stated that he is interested in what the long term maintenance
costs are before moving forward.
The consensus was to move forward with further investigation regarding the costs and
time limitations if a TMDL were to be pursued.
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7. Winter Parking Ordinance Updates.
Public Works Director Hansen gave a brief overview of the sections of City Code that would
need to be updated to impact the time period and snowfall totals to achieve the reduction
in the snow fall season and the amount of snow fall.
Councilmember Buesgens inquired as to why we want to change both the dates and
amount of snow fall.
Director Hansen elaborated that weather patterns that impacted snow removal over the
past five years have dramatically shifted. The snow removal season is beginning later and
ending earlier. When we are proactive in snow removal amounts this reduces the level of
solvent / salt being used.
Mayor Márquez Simula inquired why there are specific dates associated with snow
removal. She also inquired about the six-hour overnight parking restrictions that are in
place year round.
Captain Johnston qualified that from a law enforcement timeframe it is best to have a
mechanism of enforcement if there is a need to get these items addressed using the six-
hour parking limit. Additionally having the specific dates related to snow removal allows for
the Police Department to help communicate and get into the practice of residents
removing their cars from the street when it snows.
City Manager Chirpich asked Council if Staff could move forward with the amendments
specifically related to winter parking.
Council consensus was to move forward with the amendments presented in the packet
that adjust the dates and times for winter parking enforcement.
8. Council Corner.
Updates from council regarding schedules, information sharing and priorities for continued
education.
Proclamation Planning.
Mayor Márquez Simula introduced the item and asked for input from the Council on
what proclamations the Council would like to make and also to seek their help in
finding members of the community to accept the proclamations.
Councilmember Buesgens clarified that she would like to receive an email instead of
discussing this at a meeting.
Councilmember James stated that she was willing to assist in reaching reach out to
organizations related to the proclamation that she requested for September 9th.
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City Manager Chirpich gave additional follow up that he will send an email to council
with the proposed proclamations to assist with Council communication on this matter.
Discuss Location of Community Forum on Council Meeting Agenda.
Mayor Márquez Simula introduced moving the Community Forum from the end of the
meeting to the beginning of the meeting. She would like to do Proclamations and
Presentations and then have the Community Forum before proceeding into the
Consent Agenda.
Councilmember Buesgens stated that she would like to keep the forum at the end of
the meeting,
Councilmember James does not mind either way but would like to have a time limit
still in place for speakers.
Councilmember Spriggs also stated that there were pros and cons related to the
movement of the forum.
Consensus of the Council was to move forward with the adjustment to moving the
Community Forum to the beginning of the meeting starting in January 2025.
Food for Next Meeting.
Council discussed that they enjoyed having dinner / food for the work session meeting
and that it was easiest to enjoy something that was more handheld (i.e. egg rolls,
sambuusas, pizza or pita and hummus).
Metro Council Housing Committee
The Councilmember James and Buesgens discussed their recent attendance at a Metro
Council Housing Committee meeting. They asked for permission to work with the City
Planner on proposed wording related to affordable housing in surrounding metro
communities.
9. Old Business.
There was no old business to discuss.
Meeting adjourned at 10:17 pm
Respectfully Submitted,
______________________________________
Sara Ion, City Clerk/Council Secretary