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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-14-2025 City Council Meeting Minutes CITY COUNCIL MEETING Mayor Amáda Márquez Simula Councilmembers Connie Buesgens Rachel James Justice Spriggs Laurel Deneen City Manager Aaron Chirpich City Hall—Council Chambers, 3989 Central Ave NE Monday, April 14, 2025 6:00 PM MINUTES The following are the minutes for the Meeting of the City Council held at 6:00 pm on Monday, April 14, 2025, 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 Deneen; Councilmember Spriggs; Councilmember James Also Present: Andrew Boucher, City Planner; Aaron Chirpich, City Manager; Mitchell Forney, Community Development Director; Kevin Hansen, Public Works Director; Sara Ion, City Clerk; Scott Lepak, City Attorney; Anja Bohm, City resident; Paul Edner, City resident; Cathy Gomez, City resident; Becky Groseth, Sustainability Commission Member; Maddie Christen Jensen, Sustainability Commission Member; Brie LaPlante, Sustainability Commission Member; Casandra Leoni-Helbacka, Sustainability Commission Member; Mark Veronikas, 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 "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 Deneen, seconded by Councilmember James, to approve the Agenda as presented. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITION, ANNOUNCEMENTS, GUESTS A. Autism Acceptance Month Proclamation. Receiving Proclamation: Anja Bohm Mayor Márquez Simula proclaimed April 2025 as Autism Acceptance Month and read the City’s proclamation. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 2 City resident Anja Bohm accepted the proclamation. Nikki Bohm, Education Teacher and Behavioral Specialist, explained that she is Anja’s mother. She stated that Anja is a two- time cancer survivor and was diagnosed with autism at four years old. Autism disorder refers to a broad range of conditions, such as challenges in social groups, repetitive behaviors, speech, and non-verbal communication. She thanked the City for listening to their story and for giving Anja the high honor. B. Earth Day Proclamation. Receiving Proclamation: Sustainability Commission Members Becky Groseth, Maddie Christen Jensen, Brie LaPlante and Casandra Leoni-Helbacka Mayor Márquez Simula proclaimed April 22, 2025, as Earth Day, and Councilmember James read the City’s proclamation. Dr. Madeline Jensen Christen, Sustainability Commission Chair thanked the Mayor and Council for presenting the proclamation. She explained that it is an honor to lead nine dedicated community members who are dedicated to making Columbia Heights a healthy and safe place to live. For the Sustainability Commission, the mission and vision of Earth Day expand beyond the confines of a single day. Each month, the Sustainability Commission meets to advance policies and initiatives to improve the quality of the natural environments, City-wide space, transportation, and more in order to build a more interconnected community and climate resilience. C. Arbor Day / Month Proclamation. Receiving Proclamation: Sustainability Commission Board Members Becky Groseth, Maddie Christen Jensen, Brie LaPlante, and Casandra Leoni-Helbacka Mayor Márquez Simula proclaimed April 25, 2025, as Arbor Day, and the month of May 2025 as Arbor Month, and Councilmember Deneen read the City’s proclamation. Cassandra Leoni-Helbacka, Sustainability Commissioner, thanked the Council for presenting the Arbor Day proclamation. She mentioned that as part of the Sustainability Commission, she is proud to be working on policies and projects that address many aspects of environmental health and community building. She noted that the commission seeks to build and maintain a robust canopy of trees in the City. She added Commission Brie LaPlante, and she have been able to partner with the City’s Urban Forester Expert, Liam Genter, to understand the advancements to diversify and expand the tree population in the City. Ms. LaPlante encouraged community members to take time to admire and appreciate the boulevard and park trees that City Forester/Natural Resources Specialist Genter has planted and nurtured. She expressed her appreciation for the City’s investment in the urban forest and the Arbor Day Proclamation. National Volunteer Month Proclamation. Receiving Proclamation: Becky Groseth City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 3 Mayor Márquez Simula proclaimed April 2025 as National Volunteer Month, and Councilmember Buesgens read the City’s proclamation. Becky Groseth, City resident, mentioned she has been a resident in the City for 25 years. She explained she felt like she had existed in the City for 15 years, and has been living in the City for the past 10 years, because she has become involved in the City as a volunteer. She added that it has made her feel like the City is her home. She encouraged community members who are not involved to get involved in the City to make the City a better place. COMMUNITY FORUM Mark Veronikas, City resident, expressed his concerns regarding parking on Peters Place and Gould Avenue. He noted that the no-parking on the north side of the street has been a great success for garbage pickup. However, people on that side of the street do not have parking when they have visitors because Ratio Apartment residents take up all of the spaces on the street. He mentioned that if parking had been addressed when the Ratio Apartment was built, there would not be parking issues now. He wondered what the update was for the three-month plan the City came up with. He noted that the City rarely tickets vehicles in the area or tows vehicles off the street. He added that the only time tickets are issued is if the residents call and request it. He explained that during the last snowstorm, cars were not towed until 11:00 am, even though it was illegal to park during a snow emergency. Multiple neighbors had to call to request that the cars be towed. He asked that the City would issue permit parking and let the residents self-police the parking. He asked that if a car was parked without a permit, or illegally, or in front of a driveway, residents could call a tow truck themselves. Cathy Gomez, City resident, agreed with Mr. Veronikas’ comments and asked why there were cars parked along the streets at 11:00 pm or 12 am, if there were no businesses open at the time. She mentioned the three-month plan has not helped. She added that she is not able to park in front of her house and is hoping to get a handicap parking permit for her husband in order to park in front of her house. Paul Edner, City resident, mentioned that it would be helpful to have the City’s evaluation on the parking at Gould Avenue and Peters Place posted on the City’s website. He mentioned he had to call the police at 12:30 am to have a car removed from blocking his driveway. There was a car parked on the north side of Gould Avenue. Mr. Veronikas called the police, and the police were going to issue a citation until Mr. Veronikas reminded the police that cars were supposed to be towed. He explained that it is making a difference, but residents would like to see more change. He added that there are cars parked in the three-hour business parking area at all times of the day and night. Mr. Edner also mentioned that he hoped the City received more input from the community regarding the Central Avenue corridor reconstruction because it will drastically impact getting in and out of Minneapolis. Buses are currently stopping in the traffic lane, which is causing no movement on the roadway until the bus moves. He mentioned he would appreciate any information on the matter. Mayor Márquez Simula mentioned that there has not been a study conducted on Gould Avenue yet, but there would be information forthcoming. City Manager Chirpich added that staff would compile City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 4 information from the Police Department and other staff members who have interacted with the corridor and discuss it during an upcoming Council work session. Mayor Márquez Simula added that she would bring the concerns to the Chief of Police. Mr. Edner explained that residents thought the study would have been conducted in January-March or February-April. He asked what the time frame of the study would be. City Manager Chirpich replied that the Council would discuss the item during the May 5th work session. He added that the meeting is open to the public. Mr. Edner asked if the information could be published on the City’s website or sent to the residents at their earliest convenience. Mayor Márquez Simula mentioned that there would be a MnDOT presentation related to Central Avenue during the May work session as well. Mr. Veronikas mentioned his neighbor asked him to read her comments to the Council. He read, “Based on what I’ve seen on our road, it looks like one side is no parking and the other is temporary parking from November to March, no overnight parking. The biggest issue I see is the Ratio tenants parking more than three hours in the business spots, and that area gets busy. Unfortunately, the current setup hasn’t worked so far. There are no major issues I’m aware of, but I believe the City should consider parking permits for our streets.” He wondered how the City would enforce no parking rules in the summer if it is not enforced in the winter. Mr. Veronikas additionally inquired about the Rainbow site. He noted the Grand Central Loft apartments had issues with parking when housing went in. He asked if parking would be allowed on the street near the Rainbow site when housing goes in. Mayor Márquez Simula replied that the project is still in the planning stages. City Manager Chirpich added that there are no significant updates, but staff are learning from previous projects and incorporating the findings into the new project. He explained that since it is in a different zoning district, the approach will be different for how parking spots will be calculated. CONSENT AGENDA Councilmember James inquired about Item 10 and expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to upgrade equipment. She asked where the funds would be coming from. Public Works Director Hansen replied that it would be coming out of fund 3121, Streets Capital Equipment. Councilmember James commented on Item 7 and mentioned she is glad that the City is working to make it a long-lasting project because the parking lot would play an important part in redoing the Central Business District and the library hosting events. She added her appreciation for Item 8 and how the water meter program is including commercial properties. Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember Buesgens, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. 1. Approve March 24, 2025, City Council Meeting Minutes. MOTION: Move to approve the March 24, 2025, City Council meeting minutes. 2. Approve April 7, 2025, City Council Work Session Meeting Minutes. MOTION: Move to approve the April 7, 2025, City Council Work Session meeting minutes. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 5 3. Accept October 17, 2024, Charter Commission Meeting Minutes. MOTION: Move to accept the October 17, 2024, Charter Commission meeting minutes. 4. Accept February 4, 2025, Planning Commission Meeting Minutes. MOTION: Move to accept the February 4, 2025, Planning Commission meeting minutes. 5. Accept February 5, 2025, Library Board Minutes. MOTION: Move to accept the February 5, 2025, Library Board meeting minutes. 6. Accept March 3, 2025, Regular EDA Meeting Minutes. MOTION: Move to accept the March 3, 2025, EDA meeting minutes. 7. Approve Change Order No. 1 to Winberg Companies for 2024 City Hall and Library Parking Lot Paving, City Project 2410. MOTION: Move to approve Change Order No. 1 to Winberg Companies in the amount of $27,315 for a revised contract amount of $311,768 for the City Hall and Library Parking Lot Paving, City Project 2412. 8. Approve Change Order No. 1 to Core and Main for Water Meter Replacement Program, City Project 2409. MOTION: Move to approve Change Order No. 1 to Core and Main in the amount of $120,755 for a revised contract amount of $870,755 for the Water Meter Replacement Program, City Project 2409. 9. Authorization for Capital Equipment Replacement of the Public Safety Building Standby Generator. MOTION: Move to authorize the replacement of the existing Public Safety Building 400KW generator, with one (1) new Onan Cummins Diesel 200KW Generator from Cummins of Fridley off the Sourcewell National Purchasing Contract No. 18251, in the amount of $87,500 plus tax, with funding from Fund 101-42100-5180, and dispose of existing Generac Unit by trade-in or auction. 10. Authorization for Capital Equipment Purchase of Perkins 6-Yard HD Satellite Mounted Hopper Unit. MOTION: Move to authorize the purchase of a Perkins 6-yard HD Satellite Mounted Hopper unit from Perkins Manufacturing, located in Bolingbrook, Illinois for a total of $35,022.80, with funding provided by City Fund 431.3121.45150 11. Consideration of Rental License Exemptions Extensions for the Following Properties: 1122 40th Avenue NE, 1234 44th Avenue NE, 3912 Tyler Street NE. MOTION: Move to waive the reading of Resolution 2025-036, there being ample copies available to the public. MOTION: Move to adopt Resolution 2025-036, a resolution approving the single-family rental exemption request for the rental applications at 1122 40th Avenue NE, 1234 44th Avenue NE, and 3912 Tyler Street NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 6 12. License Agenda. MOTION: Move to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for April 14, 2025, as presented. 13. Rental Occupancy Licenses for Approval. MOTION: Move to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for April 14, 2025, in that they have met the requirements of the Property Maintenance Code. 14. 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 $1,927,814.79. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION Ordinances and Resolutions 15. First Reading of Ordinance No. 1712, an Ordinance to amend Chapter 3 Administrative Code: Article V – Administrative Offenses. City Planner Boucher stated that over the last year, City Council and staff have taken a series of actions related to the development of an Administrative Citation ordinance. Minnesota Statute 462.362 – Enforcement and Penalty enables a municipality to, by ordinance, provide for the enforcement of ordinances or regulations adopted; Chapter 6 – Administration of City Affairs in the City Charter explicitly states that the City Manager has the authority to prepare and submit to the Council for adoption an administrative code incorporating the details of administrative procedure and suggest amendments to the same. City Planner Boucher noted the Fire Chief and City Attorney identified conflicting language in the current city code Chapter 3 – Administrative Code, 3.507 Failures to Pay and Recovery of Civil Penalties section of code contains the potential penalties for failure to pay and late fees. The existing code for 3.507(D)(1) reads as: “If after 30 days the fine has not been paid or a hearing requested, a late fee will be applied, the total bill will be assessed to the property taxes and all city licenses will be revoked” which is in conflict with how (E) is written stating that “failure to pay a fine or any associated late fees are grounds for suspending or revoking a license related to the violation”. City Planner Boucher explained staff proposes amending the existing ordinance, Chapter 3 – Administrative Code: Article V – Administrative Offenses with the following amendment: 1. Amending 3.507(D)(1) to change the language from “all city licenses will be revoked” to be consistent with the language in (E). The language in 3.507(D)(1) shall read as: “If after 30 days the fine has not been paid or a hearing requested, a late fee will be applied, the total bill will be assessed to the property taxes. Failure to pay a fine or any associated late fees are grounds for suspending or revoking a license related to the violation.” City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 7 Councilmember Deneen expressed her excitement that the Code was getting updated and thanked the staff for their diligence in going through all of the steps to update the Code. Motion by Councilmember Deneen, seconded by Councilmember James, to waive the reading of Ordinance No. 1712, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. Motion by Councilmember Deneen, seconded by Councilmember James, to set the second reading of Ordinance 1712, being an ordinance to amend Chapter 3 Administrative Code, Article V – Administrative Offenses in the City of Columbia Heights for April 28, 2025, at approximately 6:00 pm. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. 16. Consideration of a Rental License Exemption for 572 38th Avenue NE. Community Development Director Forney noted an amendment to the second motion under the recommended motion. It currently reads “move to deny,” but it should read “move to approve.” He explained the Council should either vote to approve the Resolution, or to vote down the approval. He added that staff do not have a recommendation for any of the rental exemptions presented to the Council during the meeting. Staff are available to present the facts forward. Community Development Director Forney stated on March 26, 2025, the owner of 572 38th Avenue NE submitted a written request to the Community Development Department seeking an exemption from the City’s single-family rental density cap. The property owner also owns two additional properties in Columbia Heights. One of those properties—3800 3rd Street NE—was posted "Unlawful to Occupy" by the Fire Department after it was determined to be operating as an illegal rental. That situation initiated discussions with the City about licensing, and ultimately, the Council granted an exemption for the 3800 3rd Street NE property at its March 24, 2025, meeting. Community Development Director Forney mentioned the property at 572 38th Avenue NE is located within Block 139, which includes 20 single-family homes. The block currently has two licensed single-family rentals, which meet the block’s rental allotment. At the April 7, 2025, Council Worksession, staff presented potential amendments to the Rental Density Cap ordinance. While these changes have not yet been adopted, it is useful to understand how this exemption would be evaluated under the proposed revisions. Under the draft policy, this request would not qualify for an exemption, and the applicant would be notified of the denial. Should the applicant choose to appeal, staff would provide guidance on the appeal process. Community Development Forney noted Iin such a scenario, staff would bring the appeal to the council and recommend denial based on the following considerations: 1. The applicant owns three properties in Columbia Heights, two of which are investment properties. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 8 2. The applicant previously received an exemption for 3800 3rd Street NE by demonstrating exigent circumstances; no such circumstances have been presented for 572 38th Avenue NE, aside from the intent to use it as a rental. 3. The applicant currently resides in a property that is eligible for a permanent rental license but is instead seeking a license for a different property. Community Development Director Forney explained if approved, Resolution 2025-038 would grant a temporary rental license exemption to the homeowner with a few additional requirements. The homeowner is required to complete the license application process within 6 months from the passage of the resolution. This sets a limit on how long it can take to bring the house into rental compliance if needed. The temporary rental license will be valid for one year from the date that the license is approved. This provides the homeowner and tenant with the ability to rent the home for a full one-year lease. After the term of the temporary license, the people requesting a temporary license must make an annual application to the City. No property owner shall hold a temporary rental license for the same property for more than two consecutive years. Mayor Márquez Simula mentioned that the City received an email from the property owner. Councilmember Deneen noted she is less inclined to approve the exemption because there is no one living on the property, and the property was specifically purchased as an investment property to be rented out. The due diligence was not completed to ensure that it was allowed to rent in the area. The purpose of the rental cap is to make sure the City does not have a lot of people purchasing single-family homes and renting them out. She stated she did not believe it met the exemption requirements. Mayor Márquez Simula agreed with Councilmember Deneen’s comments. Councilmember James agreed. Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to waive the reading of Resolution 2025-038, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to approve Resolution 2025-038, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights approving the single-family rental exemption request for the rental application at 572 38th Avenue NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421. All Nays, Motion Failed 0-5. 17. Consideration of a Rental License Exemption for 4942 7th Street NE. Community Development Director Forney explained that staff did not have a recommendation, but would provide facts on the item. Community Development Forney noted on April 9, 2025, the owner of 4942 7th Street NE, reached out to the Community Development Department in writing to request an exemption from the single-family rental density cap. The property is located on Block 64 City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 9 with two (2) single-family rentals out of 23 total single-family units and an allotment of two (2) single-family rentals. The applicant is requesting permission to rent out their home as a source of income during retirement. With their children grown and starting families of their own, the couple hoped to support their retirement through rental income but were surprised to learn it may not be allowed. They emphasize their need for financial stability, especially given Zoila’s past battle with breast cancer, and ask the City to consider their request. Attached is the application that staff received. Community Development Director Forney explained at the April 7, 2025, Council Worksession, staff presented potential amendments to the Rental Density Cap ordinance. While these changes have not yet been adopted, it is useful to understand how this exemption would be evaluated under the proposed revisions. Under the draft policy, this request would not qualify for an exemption, and the applicant would be notified of the denial. Should the applicant choose to appeal, staff would provide guidance on the appeal process. Community Development Director Forney stated in such a scenario, staff would bring the appeal to the council and recommend denial based on the following considerations: 1. The applicant has not proven exigent circumstances other than they are moving away from the community and intended to rent the property for retirement income. Community Development Director Forney explained if approved, Resolution 2025-037 would grant a temporary rental license exemption to the homeowner with a few additional requirements. The homeowner is required to complete the license application process within 6 months from the passage of the resolution. This puts a limit on how long they can take to bring the house into rental compliance if needed. The temporary rental license will be valid for one year from the date that the license is approved. This provides the homeowner and tenant the ability to rent the home for a full one-year lease. After the term of the temporary license, the persons requesting a temporary license must make an annual application to the City. No property owner shall hold a temporary rental license for the same property for more than two consecutive years. Councilmember Deneen noted that the letter from the homeowner would like the property to be a long-term rental. She asked if the homeowners were aware of the policy of only being able to rent the property for a year and then potentially renew the license for an additional year. She asked if the homeowners were simply using the property for one to two years in order to get settled. City Planning Boucher replied that there was no clear indication one way or the other. Councilmember James wondered if the Council could consider making the rental license exemption longer. Community Development Director Forney replied that if the Ordinance was changed, the length of the exemption would apply to those who already have an exemption, and the term would begin when the exemption was granted. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 10 Councilmember James mentioned that the applicant meets the financial hardship requirement. She expressed her interest in figuring out how the Ordinance could be framed for people who are currently living in their home and not purchased as a rental property. She stated she is in favor of the Resolution. Mayor Márquez Simula agreed and added that a year would allow the property owners enough time to make a decision. Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Deneen, to waive the reading of Resolution 2025-037, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. Motion by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Deneen, to approve Resolution 2025-037, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights approving the single-family rental exemption request for the rental application at 4942 7th Street NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421. 4 Ayes, 1 Nay, Motion Carried 4-1. Ayes: Márquez Simula, Spriggs, James, Deneen. Nay: Buesgens. 18. Consideration of Resolution 2025-035 Approving Planning & Inspections Budget Amendment. Community Development Director Forney stated at the March 3rd Council work session, staff presented a proposal to expand code enforcement efforts within the City of Columbia Heights. As part of an initiative to standardize and strengthen the City’s code enforcement process, staff recommended the creation of a full-time Code Enforcement Inspector position. Community Development Director Forney noted that the addition of this role will centralize enforcement by overseeing both zoning and property maintenance violations, resulting in a more streamlined and consistent approach across departments. By proactively identifying and addressing problem areas, the City can reduce its reliance on the current complaint- driven model and move toward more equitable enforcement practices. Additionally, the dedicated staff capacity will allow the department to focus on long-standing legacy issue areas that have historically received inconsistent attention. The position will also facilitate full integration of code enforcement functions into the City’s new Tyler software system, enhancing case management, tracking, communication, and operational efficiency. Community Development Director explained this position was not included in the original Fiscal Year 2025 Planning & Inspections Fund budget, as adopted. To move forward with hiring, a budget amendment is required. Staff reviewed the anticipated costs and are proposing a $61,600 increase to the Planning & Inspections Fund to support the position’s salary for the remainder of 2025 and initial equipment costs. Councilmember Buesgens asked how soon the position would be posted. Community Development Director Forney replied that he would be giving HR the job description this week and would have the job posted by the end of the week. The position will be open for about two to three weeks, and have the position filled in a month or two. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 11 Mayor Márquez Simula encouraged community members to share the position with others in order to get the word out. Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember Deneen, to waive the reading of Resolution 2025-035, there being ample copies available to the public. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. Motion by Councilmember Spriggs, seconded by Councilmember Deneen, to approve resolution 2025-035, being a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Columbia Heights authorizing an amendment to the fiscal year 2025 planning and inspections fund budget. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. CITY COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Report of the City Council Councilmember James noted she attended the community Iftar, which was supported by the Columbia Heights Police Foundation. She added that she attended the swearing-in for Officer Jacoby, the EDA meeting, the Council work session meeting, the Sustainability Commission meeting, and a town hall put on by local Senators and Representatives. Councilmember Buesgens mentioned she attended the Minnesota Cities Climate Coalition, the swearing-in for the new police officer, and met up with a resident to discuss going door to door to encourage residents to adopt a drain. She added that she attended the swearing-in for the new Captain, Beth Posel. She noted she attended an online senior consortium. Councilmember Deneen stated she attended the swearing-in ceremony for Office Jacoby Diederich, a board game and networking event at Fixx Coffee, the local progress seminar about approaches to unsheltered communities, and a presentation about Dignity Village in Portland. She added that she attended the Planning Commission meeting and the swearing-in for Police Captain Beth Posel. She noted she attended the EDA meeting, the work session meeting, and the Buy Nothing event. Councilmember Spriggs noted he attended the EDA and work session meeting, the town hall hosted by Senate District 39, and the Charter Commission meeting. Mayor Márquez Simula stated she met with faith leaders and the school district superintendent to receive updates about collaborations between faith communities and how they are serving families and students with the school district. She added that she attended a Rotary meeting and had a meeting with the Police Chief. She mentioned she participated in the climate coalition virtual meeting and the Iftar event sponsored by the Columbia Heights Police Association. She mentioned she spoke at the Latino Lead Latina Activista event, which focused on empowering women in leadership. She added that she attended the Local Progress virtual meeting with Councilmember Deneen. She explained she had a leadership summary review meeting with the City Manager and Councilmember Buesgens to discuss leadership training that the Council had gone through recently. She participated in the Rotary meeting and the board meeting. She mentioned she met with the Police Chief and City Manager, and the past citizens of the year, to select the next recipients. She called the business of the year recipient. City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 12 She stated she attended the Library Board meeting, the Regional Council of Mayors Executive Planning meeting, the swearing-in ceremony for Officer Jacoby Diedrich and Captain Posel, the EDA meeting, the Council work session meeting, and the Sister Cities meeting. She mentioned she attended another Rotary meeting and an Art to Change the World Board meeting. She explained she was able to judge the art contest at North Park Elementary School. On April 11, she spoke with high school students at North Hennepin Technical College about pursuing a future in elected office. She added that she helped organize the Buy Nothing event. Councilmember James noted the street cleanup at Central Avenue would be on April 26, at 9:00 am, at the Library. There will also be a community shredding day on the same date. Councilmember Spriggs asked Councilmember James if there was an alternative for those who have little kids. Councilmember James replied that families could clean at the parks and that she has identified which parks need the most help. Report of the City Manager City Manager Chirpich stated the paper shredding event would be on April 26th and is a free event that will be at the Columbia Heights Recycling Center from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. The City was contacted by the WCCO news team to do a special on the City’s fire hydrant flushing program that is currently taking place. The special should air later this week. The Arbor Day tree sale is winding down, and there are six trees still available for purchase on the City’s website. City Manager Chirpich explained how the old water meters are discarded. He noted that the contractor who is swapping out the old water meters contacts the Public Works staff, and the staff dismantle the water meters by separating the brass from the radio. The brass is picked up for recycling, and the revenue is put into the City’s water fund. The radios have plastic and metal inside them. The plastic and metal are separated by a separate company on behalf of the City. Depending on commodity pricing, the City receives about $5.50-$6.25 per meter. It costs about $2-$2.50 to recycle the radios, which means that City has a net amount of $3-$4 per meter. He mentioned that the City has not received a material composition list of the new water meters yet and noted that there has been some speculation about microplastics being a material that is used. The old meters that are being replaced had plastic in them. The Public Works Director estimated that the design of the new water meters has improved in regard to how water interacts with the plastic City Manager Chirpich noted that a resident asked about contract obligations with waste management and liquidated damages. He added that the resident wondered what the City was credited when the waste management company did such a poor job during COVID, and wondered what residents received because of that, since there was nothing credited on his bill. He mentioned that he reached out to the City’s Finance Director for a response and read the response, and highlighted that there were two remedies to address these breaches of contract by waste management. The amounts that the City paid for alternative hauling and disposal were taken on a dollar-for-dollar basis, and reduced the amount that the City paid to waste management under that contract. There is not a credit under that remedy to the customer. To the extent that a pick-up was missed by the hauler for an entire service cycle and to the extent that the City was aware of that, or that it was reported by the customer calling or other means, the City did credit individual customers. Neither of the remedies compensated City of Columbia Heights MINUTES April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting Page 13 the City or customers for all problems, and the City is aware of that. He added that the City is aware of the contract breaches by waste management and that they were significant. City Manager Chirpich explained that the City is not going to commission a third-party study for the Gould Avenue parking issues. He proposed having a compilation of reporting from various departments that have interacted with residents, the surrounding business community. Staff would then look at the data and make a determination on how the Council would like to move forward. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Councilmember Buesgens, seconded by Councilmember Spriggs, to adjourn. All Ayes, Motion Carried 5-0. Meeting adjourned at 7:24 pm. Respectfully Submitted, ______________________________________ Sara Ion, City Clerk/Council Secretary