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City Council and Administration


THIS SITE CONTAINS MINUTES OF THE SAINT PETER CITY COUNCIL FROM MAY 12, 2003 TO THE END OF 2003

(Minutes prior to this date are available through the City Administrator’s office at City Hall)

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING

DECEMBER 15, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a special meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on December 15, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Gover, Douglas, Kvamme, Brinker, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Certificate of Appreciation - Mayor Hawbaker recognized outgoing Councilmember Bob Wright for his service on the Council by the presentation of a Certificate of Appreciation.

 

Public Hearing: $250,000 Business Subsidy Loan - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on issuance of a $250,000 business subsidy loan to Mark and Geri Steele, dba MS & GS Enterprises, at 5:30 p.m. Community Development Director Wille provided information on the terms of the loan which included a 7.5% interest rate amortized over 20 years with a balloon payment at six months. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 5:35 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: $133,000 Business Subsidy Loan - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on issuance of a $133,000 business subsidy loan to Mark and Geri Steele, dba Exceed Packaging, Inc., at 5:35 p.m. Community Development Director Wille provided information on the terms of the loan which included a 5% interest rate amortized over ten years and first mortgage on the 1.2 megawatt generator. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 5:36 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: $100,000 Business Subsidy Loan - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on issuance of a $100,000 business subsidy loan to Mark and Geri Steele, dba MS & GS Enterprises, at 5:36 p.m. Community Development Director Wille provided information on the terms of the loan which included a 6% interest rate amortized over ten years and a shared first lien on the building with Region Nine Development Commission which was also providing funding for the purchase. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 5:37 p.m.

 

Business Subsidy Loans Ratification - Following the public hearings, Community Development Director Wille recommended the Council formally ratify the issuance of three business subsidy loans to Mark and Geri Steele in the amounts of $250,000, $133,000, and $100,000. In motion by Wright, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-277 entitled “Resolution Ratifying Adopting Of Resolutions 2003-269, 2004-270 and 2003-271 Providing Revolving Loans To Facilitate Purchase Of An Industrial Building Located At 907 North Swift Street And Purchase Of Equipment“, was introduced. Councilmembers asked that language in the resolution be modified to indicate the Economic Development Authority had recommended approval of the loans and use of revolving loan funds and that approval of the loans was “subject to review of the City Attorney and City Administrator”. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-277 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Public Facilities Loan Approval - Finance Director O'Connell recommended the Council accept the offer of the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority to purchase a $2,240,000 general obligation sewer revenue note to be used for funding the wastewater treatment plant project. O’Connell indicated the interest rate on the loan would be 3.48% amortized over 20 years. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-278 entitled “Resolution Accepting The Offer Of The Minnesota Public Facilities Authority To Purchase A $2,240,000 General Obligation Sewer Revenue Note Of 2004, Providing For Its Issuance And Authorizing Execution Of A Project Loan Agreement“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-278 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, to adjourn at 5:42 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

DECEMBER 8, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on December 8, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Gover, Douglas, Kvamme, and Mayor Hawbaker. The following members were absent: Councilmembers Brinker and Wright. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Douglas, to approve the minutes of the November 24, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the November 24, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors - Mayor Hawbaker welcomed home Police Officer David Arpin, who also serves as a First Sergeant in the Army Reserve, from his service in Iraq. Arpin was home on leave before returning to Baghdad to complete his tour of duty. Arpin addressed the Council to present an American flag which had been flown on September 11, 2003 over Tallil Airbase in Iraq in honor of the City of Saint Peter. Arpin also presented a certificate signed by the crew of the plane which flew “fly bys” past the flag. Arpin thanked his fellow employees for their support of his service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Mayor Hawbaker thanked Sergeant Arpin for the flag and for his service.

 

Virginia LaFrance, representing an organization called “Friendship Force”, presented Mayor Hawbaker with a gift from the Mayor of Kappiti Coast, New Zealand. LaFrance indicated she had recently visited New Zealand as part of Friendship Force and was fortunate to meet the Mayor. Mayor Hawbaker thanked Ms. LaFrance for her presentation and accepted the gift on behalf of the City.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Gover, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-260 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-260 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Alley Interceptor Sewer Project Change Order/Final Acceptance - City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council approve the final change order for the alley interceptor project in the amount of $5,784.60, accept the project as completed and authorize final payment to the contractor in the amount of $135,795.44. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-262 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #8, Accepting The Project, And Authorizing Final Payment For The Alley Interceptor Sewer Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-262 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2003 Tax Levy Payable 2004 - Finance Director O'Connell presented her recommendation for adoption of the final 2003 tax levy payable in 2004 in the amount of $1,178,976. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-263 entitled “Resolution Adopting Final 2004 Tax Levy Collectible In 2004“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-263 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2004 Budgets Adoption - Finance Director O'Connell recommended approval of the general fund, special revenue funds, debt service funds and capital funds budgets for 2004. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-264 entitled “Resolution Approving Budgets For The General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, Debt Service Funds, And Capital Funds For The 2004 Fiscal Year“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-264 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Rezoning Request: Bakken - Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation for approval of a request by Roger Bakken to rezone property at 1720 Old Minnesota Avenue from C-4 to R-3. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Ordinance No. 354, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Chapter 11 By Rezoning A Tract Of Land From C-4 (Highway Service Commercial) To R-3 (Multiple-Family Dwelling) District“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 354, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Annexation Petition: Schwictenberg - Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation to approve the annexation of 0.6 acres of land owned by Joel Schwichtenberg. Wille indicated Schwichtenberg had petitioned for annexation in order to connect to City water and sewer services. Wille indicated the parcel would be zoned R-3 and that there were three vacant lots south of the property being annexed that would remain outside the City limits. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Ordinance No. 355, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Of The City Of Saint Peter, Minnesota Annexing Land Located Within The Town Of Traverse, Nicollet County, Minnesota Pursuant To Minn. Stat. 414.033, Subd. 2, Permitting Annexation By Ordinance“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 355, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Non-Union, Non-Contract Employee Step Wage Increase - City Administrator Prafke recommended that step increases be provided for non-union, non-contract employees based on pay equity points. In motion by Gover, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-265 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Step Pay Increase For Certain Employees“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-265 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2004-2005 Union Contracts (Streets, and Parks) - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the 2004-2005 union contract for the Parks Division. Prafke indicated the contract called for a 3% increase in wages each year of the contract. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-266 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of 2004-2005 Contract Between International Union Of Operating Engineers Local No. 70 (Parks) And The City Of Saint Peter“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-266 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the 2004-2005 Street union contract which called for a 3% wage increase each year of the contract, $0.20 per hour for employees required to have Boiler’s licenses and $0.10 for those having Special Boiler’s licenses. In addition, the Mechanics position had been moved from the Utilities union to the Streets Union. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-267 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of 2004-2005 Contract Between International Union Of Operating Engineers Local No. 70 (Streets) And The City Of Saint Peter“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-267 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Sidewalk Use Ordinance - City Administrator Prafke recommended the sunset clause for the use of public property by private individuals be removed and that annual renewals of the permits be required by no later than April 1st each year. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Ordinance No. 356 Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending The Saint Peter City Code Section 5.12 ‘Licensed Premises’ By Modifying Subdivision 4; And Adopting Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1 And Section 5.99, Which Among Other Things, Contain Penalty Provisions“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 356, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

MCCF Loan Application - Community Development Director Wille presented information on Exceed Packaging, a company that wished to purchase the Onan property at 907 North Swift Street. Wille indicated the plastics packaging company was owned by Mark and Geri Steele who currently operate a similar business in Le Sueur and the new business would result in 48 additional full-time equivalent positions at the end of the third year and a payroll in excess of $1.1 million. Wille also informed the Council that the Steele’s wish to apply for a $250,000 loan through the Minnesota Community Capital Fund which would require Council approval and authorization for a credit reserve deposit in the amount of 5% ($12,500) of the loan, which amount would be repaid to the City at the end of one year should all payments be made in a timely manner. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-268 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Request For Minnesota Community Capital Fund Approval Of Development Loan To Mark A. And Geri M. Steele, And Related Credit Reserve Deposit“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-268 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Revolving Loan Application: Express Packaging, Inc. - Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a $250,000 “bridge” loan to Mark and Geri Steele/MS&GS Enterprises until such time as the MCCF loan was approved. The loan, as recommended by the EDA, would be at 7.5% interest, amortized over 20 years with a balloon at six months, and secured by a promissory note, lien on the property, and life insurance policy on Mark Steele payable to the City. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-269 entitled “Resolution Approving $250,000 Revolving Loan To Mark And Geri Steele To Partially Finance Acquisition Of Industrial Building At 907 North Swift Street“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-269 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Community Development Director Wille also presented the EDA recommendation for approval of a $100,000 loan to be used by Exceed Packaging, Inc. for purchase of equipment. Wille indicated the terms of the loan, which was in conjunction with Region Nine Development Commission, included 6% interest, ten year amortization, provision of a lien on the equipment, promissory note and a life insurance policy on Mark Steele payable to the City. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-270 entitled “Resolution Approving $100,000 Revolving Loan To Exceed Packaging Inc. To Partially Finance Acquisition Of Equipment And Machinery“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-270 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Community Development Director Wille presented the final EDA recommendation for approval of a $133,000 loan to Exceed Packaging, Inc. for purchase of additional equipment and operating capital for the business. Wille indicated the terms of the loan included 5% interest, 10 year amortization, lien on the 1.2 megawatt generator, a promissory note by both Mr. and Mrs. Steele, and a life insurance on Mark Steele payable to the City. In motion by Gover, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-271 entitled “Resolution Approving $133,000 Revolving Loan To Exceed Packaging, Inc. To Partially Finance Acquisition Of Equipment/Machinery And To Provide Working Capital“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-271 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14. Wille also pointed out that the loans would be impacted by the JOBZ legislation which may require additional Council action and public hearings on issuance of the business subsidies had been scheduled for a special Council meeting on December 15, 2003 as required by State Statutes prior to issuance of funds in excess of $100,000.

 

Nicollet County Library Contracts - City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of contracts for provision of library services to North Mankato and Blue Earth County. Prafke indicated the approval was contingent upon approval or agreements with North Mankato and Blue Earth County. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-272 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Contract For Provision Of Library Services“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-272 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2003 Budget Fund Transfers - Finance Director O'Connell recommended funds be transferred from the Revolving Loan Fund, the Disaster Revolving Loan Fund and the Permanent Improvement Revolving Fund to the general fund to offset the loss of local government aid. In motion by Gover, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-273 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Transfer Of Funds“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-273 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Broadway Avenue Repairs Agreement - City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of an agreement with the Department of Transportation related to the alley interceptor sewer project. Prafke indicated the 100 block of Broadway Avenue (Highway 99) had been excavated as part of the sewer project and the DOT had allowed the City to not replace concrete which had been discovered as long as the City agreed to pay for repairs should the roadway settle more than one-half inch between the project date and July 1, 2006. Prafke recommended the repair agreement be executed. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-274 entitled “Resolution Approving Agreement With Minnesota Department Of Transportation For Repairs To Broadway Avenue (Highway 99 East Of Minnesota Avenue) If It Settles More Than One-Half Inch In The Next Three Years“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-274 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Safe and Sober Grant Acceptance - Police Chief Peters recommended the Council authorize acceptance of a $3,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety “Safe and Sober Challenge”. Peters indicated the grant funds were part of the City’s first place award in the challenge. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-275 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Acceptance Of A Traffic Safety Award“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-275 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

End of Year Accounts Payable - City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council authorize payment of end of year accounts payable after approval by the Mayor, Finance Director and City Administrator. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-276 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Payment Of End Of Year Account Payables“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-276 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

Councilmember Recognition - Mayor Hawbaker recognized outgoing Councilmember Bob Wright for his service on the Council. Hawbaker read a “Certificate of Appreciation” that would be presented to Wright at a later date.

 

Goal Session- City Administrator Prafke indicated the Council had extensive discussion as part of the December 4, 2003 goal session.

 

City Office Holiday Schedule - City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers and the public that non-emergency City offices would be closed from 12:00 noon on Christmas eve through Friday, December 26th.

 

Water Fluoridation Award- City Administrator Prafke congratulated the Water Division of the Public Works Department on receipt of a Water Fluoridation Quality Award from the Minnesota Department of Health.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 8:08 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 24, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on November 24, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Douglas, Kvamme, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: Police Chief Peters and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Wright, seconded by Gover, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Douglas, to approve the minutes of the November 10, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the November 10, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - Mayor Hawbaker announced the consent agenda was being modified to include the appointment of Beth Kallaus to the Human Rights Commission and Steve Kjellgren to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Boards for the terms 2004-2006 and the bill for Lametti and Sons would be removed from the bill list. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-247 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-247 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Subdivision Optional Bids - Mayor Hawbaker expressed opposition to construction of the pedestrian bridge across the detention pond because of the impact on lot prices. Public Works Director Giesking reviewed the four available options for the Washington Terrace Subdivision project which included landscaping ($62,550); sidewalk around the detention basin and mother’s benches ($44,695); sidewalk abutting Gault Park ($27,734); and a pedestrian/bicycle bridge over the detention pond ($78,500). Giesking indicated staff had identified up to $135,000 in funding to finance the optional items and the contractor had agreed to hold the price on the bridge until May, 2004. Community Development Director Wille addressed the Council to indicate lot prices in the subdivision were expected to range from $20,000-$40,000 if the first three options were constructed. Wille also provided information on the need to keep the cost of spec homes under $131,070 to qualify for CASA funding. In motion by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-248 entitled “Resolution Regarding Bids For Optional Items For Washington Terrace Subdivision“, was introduced with acceptance of the bids for the landscaping, detention basin walk/benches and Gault Park sidewalks and accepting the contractor’s offer to hold the bridge price until May. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-248 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Community Center Alcohol Policy - Police Chief Peters presented the modified Community Center alcohol use policy. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-249 entitled “Resolution Adopting Modified Policy For Alcohol Use In The Community Center“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-249 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Orchard Ridge Development Agreement Assignment - City Attorney Brandt indicated his belief that assignment of the development agreement for the Orchard Ridge Subdivision project from National Housing Alliance to Apple Tree Village of Saint Peter was acceptable based on the language of the original agreement and the fact that Apple Tree Village of Saint Peter LLC was for all purposes, National Housing Alliance LLC. Brandt also indicated the City’s bond counsel, Briggs and Morgan, recommended approval. In motion by Gover, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-250 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Assignment Of Development Agreement From National Housing Alliance LLC to Apple Tree Village LLC“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-250 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Easement Vacation Request: Pine Pointe Subdivision - Community Development Director Wille recommended approval of a request to vacate an interior drainage easement between two Pine Pointe lots owned by David Melton. Wille indicated Mr. Melton wished to construct a single family home across the lots. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-251 entitled “Resolution Vacating Interior Drainage Easements Between Lots Three And Four Within Pine Pointe Subdivision No. 3.“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-251 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Request For City Assistance: Chautauqua Event - Ed Wetherill, representing the Chautauqua 2004 Event Committee, provided a description of the proposed event and asked for City assistance with the August, 2004 event in Gorman Park. In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-252 entitled “Resolution Approving Request For City Assistance For Chautauqua Event“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-252 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

CSAH 20 Right-of-way Purchase - City Attorney Brandt indicated some changes to the proposed resolution for purchase of right-of-way property and temporary construction easements along the CSAH 20 route. Brandt indicated the purchase from the Pell family actually included both the William C. and William B. Pell families and included not only right-of-way, but storm water detention property as well. Brandt also indicated the temporary construction easements would be purchased for $350 instead of the $1 indicated. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-253 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Purchase Agreements And Temporary Construction Easement Agreements For County State Aid Highway 20 Extension Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-253 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

CSAH 36 Revocation - Bolton and Menk engineer Jeff Domras explained the County’s request for revocation of CSAH 36 (Old Minnesota Avenue from Saint Julien to Highway 169) as a County State Aid Highway and transfer of that mileage to the CSAH 20 extension. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-254 entitled “Resolution Regarding Revocation Of County State Aid Highway Designation For CSAH 36“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-254 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-255 entitled “Resolution Regarding Locating, Establishing And Designating Extension Of County State Aid Highway 20“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-255 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Fund Closing Authorization - Police Chief Peters presented Finance Director O'Connell’s recommendation to close out two funds and transfer the remaining balances to other funds. In motion by Wright, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-256 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Transfer Of Fund Balances“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-256 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Snow Emergency Routes - Police Chief Peters recommended adoption of an ordinance that would clarify snow emergency routes in light of Council action to rename a portion of North Washington Avenue. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Ordinance No. 353, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Section 9.10 Subdivision 1 Entitled ‘Snow Emergency’ And Adopting By Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1 And Section 9.99, Which, Among Other Things, Contain Penalty Provisions“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 353 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Non-Union, Non-Contract Employee Cost-of-living Adjustment - Police Chief Peters presented City Administrator Prafke’s recommendation for providing a 1.9% cost-of-living adjustment to non-union, non-contract employees on January 1, 2004 as part of the regular two-step wage adjustment. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-257 entitled “Resolution Establishing Cost-Of-Living Adjustment For Non-Union, Non-Contract Employees“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-257 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

December Meeting Schedule - Mayor Hawbaker presented the resolution providing for cancellation of the second regular Council meeting in December. In motion by Brinker, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-258 entitled “Resolution Modifying December Council Meeting Schedule“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-258 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14. Police Chief Peters indicated the City Administrator’s intent to also cancel the last workshop in December.

 

Community Center Signage - Police Chief Peters presented a request for authorization to purchase exterior and security signage for the Community Center from Graphic Specialties at a cost of $4,260. Peters indicated the purchase was unbudgeted and would be funded by Community Center reserves. In motion by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-259 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Exterior And Security Signage For Community Center“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-259 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

Joint Mankato/Saint Peter Council Workshop- Mayor Hawbaker indicated the discussion at the joint Mankato/Saint Peter Council workshop had been relaxed.

 

City Office Holiday Schedule- Police Chief Peters reminded Councilmembers that non-emergency City offices would be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday on November 27-28th.

 

Council Goal Session Schedule- Police Chief Peters also reminded Councilmembers of the goal session scheduled for December 4th at 3:00 p.m. in the Nicollet Room of the Community Center.

 

New Councilmember Oath Of Office- Police Chief Peters informed the Council that Councilmember-Elect Tim Strand would take the oath of office at the first workshop in January.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Wright, seconded by Brinker, to adjourn at 7:49 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 10, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on November 10, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Douglas, Kvamme, and Mayor Hawbaker. Absent was Councilmember Wright. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Brinker, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Public Hearing: Assessment of Unpaid Utility Charges- Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on assessment of unpaid utility charges at 7:02 p.m. Finance Director O'Connell presented the proposed list of assessments for unpaid utility charges which would be assessed for a one year term at 5.83% interest. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:05 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges- Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on assessment of unpaid miscellaneous charges at 7:05 p.m. Finance Director O'Connell presented the proposed list of assessments for unpaid snow and weed removal charges totaling $390. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:06 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: Assessment of Costs For Old Minnesota Avenue Water/Sewer Project - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on assessment of costs for the Old Minnesota Avenue Water/Sewer Project at 7:06 p.m. Finance Director O'Connell presented the list of assessments for charges associated with installation of water and sewer service mains on Old Minnesota Avenue north of Dodd Avenue. Patricia Johnson, 41374 Old Minnesota Avenue, addressed the Council to question whether her assessment would be deferred. O’Connell indicated it would be deferred until such time as the property is annexed, connected to the City water/sewer system, or until five years from the date of the resolution (whichever occurred first). O’Connell also pointed out that well closing costs were included in the Dranttel assessment in error and were to be removed. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:10 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, to approve the minutes of the October 27, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the October 27, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Brinker, to approve the minutes of the November 6, 2003 special City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the November 6, 2003 special City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors- Center Point Energy/Minnegasco representative Mark Novak addressed the Council and presented Fire Chief Windy Block with a check for $2,500 as part of a grant program for communities Center Point provides service to. Block indicated the funds would be used to purchase defibulators to be used for the Fire Department and one for use in the Community Center.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Brinker, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-236 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-236 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Assessment Of Unpaid Utility Charges- Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the assessment roll of unpaid utility charges. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-237 entitled “Resolution Adopting Assessment For Unpaid Charges For Municipal Utilities And The Writing Off Of Bad Debt Utility Charges“, was introduced. Upon roll call, Councilmembers Pfeifer, Kvamme, Gover, Douglas and Mayor Hawbaker voting aye, Councilmember Brinker voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-237 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Assessment Of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges- Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the assessment roll for unpaid miscellaneous (snow and weed removal) charges. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-238 entitled “Resolution Adopting Assessment For Unpaid Snow And Weed Removal“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-238 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Assessment Of Costs For Old Minnesota Avenue Water/Sewer Project - Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the assessment roll for charges associated with water and sewer installation on Old Minnesota Avenue north of Dodd Avenue. O’Connell again pointed out that four of the properties would have the assessments deferred until annexation, connection to the City’s system or five years had passed from the date of the resolution. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-239 entitled “Resolution Adopting Old Minnesota Avenue Water And Wastewater Improvement Assessments“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-239 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Electric Generation Plant Warranty - Public Works Director Giesking reviewed the proposed costs for purchase of an extended warranty for the engines and generators at the electric generation plant and for purchase of maintenance contracts for the wastewater treatment plant, north lift station and the electric generation plant. Giesking and City Administrator Prafke provided information on the actual cost versus projected costs and how each contract would be funded. Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the generators at the hospital and Community Center would be covered under a maintenance contract. Giesking indicated maintenance of those units was being done in-house. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-240 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Extended Warranty And Maintenance Contract For Generators At Electric Generation Plant, Wastewater Treatment Plant, And (North) Union Lift Station“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-240 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Revolving Loan Request: Hunter Hardwoods - Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to approve a $40,000 revolving loan to Greg Schettler (dba Hunter Hardwood, Inc.) for construction of a new building on Dodd Avenue. Wille indicated the loan would be amortized over twenty years with a seven year balloon at 3.5% interest. Wille also pointed out the loan would be due and payable should the business relocate outside the City limits and four full-time equivalent jobs would be created by the expansion of Mr. Schettler’s business. In motion by Gover, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-241 entitled “Resolution Approving $40,000 Revolving Loan To Greg Schettler (Hunter Hardwood, Inc.)“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-241 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2004 City Attorney Contract - City Administrator Prafke presented the Finance Committee’s recommendation for approval of the proposed 2004 City Attorney contract. Prafke indicated the only substantive change in the contract was a $5.00 per hour increase in the wage rates of the City Attorney and Assistant City Attorney. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-242 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of 2004 Legal Services Contract“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-242 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Jefferson Avenue Parking - City Administrator Prafke indicated the Council had previously discussed a petition submitted by Pine Pointe residents requesting “no parking” restrictions on West Jefferson Avenue from the south entrance of the college to the western City limits. Mayor Hawbaker asked for consideration of an idea put forth at workshop by Councilmember Kvamme which provided for “no parking” restriction on the south side of West Jefferson Avenue from Valley View Drive to Scholarship Way. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-243 entitled “Resolution Regarding Petition For Parking Restrictions On Jefferson Avenue“, was introduced with the “no parking” language recommended by Councilmember Kvamme. Upon roll call, Councilmembers Pfeifer, Kvamme, Gover and Mayor Hawbaker voting aye, Councilmembers Brinker and Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-243 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Construction Engineering - Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk be retained to provide construction engineering services for the Washington Terrace Subdivision project for a “not to exceed” cost of $83,000. In motion by Gover, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-244 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Bolton and Menk To Provide Construction Engineering Services For Washington Terrace Subdivision Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-244 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Fire Department By-laws Adoption - City Administrator Prafke presented the Fire Department recommendation for adoption of modified by-laws. Prafke pointed out that City Code regulations require Council approval of the by-laws and if the Council approved the by-laws, the document would become effective January 1, 2004. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-245 entitled “Resolution Approving Modified Fire Department By-Laws“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-245 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

Joint Mankato/Saint Peter Workshop Session - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the joint Mankato City Council/Saint Peter City Council workshop on November 18th at 6:00 p.m. in the Governor’s Room.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant Project - City Administrator Prafke indicated the wastewater treatment plant was expected to be online in December and a tour would be scheduled for Councilmembers in the near future. Public Works Director Giesking reported the public would notice no changes when the plant goes online.

 

Executive Session - In motion by Douglas, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-246 entitled “Resolution Calling For Closed Session“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-246 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session in the Traverse des Sioux room at 8:01 p.m. to discuss Utility Union negotiations. The Council returned to open session at 8:15 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 8:17 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 6, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a special meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the City Hall Conference Room D on November 6, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Wright, Douglas, Kvamme, and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Canvass Of Election Results - In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-235 entitled “Resolution Canvassing 2003 Municipal Election Returns“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-235 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Gover, to adjourn at 5:02 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

OCTOBER 27, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on October 27, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Wright, Douglas, Kvamme, and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Wright, seconded by Gover, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Gover, to approve the minutes of the October 13, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the October 13, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors- Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development representative Gerry Wenner, presented the Council with the City’s e-commerce certification in recognition of the City’s dedication to e-commerce readiness and integration of e-commerce with economic development activities. Mayor Hawbaker thanked Mr. Wenner and DEED Commissioner Matt Kramer for the certification.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Wright, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-228 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-228 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Subdivision Final Plat- Community Development Director Wille presented the final plat of Washington Terrace Subdivision and indicated the street names had been modified to reflect Council discussion at the previous workshop session. City Administrator Prafke reviewed the proposed layout of the utilities, sidewalk and trees in the street right-of-ways. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-229 entitled “Resolution Accepting Final Plat Of Washington Terrace Subdivision“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-229 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Subdivision Bid Award- City Administrator Prafke recommended the bid for construction of public improvements in Washington Terrace Subdivision be awarded to Southern Minnesota Construction in the amount of $1,524,604.50. Prafke indicated the recommended award did not include the optional items such as landscaping, pedestrian bridge, and concrete walks around the detention pond and Gault Park which would be considered at a later date once lot prices had been reviewed. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-230 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Washington Terrace Subdivision Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-230 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Refuse Contract Bid Award- City Administrator Prafke recommended the City accept the alternate bid of Waste Management for the City’s residential refuse collection at $5.89 per residence per month. Prafke pointed out that the alternate bid included collection of recyclables twice a month rather than once a week and provision of a 60 gallon curbie for recyclables. Prafke further indicated that the contract would require a public information campaign to inform residents of the changes in the recycling program. Councilmember Gover questioned whether collection of recycling twice a month would create problems during the periods with a three week interval. Prafke indicated the three week periods would only occur twice a year. In motion by Wright, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-231 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For City Refuse Hauling Contract“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-231 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Facilities Advertising Policy- City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a facilities advertising policy which would regulate advertising in and on City facilities to ensure that no visitors to the facilities feel unwelcome. In motion by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-232 entitled “Resolution Establishing Facilities Advertising Policy“, was introduced. Upon roll call, Councilmembers Pfeifer, Wright, Kvamme, Gover, Brinker and Mayor Hawbaker voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-232 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Finance Department Position Description- City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of updated position descriptions for the Finance Department. Prafke pointed out that the Bus Driver Leadman position would be eliminated and the title of Cashier would be changed to Accounts Receivable Clerk. In motion by Wright, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-233 entitled “Resolution Approving Updated Position Descriptions For Finance Department“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-233 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

License Applications- Mayor Hawbaker announced that a Temporary On-Sale Beer License needed to be added to the resolution. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-234 entitled “Resolution Approving Licenses“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-234 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

“Habitat Program Weekend” Proclamation- Mayor Hawbaker proclaimed November 7-8, 2003 as “Building With Habitat Program Weekend” in recognition of the Saint Peter chapter of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas gummi bear promotion to raise money for Saint Peter Habitat for Humanity.

 

Human Rights Commission Brochure - City Administrator Prafke directed Councilmember attention to the brochure published by the Human Rights Commission.

 

Public Accuracy Election Test- City Administrator Prafke indicated a public accuracy test had been conducted on the election equipment with favorable results.

 

Blandin Foundation - City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers that Saint Peter would be included in a telecommunications advancement case study being conducted by the Blandin Foundation.

 

Senator Hottinger Meeting- City Administrator Prafke invited Councilmembers to visit with Senator John Hottinger on October 31, 2003 at 3:00 p.m. to discuss upcoming legislative issues and/or concerns.

 

Finance Committee Meeting - City Administrator Prafke asked members of the Council Finance Committee to schedule a date for the meeting to review the proposed City Attorney contract.

 

Minutes Change - Councilmember Gover asked that the minutes of October 13, 2003 be changed to indicate that the City Administrator pointed out “…..the final plat would be revised to indicate the standard 12’ utility easement in front of each lot as opposed to a sidewalk easement.”. There was no opposition to the request.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Brinker, to adjourn at 7:40 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

OCTOBER 13, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on October 13, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Wright, Douglas, Kvamme, and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - City Administrator Prafke indicated the agenda items pertaining to Westview Subdivision No. 2 would be removed until such time as the developer provided an executed development agreement. A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Wright, to approve the agenda as modified. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, to approve the minutes of the September 22, 2003 regular City Council meeting. Councilmember Gover asked for corrections to the minutes relating to the date of staff training, and the time of adjournment. Gover also asked to have the word “whether” inserted in the information pertaining to discussion on the refuse contract and “whether” the destination for recyclables would be left up to the bidder. Councilmember Gover also pointed out that Councilmember Kvamme had been in attendance at the meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried as amended. A complete copy of the minutes of the September 22, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Public Hearings: TIF District No. 1-15 Establishment - Mayor Hawbaker opened the continuation of the public hearing on establishment of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District No. 1-15 at 7:02 p.m. David Drown Associates representative Shannon Sweeney provided an overview of the reasons for establishing TIF District No. 1-15 which is to provide funding for development of single-family homes on property that was enrolled in the green acres program. Sweeney indicated the property owners in the subdivision would be considered “qualified” as defined by State Statutes which indicates income levels in the low to moderate range. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:05 p.m.

 

Public Hearings: TIF District No. 1-14 Modification - Mayor Hawbaker opened the continuation of the public hearing on modification of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District No. 1-14 at 7:05 p.m. David Drown Associates representative Shannon Sweeney indicated the budget for TIF District No. 1-14 would be modified so that increments could be used to reduce the lot prices in Washington Terrace Subdivision by providing funding for the 40 acres to be purchased though the issuance of taxable bonds. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:07 p.m.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Wright, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-204 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-204 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

TIF District No. 1-15 Establishment- City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a resolution establishing Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-15. Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates indicated the district could be in place for up to 26 increment collections although staff would seek to reduce that term to a much shorter period. Councilmember Kvamme questioned how much TIF would need to be generated and Prafke indicated it would be between $1.6 and $2 million. In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-205 entitled “Resolution Approving Creation Of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-15 And Adoption Of The Tax Increment Financing Plan Relating Thereto“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-205 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

TIF District No. 1-14 Modification - City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a resolution modifying the budget for TIF District No. 1-14. Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates indicated that revenues from lot sales in Washington Terrace Subdivision may be received sooner and would be used to pay the bond issue for the subdivision rather than using the TIF proceeds from 1-14. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-206 entitled “Resolution Approving Modification No. 1 Of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-14 And Adoption Of The Modified Tax Increment Financing Plan Relating Thereto“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-206 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

North Industrial Park Subdivision Project Change Order #5 - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of change order #5 for the North Industrial Park subdivision project. Prafke indicated the change order, which included changes to the quantities of storm sewer, additional watermain, and sodding, would result in increased project costs of $15,082.75. Prafke also pointed out that the entire project was still $17,000 under the bid price. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-207 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Change Order No. 5 For North Industrial Park Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-207 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2002 Sidewalk Project Change Order/Final Project Acceptance - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of Change Order #1 for the 2002 Sidewalk Project in the amount of $2,190, which included making a sidewalk in Minnesota Square Park thicker to support traffic crossing the sidewalk and modification to the sidewalk near the playground in Minnesota Square. Prafke further recommended the project be accepted as bid and authorization be provided for final payment to the contractor in the amount of $6,559.25. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-208 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order Number One And Authorizing Final Acceptance Of The 2002 Sidewalk Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-208 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Old Minnesota Avenue Water/Sewer Project Assessments - Finance Director O'Connell recommended the process for assessment of costs associated with the Old Minnesota Avenue Water/Sewer Project be initiated and a public hearing be scheduled for November 10, 2003. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-209 entitled “Resolution Declaring Costs To Be Assessed And Ordering Preparation Of Proposed Assessment Of Costs For The Old Minnesota Avenue Water And Sewer Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-209 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-210 entitled “Resolution Calling For Public Hearing On Proposed Assessments Of Costs For Old Minnesota Avenue Water And Sewer Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-210 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Nicollet Meadows Water/Sewer Project Acceptance - City Administrator Prafke recommended the City Council accept ownership of the water and sewer mains installed at Nicollet Meadows Townhomes. In motion by Wright, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-211 entitled “Resolution Accepting Ownership Of Water And Sewer Main For Nicollet Meadows Townhouses In The Nicollet Meadows Subdivision“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-211 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Preliminary and Final Plats - Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning Commission recommendation for approval of the preliminary and final plats of Washington Terrace Subdivision. City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the final plat would be revised to indicate the standard 12’ utility easements at the front of each lot as opposed to a sidewalk easement. Wille indicated the Planning Commission recommendation had been to include 8’ sidewalk easements in each lot and City Attorney Brandt had cautioned against such an action due to the City’s inability to enforce the sidewalk clearance and repair regulations on sidewalks which were not located in the City owned right-of-way. Councilmembers had extensive discussion on the proposed utility easements and the location of utilities and trees. In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-212 entitled “Resolution Accepting Preliminary Plat Of Washington Terrace Subdivision“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-212 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, to introduce “Resolution Accepting Final Plat Of Washington Terrace Subdivision“. Mayor Hawbaker indicated his displeasure regarding the naming of East/West Stark Streets and Councilmember Kvamme also questioned the street naming. Prafke and Wille indicated the street names were taken from a list of historic names developed several years ago. Kvamme questioned whether development of the subdivision would be adversely affected if action on the final plat was delayed until further discussion on the street naming issue. City Administrator Prafke requested a brief recess to confer with staff to determine whether action could be delayed. Councilmember Gover moved for a five minute recess at 7:46 p.m. Mayor Hawbaker called for the recess.

 

The Council resumed discussion at 7:52 p.m. Prafke indicated a delay of only two weeks would not adversely affect the development as long as any modifications to the plat were limited to utility easements and/or street names. A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Kvamme to table action on adoption of the final plat until the October 27, 2003 regular meeting. With Councilmembers Pfeifer, Kvamme, Gover, Douglas, Brinker and Mayor Hawbaker voting aye, Councilmember Wright voting nay, the motion carried.

 

Washington Terrace Restrictive Covenants - Community Development Director Wille recommended adoption of restrictive covenants for the Washington Terrace Subdivision. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-213 entitled “Resolution Adopting Restrictive Covenants Regulating Development Within Washington Terrace Subdivision“, was introduced. Councilmember Kvamme asked that items #6 and #12 be modified to indicate an exemption to those particular regulations for Lots 1-6 of Block Three and for item #14 to be modified by the addition of “Garages shall not extend closer to the property line than the face of the house.” Councilmembers agreed to the modification. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as amended. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-213 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Bond Sale - David Drown Associates representative Shannon Sweeney recommended approval of a resolution authorizing sale of $340,000 in general obligation taxable temporary tax increment bonds to First National Bank of Saint Peter at a fixed interest rate of 3.5%. Sweeney indicated the funds would be used for site acquisition, grading and site preparation and finance and legal work associated with Washington Terrace Subdivision development. Sweeney also indicated the bond term was for three years. In motion by Gover, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-214 entitled “Resolution Providing For The Issuance And Sale Of $340,000 General Obligation Taxable Temporary Tax Increment Bonds, Series 2003D And Pledging Tax Increments For The Security Thereof“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-214 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Rezoning Request: North Third Street - Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning Commission recommendation for approval of a request to rezone property legally described as “Lots 1-12, Block 94, and the North ½ of vacated Hatch Street, Traverse des Sioux; and Lots 1-6 Block 85 and the North ½ of vacated Hatch Street, Traverse des Sioux” from C-4 highway service commercial to R-3 multi-family residential. Charles Chaney, 1804 North Third Street, addressed the Council to encourage approval of the request based on difficulty the property owners are experiencing with obtaining financing and insurance on their non-conforming properties. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Ordinance No. 352, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Chapter 11 By Rezoning A Tract Of Land From C-4 (Highway Service Commercial) To R-3 (Multiple Family Dwelling) District” was introduced. Upon roll call, Councilmembers Pfeifer, Wright, Kvamme, Gover, Douglas and Mayor Hawbaker voting aye, Councilmember Brinker abstaining, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 352, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Ordinances 2.

 

MMUA Safety Contract Renewal - City Administrator Prafke recommended the contract with Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association to administer the employee safety policy be renewed. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-215 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Renewal Of Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association (MMUA) Contract For The Safety Coordinator“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-215 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

OSHA Safety Equipment Grant Application - City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for staff to submit an application to the Minnesota OSHA office for safety grant funds to be used for installation of rain gutters on the east side of the Community Center and for trench shoring equipment. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-216 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Approval To Submit A Grant Application To OSHA For The Community Center Rain Gutter Project And For The Purchase Of Trench Shoring Equipment“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-216 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Compost Site Storm Sewer - City Administrator Prafke recommended acceptance of a quote from Southern Minnesota Construction in the amount of $16,993.50 for installation of storm sewer at the City yard waste compost site. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-217 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Installation Of Storm Sewer To The Compost Site“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-217 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Utilities - Finance Director O'Connell recommended the process be initiated for assessment of unpaid utility charges and a public hearing be scheduled for November 10, 2003. O’Connell indicated the total amount which was assessable would be $4,614.11 as of May 15, 2003. In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-218 entitled “Resolution Declaring Unpaid Charges For Municipal Utilities To Be Assessed And Ordering Preparation Of Proposed Assessment“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-218 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-219 entitled “Resolution Calling For A Public Hearing Declaring Unpaid Charges For Municipal Utilities To Be Assessed“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-219 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges - Finance Director O'Connell recommended the process be initiated for assessment of unpaid miscellaneous charges (snow and weed removal) and a public hearing be scheduled for November 10, 2003. O’Connell indicated the total amount which was assessable would be $290. In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-220 entitled “Resolution Declaring Unpaid Charges To Be Assessed And Ordering Preparation of Proposed Assessment Of Miscellaneous Charges“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-220 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

In motion by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-221 entitled “Resolution Calling For A Public Hearing On Assessment Of Miscellaneous Charges“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-221 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Torrens Action Approval - City Attorney Brandt recommended the Council authorize transfer of property in Washington Terrace Subdivision to be provided through the Torrens system rather than by abstract because of the substantial savings that would be realized. In motion by Wright, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-222 entitled “Resolution Authorizing City To Register Title to Certain Real Estate“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-222 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

License Applications - In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-223 entitled “Resolution Approving Temporary Dance License“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-223 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Building Department Equipment Purchase - City Administrator Prafke recommended the purchase of additional filing cabinets for the Building Department to be funded by general fund reserves. In motion by Gover, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-224 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Filing Equipment For Building Department“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-224 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Java Central Sub-lease - City Administrator Prafke presented the request by Java Central owner Bob Wright for approval to sub-lease the Java Central concession space in the Community Center to Michael and Shelly Maas. Prafke indicated the lease with Java Central allowed for sub-leasing with Council approval. Prafke also indicated the recommendation to approve the request included requiring a $500 damage deposit from the subleasee and limiting the sales to food, food related products, and items of apparel that promote community athletic, arts, academic and school district sponsored activities. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-225 entitled “Resolution Approving Sub-Lease Of Concession Space At Community Center“, was introduced. Upon roll call, Councilmembers Pfeifer, Kvamme, Gover, Douglas, Brinker, and Mayor Hawbaker voting aye, Councilmember Wright abstaining, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-225 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Public Access Production Assistant Job Description Update - City Administrator Prafke recommended the position description for Public Access Production Assistant be modified to eliminate references to specific types of equipment. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-226 entitled “Resolution Modifying Public Access Production Assistant Position Description“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-226 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2004 City Attorney Contract - City Administrator Prafke recommended that the proposed 2004 City Attorney contract be referred to the Council Finance Committee for review and recommendation to the full Council. A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Gover, to direct the Finance Committee of the City Council to review the proposed 2004 City Attorney contract and make recommendation regarding execution of the document to the City Council. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Conference - Mayor Hawbaker reported he had an enjoyable time at the Mayor’s conference in Duluth and he had spoken to several Mayors.

 

Summit Meeting- City Administrator Prafke reported the significant issues discussed at the Summit meeting included budgets, cooperation with lobbying efforts, long range planning and land use.

 

Electric Generation Facility Open House- City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers that the electric generation facility open house had been a success and the guests were impressed with the information provided and the tours.

 

Executive Session- City Administrator Prafke requested a closed session be convened to discuss union contract negotiations with the Streets, Parks, and Utilities Unions. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-227 entitled “Resolution Calling For Closed Session“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-227 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session in the Nicollet Room to discuss the Streets Union negotiations at 8:45 p.m. The Council returned to open session at 8:46 p.m.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss the Parks Union negotiations at 8:46 p.m. The Council returned to open session at 8:47 p.m.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss the Utilities Union negotiations at 8:47 p.m. The Council returned to open session at 8:52 p.m.

 

The Council returned to the Governor’s Room and there being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Wright, to adjourn at 8:55 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

CITY OF SAINT PETER, MINNESOTA

 

OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 22, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on September 22, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Wright, Douglas, Kvamme and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Wright, seconded by Gover, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, to approve the minutes of the September 8, 2003 regular City Council meeting. Councilmember Gover requested modification to the minutes in the paragraph relating to the public hearing on TIF District No. 1-15 (replace the word “revised” with the word “reviewed”) and the paragraph on the 2004 Preliminary Budget/Tax Levy to indicate “…..the proposed expenditures were actually lower than in years 2001, 2002 and 2003”. With all in favor, the motion carried as corrected. A complete copy of the minutes of the September 8, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Gover, to approve the minutes of the September 15, 2003 special City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the September 15, 2003 special City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors - Mayor Hawbaker welcomed the Gustavus students in attendance at the meeting.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-191 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-191 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Orchard Ridge Subdivision Development Agreement- City Administrator Prafke recommended the request made by the developer of the Orchard Ridge Subdivision to modify the development agreement as it relates to for-sale and for-rent units and the income limits associated with the units be approved. Prafke indicated no other details of the agreement would be impacted by the modifications. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-192 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Modified Development Agreement For Orchard Ridge Subdivision“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-192 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant Loan Closing - Finance Director O'Connell recommended the Council authorize closing on a $2,000,000 loan from Rural Development for the wastewater treatment plant. O’Connell indicated the interest rate on the loan dropped from 5.25% to 4.25%. Councilmember Kvamme indicated the savings would be almost $630,000 and commended staff. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-193 entitled “Resolution Accepting The Offer Of The United States Of America To Purchase A $2,000,000 General Obligation Sewer Revenue Bond Of 2003, Providing For Its Issuance And Calling For Redemption Of The City’s $2,000,000 General Obligation Sewer Revenue Note Of 2002 “, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-193 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant Loan Application Submission #3 and #4- Finance Director O'Connell recommended authorization be provided to submit applications to the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority for Loan #3 (Biosolids building) in the amount of $1,735,200 and Loan #4 (Biosolids removal project) in the amount of $1,382,000 for the wastewater treatment plant. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-194 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Loan #3 Application For Minnesota Public Facilities Authority Loan Funds And To Reimburse Construction Expenses For Wastewater Treatment Plant“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-194 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

In motion by Gover, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-195 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Loan #4 Application For Minnesota Public Facilities Authority Loan Funds And To Reimburse Construction Expenses For Wastewater Treatment Plant“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-195 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant Lot Purchase- City Administrator Prafke indicated that staff had been negotiating with Onan officials for purchase of Lot 4, Block 4 of the Swift Park Subdivision since 1997 as part of the wastewater treatment plant. Prafke recommended authorization be provided to enter a purchase agreement for the 1.4 acre parcel for a price of $30,000 and closing costs. Finance Director O'Connell indicated the property purchase had originally been planned for funding from the wastewater treatment plant loans; however, the purchase had been declined by Rural Development and would now be funded by reserves. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-196 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Lot 4, Block 4 Of Swift Park Subdivision For The Wastewater Treatment Plant Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-196 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14. Councilmember Brinker pointed out that the property would be of value for the City for both expansion of the wastewater treatment plant and for a public access roadway to Hallett’s Pond.

 

Nicollet Meadows Lots TIF De-Certification- Finance Director O'Connell recommended that five lots in Nicollet Meadows Subdivision be de-certified from the TIF district. O’Connell indicated the income levels of the property owners were too high to qualify for TIF reductions. In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-197 entitled “Resolution Amending Boundaries Of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-10“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-197 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Equipment Repair Authorization- City Administrator Prafke requested authorization to approve emergency repairs to the 950 CAT wheel loader in the amount of $45,559.40 to be funded $21,000 from reserves and $25,000 which will be carried by the vendor and paid from the 2004 budget. Prafke indicated the wheel loader was essential for snow removal in the City and repairs would take several weeks. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-198 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Emergency Repairs For 950 Cat Wheel Loader“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-198 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2004 Nicollet Avenue Utility Project- City Administrator Prafke recommended Bolton and Menk be retained to design utility services installation as part of the 2004 Nicollet Avenue project for a not to exceed fee of $19,800. In motion by Wright, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-199 entitled “Resolution Retaining An Engineer For Utility Study And Design For The 2004 Nicollet Avenue Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-199 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Request For Fiscal Agent Services- City Administrator Prafke recommended the City authorize a request by the Echos dance band to serve as fiscal agent for the band’s grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council. Prafke pointed out that if the City were required to incur any audit costs related to the grant, Echos would be required to reimburse the City’s expenses. In motion by Brinker, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-200 entitled “Resolution Approving Request To Serve As Fiscal Agent For Echos Dance Band Grant“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-200 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Refuse Contract Bid Solicitation- City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council authorize receipt of bids for the City’s refuse hauling contract. Prafke indicated the current contract expires in February, 2004 and a base and alternate bid would be let. Prafke also pointed out that the Council would need to decide between the base and the alternate, the term (recommended for five years), system details such as days of collection, and whether the recyclable destination would be left up to the bidder. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-201 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Bids For City Refuse Hauling Contract“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-201 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Community Center Cleaning Equipment Purchase- City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be given to purchase a ride-on carpet cleaner for the Community Center and library in the amount of $11,289. Prafke reported that the original intent for the buildings was to contract for carpet cleaning, but the bid amounts were substantially higher than budgeted. Prafke indicated the equipment purchase would be funded by reserves. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-202 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Cleaning Equipment For Community Center“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-202 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

Curbside Mailbox Installation - Councilmember Pfeifer reported that the Postmaster had indicated no additional curbside mailboxes would be installed and that if the owners of properties where the boxes had been installed would contact the Postmaster directly, Mr. Zochert would see that the boxes were removed.

 

Electric Generation Facility Open House - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the open house scheduled at the electric generation facility on October 9th from 3-7:00 p.m. with a ribbon cutting at 4:00 p.m.

 

Staff Training- City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers that City offices would be closed from noon-2:00 p.m. on September 30th for staff customer service training.

 

Flower Basket Watering - In response to a question from Councilmember Kvamme, City Administrator Prafke indicated that the downtown flower baskets are sometimes watered during rainstorms because the flowers are provided fertilizer along with the water.

 

Executive Session- City Administrator Prafke requested a closed session be convened to discuss union contract negotiations with the Streets, Parks, and Utilities Unions. In motion by Brinker, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-203 entitled “Resolution Calling For Closed Session“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-203 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session in the Traverse des Sioux Room to discuss the Streets Union negotiations at 7:52 p.m. The Council returned to open session at 7:57 p.m.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss the Parks Union negotiations at 7:58 p.m. The Council returned to open session at 8:03 p.m.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss the Utilities Union negotiations at 8:03 p.m. The Council returned to open session at 8:15 p.m.

 

The Council returned to the Governor’s Room and there being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 8:20 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 15, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a special meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on September 15, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Wright, Douglas, Kvamme, and Mayor Hawbaker. The following official was present: City Administrator Prafke.

 

Biosolids Removal Project Bid Award: - Public Works Director Giesking provided background information on a project to remove biosolids from the wastewater treatment ponds. Giesking indicated bids were received for the project ranging from $520,763.60 to $3,168,190.00 and the low bidder was ready to begin work on the project which would be funded by the wastewater treatment plant project funds. Giesking recommended the bid of Southern Minnesota Construction in the amount of $520,763.60 be accepted. City Administrator Prafke pointed out that any action concerning the alternate which was bid would require additional Council action. In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-190 entitled “Resolution Awarding Work For The Removal And Disposal Of Biosolids In Primary Cell #1 (Biosolids Removal Project)“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-190 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, to adjourn at 5:35 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 8, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on September 8, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Wright Douglas, and Mayor Hawbaker. Absent was Councilmember Kvamme. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Wright, seconded by Brinker, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Public Hearing: Washington Terrace Subdivision Public Improvements - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on improvements in the Washington Terrace Subdivision at 7:01 p.m. City Administrator Prafke reviewed the reason for holding a public hearing on construction of public improvements in the Washington Terrace Subdivision. Prafke indicated that the cost of the projects was expected to be assessed to benefited properties. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:03 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: TIF District No. 1-15 Establishment- Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on establishment of tax increment financing district no. 1-15 at 7:03 p.m. Community Development Director Wille reviewed the proposed establishment of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-15. Wille indicated the district would encompass the Washington Terrace Subdivision. Wille also recommended the hearing be continued until completion of the process for annexation of the property involved. Nicollet County Commissioner Judy Hanson addressed the Council to indicated the County’s opposition to establishing tax increment districts with terms longer than 10-15 years. Milt Nielsen, 1951 East Welco Drive, addressed the Council to recommend Don Westerman be provided an opportunity to develop another section of the Welco Townhomes on the Washington Terrace Subdivision property. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared continued until October 13, 2003 at 7:08 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: TIF District No. 1-14 Modification - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on modification to tax increment financing district No. 1-14 at 7:08 p.m. Community Development Director Wille indicated the proposal to modify Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-14 was proposed to provide for an amendment to the district budget that would allow transfer of interdistrict funds to finance the purchase of the Washington Terrace Subdivision 40 acres. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared continued until October 13, 2003 at 7:09 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the August 25, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the August 25, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-181 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-181 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2004 Preliminary Budget/Tax Levy- Finance Director O'Connell presented information on the proposed 2004 preliminary tax levy. City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the proposed budget was based on his perception of the Council’s desire to maintain a high level and quality of City services and that the proposed expenditures were actually lower than in years 2001, 2002 and 2003. Prafke further pointed out that the increase in taxes was directly related to the loss of local government aid and the City was levying back the 60% allowed to avoid any future problems if additional cuts were made by the State legislature. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-182 entitled “Resolution Adopting Preliminary 2003 Tax Levy Collectible In 2004“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-182 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Street Vacation Request: Tenth Street- Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation to approve the vacation of a portion of Tenth Street located in the Daly and Smith’s Addition and which lies under the property at 1031 West Grace Street (KRBI Radio). Wille indicated the roadway had been platted but never developed. In motion by Wright, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-183 entitled “Resolution Vacating That Part Of Tenth Street As Platted In Daly And Smith’s Addition To Saint Peter Lying Within The KRBI Property“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-183 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Hospital Equipment Purchase- Community Hospital CEO Colleen Spike addressed the Council to request authorization to purchase new surgical equipment for the hospital. Spike indicated that one quote had been received for the purchase in the amount of $167,634.48. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-184 entitled “Resolution Approving Hospital Request To Purchase Surgical Equipment For New Facility“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-184 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

JOBZ Zone Application - Community Development Director Wille requested Council approval for submission of a Job Opportunity Zone (JOBZ) application along with several area counties. Wille indicated the JOBZ program was a rural economic development tool being proposed by Governor Pawlenty. Wille further indicated the application would be called the Southern Minnesota JOBZ Alliance and would designate the former Onan manufacturing property as a sub-zone within the application. In motion by Gover, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-185 entitled “Resolution Approving And Authorizing Tax Exemptions Within Job Opportunity Building Zone Sub-Zone“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-185 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

E-Commerce Certification Application- Community Development Director Wille asked for Council authorization for submission of an application to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development for E-Commerce certification for the City. In motion by Brinker, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-186 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Application To The Department Of Employment And Economic Development Seeking E-Commerce Certification“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-186 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Gustavus Transit Service Contract- City Administrator Prafke recommended that authorization be provided for execution of a contract for transit service for Gustavus students on Friday and Saturday evenings. Prafke indicated the service had been provided in 2003 with good results and the transit service would receive revenues of $32.00 per hour for the contract. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-187 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Contract For Transit Services For Gustavus Students“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-187 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

202 South Minnesota Avenue Property Sale - Community Development Director Wille reported that a significant mold problem had been discovered in the property at 202 South Minnesota Avenue prior to finalizing the sale of the City owned property to John Mayer. Wille indicated Mayer wished to withdraw his original bid on the property and a new price of $48,000,50 had been negotiated taking into account the quote of $35,999.50 for mold remediation. Wille also indicated the City had paid for repairs on the leaky roof which was thought to have led to the mold problem. Councilmembers questioned whether the buyer would proceed with the mold remediation. City Attorney Brandt indicated that the City would need to repair the roof and verify the heating and cooling systems were working and the buyer would be responsible to provide for mold removal in order to utilize the building. In motion by Gover, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-188 entitled “Resolution Modifying Terms For Sale Of Property At 202 South Minnesota Avenue” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-188 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

State Winnebago Convention- Mayor Hawbaker reported he had welcomed the State Winnebago convention to the Nicollet County Fairgrounds on September 6th.

 

Summit Meeting Schedule - City Administrator Prafke reported the new date for the City/County/School summit meeting was September 30th at 7:00 p.m. in the Governor’s Room.

 

Goal Session Schedule- City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the goal session scheduled for September 10th at 3:00 p.m.

 

North Front Street Project- City Administrator Prafke reported the North Front Street Improvement Project was underway and the gas main which was struck at the beginning of the project had not been located.

 

LMC Regional Meetings- City Administrator Prafke asked Councilmembers interested in attending the League of Minnesota Cities regional meeting in Waseca to notify his office.

 

Executive Session- City Administrator Prafke requested a closed session be convened to discuss union contract negotiations with the Streets, Parks, and Utilities Unions. In motion by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-189 entitled “Resolution Calling For Closed Session“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-189 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14. The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss the Streets Union negotiations at 8:35 p.m. The Council returned to open session at 8:37 p.m.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss the Parks Union negotiations at 8:38 p.m. The Council returned to open session at 8:42 p.m.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss the Utilities Union negotiations at 8:42 p.m. The Council returned to open session at 8:52 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, to adjourn at 8:52 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

AUGUST 25, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on August 25, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Kvamme, Douglas, and Mayor Hawbaker. Absent were Councilmembers Gover, Brinker and Wright. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, to approve the minutes of the August 11, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the August 11, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - Mayor Hawbaker indicated appointment of election judges would be removed from the consent agenda for consideration at the next meeting. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-171 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced as modified. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-171 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2004 Transit Grant Application - City Administrator Prafke recommended that Resolution No. 2003-154 be rescinded because it contained inaccurate information concerning the City’s contribution to operating costs for the transit system. Prafke recommended adoption of a corrected resolution which indicated the City’s share of operating costs for the transit system in 2004 would be 20%. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-172 entitled, “Resolution Correcting The Authorization To Submit The 2004 Transit Grant Application“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-172 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

Nichols Street Improvement Petition - City Administrator Prafke recommended the petitioners and abutting property owners for the proposed improvement of Nichols Street be notified of the preliminary cost estimates for the project and a public information meeting on the project be scheduled for January/February of 2004. Prafke also indicated the preliminary cost estimate does not include utility improvements which may be needed. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-173 entitled, “Resolution Providing For Notification To Property Owners Abutting Nichols Street Regarding Proposed Costs For Improvement“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-173 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Biosolids Removal Project - City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for staff to proceed with receipt of bids for a project to remove biosolids from the wastewater treatment ponds. Prafke reported that pond number one had been drained and a test had been performed to determine whether excavation of the materials would be difficult. Following the successful test, contractors expressed interest in the job for removal of the biosolids at a price that would be substantially lower than the $3,000,000 budgeted amount. Prafke indicated removal of the biosolids was included in the wastewater treatment plant project, but staff had delayed action on a project in the hope the Environmental Protection Agency and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency rules would change. Prafke further indicated staff’s belief that the possibility of rule changes was remote. Prafke recommended bids be received for the project. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-174 entitled, “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Bids For Biosolids Removal From The Wastewater Ponds“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-174 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Design Engineering - City Administrator Prafke recommended Bolton and Menk be retained to provide design engineering for the Washington Terrace Subdivision Project for a fee not to exceed $104,700 for the subdivision portion of the project and $18,200 for the extension of North Washington Avenue which will be done as part of the overall project. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-175 entitled, “Resolution Authorizing Preparation Of Plans, Specifications, Contract Documents And Receipt Of Bids For The Washington Terrace Subdivision Project And Municipal State Aid Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-175 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Soil Testing - City Administrator Prafke recommended American Engineering and Testing be retained to prepare soil tests on the Washington Terrace Subdivision property. Prafke indicated testing prior to bidding would impact the bids by providing bidders with concrete information on the property and eliminate costly repairs which may be needed if problems were discovered after construction begins. Prafke also indicated the $8,000 was included in the administrative costs for developing a subdivision and would be recovered as part of lot sale prices. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-176 entitled, “Resolution Authorizing Soil Testing For Washington Terrace Subdivision“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-176 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Request For City Assistance: Rock Bend Folk Festival - City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council authorize City assistance for the Rock Bend Folk Festival on September 6-7th. Prafke indicated the assistance included use of Minnesota Square Park; hanging banners on Minnesota Avenue; use of electricity in the park, use of picnic tables and restroom facilities, provision of Police security overnight and the City acting as fiscal agent for Rock Bend’s grant application. Prafke pointed out that the assistance requested is similar to that provided in 2002 and Police Reserves would be stationed at park access areas to control vehicle access into the park. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-177 entitled, “Resolution Authorizing City Assistance For Rock Bend Folk Festival“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-177 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Aspen Drive Roadway Repair - City Administrator Prafke recommended the quote of Rehnelt Excavating, in the amount of $24,409.80, be accepted for repairs of storm sewer and roadway problems at the south intersection of Aspen Drive and Riverview Road. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-178 entitled, “Resolution Authorizing Corrections To Storm Sewer And Street At Intersection Of Aspen Drive And Riverview Road“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-178 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Production Assistant Job Description Modification - City Administrator Prafke recommended the minimum age requirement for the position of Public Access Production Assistant be reduced to 16. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-179 entitled, “Resolution Approving Modification To Public Access Production Assistant Position Description“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-179 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

North Front Street Improvement Project Construction Engineering - City Administrator Prafke recommended Bolton and Menk be retained to provide construction engineering for the North Front Street Improvement Project for a fee not to exceed $24,300. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-180 entitled, “Resolution Authorizing Construction Engineering Services For North Front Street Improvement Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-180 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

Building Official Recruitment Process- City Administrator Prafke reported he had interviewed two candidates for the position of Building Official and was conducting background checks.

 

Water Pressure Repairs - City Administrator Prafke indicated the water pressure problems experienced by customers on the upper water system had been repaired.

 

Seal Coating Project - City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers that the seal coating project was ahead of schedule and crews were already beginning to sweep up the excess stone.

 

City/County/School Summit Schedule- City Administrator Prafke reported the summit meeting scheduled for September 23rd would be rescheduled due to a conflict for School Board members.

 

Alley Interceptor Sewer Project - City Administrator Prafke indicated the Alley Interceptor Sewer project was 99% complete and the contractor would be removing the equipment in the near future. Prafke thanked the property owners in the area for their extreme patience during the project.

 

Council Filing Dates - City Administrator Prafke reminded the Council and public that filing for Council seats opens at 8:00 a.m. on August 26th and will continue through 5:00 p.m. on September 9th.

 

Web Site - City Administrator Prafke pointed out the new City web site address of www.saintpetermn.gov.

 

Curbside Mailbox Installation - Councilmember Pfeifer reported the Council still had not received a response to an invitation to the Postmaster to discuss the curbside mailbox situation. Pfeifer also reported he had received numerous phone calls and notes opposing installation of curbside boxes.

 

Odor Complaints - City Administrator Prafke reported the pungent odor which had permeated the community last week was from the wastewater treatment ponds and that staff was attempting to aerate the ponds to help reduce the odor.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 7:34 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

AUGUST 11, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on August 11, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Kvamme, Douglas, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Wright, seconded by Gover, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Public Hearing: Annexation Petition - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on a petition to annex 40 acres of land located north of Gault Park at 7:01 p.m. Community Development Director Wille reviewed the petition to annex the property which had been submitted by Lavonne and Willis Johnson. Wille indicated the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended the petition for annexation be approved. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:03 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Douglas, to approve the minutes of the July 28, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the July 28, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - City Administrator Prafke requested a purchase for upgrade of the electrical panel at the Public Works building be approved for Nussmeier Electric in the amount of $10,750 to be funded by utilities and general fund split. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-159 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted with the inclusion of the Nussmeier bill. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-159 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Preliminary Engineering Report Acceptance - City Administrator Prafke recommended acceptance of the preliminary engineering report on the Washington Terrace project. Bolton and Menk Engineer Jeff Domras reviewed the report and indicated his estimates for construction cost include $1,916,700 for Washington Terrace Subdivision, $369,400 for the extension of Washington Avenue and $129,100 for water and sewer on Washington Avenue for a total project cost of $2,415,200. In motion by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-160 entitled, “Resolution Accepting Report On Feasibility Of Improvements For Washington Terrace Improvement Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-160 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

Annexation Petition Johnson Property - Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning Commission recommendation for approval of a petition to annex 40 acres of land north of Gault Park. Councilmember Brinker questioned whether the R-3 zoning designation would be more appropriate with an R-5 overlay. Wille indicated covenants could be applied to single family lots when the subdivision is platted. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Ordinance No. 351, Second Series entitled, “An Ordinance Of The City of Saint Peter, Minnesota Annexing Land Located Within The Town Of Traverse, Nicollet County, Minnesota Pursuant To Minn. Stat. 414.033, Subd. 2, Permitting Annexation By Ordinance” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 351, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Authorization For Interfund Loan (TIF District No. 1-14) - Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates, addressed the Council to recommend adoption of a resolution that would authorize an interfund loan for purchase of land and grading for Washington Terrace Subdivision. Sweeney pointed out that the costs would be refunded to the general fund following issuance of a tax increment bond for the project. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-161 entitled, “Resolution Approving Utilization Of Interfund Loan For Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-14 “, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-161 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

TIF District No. 1-15 Establishment - Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates addressed the Council to recommend a public hearing be scheduled for September 8th regarding establishment of tax increment financing District No. 1-15. Sweeney indicated changes in law regarding inclusion of “green acres” land in tax increment districts resulted in the City needing to establish a different housing district for the Washington Terrace project. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-162 entitled, “Resolution Calling Public Hearing On The Establishment Of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-15, Therein And The Adoption Of A Tax Increment Financing Plan Relating Thereto“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-162 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Improvement Project Public Hearing - Finance Director O'Connell recommended a public hearing be scheduled for September 8th to consider a project to construct public improvements in Washington Terrace Subdivision. O’Connell indicated the public hearing was necessary as the costs for the improvement are to be assessed to the individual lots. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-163 entitled, “Resolution Calling For Public Hearing On Washington Terrace Improvement”, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-163 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Washington Terrace Resolution of Support - City Administrator Prafke requested adoption of a resolution of support and commitment for the Washington Terrace Subdivision Project. Prafke indicated the resolution would be submitted with applications for alternate sources of project funding to organizations such as MHFA, GMHF and the Federal Home Loan bank. In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-164 entitled, “Resolution Acknowledging Support And Commitment To Washington Terrace Subdivision Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-164 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

SWMHP Development Administration Agreement - City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of a contract with Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership to perform administrative development services for the Washington Terrace Project similar to the services performed for Nicollet Meadows. Prafke indicated the contract fee was for $18,000 which would be included in the lot prices. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-165 entitled, “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Administrative Development Services Contract For Washington Terrace Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-165 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

North Front Street Improvement Project Bid Award - City Administrator Prafke recommended the bid for the North Front Street Improvement Project be awarded to Southern Minnesota Construction in the amount of $411,491.40 for the base bid and $10,095.00 for the alternate bid for reconstruction of the 100 block of Swift Street. Prafke indicated approximately $220,000 of the project costs would be assessed to abutting property owners with the remainder being financed by debt service of some kind. Councilmember Gover expressed concern that property owners had been provided information concerning their assessments based on lower costs than the actual bids. Prafke indicated staff could provide property owners with information based on the actual bids. In motion by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-166 entitled, “Resolution Awarding Bid For North Front Street Improvement Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-166 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Nicollet County Hazard Mitigation Plan - City Administrator Prafke recommended the City participate with Nicollet County in development of an “All Hazard Mitigation Plan”. Prafke pointed out that being included in the plan was a requirement for the City to access state and federal disaster reimbursement funding should a disaster occur. In motion by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-167 entitled, “Resolution Authorizing Participation In Hazard Mitigation Planning Process“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-167 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Employee Credit Card Use Authorization - Finance Director O'Connell recommended the Council formally authorize the use of credit cards by employees. O’Connell indicated the credit card use would not negate the need for following the purchasing policy including provision of a receipt for all purchases. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-168 entitled, “Resolution Approving Use Of Credit Cards By City Employees“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-168 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant Project Equipment Purchases - City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council authorize purchase of a John Deere front end loader from RDO Equipment off the state bid list in the amount of $97,928.00 and a biosolids spreader from Northland Farm Systems in the amount of $23,140. Prafke indicated the equipment purchases would be funded from the wastewater treatment plant project budget and had originally been included in the project budget. Councilmember Kvamme questioned why equipment with a 15+ year useful life was being financed with “30 year money”. Prafke indicated that the equipment would last many years and the City would be unable to purchase the equipment with conventional funds for the 2.04% interest rate on the wastewater treatment plant. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-169 entitled, “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Loader And Biosolids Spreader For Use At The Wastewater Treatment Plant“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-169 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Trail System Slurry Coating Project - City Administrator Prafke recommended the quote of Nielsen Blacktopping, in the amount of $10,050, be accepted for a project to slurry coat the asphalt trails along Sunrise Drive and Broadway Avenue. In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-170 entitled, “Resolution Accepting Quote For Seal Coat Surface Treatment Of Trail System“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-170 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

Staff Resignation - Mayor Hawbaker extended best wishes to Public Access Assistant Lindsey Beyer, who had submitted her resignation.

 

Compost Site - City Administrator Prafke reminded residents that the compost drop-off site could only be used for the materials indicated at the site and that building materials are not acceptable. Prafke indicated that a recent incident where someone had dropped off lumber had resulted in the person being billed for staff time involved in removal of the materials and proper disposal.

 

Workshop/Goal Session Schedule - City Administrator Prafke reported that the first Council workshop in September would be on the second with a goal session scheduled for Wednesday, September 10th.

 

Peddler License Update - City Administrator Prafke informed the Council that Peddler Wendy June had declined the option of extending her license so that she could make noise to draw attention to her business.

 

Curbside Mailbox Issue - City Administrator Prafke reported he had spoken with an attorney for the postal service who indicated that installation of a curbside mailbox could only be completed with written authorization from the property owner. Prafke further indicated that the attorney had contacted the local postal supervisor to inform him of the need to change the process. Councilmember Pfeifer indicated that the failure of the Local Postmaster to meet with the Council would not deter his opposition to the curbside mailboxes.

 

Rebate Promotion - City Administrator Prafke indicated that 43 customers had applied for the rebate associated with energy efficient washing machine purchases.

 

City Web Site Address - City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers that the City web site address had changed to www.saintpetermn.gov.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Brinker, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 7:56 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 28, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on July 28, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Kvamme, Douglas, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Douglas, to approve the minutes of the July 14, 2003 regular City Council meeting. Councilmember Gover requested that the minutes be changed to reflect the meeting was “recessed” due to a tornado warning and not “adjourned”. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the July 14, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors - Mayor Hawbaker welcomed the members of Boy Scout Troop #58 who were in attendance at the meeting as part of the requirement for obtaining a communications merit badge.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-146 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-146 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

North Industrial Park Subdivision Project Change Order #4 - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a change order to the North Industrial Park project in the amount of $6,670 that would provide for modification to the entrance to the Gault Park parking lot so that the entrance was in alignment with the hospital entrance. In motion by Gover, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-147 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order For North Industrial Park Project” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-147 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Nicollet Meadows Subdivision Project Change Order #5 - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a change order in the amount of $13,730 to provide for repair of sidewalks/boulevards in Nicollet Meadows Subdivision and for relocation of a handicapped sidewalk entrance. Prafke indicated the handicapped sidewalk would be funded by Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership as Southwest had requested the change as part of its multi-family housing development project. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-148 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #5 For Nicollet Meadows Subdivision Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-148 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

National Housing Alliance Project Bonds - City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council provide preliminary approval for a request by National Housing Alliance for the City to issue $9,500,000 in tax exempt revenue bonds to help finance the Appletree Village project. Prafke indicated the City had previously approved a similar action for the Wilds of Sand Prairie project and the issuance, if approved by the State of Minnesota, would not impact the City’s debt limits. Prafke also indicated that a public hearing would be required prior to actual issuance of any bonds. In motion by Brinker, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-149 entitled “Resolution Giving Preliminary Approval To The Issuance Of Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds (Appletree Village of Saint Peter Project), Pursuant To Minnesota Statutes Chapters 462A and 462C; On Behalf Of National Housing Alliance, LLC“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-149 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

City Assistance Request: TRAM - City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council authorize City assistance to the Chamber of Commerce for the Multiple Sclerosis Society TRAM bike ride which was coming to Saint Peter on July 31st. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-150 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Provision Of City Assistance To Chamber Of Commerce For ‘TRAM’ Event“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-150 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Street Name Change - City Administrator Prafke recommended that the portion of North Washington Avenue located between Sunrise Drive and Dodd Avenue be renamed to “SUNRISE DRIVE” to alleviate confusion among drivers following the extension of Sunrise Drive north of Dodd Avenue. Councilmember Gover pointed out an error in the Ordinance which was corrected. In motion by Gover, seconded by Brinker, Ordinance No. 350, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Of The City of Saint Peter, Minnesota Renaming A Portion Of North Washington Avenue To Sunrise Drive“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 350, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Seal Coat Project Bid Award - City Administrator Prafke recommended the bid for the 2003 seal coat project be awarded to Pearson Brothers at $1.22 per gallon applied and the quotes of Tate Construction ($5,361) and Nate Nimps ($5,445) be accepted for handicapped sidewalk installation at various locations in the City. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-151 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For 2003 Seal Coat Project And Accepting Quotes For Installation Of Handicapped Sidewalks“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-151 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Nicollet Avenue Design - City Administrator Prafke recommended Bolton and Menk be retained to prepare the design plans, specifications, and contract documents for an extension of Nicollet Avenue between County Road 15 and Traverse Road for a not to exceed fee of $104,300. Prafke indicated the City had a cooperative agreement with the County for construction of the roadway. In motion by Gover, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-152 entitled “Resolution Retaining Bolton and Menk To Design Nicollet Avenue Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-152 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

“Washington Meadows” Subdivision Project - City Administrator Prafke recommended Bolton and Menk be retained to prepare a preliminary engineering report for the construction of a new subdivision tentatively titled “Washington Meadows” and for extension of North Washington Avenue. In motion by Gover, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-153 entitled “Resolution Retaining Bolton and Menk To Prepare Preliminary Engineering Report For ‘Washington Meadows’ Subdivision“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-153 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2004 Transit Grant Application - City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for submission of a grant application to the State of Minnesota for operating funds for the transit system in 2004. Prafke indicated that the grant application indicates the state funding 60% of the $202,576 operating budget and the City financing 40%. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-154 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of 2004 Transit Grant Application“, was introduced. Councilmember Gover asked that the last “whereas” of the resolution be moved to the second paragraph. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-154 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

MRCI Janitorial Services Contract - City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of a contract with MRCI for janitorial services at the Community Center. In motion by Wright, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-155 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of MRCI Contract For Janitorial Services At Community Center“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-155 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Austin Drive Property Issue - City Administrator Prafke indicated that the owner of property at 925 Austin Drive had encroached into McGill Park with construction of a carport and a garage. Prafke indicated the property owner was attempting to sell the home and could not obtain clear title with the encroachment. Prafke indicated staff’s recommendation to authorize a trade of equal property to solve the encroachment issue and that staff be directed to research other ways to make property owners aware of policy and to protect publicly owned land from encroachment. City Attorney Brandt indicated the land transfer was being recommended in an effort to treat every situation of property owners encroaching onto public property in the same manner. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-156 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Land Trade Involving Austin Drive Property And McGill Park Property“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-156 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

License Applications - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the new license applications under consideration. Councilmembers discussed the peddler’s permit application of Claude Witt and whether the vendor intended to draw attention to his truck. Claude Witt of C.W. Vending, indicated his vehicle has a tape that plays chimes/music over radio speakers. Witt indicated his belief that playing the music was part of the “charm” of his business. Councilmember Brinker objected to treating the applicant in a different manner from a previous peddler license applicant who was instructed not to play music. Prafke indicated the previous applicant had been provided a reduced permit fee in exchange for meeting certain conditions including having to abide by the City’s noise ordinance. Councilmember Kvamme read the “prohibited practices” language of the peddler’s ordinance which stated, “It is unlawful for any person licensed under this Chapter, to call attention to his business or to his merchandise by crying out, blowing a horn, ringing a bell, or by any loud or unusual noise, or by use of any amplifying device.” Councilmember Gover asked that staff contact the previous applicant and indicate she could play music if she paid the increased fee. Councilmembers directed that staff review the peddler’s ordinance for discussion at a later date. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-157 entitled “Resolution Approving New Licenses“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-157 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Tourism Board Park Use Request - City Administrator Prafke presented the Tourism and Visitors Bureau board request for construction of a tourist attraction to be known as the “Pearly Gates” in Levee Park near the Chamber building. Prafke indicated the Tourism Bureau would be responsible for all construction and maintenance costs for the structure and the City would provide insurance on the structure. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-158 entitled “Resolution Allowing Use Of Land In Levee Park For Tourist Attraction“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-158 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

City/County Meeting Schedule - City Administrator Prafke reported the next City/County meeting was scheduled for July 31st at 3:00 p.m.

 

Town/Gown Committee Meeting - City Administrator Prafke reported on discussion at the last Town/Gown committee meeting.

 

Summit Meeting - City Administrator Prafke reported staff had been unable to find a date for a summit meeting that worked for all parties. Prafke indicated the County Administrator, School Superintendent and he would pick a date and ask that those members who were available attend the meeting.

 

Mailbox Placement - City Administrator Prafke reiterated the City’s position regarding repair/replacement of curbside mailboxes damaged by snow plowing and street cleaning and indicated the boxes being placed by the Postal Service did not meet the City’s standards for construction. Councilmember Pfeifer indicated his opposition to the curbside placement of mailboxes by the Postal Service and cited safety concerns for the elderly and concern for the aesthetics of the black boxes. Pfeifer asked residents who also have concerns over mailbox placement at curbside to contact him. Pfeifer also asked that an agenda item be included on the next Council meeting to discuss fighting the installation of the curbside boxes. Councilmember Gover expressed concern over the confusion residents have about placement of the boxes and that new homeowners are not being provided with an opportunity to decline installation of curbside boxes before they move in.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Brinker, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 8:12 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 14, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on July 14, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Kvamme, Douglas, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Wright, seconded by Brinker, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the June 23, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the June 23, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Public Hearing: Zoning Ordinance Amendment Request RP-1 - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on modifications to City Code regulations regarding permitted uses in RP-1 zones at 7:01 p.m. Community Development Director Wille indicated an application had been made to amend the City Code to allow art studios in RP-1 (Residential Professional) zones and the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the request. Petitioners Robert and Victoria Vogel, 215 North Minnesota Avenue, indicated they expected only 2-3 cars at the property per day and the stained glass work did not involve any loud noise or extreme heat like a furnace. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:05 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: Zoning Ordinance Amendment Request C-3 - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on modifications to City Code regulations regarding permitted uses in C-3 zones at 7:05 p.m. Community Development Director Wille indicated an application had been made to amend the City Code to allow radio and television studios in the C-3 zone. Wille reported the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the request. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:08 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: Alley Vacation - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on a request to vacate an alley in Lampert’s Subdivision at 7:08 p.m. Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning Commission recommendation to approve vacation of the alley subject to maintaining a utility easement. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:11 p.m.

 

Visitors - Chamber President Larry Haugen addressed the Council to express appreciation for the “excellent support and outstanding cooperation” received from City staff during the Fourth of July events. Haugen indicated his belief that the Council should be “very proud of City staff at all levels for their efforts”.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-125 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-125 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

2002 Audit Presentation - Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich and Company Auditor Jim Eichten provided an overview of the City’s 2002 audit. Eichten presented a clean (unqualified) opinion and reviewed his opinions related to the General Fund and the City’s enterprise funds. Eichten also indicated findings related to an ongoing need to have additional segregation of duties in the Finance Department, employees use of credit cards without the Council having authorized such use by resolution; and a failure to obtain competitive bids on group insurance without the last five years. Eichten cautioned about the $4.3 million in non-reimbursed funds relating to the electric system and tornado repairs/upgrades; the Transit fund deficit situation; the need to establish a fixed asset records system by December 31, 2003, and implementation of the accounting standard GASB #34. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-126 entitled “Resolution Accepting 2002 Financial Statements Together With Independent Auditor’s Report” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-126 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

RP-1 Zoning Ordinance Amendment Request- Community Development Director Wille again presented the Planning Commission recommendation for inclusion of artist’s studios as a permitted use in RP-1 zones. Councilmember Gover recommended the Council accept the Assistant City Attorney’s recommendation to include the following language in the Code modification, “Studio of an artist, photographer, craftsman, writer, composer, or person engaged in an endeavor of similar artistic nature. Specifically excluded from allowed uses are any type of endeavor which includes public performance, be that theater, performance art, concerts, dance studios, etc.” In motion by Gover, seconded by Wright, Ordinance No. 348, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Section 11.40, Subdivision 2, By Adding An Additional Permitted Use Within An RP-1 ‘Residential And Professional Office Highway Service District’ Zone” was introduced with the additional language. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 348, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

C-3 Zoning Ordinance Amendment Request - Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning Commission recommendation to include “radio and television studios and facilities” as permitted uses within C-3 zones. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Ordinance No. 349, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Section 11.51, Subdivision 2 By Adding An Additional Permitted Use Within A C-3 Limited Retail And Service Commercial District” was introduced. Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the radio station would be allowed to rebuild a tower if it were destroyed. Wille indicated a variance would be required to rebuild a structure higher than 20’ in the C-3 zone. Kvamme also suggested a language modification to include the word “office” as part of the permitted use. A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Wright to modify the language to “radio and television studios, offices, and facilities” With all in favor, the motion carried. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted as amended. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 349, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Alley Vacation Request: Lampert Subdivision- Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning Commission recommendation to approve vacation of the east-west alley in Block 2, Lampert’s Subdivision. In motion by Wright, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-127 entitled “Resolution Vacating The East-West Alley Lying North Of Lot 4, Block 2, Lampert’s Subdivision” was introduced.

 

The meeting was temporarily recessed at 8:02 p.m. due to a tornado warning. The meeting resumed at 8:42 p.m.

 

Councilmember Gover questioned whether the language vacating the alley was sufficient to meet legal requirements for alley vacation. City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council instruct the City Attorney to provide the appropriate language for the vacation and the Council proceed with adoption of the resolution with that understanding. Councilmember Kvamme indicated his belief that overgrowth of vegetation was not a valid reason to vacate an alley. A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer to remove the language “Whereas, the east-west alley abutting the Gockel property is overgrown with shrubs, trees and other vegetative growth; and”. With all in favor, the motion carried. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as amended. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-127 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Nichols Street Improvement Petition- City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council formally acknowledge receipt of a petition for improvement of Nichols Street between Gault Street and Old Minnesota Avenue and direct staff to provide a preliminary cost estimate for the project. Prafke indicated acknowledgement of the petition, which had not been signed by all abutting property owners, did not commit the City to the project. In motion by Gover, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-128 entitled “Resolution Acknowledging Receipt Of Petition For Improvement Of Nichols Street Between Gault Street And Old Minnesota Avenue” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-128 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Old Minnesota Avenue Water/Sewer Project Final Acceptance - City Administrator Prafke requested the Council approve Change Order #3 for the project in the amount of $1,349.05 and accept the Old Minnesota Avenue Water and Sewer Project subject to receipt of final paperwork from the contractor. In motion by Wright, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-129 entitled “Resolution Accepting Old Minnesota Avenue Water And Sewer Project And Authorizing Final Payment” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-129 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Director of Building Position Description- City Administrator Prafke recommended the Director of Building position description be modified to make the minimum education requirement an AAS degree or appropriate technical school certificate and to include a Bachelor’s degree as a desired qualification. In motion by Gover, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-130 entitled “Resolution Approving Modification To Director Of Building Position Description” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-130 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Storm Water Detention Project Land Purchase- City Administrator Prafke indicated the owner of property the City had been authorized to initiate eminent domain proceedings against had offered to sell the entire 40 acre tract at a price of $13,000 per acre. Prafke recommended the Council authorize execution of a purchase agreement for the property, 12 acres of which would be used for storm water detention and the remaining acreage could be used for future housing development. Prafke warned that if the extra acreage wasn’t developed or sold in a timely manner the $520,000 purchase price could create a cash shortage for the City. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-131 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Property For Storm Water Detention And Future Development” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-131 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Construction Maintenance Worker Position (Recreation) - City Administrator Prafke recommended that previous Council action to create a Construction Maintenance Worker position in the Recreation and Leisure Services Department be rescinded and authorization be provided to create a Facilities Maintenance Lead Worker position in its place. Prafke indicated the recruitment process for the Construction Maintenance position provided candidates with street construction skills rather than the facilities maintenance skills needed. Prafke expressed his belief that the new position would better meet the needs of the Recreation Department for maintenance of the Community Center. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-132 entitled “Resolution Approving Creation Of Facilities Maintenance Lead Worker Position” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-132 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

TIF District No. 1-14 Modification- Community Development Director Wille and Mike Mubany of David Drown Associates, addressed the Council to recommend a public hearing be scheduled for September 8th on a proposed modification to the budget and boundaries of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District No. 1-14. In motion by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-133 entitled “Resolution Calling A Public Hearing On The Budget And Boundary Modification Of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-14 Therein And The Adoption Of A Modified Tax Increment Financing Plan Relating Thereto” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-133 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

TIF Financing Development Agreement- City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided to execute a tax increment development agreement between the City and the developers of Orchard Ridge Subdivision. Prafke indicated the agreement would set out the terms of the tax increment payments to the developers and the timeline for use of increments. In motion by Gover, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-134 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of A Development Agreement By And Between The City Of Saint Peter And National Housing Alliance, LLC” was introduced. Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the agreement would allow the developer to turn the moderate income units into non-qualified units after 2011. Prafke indicated that would be the case. Councilmember Gover pointed out the TIF district was a “pay as you go” plan. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-134 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Revolving Loan Modification: Ori LLC- Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to allow the ORI LLC loan, which had been secured by a quit claim deed on the property, to be converted to a second position behind a conventional bank mortgage. Wille indicated the loan would be paid on a 20 year amortization schedule with a five year balloon payment. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-135 entitled “Resolution Approving Subordination Of Second Mortgage For Refinancing Of ORI, LLC Debt Subject To Modification Of Existing Promissory Note” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-135 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Enterprise Fund Budgets Adoption- -City Administrator Prafke and Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the 2003 enterprise fund budgets. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-136 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2003 Enterprise Fund Budgets” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-136 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

1993B General Obligation TIF Bonds Pre-Payment- City Administrator Prafke and Finance Director O'Connell recommended the Council ratify their action to prepay the 1993B general obligation TIF bonds which resulted in a savings of over $22,000. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-137 entitled “Resolution Approving The Call For Redemption Of Outstanding Maturities Of The City’s Taxable General Obligation Tax Increment Bonds, Series 1993B“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-137 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Hospital Ambulance Garage Quotes- City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council accept the quote of H.E. Westerman for construction of a metal storage shed/ambulance garage for the new hospital at a price of $48,908. Prafke pointed out that the process had not met the City’s purchasing policy requirements which would have required formal bids for purchases over $35,000, but had met the State regulations which require formal bids over $50,000. Prafke also pointed out that the Morton Buildings bid of $44,549 contained material omissions that would have increased the cost above the Westerman quote. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-138 entitled “Resolution Accepting Quote For Hospital Ambulance Garage Building” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-138 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Orchard Ridge Subdivision Project Inspection Services- City Administrator Prafke recommended Bolton and Menk be retained to provide construction inspection services for the Orchard Ridge Subdivision project at a cost not to exceed $62,600 which would be reimbursed by the developer. Prafke indicated the City inspector was occupied with the wastewater treatment plant project and the North Industrial Park Subdivision project. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-139 entitled “Resolution Retaining Bolton And Menk To Provide Inspection Services For Orchard Ridge Subdivision Project” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-139 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant Cross Over Pipe- City Administrator Prafke recommended approval for a change to the wastewater treatment plant project to provide a cross over pipe to allow re-circulation or transfer of the discharge from the plant to the treatment ponds should the effluent not meet the Pollution Control Agency regulations by November 1, 2003. Prafke recommended O’Brien Plumbing and Heating be authorized to install the pipe at a cost of $14,210. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-140 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Crossover Pipe For Wastewater Treatment Plant Project” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-140 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant Air Quality Testing Services- City Administrator Prafke recommended Golder and Associates be retained to provide Pollution Control Agency required testing of exhaust from the generation plant for a fee of $7,648. In motion by Wright, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-141 entitled “Resolution Retaining Consultant To Perform Air Quality Testing For The Electric Generation Plant Project” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-141 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Generation Plant Landscaping Project- City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council approve direct purchase of gravel, asphalt, sod, shrubbery, trees and miscellaneous landscaping items for the generation plant site. Prafke indicated the materials would be installed by City staff for a total cost of $17,362.58. Councilmember Gover questioned the need to have extensive landscaping in a remote area. In motion by Gover, seconded by Brinker, a resolution entitled “Resolution Authorizing Asphalt, Trees, And Sod For The Electric Generation Plant” was introduced with the trees, shrubbery and miscellaneous landscaping materials eliminated from consideration and lowering the cost of the project to $14,728.25. Upon roll call, Councilmembers Brinker, Wright, Gover voting aye, Councilmembers Douglas, Pfeifer, Kvamme and Mayor Hawbaker voting nay, the resolution was defeated. A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, to reconsider Resolution No. 2003-142 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Asphalt, Trees, And Sod For The Electric Generation Plant”, which included the trees and shrubbery purchases. Upon roll call, Councilmembers Brinker, Pfeifer, Wright, Kvamme, Douglas and Mayor Hawbaker voting aye, Councilmember Gover voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-142 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Electric Utility Computer Equipment Replacement- City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council authorize replacement of the SCADA system to an upgraded system, an item which had been budgeted, and replacement of the failed computer system at the west substation, an item which was not budgeted. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-143 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Replacement Of Electric SCADA System And Replacement Computer For West Substation” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-143 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Election Budget Modification- City Administrator Prafke recommended the wage for election judges be increased to $7.75 per hour and the practice of providing refreshments for judges be eliminated. Prafke indicated the increased wages may attract more judge candidates. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-144 entitled “Resolution Providing For Election Judge Wage Increase” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-144 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

License Applications- City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council approve a peddler’s license application. In motion by Brinker, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-145 entitled “Resolution Approving License” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-145 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

Fourth of July/All School Reunion Wrap Up- Mayor Hawbaker echoed the Chamber President’s sentiments regarding City staff and the All School Reunion volunteers. City Administrator Prafke indicated that staff had made note of some problems with the Reunion event and those issues would be addressed should future reunions be planned.

 

Community Center Summer Hours- City Administrator Prafke reported declining use of the Community Center during summer evening hours has led to the decision to close the facility at 8:00 p.m. during the summer.

 

Wind Power - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and residents that wind power blocks are still available for sale.

 

EDI Funding - City Administrator Prafke thanked the members of the Development Corporation and the Ambassadors for their financial support of the City’s economic development incentive.

 

Farmer’s Market - City Administrator Prafke and Councilmember Gover reported the Farmer’s Market had gone well on the opening day.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, to adjourn at 9:50 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JUNE 23, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on June 23, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Kvamme, Douglas, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Wright, seconded by Brinker, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Gover, to approve the minutes of the June 9, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the June 9, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-116 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-116 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Personnel Policy Modification - City Administrator Prafke reviewed his recommendation to modify the personnel policy to include a provision prohibiting employees from carrying firearms on their person while acting in the course and scope of their employment with the City. Prafke indicated that action on the modification had been tabled at the previous meeting and would need a motion/second to reconsider the item. A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright to un-table the action. With all in favor, the motion carried. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-117 entitled “Resolution Modifying Personnel Policy Handbook“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-117 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

North Industrial Park Project Change Order No. 3 - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of change order #3 for the North Industrial Park project which would provide for installation of a water meter in Gault Park at a cost of $8,085. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-118 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Change Order No. 3 For North Industrial Park Subdivision Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-118 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Alley Interceptor Sewer Project Change Order No. 7 - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of change order #7 for the Alley Interceptor Sewer Project which would provide for closure of the Broadway Avenue driveway for Taco John’s, removal of a low spot in front of the Food Coop property, and replacement of the alley access and sidewalk on the north side of the 100 block of Broadway Avenue. Councilmember Gover questioned whether closure of the Broadway access to Taco John’s would result in increased traffic safety problems on Highway 169. Councilmember Brinker suggested Taco John’s be asked to move a security light on the west side of the property and that “no parking” restrictions be placed on Highway 169 from Broadway Avenue north to the Taco John’s entrance. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-119 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Change Order No. 7 For Alley Interceptor Sewer Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-119 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Hospital Audit Presentation - Community Hospital Finance Director Ken Cornish presented an overview of the 2002 hospital audit. Cornish indicated that patient revenues had increased 10.1%, expenditures increased 6.6%; operating income increased 114%, operating cash increased 27.7%, total assets increased 32%, total liabilities increased 105% mostly due to the cat scan lease, and the hospital’s net worth increased 19.3%. Cornish also indicated that although the hospital was doing very well, the year to date revenues were down substantially due to there being fewer physicians at the clinic. Cornish pointed out that hospital staff was watching expenditures closely and that the hospital was still making a small profit.

 

Fourth of July Assistance Request - City Administrator Prafke recommended the City provide the assistance requested by the Chamber of Commerce for the Fourth of July event. Prafke indicated the assistance included parking restrictions, street closures, use of Minnesota Square Park, use of Municipal Parking Lot #5 for parade staging, and staff labor from the Police and Public Works Departments. Prafke also indicated the City would spray for mosquitoes in the parks on either July 2nd or 3rd. In motion by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-120 entitled “Resolution Authorizing City Assistance For Fourth Of July Event“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-120 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Assistant City Attorney Appointment - City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt recommended the appointment of third year law student Matthew S. Krohn as an Assistant City Attorney under the student practice rules for the duration of his employment at Brandt Law Office. Brandt indicated Krohn would be limited to simple arraignment work which would free up Attorneys Brandt and Magnus for more complex cases. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-121 entitled “Resolution Appointing Matthew S. Krohn As An Assistant City Attorney Under Student Practice Rules“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-121 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Public Works Vehicle Purchase - City Administrator Prafke reported the City had been awarded a $10,000 grant for purchase of a bucket/chipper truck which was currently being leased. Prafke recommended the City proceed with purchase of the vehicle with the remaining funds coming from the 2003 Environmental Services budget and the approximately $8,000 received through sale of surplus property at auction. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-122 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Bucket/Chipper Truck“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-122 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Use Of City Property: Farmer’s Market - City Administrator Prafke recommended the City allow use of the vacant lot at 101 West Nassau Street for a farmer’s market on Tuesdays and Saturdays from July 12, 2003 through October 25, 2003. Prafke indicated the farmer’s market was expected to increase pedestrian traffic and tourism in the downtown area. In motion by Wright, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-123 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Use Of City Property“, was introduced. Councilmember Gover questioned who would be responsible for trash clean up on site. Prafke indicated the vendors would be responsible for clean up and removal of trash. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-123 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

License Applications - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of sidewalk use permits for the Flame Bar and the American Legion during the Fourth of July weekend. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-124 entitled “Resolution Approving License Applications“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003- is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Reports

 

Habitat For Humanity - Mayor Hawbaker reported he had attended a ten year anniversary celebration of the Habitat for Humanity organization in Saint Peter.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Conference Award Presentation- Mayor Hawbaker reported the League of Minnesota Cities had awarded the C.C. Ludwig leadership award for outstanding appointed City officials to Saint Peter Administrator Todd Prafke. Hawbaker congratulated Prafke on the honor.

 

Baby News - Councilmembers congratulated Bolton and Menk Engineer Jeff Domras on the birth of his twin sons.

 

Development Corporation Promotion - City Administrator Prafke directed Councilmember attention to the pamphlets offering cash payments to individuals bringing new businesses to Saint Peter. Prafke asked those interested in the program to contact either a Development Corporation member or a member of the Ambassadors.

 

Workshop Schedule- City Administrator Prafke reported that the June 30th Council workshop would be cancelled. Councilmembers objected to canceling the meeting and Prafke indicated a meeting would be scheduled.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Wright, to adjourn at 7:53 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JUNE 9, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on June 9, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Kvamme, Douglas, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Wright, seconded by Gover, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Douglas, to approve the minutes of the May 27, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the May 27, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Public Hearing: TIF District N. 1-14 Establishment - Mayor Hawbaker opened the public hearing on establishment of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-14 at 7:03 p.m. Community Development Director Wille provided an overview of the proposed tax increment financing (TIF) district and indicated that although the district could be in place for twenty-six (26) years, the development agreement for Orchard Ridge Subdivision would limit the number of increments that would be provided to the developer to six years and the increments would be used to reimburse the developer for improvements in the right-of-way. City Administrator Prafke indicated establishment of the TIF housing district would connect with a new phase of a Nicollet Meadows type subdivision should the Council pursue that development. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:06 p.m.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-110 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-110 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

TIF District No. 1-14 Establishment - Community Development Director Wille recommended the Council proceed with adoption of the tax increment financing plan and creation of the district for TIF District No. 1-14. Wille indicated the current tax capacity of the district was $90,000 and when the project is complete, the tax capacity would be approximately $9.5 million and generate $85,000 per year in increments. In motion by Gover, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-111 entitled “Resolution Approving The Creation Of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-14 And Adoption Of The Tax Increment Financing Plan Relating Thereto“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-111 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Gargett Building Sale- Community Development Director Wille recommended the City Council accept John Mayer’s bid of $85,000 for purchase of the property at 202 South Minnesota Avenue. Wille indicated the bid was the highest of the two received and Mayer planned to renovate the residential units on the second floor and establish a retail business on the first floor. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-112 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Purchase Agreement For Sale Of 202 South Minnesota Avenue Property Within Block 177½ Amended Plat“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-112 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

All School Reunion Assistance Request- City Administrator Prafke reviewed staff’s recommendation to approve a request to provide City assistance for the All School reunion event including closing of certain streets, use of barricades, and labor by Police Officers, Reserve Officers, Public Works staff, and Recreation and Leisure Services staff for tours of the library, Community Center and City. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-113 entitled “Resolution Authorizing City Assistance For All School Reunion“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-113 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Dranttel/Pexa Annexation Request- Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning Commission recommendation for approval of a request to annex 1.1 acres of land located on Old Minnesota Avenue in Traverse Township. Wille indicated the annexation was being requested so that the property owners can connect to City utilities. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Brinker, Ordinance No. 346, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Of The City Of Saint Peter, Minnesota Annexing Land Located Within The Town Of Traverse, Nicollet County, Minnesota Pursuant To Minnesota Statutes 414.033, Subdivision 2 Permitting Annexation By Ordinance“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 346, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Rezoning Request- Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning Commission recommendation to approve a request to rezone property zoned C-4 Highway Service Commercial to I-1 General Industrial so that the property owner could construct a building for personal storage. Councilmember Brinker indicated the Planning Commission had extensive discussion on the request and Wille indicated the comprehensive plan update might include a recommendation to modify the zoning ordinance to allow storage facilities within a highway commercial district. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Brinker, Ordinance No. 347, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Chapter 11 By Rezoning A Tract Of Land From C-4 (Highway Service Commercial) To I-1 (General Industrial) District“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 347, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Street Vacation Request: Chestnut Street- - Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning Commission recommendation to vacate the southern eight feet of the Chestnut Street right-of-way in the plat of Traverse des Sioux. Wille indicated the recent annexation of the Orchard Ridge Subdivision property did not provide for vacation of this portion of Chestnut Street within the Traverse des Sioux plat and the developer was unable to obtain title insurance without Council action to vacate. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-114 entitled “Resolution Vacating The Southern Eight Feet Of Chestnut Street Lying West Of Vacated Sixth Street And Adjoining Block Fourteen Of The Plat Of Traverse des Sioux In The City of Saint Peter“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-114 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

SMMPA Wind Power Rates - City Administrator Prafke recommended that the current rate of $3.50 for a 100 kilowatt block of wind power be reduced to $1.00. Prafke indicated SMMPA had constructed two wind turbines near Fairmont and had acted to reduce the cost of wind power blocks while making more blocks available to customers. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-115 entitled “Resolution Revising Premium Electric Rate For Wind Generated Electric Power“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-115 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 14.

 

Personnel Policy Modification- City Administrator Prafke recommended the personnel policy be modified to restrict employees from carrying or possessing firearms upon his/her person or within his/her vehicle while acting in the course and scope of employment with the City. Councilmember Douglas objected to the action and indicated his belief that such an action infringes on an employee’s rights. Douglas also indicated his belief that the resolution language “Whereas, the Minnesota Legislature recently enacted a law allowing individuals to carry concealed weapons” was untruthful. A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, to table action on the modification until discussion at a Council workshop. With Councilmembers Douglas, Brinker and Pfeifer voting aye, Councilmembers Gover, Kvamme, and Wright voting nay, Mayor Hawbaker declared action on the resolution tabled until discussion at a workshop.

 
Reports

 

Marine Corps League/Auxiliary - Mayor Hawbaker reported he had provided the welcome for the state convention of the Marine Corps League and Auxiliary at Gustavus.

 

City/School Meeting- City Administrator Prafke indicated the discussion at the recent City/School meeting included state budget, water leaks, bus stop safety, Human Rights Commission, cooperation with GAC, public access, school board representation on Council advisory boards, and a renewed offer for the School to take over ownership of Lincoln Drive. Councilmember Kvamme indicated they had also discussed the Volunteer Coordinator position.

 

City/County Meeting- City Administrator Prafke reported the discussion at the recent City/County meeting included reorganization of the extension service and possible location of a regional office in Saint Peter, state budget issues, the All School reunion, detox holds, generation plant operation, tax abatement, and hazardous waste collection.

 

State Budget Information - City Administrator Prafke provided an update on the City’s response to state budget cuts and indicated the cuts would be handled as part of the regular budget process.

 

Slurry Coat Testing - City Administrator Prafke reported a test of the slurry coat process, which could be used in place of seal coating, was being performed on the 100 block of West Saint Julien Street. Prafke thanked the owners of the Holiday Station and McDonald’s for their patience during the test process.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Wright, seconded by Brinker, to adjourn at 7:46 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 27, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on May 27, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Brinker, Gover, Kvamme, Douglas, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Wright, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Wright, to approve the minutes of the April 24, 2003 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the April 24, 2003 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, to approve the minutes of the May 12, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the May 12, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the May 12, 2003 Board of Appeal and Equalization continuation meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the May 12, 2003 Board of Appeal and Equalization continuation meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors - Clair McRostie, representing the Pine Pointe Homeowners Association, addressed the Council to request no parking restrictions on the south side of Jefferson Avenue from the west City limits to the college area. McRostie indicated his belief that parked cars on both sides of the roadway create traffic safety hazards for vehicles and pedestrians.

 

Amanda Grey, 447 South Seventh Street, addressed the Council to request approval of the property use permit request submitted by Gustavus Adolphus College graduates requesting permission to block off one block of Myrtle Street for a graduation party.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-101 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced with the removal of the Peddler Permit request submitted by Wendy June. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-101 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

In motion by Brinker, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2002-102 entitled “Resolution Approving Peddler License At Reduced Fee” was introduced. Councilmembers discussed the applicant’s request to peddle ice cream from a bicycle while playing music. Councilmembers expressed belief that the activity was “historic in nature” and recommended the license be granted at the reduced fee of $25 with conditions that 70% of the business sales be conducted by the applicant’s children, only non-motorized vehicles be used for the sale and transport of the merchandise, there be no door to door sales, and should the applicant wish to sell at a community event, she must have permission from the sponsoring organization prior to making sales. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-102 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Mosquito Control Program - City Administrator Prafke presented information on the possibility of resuming a mosquito spraying program in the City which would include spraying in public owned areas prior to a community event no more than six times per year. Prafke indicated the cost would be approximately $1,000 for purchase of the necessary equipment and a staff person would have to be licensed to perform the spraying. Councilmember Gover expressed concerns over the toxicity of the chemicals used and indicated her belief that it was more effective to target mosquito larvae than adult mosquitoes. Gover also requested that the public be provided with adequate notification prior to any spraying taking place should the Council proceed with the program. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-103 entitled “Resolution Establishing Limited Mosquito Control Spraying Program“, was introduced. Upon roll call, Councilmembers Pfeifer, Wright, Kvamme, Brinker and Mayor Hawbaker voting aye, Councilmembers Gover and Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-103 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

New License Applications - Police Chief Peters presented applications for peddlers licenses for sale of fireworks and a request to close one block of Myrtle Street for a graduation party. Peters reviewed the concerns of staff and neighboring property owners regarding the street closure request which included alley access issues, vandalism concerns, and a neighbor who works nights who was concerned about noise during the day. Peters also indicated that while the application was similar to one received in 2002, the organizers were planning on selling tickets for the party. Councilmembers expressed a desire to allow the street closure and to review the process in the future. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-104 entitled “Resolution Approving License Applications“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-104 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

MNDOT Standard Agent Agreement - Public Works Director Giesking requested execution of an agreement with the Department of Transportation that would authorize MNDOT to act as the City’s agent for City projects which are federally funded. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-105 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Standard Agreement To Use MNDOT As City’s Agent For Processing Projects That Receive Federal Funding“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-105 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

North Industrial Park Change Order #2 - Public Works Director Giesking recommended Change Order #2 for the North Industrial Park Subdivision project be authorized in the amount of $35,000. Giesking indicated that changes in County regulations regarding installation of sanitary sewer along County Road 15 necessitated the change order. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-106 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #2 For North Industrial Park Subdivision Project“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-106 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Electric Generation Facility- Public Works Director Giesking recommended the Council accept the electric generation facility as being “substantially complete”. Giesking indicated the formal acceptance was a condition of the agreement with SMMPA for construction and operation of the facility. Councilmembers asked questions about the testing which was recently completed and whether the facility would benefit Saint Peter residents in the event of transmission problems outside the City. Giesking indicated transmission problems from other areas may still impact City residents and the plant could be started within three minutes of a Lineman being at the plant if necessary. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-107 entitled “Resolution Accepting The Electric Generation Facility As Substantially Complete For Operation“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-107 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Vaccination Safety Policy Modification- Public Works Director Giesking recommended certain Public Works staff be offered vaccinations for Hepatitis A protection. Giesking indicated that exposure to fecal matter increased concerns about contracting Hepatitis A and nineteen employees were considered to be at high risk for exposure. In motion by Wright, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-108 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Hepatitis A Vaccinations“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-108 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Workshop Schedule- Mayor Hawbaker asked for discussion on continuing the current Council workshop schedule which calls for workshops on non-Council meeting Mondays. Councilmember Gover expressed her belief that scheduling workshops should be done based on items to be discussed. Councilmembers also discussed canceling the June 30, 2003 workshop, however no action was taken to modify the schedule.

 

Personnel Policy Modification- City Administrator Prafke recommended the personnel policy be modified to allow employment of youth as young as fourteen years for certain jobs to be determined by the City Administrator. Prafke indicated that some jobs in the Community Center and library may be appropriate for those aged 14-17. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-109 entitled “Resolution Modifying Personnel Policy Handbook“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-109 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Reports

 

Memorial Day Observance - Mayor Hawbaker reported the Memorial Day ceremonies in Saint Peter had been well attended.

 

Joint Mankato Meeting - -City Administrator Prafke reviewed the joint Mankato/Saint Peter Council workshop and indicated the two Councils would meet again in 3-4 months.

 

Goal Session Report- City Administrator Prafke indicated the second quarter Council goal session included discussion on the “big picture” and prioritizing budget issues.

 

Wind Energy Availability - City Administrator Prafke also reported that SMMPA announced Saint Peter sells the largest amount of wind energy blocks of all SMMPA cities.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, to adjourn at 8:15 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF APPEAL AND EQUALIZATION MEETING

APRIL 24, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the Board of Appeal and Equalization of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Commissioner’s Room of the Nicollet County Government Center on April 24, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. The following members were present: Douglas, Kvamme, Pfeifer, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. Absent were Councilmembers Gover and Brinker. The following officials were present: County Assessor Doreen Pehrson, Deputy Assessor Lorna Sandvik, Deputy Assessor Bridget Olson, and Deputy Assessor Chuck Zieman.


Assessor Pehrson distributed an appeal letter from Davisco Inc. regarding the property at 101 North Front Street in Saint Peter.

 

Darin Ogren, 907 Menk Drive, appealed his valuation of $166,500. Mr. Ogren indicated he had received an appraisal as part of refinancing his home on February 27, 2003 which appraised the property at $155,000.

 

Larry Thordson, 325 West Wabasha, requested a reduction in his valuation of $122,200 to between $90,000 and $95,000. Mr. Thordson indicated his water lines freeze unless water is left running all winter and the repair cost would be $10,000. Mr. Thordson also pointed out the home has severe moisture problems which will be very expensive to repair.

 

Larry Thordson, owner of property at 305 North Front Street, further appealed the valuation on the property of $32,900.

 

Timothy Fister, 314 South Third Street, appealed the valuation of $101,800 placed on his property. Mr. Fister indicated his belief that his building is a unique property and based on square footage the valuation should be $80,000. Mr. Fister further indicated that he had been unable to obtain information from the Assessor’s office, in the format he wished to use, that he felt would allow him to better present the reasons for his appeal.

 

Eileen Kivi, 1009 South Front Street, appealed the valuation of $107,400 on her property. Ms. Kivi indicated she had an appraisal on the property in January of 2003 which indicated a value of $101,000.

 

Larry and Judith Biederman, representing Sciurus Properties (1504 North Minnesota Avenue), appeared to appeal the valuation of $210,000. Mr. Biderman indicated the property had been purchased on December 31, 2002 for $115,000. Deputy Assessor Sandvik indicated the Minnesota Department of Revenue had intervened in the valuation process on the property based on their feeling that the sale of the property had not been an arms length sale. Sandvik related her conversation with Department of Revenue officials who indicated that the sale had not been between a “knowledgeable buyer and a knowledgable seller” and that discussions with the seller indicated that among other things the land had been under priced in his calculations by $50,000 and no professional realtor had been contacted to assist with determining a sale price.

 

Michael Haggbloom, 1010 Allison Lane, appeared to appeal his valuation of $169,200. Mr. Haggbloom indicated a local realtor had told him the home would only sell for in the low $150,000’s. Mr. Haggbloom also indicated the County had not personally inspected the home and representatives of the Assessor’s office indicated they would make arrangements to do so and provide a recommendation to the Board.

 

James C. Wendroth, owner of the property at 229 West Broadway, requested a reduction in the valuation of $131,000 on his building. Mr. Wendroth indicated the property was sitting on wood timbers and the floors were shifting up to six inches. The Assessor’s office asked Mr. Wendroth to contact their office for a personal visit of the property with a recommendation to be made to the Board following the review.

 

Board members were presented with information which had been faxed to the Assessor’s office on an appeal by Phil Friedlund on behalf of the partnership that owns the Nicollet Hotel building. The building had been valued at $795,300 and Friedlund indicated an appraisal had been completed with a value of $696,500. The Assessor’s office staff indicated they would perform a site visit and report back to the Board on a recommendation for valuation.

 

Bill Kemp, representing the owners of Vista View Townhomes in Saint Peter (1811 Vista View), appealed the valuation of $2,084,300. Mr. Kemp indicated that the valuation was an increase of 67% and the owners were limited as to the amount rents could be raised for the income restricted buildings. Mr. Kemp also indicated that if the building were to be sold a new buyer would only be able to borrow $1,000,000 to purchase the property. Deputy Assessor Sandvik indicated that new developments such as Vista View may require changes in the calculations, however current State regulations require the Assessor to value apartment buildings at market rate irregardless of the rent programs officer.

 

Mayor Hawbaker, noting that the other property owners who had been scheduled for a hearing before the board had failed to appear, recommended the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting be continued until a future date.

 

There being no further business, the meeting was continued to May 12, 2003 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting was adjourned at 9:01 p.m.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 12, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governor’s Room of the Community Center on May 12, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 7:14 p.m. The following members were present: Pfeifer, Gover, Kvamme, Douglas, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda: - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, to approve the agenda. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Gover, seconded by Douglas, to approve the minutes of the April 28, 2003 regular City Council meeting. With all in favor, the motion carried. A complete copy of the minutes of the April 28, 2003 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-87 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-87 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Electric Conservation Incentive Program (CIP) - City Administrator Prafke reviewed the goals of the electric utility and recommended load management be made mandatory for all replacement or newly installed central air conditioning units for residential and commercial rate customers effective May 15, 2003. Prafke also recommended the rebate for load management be decreased to $10 per month for five months and $5,000 be authorized for expenditure as part of the national appliance rebate program. Prafke indicated that the load management and appliance program participation expenditures were expected to fulfill the City’s conservation incentive program funding requirements under state statute. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Ordinance No. 345, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Establishing Saint Peter City Code Section 3.60, ‘Rules And Regulations Relating To Electric Utilities’, And Adopting By Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1 And Section 3.99, Which Among Other Things, Contain Penalty Provisions” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Ordinance No. 345, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

In motion by Gover, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2003-88 entitled “Resolution Modifying The City’s Electric Conservation Incentive Program For 2003 Including Reduction In Load Control Rebate And Participation In National Appliance Rebate Promotion“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-88 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Councilmember Brinker arrived at 7:27 p.m.

 

Orchard Ridge Subdivision Final Plat - Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation for approval of the final plat of Orchard Ridge Subdivision contingent upon the execution of a development agreement for financing and construction of public improvements within the subdivision. Wille indicated that a cash payment of $44,800 would be due from the developer for the parkland dedication requirement and additional parkland funds would be due upon development of Outlot A. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Brinker, Resolution No. 2003-89 entitled “Resolution Approving Final Plat Of Orchard Ridge Subdivision“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-89 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Hospital Bid Award Change - City Administrator Prafke reported Salonek Concrete and Construction, the company that had been awarded the masonry bid for the hospital project, had withdrawn their bid. Prafke recommended the bid be awarded to the next lowest bidder, Del’s Construction of Le Sueur, in the amount of $298,840 and further recommended staff proceed with pursuit of claims against Salonek for damages. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-90 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Change In Masonry Contractor For Hospital Project“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-90 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Mosquito Control Program - City Administrator Prafke presented information on the possibility of resuming a mosquito control program in the City. Mayor Hawbaker indicated his belief that the City should take some action to prevent the spread of West Nile Virus. Prafke indicated the resolution, as presented, would authorize use of larvicide’s in the storm sewer system and in storm water detention areas and would further authorize limited spraying (up to six times per year) on City owned property prior to community events. Councilmember Gover asked that the two actions be considered separately. Gover indicated her belief that West Nile Virus was not a serious risk in Saint Peter and the City should not unduly alarm the public. Gover also expressed concern that the materials provided to Councilmembers indicated larvicide’s break down in sunlight and can cause birth defects and should not be used in storm water detention areas where children may play. Gover asked that City staff investigate other less toxic forms of mosquito control chemicals. In motion by Douglas, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-91 entitled “Resolution Relating To Mosquito Control Program“, was introduced with the elimination of the authorization to spray in City owned areas. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-91 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13. A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Brinker, to table consideration of the spraying program until the regular meeting of May 27, 2003. Kvamme indicated he would like further information from the staff member who is attending the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District seminar on mosquito control regarding other chemical options. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Orchard Ridge Subdivision Development Agreement - Community Development Director Wille requested authorization for execution of a development agreement between the City and the owners of Orchard Ridge Subdivision for financing and construction of public improvements. Wille indicated the final version of the agreement was not yet completed and recommended the Council authorize execution after review and approval by the City Administrator, City Attorney and Community Development Director. Wille also pointed out that the cost of the improvements was expected to exceed $1.4 million and the City’s costs for over sizing of mains would be $35,575. Councilmember Gover questioned why the request was being made for approval prior to receipt of the final version of the agreement. Wille indicated staff was attempting to keep the project moving along. In motion by Wright, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-92 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Development Agreement For Construction Of Public Improvements Within Orchard Ridge Subdivision“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-92 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Storm Water Property Acquisition - City Attorney Brandt recommended the City initiate eminent domain proceedings for purchase of a 12.39 acre parcel of property north of Dodd Avenue to be used as a public storm water detention pond for the North Industrial Park area. Brandt indicated the City had ordered an appraisal of the property, provided the property owner with an offer to purchase based on a total appraised value of $121,900 and the property owner had not accepted the offer. Brandt also indicated the property owner’s agent expressed the belief that the property was worth $30,000 per acre. Brandt further explained that as the City had identified a public need for the property (storm water detention), he recommended the City pursue eminent domain proceedings to obtain the property. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-93 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Eminent Domain Proceedings To Acquire Lands Needed For The Construction Of Storm Water Detention“, was introduced. Upon roll call, Councilmembers Wright, Kvamme, Brinker, Pfeifer, Gover and Mayor Hawbaker voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-93 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

2003 Street Maintenance Program - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the 2003 street maintenance program which would include slurry coating 122 blocks, crack sealing, street patching, curb and gutter work and handicapped sidewalk installation. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-94 entitled “Resolution Approving The 2003 Street Maintenance Program“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-94 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Hospital Equipment Purchase Request - City Administrator Prafke recommended the request by the Hospital to purchase computer software and hardware in the amount of $46,298 to facilitate scanning of medical records be approved. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-95 entitled “Resolution Approving Hospital Request To Purchase Software/Hardware For HMS Scanning System“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-95 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Special City Attorney Appointment - City Administrator Prafke recommended Timothy A. Johnson of Gray, Plant and Mooty be appointed as a Special City Attorney for discussions and negotiations involving long term medical care services. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Gover, Resolution No. 2003-96 entitled “Resolution Appointing Special City Attorney For Health Care Center Discussion“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-96 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

2003 Equipment Certificate Purchase - City Administrator Prafke requested authorization be provided for purchase of computers and a printer from Gateway, Inc. to be funded by the 2003 Equipment Certificate and the investigative fund in the amount of $14,277.39. In motion by Gover, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-97 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Computers To Be Funded By 2003 Equipment Certificate And Investigative Funds“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-97 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

License Application - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of an application for a temporary soft drink license. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-98 entitled “Resolution Approving Temporary License“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-98 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Public Works Building HVAC System Replacement - City Administrator Prafke recommended the quote of O’Brien Plumbing and Heating in the amount of $33,095 be accepted for replacement of the HVAC system at the Public Works building. Councilmember Wright suggested the Council accept the quote of the second low bidder which happened to be a Saint Peter vendor. City Attorney Brandt indicated the City should accept the low quote unless there are specific reasons not to. Councilmember Pfeifer expressed concern that it would be difficult to get bids on projects in the future if the low bid were not accepted. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2003-99 entitled “Resolution Accepting Quote For Replacement Of HVAC System At Public Works“, was introduced as initially presented. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-99 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Mechanic Position Description Modification - City Administrator Prafke recommended the position description for the Mechanic be modified to more accurately reflect the responsibilities of and qualifications needed for the position. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2003-100 entitled “Resolution Approving Modification To Mechanic Position Description“, was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-100 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

Reports

 

Council Goal Session Schedule- City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the goal session scheduled for May 15th at 3:00 p.m.

 

City/School Meeting Schedule- City Administrator Prafke reported the next City/School meeting had been scheduled for June 3rd at 7:00 p.m. at the District Office.

 

LMC Conference- City Administrator Prafke encouraged Councilmembers interested in attending the League of Minnesota Cities conference in Saint Cloud in June to let his office know.

 

Joint City/Mankato Workshop Session - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the joint workshop session with the City of Mankato Council on May 19th at 5:30 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, to adjourn at 8:27 p.m. With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CONTINUATION OF THE BOARD OF APPEAL AND EQUALIZATION MEETING

MAY 12, 2003

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a continuation of the regular meeting of the Board of Appeal and Equalization of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Commissioner’s Room of the Nicollet County Government Center on May 12, 2003.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Hawbaker called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. The following members were present: Douglas, Pfeifer, Gover, Wright and Mayor Hawbaker. Absent was Councilmember Brinker. The following official was present: County Assessor Doreen Pehrson.


Mayor Hawbaker and members of the City Council discussed possible changes to valuation presented as follows: Davisco Inc. regarding the property at 101 North Front Street, the City Council recommends the valuation of $457,500 remain the same; Darin Ogren regarding the property at 907 Menk Drive, the City Council recommends the valuation of $166,500 be lowered to $160,000; Larry Thordson regarding the property at 325 West Wabasha, the City Council recommends the valuation of $122,200 be lowered to $112,200; Larry Thordson regarding the property at 305 North Front Street, the City Council recommends the valuation of $32,900 be lowered to $27,900; Timothy Fister regarding the property at 314 South Third Street, the City Council recommends the valuation of $101,800 remain the same;
Eileen Kivi regarding the property at 1009 South Front Street, the City Council recommends the valuation of $107,400 be lowered to $105,400; Larry and Judith Biederman representing Sciurus Properties regarding the property at 1504 North Minnesota Avenue, the City Council recommends the valuation of $210,000 be lowered to $199,400; Michael Haggbloom regarding the property at 1010 Allison Lane, the City Council recommends the valuation of $169,200 be lowered to $145,800; James C. Wendroth regarding the property at 229 West Broadway, the City Council recommends the valuation of $131,000 be lowered to $123,800; Phil Friedlund on behalf of the partnership that owns the Nicollet Hotel building, the City Council recommends the valuation of $795,300 be lowered to $700,000; Bill Kemp representing the owners of Vista View Townhomes in Saint Peter (1811 Vista View), the City Council recommends the valuation of $2,084,300 be lowered to $1,750,000.

 

Councilmember Kvamme arrived at 6:39 p.m.

 

County Assessor Pehrson indicated that all apartments in Saint Peter would be reduced in value next year based on the Council’s decision to lower the Vista View valuation. Pehrson indicated the action would be taken to maintain the equalization between the apartment properties.

 

John Volmary appeared before the Council to appeal the valuation of $2,799,100 on his Aspen Drive property (Aspen Court Townhomes). Volmary indicated it was not his intention to dispute the valuation of the property, but he did dispute the rate of increase in the valuation was unacceptable and the increase would “seriously impact” his operation by $1,000 per month. Volmary indicated his business would no longer be profitable compared to rental properties in Mankato. Councilmembers recommended the valuation of $2,799,100 be lowered to $2,350,000.

 

In motion by Douglas, seconded by Wright, Resolution No. 2003-86 entitled, “Resolution Regarding Property Valuation Appeals Presented To The Board Of Appeal And Equalization” was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2003-86 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 13.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wright to adjourn at 7:03 p.m. Carried.

 

 







227 South Front Street
Saint Peter MN 56082
Phone: (507) 934-0663
Fax: (507) 934-4917
E mail: barbaral@saintpetermn.gov