CITY COUNCIL MINUTES ARE POSTED ON THIS SITE AFTER FORMAL ADOPTION BY THE CITY COUNCIL (minutes are adopted at the next regular meeting)

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

DECEMBER 11, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on December 11, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Vogel, Douglas, Schultz, Kvamme, Eichmann, Pfeifer and Mayor Strand.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the November 27, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the November 27, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17. 

 

A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the December 4, 2006 truth in taxation hearing.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the December 4, 2006 truth in taxation hearing is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17. 

 

Visitors – Bruce Davis, 807 South Front Street, asked for time to meet with the Council at a workshop session to provide his perspective on the possible closing of the public access studio.  Davis indicated he had started doing a show on public access that he had hoped to continue well into the future.  Mayor Strand indicated discussion on public access would be included in a future workshop agenda and Mr. Davis would be informed of the date and time.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-179 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. 2006-179 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Final Tax Levy/Budget Adoption – In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-180 entitled “Resolution Adopting Final 2006 Tax Levy Collectible In 2007“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-180 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Finance Director O'Connell presented the final tax levy and budgets for 2007.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-181 entitled “Resolution Approving The General Fund, Special Revenue Fund, Debt Services Funds And Capital Funds For The 2007 Fiscal Year“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-181 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Long Term Care Facility Project Change Order #6 – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of Change Order #6 for the long term care facility project which would add $327,935 in costs to be funded by project contingency funds.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-182 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #6 For Long Term Care Facility Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-182 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Summit Park Meter Project Final Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended acceptance of the Summit Park Meter Project which had been completed as per the project specifications.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-183 entitled “Resolution Accepting The Summit Park Water Meter Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-183 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Johnson Hall Chemical Dependency Unit Lease Extension – City Administrator Prafke indicated the State lease for the City owned property at 618 West Broadway Avenue would expire on December 31, 2006 and recommended the lease be extended.  Prafke indicated the State was progressing with construction of a new facility and staff had recommended a month to month lease extension be executed but the State had requested an extension to April with a 15 day cancellation clause.  Prafke recommended the April extension be provided with the lease extension to be approved by the City Attorney before being executed by the City.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-184 entitled “Resolution Approving Extension Of Lease With Johnson Chemical Dependency Center“ was introduced.  The resolution provided for a four month extension on the lease.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-184 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Refunding Bond Authorization – Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates recommended issuance of two refunding bonds.  Sweeney indicated substantial savings (with a present day value of over $320,000) could be realized with issuance of the refunding bonds for bonds which had originally funded electric projects.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-185 entitled “Resolution Relating To $4,350,000 Electric Revenue And Crossover Refunding Bonds Series 2006B, Authorizing The Issuance, Awarding The Sale, Fixing The Form And Details, Providing For The Execution And Delivery Thereof And Security Therefore “ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-185 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-186 entitled “Resolution Relating To $1,620,000 Electric Revenue Refunding Bonds Series 2006C, Authorizing The Issuance, Awarding The Sale, Fixing The Form And Details, Providing For The Execution And Delivery Thereof And Security Therefor“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-186 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Nutrient Trading Policy Authorization – Public Works Director Giesking and Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton recommended authorization be provided for staff to negotiate the sale of nutrient phosphorus credits as allowed by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for entities in the Minnesota River Basin.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-187 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Negotiation For Nutrient Trading Policy (Phosphorus Credits)“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-187 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Nicollet Avenue Traverse Road 2006 Project Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the bid for the Nicollet Avenue Traverse Road 2006 Project be awarded to Southern Minnesota Construction in the amount of $1,371,846.47 to be funded by a combination of Nicollet County, MSA, federal and utility funds.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-188 entitled “Resolution Awarding Nicollet Avenue Traverse Road 2006 Project Bid“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-188 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Safe and Sober Challenge Award – Police Chief Peters reported the City had been awarded a traffic safety (Safe and Sober Program) grant in the amount of $3,000 and requested formal acceptance of the award.  Peters indicated the fund would be used for purchase of a radar unit and overtime costs associated with traffic safety.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-189 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. 2006-189 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Building Permit Fee Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of an ordinance that would establish a “special investigation fee” (penalty) equal to 100% of the permit fee for those who begin construction without a building permit.  Prafke indicated the practice was already being followed by staff as authorized by the State Building Code which had been adopted by the City.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Ordinance No. 389, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Of The City Of Saint Peter, Minnesota Amending City Code Chapter 4 ‘Construction Licensing, Permits And Regulations’, Section 4.05 ‘Permit Fees’ And Adopting By Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1 And Section 4.99, 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. 389, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Revolving Loan Fund Request:  Bricks Zen Mortar LLC – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a $60,000 revolving loan to Brick Zen Mortar LLC for renovation of the second floor of the property at 324 South Minnesota Avenue.  Wille indicated the loan would be provided at 3% interest, amortized over 30 years with a balloon payment at 15 years, and require a personal guarantee and blanket mortgage against the properties owned by Brick Zen Mortar (326, 324 and 322 South Minnesota Avenue).  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-190 entitled “Resolution Approving A $60,000 Revolving Loan To Brick Zen Mortar LLC To Finance The Partial Renovation And Rehabilitation Of A Commercial Structure Located At 324 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. 2006-190 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Fund Request:  Beaudry Creative – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a $50,000 revolving loan to Elizabeth Beaudry (Beaudry Creative) to partially finance her purchase of Envision:  Design That Works.  Wille indicated the loan would be at 5% interest amortized over ten years with a balloon payment at five years, personal guarantees by Ms. Beaudry and her spouse, UCC filings against the fixtures, furnishings, equipment and accounts receivables of the business and contingent upon approval of HomeTown Bank’s $128,500 SBA (7a) loan.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-191 entitled “Resolution Approving A $50,000 Revolving Loan To Elizabeth Beaudry (Beaudry Creative) To Finance The Acquisition Of Envision:  Design That Works“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-191 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Polar Bear Plunge Request – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request to conduct a Polar Bear Plunge activity at Hallett’s Pond as part of Winterfest on February 18th and as a fundraiser for the Special Olympics.  Prafke indicated the organizers would have a certificate of insurance and further recommended that authorization be provided for use of motorized vehicles on Hallett’s Pond in the event of an emergency during the event.  Councilmember Douglas expressed his opposition to approving the request.   In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-192 entitled “Resolution Approving Polar Bear Plunge Activity At Hallett’s Pond As Part Of Winterfest “ was introduced.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Kvamme, Schultz, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Vogel and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-192 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Equipment Certificate – Finance Director O'Connell recommended authorization be provided for solicitation of bids for 2007 equipment certificates in the amount of $161,500 at a time to be chosen by the City Administrator and Director of Finance.  O’Connell indicated interest savings would be realized by issuance of the certificate when the money is needed and not months beforehand.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-193 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Solicitation Of Bids For $161,500 Equipment Certificate“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-193 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Legal Services Contract – City Administrator Prafke presented the Finance Committee recommendation for approval of the proposed legal services contract for the City Attorney for 2007.  Prafke indicated the contract included a $5 per hour increase for both the City Attorney and Assistant City Attorney.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-194 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of 2007 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. 2006-194 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Non-Union/Non-Contract Employee Wage Step Increases – City Administrator Prafke recommended non-union, non-contract employees be provided step wage increases based on pay equity points as follows: 90-203 points at 1.1%; 204-238 points at 0.85%; 239-353 points at 0.75%; and 354 points and higher at 0.60% and that additional wages be provided to the Maintenance Superintendent ($750), Community Development Director ($500), Water Utilities Superintendent ($500), Director of Public Works ($750), Chief of Police ($750) and Finance Director ($1,000) because of market rates, compression issues, and the need to comply with pay equity guidelines.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-195 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. 2006-195 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Personnel Policy Modification:  Post-Employment Health Accounts – City Administrator Prafke recommended the personnel policy handbook be modified to provide for post-employment separation benefits for employees.  Prafke indicated the benefit would be provided to employees who are leaving City employment at no cost to the City.  Prafke also recommended staff be authorized to enter into an agreement with private contractors to administer the program.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-196 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Modification To Personnel Policy Handbook For Post-Employment Separation Benefits“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-196 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Applications – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of two new soft drink license applications.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-197 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. 2006-197 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Maintenance Engineer Position Description Update – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of an updated position description for the City Hall Maintenance Engineer position.  Prafke indicated the description was last updated in 1989 and did not include physical requirements or desired qualifications.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-198 entitled “Resolution Approving Updated City Hall Maintenance Engineer Position Description“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-198 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Pedestrian Underpass Project Public Hearing – Public Works Director Giesking recommended a public hearing be scheduled for January 22, 2007 to receive comments on the pedestrian underpass project at the intersection of Dodd Avenue and Sunrise Drive.  Giesking indicated the project would be funded with federal grant funds and a public hearing was required.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-199 entitled “Resolution Calling For Public Hearing On Dodd Avenue/Sunrise Drive Pedestrian Underpass Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-199 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan Public Hearing – Public Works Director Giesking recommended a public hearing be scheduled for January 22, 2007 on the proposed Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for the City of Saint Peter as required by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Environmental Protection Agency.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-200 entitled “Resolution Calling For Public Hearing On Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-200 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

ATP Transportation Grant Application:  Washington Avenue Link Project – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to submit an application for Area Transportation Partnership grant funds for the Washington Avenue Link Project.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-201 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Application For Area Transportation Partnership Transportation Grant Funds For The Washington Avenue Link Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-201 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

ATP Transportation Grant Application:  Highway 169 Median Project – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to submit an application for Area Transportation Partnership grant funds for the Highway 169 Median Project.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-202 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Federal Grant For Highway 169 Median Improvements Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-202 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Gustavus Wind Project Design Engineering – Public Works Director Giesking recommended DeWild, Grant and Reckert engineers be retained to prepare engineering design plans for the Gustavus Adolphus College wind tower project which would require interconnection to the City owned on-campus electric distribution system.  Giesking indicted the college would be responsible for paying the design fees should interconnection occur.  Councilmembers asked questions about the wind turbines including height, location and other issues and expressed a desire to have further information on the project.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that either location being proposed by the College for siting the turbines would be outside the City limits and subject to County regulations and permitting.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-203 entitled “Resolution Retaining DGR For Design Work For The Gustavus Adolphus College Wind Tower Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-203 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his activities which included a lunch at Gustavus Adolphus College with area officials to discuss issues affecting area residents.

 

Advisory Board/Commission Openings – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and the public of the various advisory board and commission vacancies and asked those interested in applying to contact the City Administrator’s Office.

 

Downtown Arts Meeting – Councilmember Kvamme indicated those who attended the Arts in Downtown meeting were very supportive of the role the City has taken in organizing the meetings and very positive about having an internet based community calendar.

 

City/School Meeting – Councilmembers indicated discussion at the City/School meeting included cooperative efforts, security, athletic fields, and the feeling by School representatives that the City developed subdivisions in Washington Terrace and Nicollet Meadows had been very beneficial to the school district.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting – Councilmembers reported discussion at the City/School/Gustavus meeting included the athletic field lease agreement and child care issues.

 

Employee Retirements – City Administrator Prafke reported Police Detective Curt Tuma would be retiring after 35 years of service and City Hall Maintenance Engineer Herb Brown was retiring after 15 years of service.

 

Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers that there would be no Council meetings or workshops until the January 2, 2007 workshop.

 

Thin Ice Warning – City Administrator Prafke reminded Saint Peter residents that the ice on the Mill Pond, Hallett’s Pond and the Minnesota River is not safe and urged residents to stay off the ice.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Douglas, to adjourn at 9:30 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY TRUTH IN TAXATION HEARING

DECEMBER 4, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a truth in taxation hearing of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on December 4, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Pfeifer, Douglas, Schultz, Kvamme, Eichmann and Strand.  Absent was Councilmember Vogel.  The following official was present:  City Administrator Prafke.

 

Truth In Taxation Hearing – Mayor Strand opened the truth in taxation hearing at 7:03 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell reviewed the process for establishing a tax levy including how market value of properties translates to taxes, influence of City taxes, budgeting, services funded by property taxes, setting a tax levy, levy impact on various priced homes, and adoption of a final budget and levy.  O’Connell indicated the proposed levy was 11.42% above the 2006 levy, but $193,000 less than the preliminary levy amount.  Mike Steinhaus, 215 North Third Street expressed concerns about tax increases and how it is becoming more difficult for elderly and low income residents to stay in their homes.  Steinhaus asked the Council to consider trimming expenses and to put pressure on the State of Minnesota to reduce taxes.  Karl Larson, 901 Menk Drive, questioned why revenues are increasing and he still has experienced a 28% increase in property taxes in the last two years.  City Administrator Prafke indicated loss of local government aid, change in state tax rates, $300,000 in debt service on the Community Center, increased funding ($145,000) needs for the library (which previously had been funded in part by tornado insurance proceeds), and a $70,000 expenditure for Police which had previously been reimbursed by the drug task force all contributed to the increased levy.  O’Connell also indicated an additional $60,000 had been funded for repair and maintenance of streets and $30,000 additional had been budgeted for fire department radios, pagers and training of new firefighters.  Sarah Moe, owner of rental property at 822 South Fourth Street and 318 West Myrtle Street, objected to what she termed “disproportionate increases” in taxes.  Don Slarks, 724 Valleyview Road, expressed his belief that there were too many people working for the City because when City trucks drive by there are always two people in the truck.

 

There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 8:06 p.m. and the meeting was adjourned without further discussion.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 27, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on November 27, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor pro tem Douglas called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Vogel, Douglas, Schultz, Kvamme, and Eichmann.  Absent were Mayor Strand and Councilmember Pfeifer.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the November 13, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the November 13, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17. 

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-175 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. 2006-175 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Gault Park Restroom/Shelter Design – City Administrator Prafke presented the recommendation for Paulsen Architects to design a restroom/shelter structure at Gault Park for a fee of $18,750 plus expenses.  Prafke indicated the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board recommended construction of a restroom/shelter that could be enclosed and rented out for events for up to 100 people.  Prafke also indicated the cost to construct the structure would be over $200,000 and funding was proposed from the parkland dedication fund.  Prafke pointed out that one of the goals for having the design work done was so the City Council could see the project dissected and have costs associated with each part of the construction before moving forward with the project.  Prafke reminded Councilmembers that authorization for the design did not authorize construction of the building and the Council would be able to stop the process at any time.  Councilmember Kvamme asked for modification to the resolution to include “Whereas, the City Council wishes to obtain project cost estimates as part of the design work”.  “In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-176 entitled “Resolution Retaining Paulsen Architects For Design Of Gault Park Restroom/Shelter Structure“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-176 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Emergency Generator Maintenance Contract Update – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of an updated maintenance contract for the City’s emergency generators.  Prafke indicated several generators which had been included on the existing contract had been replaced and staff had negotiated a new contract for a total price of $50,550 which was a savings of almost $3,000.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-177 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Updated Emergency Generator Maintenance Contract“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-177 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Cost-Of-Living Wage Adjustments – City Administrator Prafke reviewed the two-step process for wage adjustments for non-union, non-contract employees which included a cost-of-living adjustment and a step wage increase.  Prafke pointed out that recommendations for both must be within budget parameters and also must reflect job classifications and pay equity levels.  Prafke recommended a 2.3% cost-of-living adjustment for non-union, non-contract employees effective January 1, 2007.  Councilmember Schultz questioned why the amount was different than the trend in previous years as outlined in the Council packet information.  Prafke pointed out that the social security administration number was higher than what had been budgeted.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-178 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. 2006-178 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Governor’s Fit City Designation – City Administrator Prafke reported the City of Saint Peter had been designated as one of Governor Pawlenty’s “Fit Cities” and signage would be installed in the near future.  Prafke directed Council attention to the press release on the Fit City designation which had been included in the Council packet.

 

Truth in Taxation Hearing- City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the truth in Taxation Hearing scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on December 4th in the Governors' Room.  Councilmember Kvamme pointed out that the final levy would be slightly less than the preliminary levy.

 

Arts in Downtown Meeting- City Administrator Prafke also reminded Councilmembers of the Arts in Downtown meeting on November 29th at 5:30 p.m. in the Governors' Room.

 

City/County Meeting- City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the City/County meeting scheduled for November 29th.

 

December Meeting Schedule- City Administrator Prafke outlined the possible meeting schedule for December including the December 4th workshop and truth in taxation hearing, regular Council meeting on December 11th, and the possibility of canceling the December 18th workshop and the December 25th regular meeting.  Prafke indicated there may be a need for a special meeting depending on the Nicollet Avenue project bid results.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 7:21 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 13, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on November 13, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Vogel, Douglas, Schultz, Kvamme and Eichmann.  Absent was Councilmember Pfeifer.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the October 23, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the October 23, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17. 

 

Public Hearing:  Assessment of Unpaid Utility Charges- Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on the proposed assessment of unpaid utility charges at 7:02 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell reviewed the process for assessment of unpaid utility charges and indicated the charges would be placed on the tax rolls of the property owner for 2007 as provided for in State Statutes.  O’Connell also indicated a number of property owners had already made payment and the County would be notified payment was received.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:04 p.m.

 

Public Hearing:  Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous (Snow and Weed Removal) Charges- Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on the proposed assessment of unpaid miscellaneous charges at 7:04 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell pointed out the proposed assessments were for snow and weed removal.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:05 p.m.

 

Public Hearing:  Assessment of Unpaid Water, Wastewater and Sidewalk Improvement Charges- Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on the proposed assessment of unpaid water, wastewater and sidewalk improvement charges at 7:05 p.m.  There being no speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:06 p.m.

 

Flag Presentation:  Sergeant David Brouwer of Golf Company 134th Brigade Support Battalion (which includes the Saint Peter National Guard Unit) presented a flag that had been flown over Convoy Support Center Scania, Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom on October 20, 2006 on behalf of the citizens of Saint Peter and Nicollet County.  Sgt. Brouwer, a member of Golf Company, hand carried the flag from Iraq at the request of his Company Commander Captain David F. Hintgen for presentation to the City.  Mayor Strand accepted the flag on behalf of the City Council and thanked Sergeant Brouwer for his service.  City Administrator Prafke indicated a special case would be made for the flag and certificates and the case would be put on display in the Community Center display case in the near future.

 

Consent Agenda –In motion by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-166 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. 2006-166 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Utility Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended assessment of $5,816.10 in unpaid utility charges and writing off $8,949.50 in bad debt for charges which are unassessable (electric charges which were placed in a renters name), under $10 or from customers who have died or declared bankruptcy.  O’Connell indicated the assessments would be payable over one year at 6.05% interest.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-167 entitled “Resolution Adopting Assessment For Unpaid Charges For Municipal Utilities And The Writing Off Of Bad Debt Utility Charges“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-167 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended assessment of $450 in snow and weed removal charges over a one year period at 6.05% interest.   In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-168 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. 2006-168 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Water, Sewer, Sidewalk Improvement Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended a total of $14,387.54 in charges for water, sewer and sidewalk improvements be assessed to property owners over 5 or 10 years (depending on the amount and as outlined in the City’s assessment policy).  O’Connell indicated the proposed resolution contained an incorrect interest rate and asked for Council leeway to insert the correct interest rate which had already been provided to property owners in the assessment notice.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-169 entitled “Resolution Adopting Miscellaneous Sidewalk, Water, And Wastewater Improvement Assessments“ was introduced with staff being directed to insert the correct interest rate.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-169 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.  (Note:  The correct interest rate which was included later in this resolution was 5.78%.)

 

SMMPA Power Sales Contract – Public Works Director Giesking recommended execution of an amendment to the power sales contract between the City and Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA) that would update the specified City power delivery and metering points.  Giesking reported construction of the Broadway substation and the generation facility necessitated the updates but no other changes to the contract would be made.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-170 entitled “Resolution Approving An Amendment To The SMMPA Power Sales Contract“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-170 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Country View Ridge Subdivision Final Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking reported the public infrastructure improvements in Country View Ridge Subdivision, which had been completed to City standards and financed by the developer, and recommended the Council accept the improvements.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-171 entitled “Resolution Accepting Country View Ridge Subdivision“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-171 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Gault Park Architectural Services – Public Works Director Giesking recommended Paulsen Architects be retained to design a restroom/shelter structure at Gault Park for a fee of $18,750 plus expenses.  Giesking indicated the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board recommended construction of a restroom/shelter that could be enclosed and rented out for events for up to 100 people.  Giesking also indicated the approximate cost to construct the structure would be over $200,000 and funding was proposed from the parkland dedication fund.  Councilmember Kvamme expressed concerns about authorizing design of the structure without Council consensus on the timeline for building a structure.  Kvamme also expressed concern about the proposed funding source being the parkland dedication fund..  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann to table action on retaining an architect to design a restroom/shelter structure at Gault Park until the Council could have further discussion on the proposed project. City Administrator Prafke reported staff felt it was valuable to have a cost breakdown on construction of the facility which could be included in the City’s capital plan and that acceptable uses of parkland dedication funds had not been articulated by the Council.  With Councilmembers Schultz, Kvamme, Eichmann, Vogel and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the motion carried.

 

Pool Painting Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the Council accept the bid of American Sandblasting in the amount of $29,500 for painting the outdoor swimming pool complex.  City Administrator Prafke indicated $24,000 had been budgeted for the painting in 2006.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-172 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Pool Painting Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-172 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Electric Rate Study – Public Works Director Giesking recommended DeWild, Grant and Reckert (DGR) be retained to prepare an electric rate study that would show the cost of service and distribution of costs for each customer class, load management rates, time of use rates and a 3-4 year projection.  Giesking indicated DGR could prepare the study for $17,000.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-173 entitled “Resolution Retaining DeWild, Grant And Reckert Engineering For Completion Of Electric Rate Study Update“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-173 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Library Strategic Plan Adoption – City Administrator Prafke presented the proposed 2007-2009 strategic plan for the library which identified five goals including developing a diverse funding stream, continuing to develop partnerships with other organizations; developing a marketing/public awareness campaign; developing programming that responds to the needs of patrons and maintaining an operating structure to meet the goals.  Councilmember Douglas, the City’s representative on the Library Board expressed his belief that the strategic plan was a “monumental step for the Library Board” in that it focused on the future of the library versus present operations.  Douglas also indicated his belief that the library will delivery services differently in the future than what is now provided.  Prafke indicated the plan had been developed with the assistance of facilitator Marlys Johnson.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-174 entitled “Resolution Approving The 2007-2009 Library Strategic Plan For The Saint Peter Public Library“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-174 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his activities which included attending the LMC regional meeting Saint Peter hosted on October 25th; being a guest speaker at the Chamber of Commerce membership luncheon; attending a meeting with Blandin Foundation representatives for strategic planning at the hospital; and the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities fall conference. 

 

Mayor’s Absence - Mayor Strand also reported he would be absent from the next two meetings and Mayor pro tem Douglas would fill in for him.

 

Regional Treatment Center Liaison Meeting- Mayor Strand reported he had asked Councilmember Vogel to fill in for him at a RTC Liaison meeting.  Councilmember Vogel indicated she had met some key people at the facility and the meeting had been very informative with discussion on the census, programs, nursing home and community preparedness.

 

Election Results- City Administrator Prafke reported the election had gone smoothly in Saint Peter and the equipment worked well.

 

LMC Regional Meeting- City Administrator Prafke reported representatives from 32 cities, including 87 staff and/or Councilmembers, attended the League of Minnesota Cities regional meeting hosted by Saint Peter.  Prafke said six legislative candidates, several vendors and 12 LMC staff members also attended the meeting which was held at Johnson Hall at the Nicollet County Fairgrounds and numerous comments were received on how nice the facility was.

 

Pandemic Planning- City Administrator Prafke indicated staff continued to undertake planning efforts based on the City’s emergency plan for a possible pandemic.  Prafke reported the City was working with Nicollet County and some staff members would be assigned to work with the County in the event of a pandemic.  Prafke also pointed out that plans would be put in place to assure continuity of operations and staff was providing information to the Chamber members so business owners became aware of the City’s preparations and plans.

 

Job Fair- City Administrator Prafke reported approximately 50-60 people attended the job fair and the businesses represented were pleased with the turnout.

 

City Offices Closed- City Administrator Prafke reported City offices would be closed on November 16th for a few hours while City employees assisted with holiday decorations in Minnesota Square Park and on November 23-24, 2006 for the Thanksgiving holiday.

 

SMMPA President Election – City Administrator Prafke congratulated Public Works Director Giesking on his election as President of the SMMPA Board.  Giesking indicated he wouldn’t be able to serve in the position without the support of his staff, the City Administrator and the City Council.

 

Power Outage – Public Works Director Giesking provided a final report on the City-wide power outage experienced after the tornado that struck Lake Emily and surrounding communities took out the transmission lines on both sides of Saint Peter.  Giesking indicated power was unable to be restored with the generation plant because of a safety switch in the substation that didn’t allow energy to be pumped back into the transmission lines from the main substation or the generation facility.  Because of the possibility of an explosion in the substation, the engineers had recommended the safety switch remain in place and should a similar situation occur, a twelve-step process to restore power to the entire community has been developed.  Giesking pointed out the twelve-step process would be lengthy and would only be used depending on the loads on individual circuits and other factors related to what caused the outage in the first place.

 

Long Term Care Facility Open House – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers there would be a “sneak peek” at the long term care facility on November 14th from 5-7 p.m.  Prafke also pointed out the project was only two weeks behind schedule, but was on budget.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 8:13 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

OCTOBER 23, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on October 23, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Pfeifer, Douglas, Schultz, Kvamme and Eichmann.  Absent was Councilmember Vogel.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the September 25, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the September 25, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.  (The October 9, 2006 meeting was cancelled by the Council and there are no minutes.)

 

Consent Agenda – City Administrator Prafke requested a correction to $23.98 per hour for the wage for the Stormwater Foreman appointment.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-149 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced with the corrected wage.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-149 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Sale Of City Owned Property:  303 South Minnesota Avenue – City Administrator Prafke recommended the proposal from Sweat Equity LLC, for purchase and development of the City owned property at 303 South Minnesota Avenue, be accepted.  Prafke indicated only one proposal had been received following publication of the notice of proposed sale of the property and Sweat Equity proposed to develop the parcel within two years.  Prafke pointed out that the proposed resolution provided for the property to revert to the City if no development occurs within two years and any development would be subject to Heritage Preservation Commission review.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-150 entitled “Resolution Approving Sale Of City Owned Land“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Schultz, Pfeifer, Kvamme, Eichmann and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-150 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Preliminary 2007 Levy Correction – Finance Director O'Connell reported the preliminary tax levy resolution adopted in September contained an error in the amount of levy for the library and the County Auditor/Treasurer had asked for a corrected resolution.  O’Connell indicated the proposed resolution rescinded the original resolution and specified the correct amount for the library levy which was $144,900 and not $42,460 as originally included in the resolution.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-151 entitled “Resolution Adopting Preliminary 2006 Tax Levy Collectible In 2007“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-151 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Economic Development Authority Bylaws Adoption – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for adoption of updated bylaws.  Wille indicated the bylaws had been changed to extend the EDA’s involvement to areas within School District #508 along with some minor grammar modifications and to keep current with City regulations.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-152 entitled “Resolution Accepting Updated Bylaws Of The Economic Development Authority“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-152 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Revolving Loan Fund Guideline Modifications – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for modifying the revolving loan fund guidelines to include issuance of loans to businesses within School District #508; issuance of loans in amounts up to $500,000; staff approval of loans under $5,000; approval for loans for modifications to residential units within the central business district; and authorizing loans guaranteed by up to 125% of taxable market value or 100% of the appraised value of properties.  Wille also indicated the EDA would favor those projects which resulted in job creation.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the modifications were an expansion of the opportunities for making loans for economic development and pointed out the staff approval of “micro” loans could be considered an erosion of the City Council’s authority.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-153 entitled “Resolution Adopting Amended Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund Guidelines“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-153 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Upper Water System Engineering Services – Public Works Director Giesking recommended Kaeding and Associates be retained to provide engineering for a project to provide SCADA improvements to the upper water system for a fee not to exceed $5,800.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-154 entitled “Resolution Accepting Engineering Proposal For Kaeding For SCADA Improvements To The Upper Water System“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-154 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Clean Water Legacy Nonpoint Source Restoration/Protection Grant – Lift Station – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to submit a pre-application for a Clean Water Legacy Nonpoint Source Restoration/Protection grant for projects that would tie six storm sewers to the old interceptor sewer to provide for stormwater treatment at the wastewater ponds and another project to buy land for a stormwater pond that would impact the City’s wellhead protection area.  Giesking indicated the grants were in the amount of 100% of the project costs and the lift station project would be in the amount of $350,000.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-155 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Clean Water Legacy Nonpoint Source Restoration And Protection Grant Application For Lift Station Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-155 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Clean Water Legacy Nonpoint Source Restoration/Protection Grant – Traverse Pond – Public Works Director Giesking also requested authorization for submission of a pre-application for a $285,000 project to buy land for a stormwater treatment pond west of the City.  Councilmembers questioned whether the pond would be in the City limits and Giesking indicated it would not and would ultimately involve negotiations with land owners.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-156 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Clean Water Legacy Nonpoint Source Restoration And Protection Grant Application For Traverse Pond Land Purchase And Construction Of A Waterway“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-156 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road Project Bid Authorization – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to receive bids for reconstruction of Nicollet Avenue from Traverse Road to Broadway Avenue and Traverse Road from Nicollet Avenue to Edgerton Street.  Giesking said the roadways would be designed as urban sections with trails, curb and gutters.  Giesking pointed out that the proposed project had been scaled back from the project originally discussed in order to allow the project to be bid this year and use the MSA and County funds committed for the project.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-157 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Bids For The Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-157 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Final Acceptance:  Gustavus Water/Sewer Project – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the Council accept the water and sewer project constructed by Gustavus Adolphus College on college  property at no cost to the City.  Giesking indicated the lines were constructed to serve a future restroom facility on campus, had been constructed to City standards, and a permanent easement had been provided by the college.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-158 entitled “Resolution Accepting Gustavus Adolphus College 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. 2006-158 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Final Acceptance:  Standard Subdivision Storm Sewer Extension – Public Works Director Giesking recommended acceptance of a storm sewer extension in Standard Subdivision which had been done to alleviate ponding of water behind private homes.  Giesking indicated the work had been done to City specifications.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-159 entitled “Resolution Accepting Standard Subdivision Storm Sewer Extension“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-159 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Call For Public Hearing:  Unpaid Utility Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended initiation of the process for assessment of unpaid utility charges, unpaid miscellaneous (snow and weed removal) charges, and unpaid water, sewer, and sidewalk improvement project charges.  O’Connell indicated the first step in the process was to direct preparation of the proposed assessments, call for a public hearing recommended to be held on November 13, 2006, and then hold the hearing and take action on the assessments.  O’Connell reported there was $8,140.11 in assessable utility charges and $8,904.27 in non-assessable utility charges which equaled 0.65% of total sales.  O’Connell also pointed out there were thirty more delinquencies than the previous year and the number of delinquencies appeared to be rising.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-160 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. 2006-160 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-161 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. 2006-161 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Call For Public Hearing:  Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended assessment of unpaid snow and weed mowing charges totaling $450.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-162 entitled “Resolution Declaring Unpaid Charges For Municipal Utilities 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. 2006-162 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-163 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. 2006-163 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Call For Public Hearing:  Unpaid Water and Sewer Project Charges –Finance Director O'Connell recommended calling for a public hearing on unpaid water, sewer and sidewalk charges totaling $31,182.54 on November 13, 2006.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-164 entitled “Resolution Declaring Cost To Be Assessed And Ordering Preparation Of Proposed Assessment Of Sidewalk, Water, And Wastewater Improvements“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-164 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-165 entitled “Resolution Calling For A Public Hearing On Proposed Assessments Of Sidewalk, Water And Wastewater Improvements“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-165 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

InterCity Leadership Visit:  Fort Collins, Colorado – Mayor Strand reported on the InterCity Leadership Visit to Fort Collins, Colorado and expressed his belief the trip provided information which will benefit the greater Mankato area including Saint Peter.

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his activities which included Region Nine meetings, Arts Council meeting, and the City/School/Gustavus meeting which included discussion on final terms of the shared ballfield lease.

 

Arts in Downtown Meeting – Councilmember Kvamme provided information on the Arts in Downtown (Arts Council) meeting and indicated his belief that the networking and organizing the City does for the arts community benefits everyone.  Kvamme also indicated approximately 25 people were in attendance at the meeting.  Councilmember Schultz reported the Human Rights Commission and Parks Board had also been discussing arts in downtown.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Regional Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the League of Minnesota Cities regional meeting being hosted by the City at Johnson Hall at the fairgrounds on October 25th. 

 

City/County Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reported discussion at the October 11th Cit/County meeting included pandemic planning, library services and the North Mankato lawsuit, and planning and zoning.

 

City/School Meeting – Councilmember Schultz reported discussion at the City/School meeting included the Safe Routes To School grant, school security and arts.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting – City Administrator Prafke indicated the meeting had been discussed by the Mayor earlier and Councilmember Kvamme also indicated ballfields, seniors, youth care, and the cooperative resolution were also discussed.

 

Job Fair – City Administrator Prafke reported the Ambassadors and Development Corporation were sponsoring a job fair on November 2nd at the Senior Center from 4-7 p.m.  Prafke indicated the previous job fair had been very well attended.

 

Fun Run – City Administrator Prafke reminded the public of the Recreation and Leisure Services Department Fun Run which would take place on October 28th starting at the Community Center.

 

TREEmendous Playground Closure – Public Works Director Giesking reported the TREEmendous playground would be closed for maintenance from October 27th – November 3rd.

 

P.A.W.S. Walk – City Administrator Prafke reminded the Council and residents of the Providing Animals With Shelter Walk (PAWS) which would take place at the Mill Pond on October 28th.

 

Voting Reminder – City Administrator Prafke reminded residents to vote on November 7th.

 

SMMPA Update – City Administrator Prafke reported Public Works Director Giesking had been re-elected to the SMMPA Board of Directors.  Giesking pointed out that it was actually the City of Saint Peter that had been re-elected and he was the City’s representative to SMMPA.  Giesking also provided information on the topics discussed at the SMMPA annual meeting including the Great River Energy CapX 2020 project which would include construction of transmission lines statewide with SMMPA’s involvement being construction of lines from Rochester to La Crosse and from the Twin Cities to Big Stone II.  Giesking reported SMMPA’s share of costs for the lines would be $74 million.  Giesking also indicated the discussion included natural gas supplies, availability and future generation needs; capital financing policy, and a potential rate increase of 7-10%.  Giesking reported officers, including President of the Board, would be elected at the November meeting and he would be visiting with SMMPA member cities about remaining President.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 8:16 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 25, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on September 25, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Pfeifer, Douglas, Vogel, Schultz, Kvamme and Eichmann.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the September 11, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the September 11, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-144 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. 2006-144 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Long Term Care Facility Project Change Order – City Administrator Prafke presented a recommendation for approval of Change Order #5 for the long term care facility project which would add $2,758 to the contract costs.  Prafke indicated the project, which had been three weeks behind schedule, was now only two weeks behind schedule but was within budget.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-145 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #5 For Long Term Care Facility Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-145 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Revolving Loan Term Modification:  A Golden Dream – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a request to modify the terms of the revolving loan provided to Louise Bradford dba A Golden Dream.  Wille indicated Ms. Bradford and her partner had originally been provided a $30,000 loan and subsequently the partner declared bankruptcy leaving Ms. Bradford to repay the loan.  Ms. Bradford had made attempts to pay the monthly payments but had requested modification to the terms to provide for lower monthly payments.  Wille reported the EDA recommendation was to amortize the remaining balance of the note (approximately $7,400) over four years at 3% interest resulting in new monthly payments of between $160-$170.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-146 entitled “Resolution Approving The Refinancing And Modification Of Terms Of The A Golden Dream (Bradford) Debt“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-146 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Council Meeting Cancellation – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers that he and Mayor Strand would be out of state on October 9th and would be unable to attend the regular Council meeting that evening.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-147 entitled “Resolution Providing For Cancellation Of October 9, 2006 Council Meeting And Authorizing Payment Of End Of The 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. 2006-147 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Banner Installation Fee – City Administrator Prafke recommended the policy for installation of banners above Highway 169 be modified to establish a fee of $100 for installation of the banners effective January 1, 2007.  Prafke reported the amount of staff time involved with installation and removal of the banners was extensive and although the $100 fee would not cover the entire cost, it would at least pay for some of the expense.  Prafke also indicated staff would review the revenues and expenses associated with this service and report back to the Council during preliminary budget proceedings in 2007.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-148 entitled “Resolution Establishing Banner Installation Fee“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-148 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his activities which included attending a Region Nine Development Commission meeting, the open house for Pheasants Ridge assisted living center and the Envision 2020 meeting during which the final plan was released.

 

Sale Of City Owned Property:  303 South Minnesota Avenue – City Administrator Prafke reported one letter of interest had been submitted for development of the City owned lot at 303 South Minnesota Avenue and it was from the person who submitted the original proposal.  Councilmember Douglas questioned Councilmember Kvamme, who made the motion to delay action on sale of the property at the August Council meeting, if it was ethical to accept proposals for the sale of property on a lot with such limited development potential and if Councilmember Kvamme felt his action was supportive of existing businesses in Saint Peter.  Councilmember Douglas expressed his belief that sale of the lot should not have been done as a formal bid process.  Prafke indicated discussion on the proposal would be included on the next Council workshop agenda.

 

Council Goal Session – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the Council goal session scheduled for September 27th in the Nicollet Room of the Community Center.

 

Welcome Sign – City Administrator Prafke reported a Kasota stone “Welcome To Saint Peter” sign would be installed at the southeast corner of the Highways 169/22 intersection on September 28th.  Prafke indicated the sign had been funded by donations. 

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Douglas, to adjourn at 7:24 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 11, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on September 11, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Pfeifer, Douglas, Vogel, Schultz, and Eichmann.  Absent was Councilmember Kvamme.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the August 28, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the August 28, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-139 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. 2006-139 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2007 Preliminary Tax Levy – Finance Director O'Connell presented the proposed tax levy for 2006 which is collectible in 2007 and which provided for a 14.01% increase in the levy.  O’Connell and City Administrator Prafke indicated the proposed levy included elimination of one squad car purchase; changes to the fire service contracts with the townships; increased equipment costs; inclusion of $20,000 in funding for The Third Floor youth center; membership in the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities; and funding for a possible cooperative facilities venture with Gustavus and the School District.  O’Connell pointed out the general fund includes transfers from the utilities funds, transfer of $75,000 from the revolving loan fund interest account; additional part-time staff at the Community Center and Library; an 11% increase in employee health insurance costs; and wage increases in line with what has been done the previous 4-5 years.  O’Connell also explained the proposed levy included funds for the Library which had been experiencing an operational deficit of $130-$140,000 for the past few years and would no longer be covered by library reserves.  O’Connell reported the proposed resolution included scheduling the City’s Truth In Taxation hearing date for December 4, 2006.   In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-140 entitled “Resolution Adopting Preliminary 2006 Tax Levy Collectible In 2007“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-140 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

MMUA Safety Contract – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization for renewal of the safety coordinator contract with Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association at a cost of $17,404.53 for the period October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007.  Giesking indicated the safety program was very effective and the Safety Coordinator provided by MMUA was responsible for on-site training for the City’s Linemen and for keeping the City up to date on OSHA and other safety regulations.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-141 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. 2006-141 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

St. Julien Water Plant Water Reclamation Project Engineering – Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to prepare preliminary engineering documents for a proposed project to reclaim water being backwashed at the St. Julien Water Treatment Plant rather than sending the water for treatment at the wastewater treatment plant.  Giesking indicated that while the project cost might be as much as $100,000, the costs expended would be paid back in monthly savings from water cost and treatment costs in less than five years.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-142 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Engineering For Water Reclamation System Project At Saint Julien Water Treatment Plant“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-142 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Gustavus/School District/City Cooperative Agreement – City Administrator Prafke presented a proposed resolution agreeing to the City, School District and Gustavus Adolphus College continuing to meet in good faith to find ways to work cooperatively to benefit the community.  Prafke called the agreement “a major symbolic step forward” in the relationship between the entities and for the community.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-143 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Cooperative Efforts Between City, Gustavus Adolphus College And Saint Peter Public Schools“ was introduced.  Councilmember Pfeifer expressed his belief the agreement provided the potential to eliminate duplication of equipment and services and save constituents money.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-143 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his activities which included attending several meetings including a Friends of Lake Hallett meeting with Councilmember Schultz; the ground breaking ceremony for the new Johnson Hall Chemical Dependency Treatment Center; the economic development initiative roundtable meeting; the joint City/School/Gustavus meeting, and the Rock Bend Folk Festival.  Strand also indicated he asked Mayor pro tem Douglas to welcome the group of recreational vehicle campers who spent the weekend at the fairgrounds.

 

October City Council Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reported both he and Mayor Strand would be absent from the October 9th Council meeting and asked Councilmembers to think about options for either changing the meeting date or even canceling the meeting.  Prafke indicated he would review what agenda items might be ready for the meeting and report back at the next Council workshop.

 

Johnson Hall Groundbreaking Ceremony – Councilmember Eichmann indicated the staff of the Johnson Hall Chemical Dependency Unit was very pleased with the City for allowing continued use of the old hospital site while their new facility was under construction.  Eichmann indicated the treatment center would be the State’s first off-campus treatment facility and the first new center built since 1950.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 7:42 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

AUGUST 28, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on August 28, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Douglas, Vogel, Schultz, and Eichmann.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the August 14, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the August 14, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-131 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. 2006-131 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Sunrise Water Tower Fence Project Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the bid of Crowley Company, Inc. be accepted for the Sunrise Water Tower Fence Project in the amount of $78,066.38 to be funded by water utility reserve funds.  Giesking indicated the original plans for the project had included installation of a chain link fence around the site and the Council had authorized a change order to the project to eliminate the chain link fence in favor of a more decorative fence.  Giesking reminded Councilmembers the fence project specified coated chain link fencing with stone looking concrete pillars at intervals.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-132 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Sunrise Water Tower Fence Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-132 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Storm Water Utility Positions Establishment – Public Works Director Giesking recommended creation of a Stormwater Foreman  and Stormwater Operator positions, establishment of starting wage amounts and pay equity points for both, adoption of position descriptions for both, modifications to the position descriptions for Wastewater Foreman, Construction Operator and Engineering Technician and authorization to recruit for the Stormwater Foreman position.  Giesking pointed out that the Stormwater Foreman will be responsible for implementation of the City’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-133 entitled “Resolution Creating Stormwater Foreman And Operator Positions And Updating Job Descriptions For The Construction Operator, Engineering Technician And Wastewater Foreman“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-133 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Baseball Association Donation Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the City accept a donation of $36,000 from the Saint Peter Baseball Association for improvements at Veterans Memorial Park including installation of a new scoreboard on Field #1, relocation of the existing scoreboard to Field #2, moving a fence and installation of a new storage building west of the batting cage.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-134 entitled “Resolution Accepting Saint Peter Baseball Association Donation For Improvements At Veteran’s Memorial Park“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-134 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Summit Park Meter Repairs Project Approval – Public Works Director Giesking reported the quotes received for installation of a new meter at Summit Park Mobile Home Community had come in higher than anticipated pushing the total project price from $58,000 to $67,525.60.  Giesking indicated Continental Communities, Inc., the owners of the park, had agreed to the increased cost for which they would pay one-half.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the resolution provided for acceptance of the quote from O’Brien Plumbing and Heating in the amount of $34,400 and authorized the Mayor and City Administrator to enter into a cost sharing agreement with Continental Communities with the City’s share being paid by the Water Utility.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-135 entitled “Resolution Approving Summit Park Project Price Increase“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-135 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Greenhill Pump Station Improvements Project Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking recommended acceptance of the bid from KHC Construction in the amount of $346,000 for the Greenhill Pump Station Improvement Project to be funded by Water Utility funds.  Giesking indicated the engineers at Bolton and Menk, Inc. had recommended use of a variable speed pump that can be assembled inside the pump station and which eliminated the need to remove the roof of the building resulting in an estimated savings of over $100,000 from the original engineer’s estimate of $484,000.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-136 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Greenhill Pump Station Improvement Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-136 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2006 Equipment Certificate Purchase/Sewer Camera Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking recommended awarding the bid for replacement of the mainline sewer camera to Cues Camera in the amount of $34,903.40 to be funded by the 2006 equipment certificate.  Giesking indicated the existing camera trailer would be retrofitted to hold the new camera.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-137 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Purchase Of A Main Line Camera For The Wastewater Utility To Be Funded By The 2006 Equipment Certificate“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-137 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Request For City Assistance:  Rock Bend Folk Festival – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by organizers of the Rock Bend Folk Festival for City assistance for their event in Minnesota Square Park September 9-10, 2006 including hanging banners on the light poles along the park, use of City electricity, use of picnic tables, authorization for installation of a tent contingent upon following Gopher State One-Call regulations; use of the park restroom facilities; use of a gate key; Police security to be paid by Rock Bend; the City acting as fiscal agent for the Festival’s grant application; and Rock Bend agreeing to include notices of dogs not being allowed in the park in all their advertisement for the festival.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-138 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. 2006-138 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Sale Of City Owned Property – City Administrator Prafke recommended acceptance of an offer of $500 for the City owned property located at 303 South Minnesota Avenue (former Nu-Way Cleaner property) contingent upon development occurring on the lot within two years and with the assessments on the property being forgiven.  Prafke indicated the estimated market value of the property was $13,600 and the City had $29,000 in deferred assessments on the property due to the forced clean up action.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned why the property was not being advertised for sale and expressed hesitation at selling property without a public offering of the sale.  Prafke indicated the City had no policy in place to require a public offering of land sales.  Councilmember Eichmann questioned whether the buyer would be required to pay the deferred assessments on the property if no development occurred within the two year timeframe required.  Prafke indicated the buyer would not be required to pay the assessments.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, to direct staff to advertise the sale of the property with interested buyers submitting purchase offers along with information on proposed development of the parcel.  With Councilmembers Schultz, Pfeifer, Kvamme, Vogel, Eichmann and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the motion carried.  Prafke indicated staff would advertise immediately and Council consideration of any offers received would occur at the regular Council meeting of September 25th.

 

Reports

 

City/County Meeting Discussion –  Councilmember Douglas indicated discussion at the August 23rd City/County meeting included the Traverse des Sioux Library system lawsuit, National Incident Management System (NIMS) training, fuel depot, and NCHS assistance.

 

August 24, 2006 Storm Response – Public Works Director Giesking reported on the City’s storm response to the August 24, 2006 storm and tornados which passed by the City and resulted in a City-wide power outage.  Giesking reported Saint Peter lost power when the transmission lines to the east and west, which bring power into the community, were destroyed or damaged by the tornados and City crews responded immediately and worked to restore power to the community from the electric generation facility.  Giesking indicated power had been restored to the upper electric system by 8:30 p.m., however when the remainder of the City was turned back on, something in the system caused the facility to shut down and working with the City’s electrical engineers, staff was able to restore power to most of the City by 11:00 p.m.  Giesking also pointed out that the generation facility continued to run until Excel Energy provided a patch for temporary power from transmission cables to the east of Saint Peter and the generation facility was run again on Friday due to the temporary nature of the patches completed.  Giesking reported by late Friday evening, the west side transmission cables were running again, the generation facility was shut down and staff will continue to work with the electrical engineers to identify the problem which appeared on Thursday evening.  Giesking also reported City staff had worked with the Minnesota Department of Transportation to clear Highway 169 of downed trees, the Fire Department had worked at Skyview Ridge to the east of Saint Peter and City staff had assisted with removal of downed trees from the Rabbit Road.

 

Seal Coating Project – Public Works Director Giesking reported the cleanup portion of the seal coating project had been delayed by storm response work but indicated staff will have the excess rock swept up by the end of the week.

 

Chemical Dependency Unit Ground Breaking – City Administrator Prafke reported the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Johnson Hall Chemical Dependency Unit would be held at 9:00 a.m. on August 30th.

 

Goal Session Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the goal session scheduled for September 27th at 3:00 p.m. in the Nicollet Room.

 

Youth Services Forum – City Administrator Prafke indicated the first ever Youth Services Forum had been well attended on August 24th despite the stormy weather and visitors ending up in the basement of the Community Center during the tornado warning.

 

The Third Floor Youth Center – City Administrator Prafke reported the youth center would open its doors for the school year the afternoon of September 18th.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 7:57 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

AUGUST 14, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on August 14, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Douglas, Vogel, and Eichmann.  Councilmember Schultz was absent.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the July 24, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the July 24, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the July 31, 2006 special City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the July 31, 2006 special City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors – Brian Enter, 625 North Third Street, addressed the Council to question why softball umpires hadn’t been paid for three weeks when the season was over.  City Administrator Prafke explained that there had been three weeks between Council meetings and bills are not paid as part of special Council meetings.  Enter indicated that three of the umpires would not come back for another season because they weren’t paid promptly.

 

Consent Agenda –In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-116 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. 2006-116 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2004 Nicollet Avenue Project Final Acceptance – Bolton and Menk, Inc. Engineer Jeff Domras recommended acceptance of the 2004 Nicollet Avenue project which had been completed as per the project plans and specifications.  Domras indicated the project had been completed for $1,322,000 which was $19,811.60 under the contract amount.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the resolution also authorized final payment to Borneke Construction.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-117 entitled “Resolution Accepting 2004 Nicollet Avenue 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. 2006-117 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Animal Impound Agreement – Police Chief Peters recommended the City enter into a new agreement with Kind Veterinary Clinic for impounding stray animals.  Peters indicated the agreement included increased fees and a provision for increases if Kind’s expenses increase.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-118 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution of Animal Impound Agreement With Kind Veterinary Clinic“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-118 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Cell Tower Lease Agreement – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be given to enter into a lease agreement with TMobile Communications for installation of a cell tower antenna on the Broadway Water Tower.  Prafke indicated the City would receive monthly lease payments of $1,200 with a 4% annual increase in lease amounts.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-119 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Lease Agreement With TMobile Communications For Antenna Installation On Broadway Water Tower“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-119 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Sale Of City Owned Property For Johnson Hall Chemical Dependency Unit – Community Development Director Wille recommended the Council authorize sale of Lot 2, Block 1 of Triangle Subdivision to D.A.C.T., LLC contingent upon installation of shutters on the west side of the building that will be constructed on the lot which the developer had agreed to.  Wille indicated the sale price included $189,813 for land, $53,178.27 in deferred assessments and $9,513.33 for parkland dedication.  Mayor Strand asked if the purchase price was the same as other lots.  Wille indicated the purchase price included some allowance of the easements on the lot and the utilities being outside of the right-of-way making a large portion of the lot undevelopable.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-120 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Sale Of Lot 2, Block 1, Triangle Subdivision To D.A.T.C., LLC For The Construction Of A Drug And Alcohol Treatment Facility“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-120 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Registered Land Survey Adoption – Community Development Director Wille recommended the Council adopt Registered Land Survey #56 which would provide for replatting of part of the North Industrial Park Subdivision so that the sidewalk along Highway 22 would be in the Highway right-of-way and not part of the privately owned parcels.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-121 entitled “Resolution Amending The Recording Of Lots 1-3, Block 1, North Industrial Park Subdivision, City of Saint Peter, Nicollet County, Minnesota And Accepting Registered Land Survey No. 56“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-121 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.  Councilmember Pfeifer questioned whether the sidewalk not being included in the highway right-of-way on the original plat was an engineering or inspection problem and asked that the Council include discussion of the issue as part of their next goal session.

 

Purchase Of Property In North Industrial Park Subdivision – Community Development Director Wille recommended the City purchase back from JRM Properties the newly created Tract D from Registered Land Survey #56.  Wille indicated the property owner was willing to sell the 1,235.70 square feet back to the City at the same one dollar per square foot amount she purchased it from the City for.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-122 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Purchase Of The Southeasterly 82.38 Feet Of Tract ‘D’ Of Registered Land Survey #56 From JRM Properties, LLC“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-122 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Former Library Lot Request For Proposals – Community Development Director Wille presented a proposed request for proposals for sale and development of the City owned lot located at 101 West Nassau Street which is the former library lot.  Wille indicated the lot was 12,630 square feet in size, zoned for C-2 commercial development and staff had received two inquiries about purchasing the lot.  Wille also pointed out that under City Code regulations, any development within the central business district would be subject to review by the Heritage Preservation Commission.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the City would pursue a multi-story building to generate the maximum amount of downtown activity and suggested retail use on the ground level, professional use on the second floor and residential on the top floor.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-123 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Acceptance Of Request For Proposals For Development Of The City Owned Property At 101 West Nassau Street“ was introduced with the stipulation that the RFP would be modified to indicate the City Council’s preference for increased downtown activity generated by development of a multi-story building.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Pfeifer, Kvamme, Vogel, Eichmann, and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-123 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2006-2007 Transit Grant Application – Finance Director O'Connell recommended authorization be provided for submission of a grant application to the Minnesota Department of Transportation for funding for 2006-2007 operation of the transit system.  O’Connell indicated the State would fund 80% of the transit operating budget.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-124 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Transit Grant Application For 2007“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-124 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Alley Vacation Request: Vogel – Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation for approval of a request to vacate the west one-half of the east-west alley in Block 7, Dodd’s Addition.  Wille indicated the alley had been used as a private drive for a number of years and vacation of the alley would not impact the ability of the other property owners in the block to access the street.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-125 entitled “Resolution Vacating The West One-Half Of The East-West Alley Within Block 7, Dodd’s Addition To The City Of Saint Peter“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Pfeifer, Kvamme, Douglas, Eichmann and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Vogel abstaining, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-125 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Senior/Transportation Services Contracts – City Administrator Prafke recommended the City enter into renewal contracts with Nicollet County for the services of the County Senior Coordinator and for provision of transportation services to County residents.  Prafke indicated the approximate cost for the Senior Coordinator services was $1,700 per month and revenue from the transportation services was approximately one-third that amount.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-126 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Senior Citizen Contract Between The City And Nicollet County“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-126 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-127 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Transportation Services Contract Between The City And Nicollet County“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-127 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Phosphorus Reduction Grant Application – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton requested formal authorization for submission of an application to the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority for grant funds of $500,000 as part of the Clean Water Legacy Act for phosphorus reduction efforts through the wastewater treatment plant.  Moulton indicated the City Administrator had authorized submission of the grant because of the July 31st deadline and the State needed a formal resolution from the Council.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-128 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The City of Saint Peter To Submit A Phosphorus Reduction Grant Application To The Minnesota Public Facilities Authority (PFA) And To Authorize City Officials To Execute A Grant Agreement On Behalf Of The City of Saint Peter For The Wastewater Treatment Facility“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-128 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval for issuance of a tobacco and soft drink license for the new owner of Super Stop and Wash of St. Peter.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-129 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. 2006-129 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Storm Sewer Corrections – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton recommended acceptance of a quote from Ron Volk Trucking in the amount of $21,732.50 to make corrections to the storm water system at the intersections of Grace and South Third Street and Grace and Minnesota Avenue.  Councilmember Eichmann questioned whether the corrections were a long term solution to the problem.  Moulton indicated staff would be developing a long term solution as part of the storm water master plan.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the repairs should be funded by everyone in the storm water district.  Prafke indicated that this project was considered maintenance on the system to be paid by the storm water budget.   In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-130 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Storm Water System Corrections To Grace Street And South Third Street“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-130 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his activities which included a reception at the Cox House for a great granddaughter of St. Peter founder E. St. Julien Cox; attendance at the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities conference; welcome to the Red Men Club state convention; and meeting with the League of Minnesota Cities Field representative.

 

Street Maintenance Update – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton reported the City’s annual seal coating project would begin on August 16th and would cover 123 blocks of roadway.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Field Representative Visit – City Administrator Prafke indicated staff had met with LMC Field Representative Tom Thelen.

 

Johnson Hall Lease Extension – City Administrator Prafke indicated the State was moving forward with the conditions of the Johnson Hall lease and the lease would be extended as the Council provided for.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 8:09 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 JULY 31, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a special meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on July 31, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, and Douglas.  Absent were Councilmembers Schultz and Eichmann.  The following official was present:  City Administrator Prafke.

 

Public Hearing – Refunding Bond Issuance Second Century Housing Project – Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on issuance of refunding bonds for the Second Century Housing Project at 5:33 p.m.  City Administrator Prafke provided background information on a request by Briggs and Morgan to give host city approval for issuance of refunding bonds for the Second Century Housing Project. 

 

Councilmember Vogel arrived at 5:34 p.m.

 

Prafke pointed out the City would be under no moral or legal obligation to repay the $9,500,000 bond issuance and the proposed resolution also authorized execution of an amended joint powers agreement between all the cities where Second Century Housing projects are located.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 5:35 p.m.

 

Refunding Bond Issuance:  Second Century Housing Project– In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2006-115 entitled “Resolution Giving Host Approval To The Issuance Of Revenue Refunding Bonds And Authorizing Execution Of An Amended And Restated Joint Powers Agreement (Second Century Housing Project)“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-115 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Billboard Sign Moratorium Extension – Community Development Director Wille recommended the Council adopt an ordinance providing for a six month extension to the existing moratorium on signs exceeding seventy-five square feet in size.  Wille indicated the Council and the Planning Commission had not completed the review and adoption of the zoning regulations and the regulations for billboards contained in the proposed document would restrict billboards to heavy industrial zones.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Ordinance No. 388, Second Series entitled “An Interim Ordinance Extending The Previously Adopted Ordinance Temporarily Prohibiting The Issuance Of Sign Permits And Erection Of Signs And Adopting By Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1, Which, Among Other Things, Contains Penalty Provisions“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Ordinance No. 388, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 5:38 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 JULY 24, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on July 24, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Douglas, Vogel, Eichmann and Schultz.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the July 10, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the July 10, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda – Mayor Strand asked that the consent agenda be modified to include the appointment of Betty Meyer as an election judge.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the InterCity Leadership Visit to Fort Collins, Colorado (out of state travel request for the Mayor) was on the consent agenda, but the memo had been omitted from the packet and was being provided to each Councilmember.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-105 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. 2006-105 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

City Assistance Request:  Chautauqua Assembly – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be given a request for City assistance for the Chautauqua Assembly to be held in Gorman Park the weekend of July 28-30, 2006.  Prafke indicated the assistance would include use of the park, use of City electricity, “no parking” designations, camping in the park, animals in the park, Police and Police Reserve assistance to be paid by Chautauqua, erection of tents in the park subsequent to a Gopher State One Call request; and a show license subject to receipt of an application and payment of the licensing fee.  Prafke also pointed out that approval of the request for “reasonable parking” would be determined by the Chief of Police.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-106 entitled “Resolution Approving City Assistance For Chautauqua Assembly Community Event“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-106 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Triangle Subdivision Plat Approvals – Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation for approval of the preliminary and final plats for Triangle Subdivision as submitted by the City.  Wille indicated the parcels were zoned I-1 (Industrial) and consisted of three lots including a 1.84 acre  parcel that is undevelopable because of the existing easements and access problems, a 5.06 acre parcel which may be developed as the new Johnson Hall Chemical Treatment unit and a 6.29 acre parcel that is used for storm water detention.   In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-107 entitled “Resolution Approving Preliminary Plat Of Triangle Subdivision“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-107 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-108 entitled “Resolution Approving The Final Plat Of Triangle Subdivision“ was introduced.  Wille pointed out that the designation of “utility easement” which was depicted on the preliminary plat was being changed to “sanitary sewer and water main easement” on the final plat at the request of staff because the existing utilities are very deep and staff recommends against having any other utilities above the City services.  Councilmembers Kvamme and Schultz agreed to modify their motion/second to include language in the resolution indicating the change in definition for the easement.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-108 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Mortgage Subordination Request:  Traverse des Sioux Garden Center – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a request by Lydell and Joy Struck to subordinate the City’s mortgage on the Traverse des Sioux Garden Center to a new loan from AgStar Financial services.  Wille indicated the applicant was current with his loan payment and a recent appraisal indicated there was sufficient value in the Garden Center property to support both mortgages.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-109 entitled “Resolution Approving Subordination Of City Held Mortgage For Refinancing Of Traverse des Sioux Garden Center (Struck) Debt“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-109 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2006 Equipment Certificate Purchase:  Tandem Dump Truck – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to purchase a new tandem dump truck to be funded by the 2006 equipment certificate.  Giesking pointed out the chassis for the truck would be purchased from Boyer Trucks in the state bid price amount of $92,863.74 and the box and snow plowing additions would be purchased from Crysteel in the amount of $98,312.82.  Giesking also noted that staff had made the tentative commitment to purchase the chassis to ensure getting a 2006 model.  In motion by Giesking, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-110 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Purchase Of A Tandem Dump Truck To Be Funded By 2006 Equipment Certificate“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-110 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Request For Bids:  Sewer Televising Equipment – Public Works Director Giesking recommended authorization be provided to receive bids for purchase of a replacement sewer camera which will be retrofitted to the existing camera trailer and funded by the 2006 equipment certificate.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-111 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Advertisement For Bids For Replacement Of Televising Equipment And Receipt Of Bids For Sewer Camera Refurbishment“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-111 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Summit Mobile Home Park Water Meter Agreement – Public Works Director Giesking reported the water meter in the underground pit in Summit Mobile home park had failed and new meters will not fit in the underground pit.  Giesking indicated staff had worked with the owners of the park and reached agreement on construction of an above ground building to house a new meter system with the City and the owners of Summit Park sharing the costs.  Giesking indicated that all meters that go through the City meter would be the responsibility of the park owners.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-112 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Agreement With Summit Park Concerning New Water Meter Station“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-112 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Library Aide Position Description Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended the minimum qualifications for the part-time Library Aide position be modified to move the “knowledge of library operations” requirement from minimum qualifications to desired qualifications.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-113 entitled “Resolution Adopting Modified Library Aide Position Description“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-113 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the Patrick’s On Third request for extension of their on-sale liquor license to allow them to serve alcohol and food on properties abutting their establishment on August 18-19, 2006.  Prafke indicated the recommended approval would be contingent upon Patrick’s being awarded a caterer’s license and providing proof of the licensure to the City prior to the August event.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-114 entitled “Resolution Approving Temporary On-Sale Liquor License Extension“ was introduced.  Councilmember Pfeifer questioned whether Police Reserves would be required for the event and Prafke indicated it would be at the discretion of the Chief of Police.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-114 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his activities which included a Region Nine meeting and Region Nine committee meetings and the National Guard Reintegration Training.  Strand indicated the reintegration training had been very well done and recommended others attend one of the training sessions taking place in surrounding communities.  City Administrator Prafke also indicated staff was investigating whether one of the training sessions could be taped for airing on public access.

 

City/County Meeting – City Administrator Prafke and Councilmember Pfeifer indicated discussion at the City/County meeting included identifying ways to cooperate; County interest in working with the other groups the City works with; library, zoning, emergency planning, roadway planning, cell tower planning and discussion to avoid problems in the future.

 

Farmer’s Market- City Administrator Prafke reminded residents of the restricted parking in Municipal Lot #5 (Grace/Minnesota intersection) during the Farmer’s Market.

 

Chautauqua Event – Mayor Strand reported the Chautauqua event would include a special presentation at the Cox House on Friday afternoon to honor descendants of E. St. Julien Cox. 

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 7:47 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 JULY 10, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on July 10, 2006.

 

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

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the June 26, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the June 26, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors – Chamber President Larry Haugen addressed the Council to thank the City for their assistance with the Fourth of July events and for the ongoing partnership with the City.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-95 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. 2006-95 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

MS & GS Enterprises Revolving Loan Modification – City Administrator Prafke presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of modification to the terms of the revolving loan to MS & GS Enterprises and specifically for extending the balloon payment on the loan to June 18, 2007.  Prafke indicated the company was current in all loan payments.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-96 entitled “Resolution Modifying Terms Of MS & GS Enterprises Revolving Loan“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-96 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Sunrise Water Tower Project Change Order #1 – Public Works Director Giesking recommended approval of change order #1 for the Sunrise Drive Water Tower Project which would remove the requirement for installation of chain link fencing around the site and result in a contract deduction of $5,497.65.  Giesking pointed out that staff would request receipt of bids for installation of a more decorative fence at the site at a later date.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-97 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #1 For Sunrise Water Tower Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-97 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.  Councilmember Pfeifer requested a list of other organizations that the City may have provided donations to in the past few years.

 

Revolving Loan Application:  Seitzer – City Administrator Prafke presented the Economic Development Authority  (EDA) recommendation for approval of a $60,000 revolving loan to Jan and Gregory Seitzer for rehabilitation of the property at 302 South Minnesota Avenue.  Prafke indicated the loan would be amortized over 15 years at 3% interest and secured by personal guarantees, promissory note and a second mortgage on the property.  Councilmember Kvamme pointed out that Councilmember Eichmann expressed concerns at the EDA meeting regarding award of revolving loan funds for residential rehabilitation.  Kvamme pointed out that the EDA was in the process of modifying the regulations to allow such use in commercial buildings for which the residential use is secondary to the primary commercial property use.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-98 entitled “Resolution Approving $60,000 Revolving Loan To Gregory And Jan Seitzer To Finance Partial Renovation And Rehabilitation Of A Commercial Structure Located At 302 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. 2006-98 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Funding Request – City Administrator Prafke presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to approve a donation to the Small Business Development Center in the amount of $2,500.  Councilmembers discussed promoting the services provided by the SBDC to local businesses.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-99 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Contribution To Small Business Development Center“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-99 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Water Standby Generator Power Project Final Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the water standby generator power project be accepted as completed and authorization be provided to make final payment to the contractor in the amount of $10,715.60.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-100 entitled “Resolution Accepting The Water Standby Generator Power 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. 2006-100 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2006 Equipment Certificate Bid Award – Finance Director O'Connell recommended the Council accept the bid of low bidder Nicollet County Bank for the 2006 equipment certificate in the amount of $310,000 at 4.71% interest over five years.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-101 entitled “Resolution Awarding The Sale Of $310,000 General Obligation Equipment Certificates Of Indebtedness Of 2006; Fixing The Form And Specifications Thereof; And Providing For Their Payment“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-101 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

License Applications – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of soft drink and show license applications submitted by the new owners of Saint Peter Cinema 5.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2006-102 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. 2006-102 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Call For Public Hearing:  Second Century Housing Refunding Bonds –City Administrator Prafke recommended a public hearing be scheduled for a special Council meeting on July 31st to discuss approval for issuance of refunding bonds associated with the Second Century Housing Project.  Prafke reminded Councilmembers the City had jointly authorized bonds for the Second Century Housing Project with a number of area cities in 1999 and the City was being asked for approval to authorize refunding bonds.  Prafke pointed out that should the Council grant approval, the City was under no legal obligation to repay the debt.   Prafke also pointed out that the applicant would be required to pay all City expenses involved with the special meeting and publication of hearing notice.   In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-103 entitled “Resolution Calling for Public Hearing Regarding Host Approval For Issuance Of Refunding Bonds And Authorizing Execution Of An Amended And Restated Joint Powers Agreement (Second Century Housing Project)“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-103 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Pool Cashier Wage Adjustments – City Administrator Prafke recommended modification be made to the Pool Cashier wage scale retroactive to the beginning of pool operations in 2006 to reflect a beginning wage rate of $6.00 per hour.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2006-104 entitled “Resolution Modifying Outdoor Pool Operations Seasonal Pay Scale“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-104 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his activities which included attendance at the League of Minnesota Cities conference and the Fourth of July parade.  Strand indicated discussion at the League conference showed Saint Peter was ahead of other cities in many areas.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Conference- City Administrator Prafke and Councilmember Pfeifer also reported on their attendance at the League conference which included training and discussion on affordable living, and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency regulations concerning storm water treatment and wastewater treatment.

 

City/County Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the City/County meeting on July 12th.

 

Farmer’s Market- City Administrator Prafke reported the Farmer’s Market had begun operation and parking was being restricted in part of Municipal Lot #5 for use by the Farmer’s Market.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 7:33 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 JUNE 26, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on June 26, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Vogel, Kvamme, Pfeifer, Douglas, Eichmann, and Schultz. The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  City Administrator Prafke asked that the hospital request for purchase of equipment be added to the agenda under “New Business”.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the June 12, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the June 12, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Firefighter Recognition – Fire Chief Windy Block introduced the firefighters who had completed their Fire Fighter 1 training course.

 

Mayor Strand presented retiring Firefighter Larry Greenig with a Certificate of Appreciation for his 20 years of service to the community and the Fire Department.  Fire Chief Block also presented Greenig with a retired firefighter plaque.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-83 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. 2006-83 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Long Term Care Facility Project Change Order #2 – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the second change order for the long term care facility project in the amount of $61,026.  Prafke indicated the work had been completed previously and the action was follow up paperwork which had been neglected earlier.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-84 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #2 For Long Term Care Facility Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-84 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Johnson Hall Chemical Dependency Unit Lease Extension – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by the State of Minnesota to extend the lease on the old hospital building which is currently being used by Johnson Hall Chemical Dependency Unit, for a period of 45 days and further extension to the end of 2006 contingent upon moving forward with the request for proposal process for a new facility and eventual construction of the new facility in Saint Peter.  Prafke indicated the terms of the existing lease had been met without problem.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-85 entitled “Resolution Approving Extension Of Lease Agreement For Property At 618 West Broadway Avenue“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-85 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Firefighter Recognition –  Mayor Strand presented retired Firefighter Rich Ryan with a Certificate of Appreciation for his 20 years of service to the community and Fire Department.  Fire Chief Block presented Ryan with a retired firefighters plaque.  Mr. Ryan thanked the City and Chief Block and expressed his belief that Block is a good chief and the department is “really improving”.

 

Councilmember Vogel thanked the Fire Department  for their response to a fire at her residence.

 

2005 Audit Presentation and Final Acceptance – Auditor James Eichten of Malloy, Montague, Radosovich, Karnowski (MMRK), presented the findings of the 2005 audit.  The findings Eichten pointed out included an increase in total market value which offset tax increases; an increase in the general fund balance for a ratio of 38.3%; revenues exceeding budgeted amounts by $135,000; expenditures being within $30,000 of the budgeted amounts; an increase in electric revenues; an increase in water revenues; operating income losses in wastewater, environmental services, Community Center, storm water and conduit funds; and a total increase of $580,000 in net City assets.  Eichten indicated the City’s overall financial position was improving, but pointed out two findings which included segregation of duties and the need to seek bids on the City’s group health insurance every five years as mandated by State Statute.  Eichten cautioned the Council that because of the large amount of debt issued by the City it will be important to keep a close eye on revenues that are intended to make the debt payments.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-86 entitled “Resolution Accepting 2005 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. 2006-86 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

City Assistance Request:  Fourth of July – Chamber of Commerce President Larry Haugen requested City assistance for the 36th annual Fourth of July celebration including the parade and the events in Minnesota Square Park.  Haugen indicated he had met with City staff and event volunteers in the park would work to eliminate vehicular traffic in the park and enforce other restrictions.  City Administrator Prafke reminded those who will be attending events in Minnesota Square that dogs are not allowed in the park. Councilmember Kvamme questioned the request for designated parking for art exhibitors.  Haugen indicated the art exhibit was a new event and “no parking” designation for exhibitor vehicles had been requested on the opposite side of the same street as the bus parking.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-87 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. 2006-87 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2006 Seal Coat Project Bid Award – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton recommended the bid for the 2006 seal coat project be awarded to low bidder Pearson Bros. Inc. in the amount of $1.64/gallon applied.  Moulton indicated 123 blocks would be seal coated included blocks previously scheduled to receive Liquid Road applications.  Moulton reported staff wished to review the long term effectiveness of the Liquid Road product before proceeding with further applications.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-88 entitled “Resolution Awarding 2006 Seal Coat Bids“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-88 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Safe Route To Schools Program – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton and City Engineer Jeff Domras of Bolton and Menk, Inc., addressed the Council with recommendations related to submission of a grant application for the Safe Route To Schools Program.  Moulton indicated the Parks Advisory Board had recommended the sidewalk master plan be modified to include installation of a sidewalk from Nicollet Avenue to South Washington Avenue.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the proposed walkway and grant application had been discussed with the School District.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the slope to South Washington had been investigated.  Domras reported the slope was steep, but workable.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-89 entitled “Resolution Adopting Updated Sidewalk Master Plan Which Includes Sidewalk Between Nicollet Avenue And South Washington Avenue On The South Side Of South Elementary School“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-89 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Staff recommended authorization be provided for submission of a grant application to the Safe Route to School Program in the amount of approximately $175,000 and which included construction of the sidewalk added to the master plan and other traffic maintenance improvements.  Domras pointed out that if grant funds were awarded the City would have to fund the expenses prior to receiving the grant monies.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that submission of the grant application did not authorize staff to proceed with any of the proposed projects.   In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-90 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of And Supporting Grant Application For ‘Safe Route To Schools’ Grant Program“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-90 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Minnesota Square Park Memorial Request – City Administrator Prafke presented the Parks Advisory Board recommendation for approval of a request by the American Legion to place a stone memorial in Minnesota Square Park in honor of Patrick Schmitz.  Councilmember Kvamme expressed concern regarding the lack of a policy for addressing memorial requests and recommended the action be tabled until such time as a policy has been established.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Douglas, to table action on the request and to direct the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to develop and recommend to the Council a policy for memorial requests.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Governor’s Fit City Program – City Administrator Prafke presented a recommendation for submission of an application to the Governor Fit City Program which recognizes efforts by cities to promote healthy lifestyles and activities.  Prafke indicated the City already meets most of the criteria for the program and it would be a valuable promotional effort for the City at little or no expense to the City.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-91 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission of Governor’s Fit City Program Application“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-91 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Hospital Equipment Purchase Request – Hospital CEO Colleen Spike requested authorization for purchase of a bone densitometer in the amount of $62,000 to be funded by the hospital’s funded depreciation account.  Spike indicated the hospital currently uses an outside mobile vendor for the testing and payback on the equipment would be in 12-14 months.  Spike also pointed out that only one vendor, GE Healthcare Division, made digital densitometer equipment.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-92 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Equipment By And For Community Hospital“ was introduced.  Councilmember Douglas asked about the  life of the equipment and Spike indicated it would be many years although the software would need to be upgraded as technology changes.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-92 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Closed Session:  Union Contract Negotiations – City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council adjourn to closed session to discuss contract negotiations with the Communications Technicians union (LELS Local #242).  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-93 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. 2006-93 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss Communication Technician contract negotiations at 8:20 p.m.

 

The Council returned to open session at 8:22 p.m.

 

Communication Technicians 2006-2007 Union Contract Approval – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the proposed 2006-2007 contract between the City and Law Enforcement Labor Services Local No. 242 (Communication Technicians) which included 3% wage increases in each year of the contract and time and one-half for hours worked on Easter Sunday.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-94 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of 2006-2007 Labor Services Contract By And Between The City Of Saint Peter And Law Enforcement Labor Services Union Local #242 (Communication Technicians)l“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-94 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his attendance at the Region Nine Development Commission Board meeting.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Conference- City Administrator Prafke reported he would be attending the annual League of Minnesota Cities conference along with Councilmember Pfeifer and Mayor Strand.

 

Council Goal Session – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the goal session scheduled for June 27th.

 

Fourth of July- City Administrator Prafke reminded residents the Fourth of July parade would take place on the 4th along South Washington Avenue and further reminded residents that dogs were not allowed in Minnesota Square at any time.  Prafke encouraged people to remember the laws regarding fireworks not being allowed on public property.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 8:28 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 JUNE 12, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on June 12, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Vogel, Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, and Schultz.  Absent was Councilmember Douglas.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the May 22, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the May 22, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors – Brian Enter, 625 North Third Street, addressed the Council to ask when softball umpires would be paid.  Enter indicated he had not been paid for seven weeks.  City Administrator Prafke apologized for the delay and indicated the payments were included on the bill list being considered as part of the consent agenda.  Prafke also indicated he would check into what had caused the delay.

 

Consent Agenda - Mayor Strand reviewed the consent agenda items. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-71 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned the process used for the $50,000 purchase of chemicals for the wastewater treatment plant.  Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton indicated the vendor had supplied the lowest price during 2005.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-71 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

City Assistance Request:  Relay For Life – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by the organizers of the American Cancer Society for City assistance for the Relay For Life community event.  Prafke indicated the requested assistance included use of Minnesota Square Park, parking restrictions, access to keys to the park gate and the restroom, overnight camping in the park, mosquito control, and installation of tents in the park among other items.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-72 entitled “Resolution Authorizing City Assistance For Relay For Life Event“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-72 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Dodd Avenue Underpass Engineering – City Administrator Prafke recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained for a fee not to exceed $36,500 to provide engineering for the Dodd Avenue underpass project including preparation of bid specifications.  Prafke indicated the engineering would be paid by federal grants and municipal state aid funds.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-73 entitled “Resolution Retaining Engineer For The Dodd Avenue Underpass Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-73 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Revolving Loan Fund Application:  Sweat Equity LLC – City Administrator Prafke presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation for approval of a $40,000 revolving loan to Sweat Equity LLC for rehabilitation and repairs on the property at 301 South Minnesota Avenue.  Prafke indicated the loan would be amortized over 15 years at 3% interest and would also include a second mortgage on the property.  Councilmembers Kvamme and Eichmann, the Council’s representatives on the EDA, reported discussion at the EDA meeting included consideration of the repairs being made to the residential portion of the property which was not allowed under EDA guidelines, but that the members felt the residential use was ancillary/secondary to the commercial operations on the first floor of the building.  Eichmann indicated the EDA was working to change the loan program guidelines to address similar situations.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-74 entitled “Resolution Approving $40,000 Revolving Loan To Sweat Equity LLC To Finance The Partial Renovation And Rehabilitation Of A Commercial Structure Located At 301 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. 2006-74 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Façade Renovation Revolving Loan Request:  Anders Bjorling – City Administrator Prafke presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation for approval of a $7,500 façade renovation revolving loan to Swedish Kontur Imports (Anders Bjorling) amortized over five years at 0% interest and a mortgage on the property.  Prafke indicated the Heritage Preservation Commission also needed to approve the proposed renovation and approval had been provided already.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-75 entitled “Resolution Approving A $7,500 Façade Renovation Revolving Loan To Anders Bjorling (Swedish Kontur Imports) To Partially Finance The Renovation/Refurbishing Of The Building Located AT 310 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. 2006-75 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Purchase Of Replacement Vehicle – City Administrator Prafke reported the vehicle used by the Engineering Technician required costly and extensive repairs and recommended authorization be provided for purchase of a replacement 2002 Chevrolet S10 Blazer in the amount of $9,498.99 from Lagers, Inc. to be funded by the Public Works budget.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-76 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Replacement Vehicle For Public Works Department“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-76 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Hospital Purchase Request – Hospital CFO Ken Cornish addressed the Council to request authorization to purchase new computer software and hardware for the hospital in the amount of $439,499.  Cornish indicated the purchase was one of the steps required by the federal government to comply with electronic reporting regulations.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned the recommendation to fund the purchase from hospital construction fund monies which were from a 30 year bond issuance.  Kvamme indicated his belief that funding for purchase of an asset should match the life expectancy of the equipment.  Cornish indicated he had made the recommendation based on the knowledge that if the construction funds were not used by a certain deadline they must be returned and the process would be very complicated.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-77 entitled “Resolution Approving Computer Hardware And Software Purchase By Community Hospital“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-77 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Personnel Policy Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended a modification to the employee personnel policy which would provide for an annual review on the status of driver’s licenses for each employee whose job position requires a valid driver’s license.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-78 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Modifications To The City Of Saint Peter Personnel Policy Handbook Section XV ‘Use Of City Vehicles And Equipment And Facilities’’ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-78 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Long Term Care Facility Project Change Order – City Administrator Prafke recommended Change Order #4 for the long term care facility project be approved in the amount of $127,027.  Prafke indicated the biggest part of the change order was a $100,469 expenditure for the addition of a carport on the front of the building and the project continued to be under budget.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-79 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #4 For Long Term Care Facility Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-79 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Conduit and Community Center Fund Budgets – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the budgets for the conduit fund in the amount of $174,564 and the Community Center fund in the amount of $758,801.  Prafke indicated $146,500 would be transferred from the conduit fund to the Community Center fund.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-80 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2006 Telecommunication Conduit And Saint Peter Community Center 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. 2006-80 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2006 Equipment Certificate Budget – City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of the budget for the 2006 equipment certificate which included $200,000 for a tandem snowplow truck and $110,000 for a replacement sewer camera.  Prafke indicated the certificate would be paid over a five year period.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned the price of the sewer camera.  Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton indicated the previous camera had cost $150,000 but staff would retrofit the existing camera trailer to fit the new equipment and save money.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2006-81 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2006 Equipment Certificate Budget“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-81 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2006 Equipment Certificate Solicitation Authorization – City Administrator Prafke recommended staff be authorized to receive bids for the 2006 Equipment Certificate in the amount of $310,000.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-82 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Solicitation Of Bids For $310,000 Equipment Certificate“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-82 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports- Mayor Strand reported on his activities which included attending the Senior Center volunteer recognition event, Housing and Redevelopment Authority picnic, Highway 169 median project open house, dedication of the Granlund sculpture at the Arts Center, Memorial Day celebration, Le Sueur Rotary club meeting, City/School/Gustavus meeting and serving as a judge for the High School Senior projects.

 

City/School Meeting Discussion – City Administrator Prafke indicated discussion at the City/School meeting included joint facilities and diversity issues.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting Discussion- Councilmembers Schultz and Kvamme reported on discussion at the joint meeting of City, School and Gustavus officials which included joint athletic facility planning, arts in downtown, airport extension, active aging programs, and early learning center.

 

Recreation Programs - City Administrator Prafke indicated the Recreation and Leisure Services programs were in full swing and interested participants could still register for many programs.

 

Workshop Reminder - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers the June 19th workshop would begin with a parks tour at 4:30 p.m. and the Council would be joined on the tour by members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

 

Paver Use - City Administrator Prafke reported the City’s paver was being used by the City of Le Sueur in exchange for use of equipment owned by the City of Le Sueur.

 

City Administrator Absence - City Administrator Prafke indicated he would be on vacation from June 16th through June 23rd.

 

Goal Session - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers the Council goal session had been rescheduled for June 27th.

 

Median Project – Councilmember Vogel reported the Planning Committee of the Highway 169 Median Project had discussed some changes for the project.  City Administrator Prafke indicated that additional information on the project design would be provided to the Council at an upcoming workshop.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 8:02 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 MAY 22, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on May 22, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Douglas, Vogel, Kvamme, Pfeifer, and Schultz.  Absent was Councilmember Eichmann.  The following official was present:  City Administrator Prafke.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the May 8, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the May 8, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - Mayor Strand reviewed the consent agenda items.

 

Assistant City Attorney Magnus arrived at 7:05 p.m.

 

City Administrator Prafke pointed out the new format for the bill list and indicated staff was working with the software vendor to modify the report to be more like the previous format.  Prafke asked that the appointment of Taylor Zallek as a seasonal employee be included on the consent agenda.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-69 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. 2006-69 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Hospital Audit Acceptance - Community Hospital Chief Financial Officer Ken Cornish and Hospital CEO Colleen Spike were present to present the findings of the 2005 hospital audit which indicated the hospital was on very solid financial footing.  Cornish sited a 65% increase in cash balance equal to 167 days of operating expenses.  decrease in accounts receivables to 49 days revenue, a 25% increase in current assets, a 15% decrease in liabilities, an increase of 8.5% in net assets among other financial statistics.  Spike indicated the audit had been performed by the independent accounting firm of Eide Bailley.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-70 entitled “Resolution Accepting 2005 Hospital Audit“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-70 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports- Mayor Strand reported on his activities which included a meeting with a representative of the MPAT group  which helps businesses and their employees with smoking cessation programs funded by the tobacco settlement; Region Nine Development Commission board meeting; Regional Treatment Center liaison committee meeting, City/School meeting; City/School/Gustavus meeting, a work skills competition, and the Third Floor Youth Center appreciation dinner, and reported on a thank you note received from a class of Gustavus students who had interviewed Councilmembers and attended Council meetings.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting Discussion- Councilmember Kvamme reported on discussion at the joint meeting of City, School and Gustavus officials which included joint athletic facility planning.  Kvamme pointed out members did not get to other agenda items including arts in downtown, airport extension, diversity, active aging programs, and early learning center.

 

Assisted Voting Equipment- City Administrator Prafke indicated the assisted voting equipment had been purchased and would be used during the fall elections.

 

Arts in Downtown Meeting- City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the Arts in Downtown meeting scheduled for April 24th at 5:30 p.m.

 

Airport Zoning Commission- Public Works Director Giesking reviewed the actions of the Regional Airport Zoning Commission relative to rezoning for the extension of a runway at the Mankato airport. 

 

Median Project Open House - City Administrator Prafke reminded the public of the open house on the Highway 169 median project scheduled for May 25th from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Senior Center.  Public Works Director Giesking indicated the open house was the second of three events and the Department of Transportation had made a commitment to construct the medians in mid-2009.

 

Johnson Hall Lease - City Administrator Prafke indicated he had not yet received documents from the State of Minnesota regarding extension of Johnson Hall’s lease at the old hospital site.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Conference - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers interested in attending the LMC Conference to notify his office as soon as possible.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 7:44 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 MAY 8, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on May 8, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Douglas, Eichmann, Vogel, Kvamme, Pfeifer, and Schultz.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to approve the agenda.  City Administrator Prafke asked that “City Assistance Request:  United Way Bike Rally and Ride” be added to the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried as modified.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the April 28, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the April 28, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the May 2, 2006 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the May 2, 2006 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - City Administrator Prafke asked that re-roofing of the Jefferson Water Plant by Kato Roofing in the amount of $9,907 be added to the consent agenda and the appointment of Grant Nelson to the position of Youth Baseball Coach be removed from the consent agenda.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-61 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. 2006-61 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Region Nine Renewable Fuels Resolution Of Support - City Administrator Prafke presented the proposed resolution of support requested by Region Nine Development Commission and Mayor Strand which had previously been considered by the Council with action tabled until the May 8th meeting.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-62 entitled “Resolution Supporting Renewable Energy Fuels And Encouraging Use Of Twenty-Five Percent Renewable Fuels For Transportation Use By 2025“ was introduced.  Councilmember Douglas expressed opposition to one of the “whereas” paragraphs in the resolution and provided suggestions for modifying the “whereas” paragraphs.  Douglas indicated his belie that the resolution was not specific enough on how to reduce the United State’s dependence on foreign oil.  Councilmember Kvamme offered to modify his motion to approve the resolution by removing the paragraph Councilmember Douglas objected to which read “Whereas, our national security and dependence on foreign oil, drilling in Alaska, record high gas prices and emissions control all contribute to a desire to look at renewable energy fuels as part of a long-term plan for fuel independence and homeland security”.  Councilmember Schultz declined to amend her second on the motion.  Upon roll call of the original resolution, Mayor Strand and Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Schultz, Eichmann, and Vogel voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-62 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Library Services Contract - City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council authorize execution of a contract with Nicollet County for provision of library services to rural County residents.  Prafke indicated the City would receive $35,000 in revenues for the services.  Prafke indicated previous contracts had included services to North Mankato residents, but the County would be negotiating separately with the City of North Mankato.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-63 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Library Services Contract“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-63 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Alley Vacation Request - City Administrator Prafke presented a recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Commission for approval of a petition to vacate the south six feet of an alley located adjacent to 1127 Willow Drive contingent upon maintaining the existing utility easement.  Prafke recommended the resolution be modified to indicate the Planning Commission had reviewed and recommended the vacation and modification to language about continuation of the easement.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2006-64 entitled “Resolution Vacating The South Six Feet Of The East And West Alley Lying North Of And Adjacent To The North Line Of Lot 9, Block 2, MacKenzie Subdivision, City of Saint Peter“ was introduced with the recommended modifications.  Councilmember Kvamme pointed out that the Planning Commission vote was not unanimous because one member felt the neighbors were not in favor of the vacation.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-64 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

COGMC Membership - City Administrator Prafke presented the offer from the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities to give a discounted membership rate to the City as an incentive to rejoin the organization.  Prafke indicated the offer of $2,552 was 20% of the normal membership rate and could be funded by General Fund reserves if the Council chose to rejoin.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-65 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Coalition Of Greater Minnesota Cities Membership For 2006“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Schultz, Eichmann, Vogel, Kvamme, Pfeifer and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-65 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Theater Debt Restructuring Request - City Administrator Prafke indicated CineMagic Theatres had been negotiating for purchase of the Saint Peter movie theater and staff had negotiated several documents including a minimum assessment agreement establishing the value at $600,000 and an amended contract for private redevelopment which would release CineMagic from any liability for the remaining debt on the original $212,000 City loan.  Prafke indicated the debt would continue to be repaid through collection of tax increments on the property and the increments would be collected over the full length of the TIF district to 2024.  Prafke also pointed out that the entire purchase deal hinged on the new owners being able to reach an agreement with Nicollet County on use of the parking lot and the County was expected to consider the parking lot lease on May 9th.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-66 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Chairperson And Secretary Of The Saint Peter Economic Development Authority To Execute An Amended Minimum Assessment Agreement And Amended Contract For Private Redevelopment By And Between The Economic Development Authority And Cinema 2, LLC“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-66 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Revolving Loan Request:  Cinema II, LLC - City Administrator Prafke indicated the Economic Development Authority recommendation was to approve the $40,000 revolving loan request for Cinema 2, LLC at zero percent (0%) interest, with no payments for a three year period and the full amount due and payable after three years.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-67 entitled “Resolution Approving  $40,000 Revolving Loan To Cinema 2, LLC To Partially Finance Business Start-Up Expenses“ was introduced.  Councilmembers asked the prospective owners to provide additional information on their plans for the movie theater.  Bryan Sieve and Steven Tripp, principles of CineMagic, doing business in Saint Peter as Cinema 2, LLC, addressed the Council and reviewed the work to be done at the theater before it an be reopened including cleaning the building, repairs to the equipment and other issues.  Mr. Tripp indicated the company had been interested in locating in Saint Peter before Cinema 5 opened and were unable to secure land before the other company came to town and in the future there would be matinees when children were out of school and free matinees on Saturday mornings during Christmas time.  Tripp also indicated their staff would do “everything humanly possible” to ensure that patrons experienced no problems with sound quality or film projection as had been experienced with the previous owners.  Mr. Sieve reported CineMagic works to become part of the community they do business in and they were planning on having professional management staff in town on a regular basis.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-67 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

City Assistance Request:  United Way Bike Ride and Rally - Recreation and Leisure Services Director Jane Timmerman and United Way representative Nancy Zallek addressed the Council to request City assistance for the United Way Bike Ride and Rally that will be held at First Lutheran Church on May 13, 2006.  Recreation and Leisure Services Director Timmerman indicated the requested assistance included use of City barricades and cones, bleachers, picnic tables and curbies; Police assistance along the bike ride routes; use of safety vests; and authorization for installation of a banner in Minnesota Square Park.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether any of the events were being held in the park and Timmerman indicated they were asking for permission to place a banner there to advertise the event which was being held at First Lutheran Church.  Timmerman indicated the banner would be in place from May 10th - 13th.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-68 entitled “Resolution Approving Request For City Assistance For United Way Bike Ride and Rally“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-68 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports- Mayor Strand reported on receipt of a thank you letter from the Minnesota Rural Water Association for allowing training in Saint Peter; the Board of Appeals and Equalization meeting; the National Day of Prayer event he attended on May 4th and a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new psychiatric hospital.

 

City/School Meeting Schedule - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the City/School meeting on May 17th at 6:00 p.m. at Gustavus.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting Schedule - City Administrator Prafke also reminded Councilmembers of the City/School/Gustavus meeting on May 17th which would begin at 7:00 p.m.

 

Johnson Hall Lease Extension - City Administrator Prafke indicated he had been in contact with state officials regarding extension of the Johnson Hall Chemical Dependency lease at the old hospital site and expected to have additional information for Council discussion at the workshop on the 15th.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Conference - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers interested in attending the LMC annual conference to notify his office.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 7:38 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 APRIL 24, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on April 24, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor pro tem Douglas called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Douglas, Eichmann, Vogel, Kvamme, Pfeifer, and Schultz.  Absent was Mayor Strand. The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the April 10, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the April 10, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors - Human Rights Commission Chairperson Nancy Penn and members Kim Schultz, Martha Roest, and Terena Wilkens, presented the Saint Peter League of Women Voters with the 2005 Human Rights Award in recognition of their efforts to further human rights in the community through publication of an informational packet for new residents which is published in English, Somali and Spanish.  Accepting the award on behalf of the League of Women Voters was Mary Gover, Helen Baumgartner and Marilyn Erling.

 

The meeting was recessed from 7:06 p.m. to 7:08 p.m. to allow the media to take pictures of the award recipients.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-55 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. 2006-55 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Youth Development Memorandum of Understanding - City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of a memorandum of understanding between the City and School District which outlined responsibilities and funding for provision of youth development and enrichment programs.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-56 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Youth Development Memorandum Of Understanding“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-56 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Fire Relief Pension Adjustment - City Administrator Prafke presented the Fire Relief Association request for a $50 increase in the lump sum pension benefit amount for retiring Firefighters to a total of $2,200 per year.  Prafke pointed out that the projections for City contributions to the pension fund would remain under $10,000 in 2007 if the increase was approved.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-57 entitled “Resolution Approving Increase In Lump Sum Pension Benefit For The Saint Peter Fire Relief Association“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-57 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Handicapped Ramps Project - Public Works Director Giesking recommended the quote from Trcka Construction in the amount of $15,000 for installation of twenty handicap ramps be accepted.  Giesking indicated $15,000 had been budgeted in the Streets budget for the work.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-58 entitled “Resolution Awarding Work For Project For Installation Of Handicapped Ramps“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-58 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Curb/Gutter/Sidewalk Repair Project - Public Works Director Giesking recommended the quote from Trcka Construction in the amount of $4,596 be accepted for the repair of curb, gutter and sidewalk at various locations throughout the community.  Giesking indicated sufficient funding had been budgeted for the project.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-59 entitled “Resolution Accepting Quote For The Repair Of Curb And Gutter And Sidewalks“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-59 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Unbudgeted Purchase:  Laptop Computer - City Administrator Prafke and Public Works Director Giesking provided information on a request for the unbudgeted purchase of a laptop computer to be used for work at substations and reading remote utility meters.  Giesking indicated the current computer operated on Windows 98 and the system was unable to read remote meters.  Giesking recommended the purchase of a new laptop computer using Windows XP as the operating system and for funding in the amount of $1,077.77 to be provided from electric distribution system funds.  Prafke indicated that computer purchases are currently included separately in the different budgets and in the future computer purchases would be included as part of a bigger computer replacement plan.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-60 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of A Laptop Computer“, was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned what kind of computer was being purchased and if multiple quotes had been received.  Kvamme asked that additional information be provided with future requests for this type of purchase.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-60 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Reports

 

Arbor Day Proclamation - Mayor pro tem Douglas proclaimed April 28th as “Arbor Day” and the month of May as “Arbor Month” in the City and encouraged residents of the City to participate in a tree planting ceremony which will be held in Gorman Park during May.

 

Rescheduled City/School Meeting - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers the City/School meeting had been rescheduled for April 26th in the Traverse des Sioux Room of the Community Center beginning at 6:00 p.m.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting Discussion - Councilmembers Schultz and Kvamme reported on discussion at the City/School/Gustavus meeting which included the kindergarten center; shared recreational facilities and planning for an agreement for the facility use; wind power on the Gustavus campus; diversity in the community; and the population trends at the elementary school level and constructing permanent or temporary facilities for the increased student population at North Intermediate school.

 

Utility Rate Increases - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and residents that the utility rate increases approved by the Council would take effect with bills going out May 1st.

 

Proper Lawn Mowing Techniques - City Administrator Prafke reminded residents that it is illegal to mow lawn clippings into the roadway and provided suggestions for proper lawn mowing and fertilizing techniques.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 7:35 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 APRIL 10, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on April 10, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Douglas, Eichmann, Vogel, Kvamme, Pfeifer, Schultz, and Mayor Strand. The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the March 27, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the March 27, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Police Reserve Officer Recognition - Police Chief Peters reported the resignation of charter Police Reserve member Rich Noyd after serving from 1972 to January, 2006.  Peters thanked Noyd for his service to the City and indicated Noyd would be receiving a plaque from the Department.

 

Police Officer Recognition -  Police Chief Peters presented Patrol Officer David Arpin with the Police Department’s Medal of Merit in recognition of his courage, tenacity and quick action during a significant life threatening situation which saved the life of the subject and prevented injuries to responding officers.   Peters introduced Saint Peter Officers Keith Ruffing and Brian Paulus who were also involved with the incident and who were in attendance.  Officer Arpin thanked Nicollet County Sheriff Deputy Steve Lavok and Le Sueur County Deputies Jeff Feldman and Nick Greenig for their assistance during the arrest.  Mayor Strand expressed the Council’s appreciation to Officer Arpin for his actions.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-44 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. 2006-44 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Long Term Care Facility Project Change Order #2 - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of change order #2 for the long term care facility project which would result in a deduction to the contract in the amount of $12,754.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-45 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #2 For Long Term Care Facility Project“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-45 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Storm Water Construction Standards - Public Works Director Giesking recommended adoption of two new construction standards for turf establishment which would require sodding rather than seeding for the majority the lot and modifications to the existing standards for water service installation and sanitary sewer cleanout.  Giesking pointed out that the standards were being recommended as part of the City’s storm water control regulations and the average cost of sodding versus seeding was expected to be $300 more for sod.  Councilmember Douglas questioned whether the cost comparison included the cost of watering sod and Giesking indicated it did not.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-46 entitled “Resolution Approving Standard Detail Sheets“, was introduced.  Councilmember Eichmann questioned whether the public was aware of the reason sodding was being required.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the recommendation was based on the need to reduce erosion into an impaired waterway.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-46 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Right-of-Way Management Fees - Public Works Director Giesking recommended adoption of fees related to stormwater control to recover the City’s costs for inspections.  Giesking indicated every permitee would be required to pay a $100 registration fee in addition to the fee for the type of work being done in the right-of-way.  City Administrator Prafke indicated staff was working with contractors who had expressed concern regarding the $3,000 surety bond requirement for each excavation in the right-of-way and the contractors were going to propose a modification to the requirement so that contractors who do a lot of work in the community might be allowed to provide a blanket surety that would be valid for the construction season rather than individual bonds for each project.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-47 entitled “Resolution Adopting Permit Fees For Construction Work In The Right-Of-Way“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-47 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

2006 Street Maintenance Program - Public Works Director Giesking recommended approval of the 2006 street maintenance program which included crack sealing, slurry (Liquid Aspen) coat, rock seal coat, and asphalt patching with a budget of $237,600.  Giesking indicated the prices of materials were already increasing and the number of blocks which could be completed would be adjusted based on the bids received for materials.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-48 entitled “Resolution Approving The 2006 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. 2006-48 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

2006-2007 Fire Service Contracts - Finance Director O'Connell recommended authorization be provided for execution of the 2006-2007 fire service contracts with Traverse Township ($14,350), Lake Prairie Township ($19,814) and Oshawa Township ($8,847).  Councilmember Kvamme asked whether the township contract would increase by 40-50% if the townships were required to participate in funding for equipment costs, retirement and other non-operational budget items.  O’Connell indicated the price would be higher, but as in the past the proposed contracts only provided for funding based on the department’s operational budget.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-49 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of 2006-2007 Fire Service Contracts“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-49 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Public Works Job Description Modifications - Public Works Director Giesking recommended modifications to the position descriptions for the Public Works department including removal of the requirement for hazardous materials endorsement, removal of the discrimination section, and other minor changes.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-50 entitled “Resolution Updating Public Works Department Job Descriptions“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-50 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Trail System Master Plan Update - Public Works Director Giesking presented the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board recommendation for adoption of an updated trail system master plan which was based on the goal of developing a trail system loop around the City.  Giesking reviewed the modifications to the plan which included a trail north of Dodd Avenue and along Robart’s Creek; trail in flood plain on the eastern side of the City; trail connecting the old wastewater ponds, which will be used as a wildlife sanctuary, to the trail system; and expanding the width of sidewalks on Broadway from Sunrise Drive to Front Street to make the area part of the trail system.  Giesking also indicated the proposed plan included trail crossings of Highway 169 at west Highway 99, west Highway 22, Broadway Avenue and Union Street and a trail head at the Mill Pond.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-51 entitled “Resolution Adopting An Updated Trail Master Plan“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-51 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Street Paver Purchase - Public Works Director Giesking recommended authorization be provided to purchase a used street paver from Tom Cody in the amount of $14,000.  Giesking reported the City had rented the paver from Cody for the past several summers for $4,400 per summer including two operators and Cody was discontinuing business and wished to sell the paver.  Giesking indicated the equipment needed $3,000-$5,000 in repairs, but the cost of a new paver would start at $40,000.  Giesking indicated his belief that the equipment was a very good purchase and necessary for the City.  Giesking also pointed out that although this was an unbudgeted purchase, the funds which had been budgeted for rental of the paver and trucks could be used to fund the purchase.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-52 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Purchase Of A Used Asphalt Paver“, was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned where the paver would be stored and Giesking indicated there was sufficient space available in an existing cold storage building.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-52 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Public Works Seasonal Employee Wage Scale - City Administrator Prafke recommended the wage scale for seasonal employees in the Public Works Department be increased to start at $8.00 per hour and go up $0.25 per hour for each year of previous service to a maximum of $9.50 per hour.  Prafke indicated Federal regulations regarding work restrictions for employees under the age of 18 had become more restrictive and Public Works seasonal employees would be required to be at least 18 years of age because of it.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-53 entitled “Resolution Adopting Wage Scale For Public Works Seasonal Positions“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-53 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Pool Vacuum Purchase - Public Works Director Giesking recommended authorization be provided to purchase a replacement vacuum for the outdoor swimming pool.  Giesking indicated the current vacuum was 20 years old and needed over $3,300 in repairs.  Giesking recommended the quote of Aqua Logic, Inc., in the amount of $5,010.83, be accepted with funding from the pool budget.  Giesking explained that although this was an unbudgeted expense, the pool budget contained an appropriation of $6,000 for replacement filters for the pool and only $600 was needed for the purchase.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-54 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Purchase Of A Swimming Pool Vacuum“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-54 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15. 

 

Region Nine Transportation Energy Resolution Request - City Administrator Prafke presented the request from Region Nine Development Commission for adoption of a resolution supporting and encouraging the State of Minnesota and other local governments to use 25% renewable fuels for transportation uses by 2025.  Mayor Strand indicated the resolution had been included on the agenda at his request.  Councilmember Douglas objected to the resolution and questioned whether there were any facts or comparison costs available for review by the City Council.   Douglas reported on an article from Popular Mechanics magazine which indicated vehicles using E85 or other renewable fuels received less miles per gallon than those using regular gasoline.  A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann to table action on the proposed resolution until the next meeting so that Councilmembers could review the Popular Mechanics article and other information on the use of renewable fuels for themselves.  With Councilmembers Schultz, Pfeifer, Kvamme, Douglas, Vogel, and Eichmann voting aye, Mayor Strand voting nay, the motion carried.  Mayor Strand indicated he would be absent from the next regular meeting and Councilmembers Douglas and Eichmann agreed to amend their motion to schedule discussion on the proposed resolution at the first meeting in May.  The Council indicated their agreement with the amendment and the City Administrator’s Office indicated the Council would be provided with copies of the Popular Mechanics article.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports - Mayor Strand reported he had recently spoken to the Saint Peter Jaycees and participated in a ceremony to bestow the “Gold Award” to seven area Girl Scouts.  Strand indicated the Gold Award was the highest award a Girl Scout could receive and of the 24 awarded in Minnesota, seven of the recipients were from Saint Peter.

 

Arts in Downtown Meeting - City Administrator Prafke reported the April 12th Arts in Downtown meeting had been rescheduled for April 25th at 5:30 p.m. in the Saint Peter Room at the Community Center.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting Schedule - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the next City/School/Gustavus meeting on April 12th at 7:00 p.m. at Gustavus.

 

City/School Meeting Schedule - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the next City/School meeting on April 19th at 7:00 p.m. in the Nicollet Room of the Community Center.

 

Le Sueur County Meeting- City Administrator Prafke reported Councilmembers would meet with Le Sueur County officials at Whiskey River at 12:00 noon on April 11th.

 

SMMPA Board Meeting - City Administrator Prafke encouraged Councilmembers to attend the SMMPA board meeting being held in the Heritage Room at Gustavus on April 12th beginning at 8:30 a.m.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 MARCH 27, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on March 27, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Douglas, Eichmann, Vogel, Kvamme, Pfeifer, Schultz, and Mayor Strand. The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the March 13, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the March 13, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Mayor Strand reported the Police Officer recognition scheduled under General Visitor comments would be postponed until a future meeting so that all parties could attend the meeting.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-38 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. 2006-38 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

City Watch Program - City Administrator Prafke reviewed the proposed policy for use of the City Watch program.  Prafke indicated Nicollet County had purchased the program, which provides a means for contacting a large number of residents by telephone in a short amount of time, and was allowing use of the program by the City.  Prafke indicated residents would be contacted in emergency situations as outlined in the policy and the program might also be used to contact employees should the need arise.  Prafke also indicated the program would be tested once a year and staff would provide notice regarding the test before it happened.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-39 entitled “Resolution Adopting Policy For Use Of City Watch Program“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-39 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.  Councilmember Eichmann questioned whether the public would be able to provide feedback on the test calls and indicated the message he received when the program was tested for Councilmembers had been cut off mid-way through the message.  Prafke responded staff would provide for a way for those receiving the test calls to provide feedback.

 

North Industrial Park Subdivision Property Price - City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council establish a price for sale of the City owned parcel of land bounded by Highway 22, County Road 15 and CSAH 20 at $1.05 per square foot in addition to the outstanding assessments on the parcel.  Prafke reported developers were interested in the parcel for construction of the new Johnson Hall Chemical Dependency unit and the buildable amount of land in the parcel was approximately 4.5 acres.  Prafke also pointed out that a storm water detention pond was constructed on the parcel.  Prafke recommended that any non-assessment proceeds from the sale of the parcel be dedicated to the North Industrial Park Subdivision bond payments.  Councilmember Kvamme asked if assessments from CSAH 20 would also be paid and Prafke indicated any buyer would also be responsible for those costs.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-40 entitled “Resolution Establishing Sale Price For City Owned Land In North Industrial Park Subdivision“, was introduced with the stipulation that the price also include any assessments on the property and the proceeds being dedication to North Industrial Park bond payments.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-40 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Bucket Truck Bid Award/Cab and Chassis Purchase - Public Works Director Giesking recommended award of the bid for the aerial device portion of the new bucket truck to Dueco, Inc. in the amount of $49,026 plus sales tax.  Giesking also recommended the bid of Altec, which was delivered to the wrong place and not opened as part of the bid opening, be rejected for failure to meet bid specifications.  Giesking further recommended authorization be given to purchase a cab and chassis for the truck from Saint Peter Ford for the state bid price of $33,818.80 plus $2,198.22 in sales tax.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-41 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Bucket Truck Aerial Device“, was introduced.  Councilmember Vogel questioned how much use the truck would get and Giesking indicated the crew changes approximately 4-5 streetlight bulbs per week but the need was also for a truck that was capable of working in the electric substations.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-41 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-42 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Purchase Of Cab And Chassis For A Bucket Truck For The Electric Utility“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-42 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting - Mayor Strand indicated he had recently attended the City/School/Gustavus meeting.

 

Council of Governments General Assembly - Mayor Strand reported he had attended the general assembly meeting of the Minnesota Valley Council of Governments and felt they did a lot of public relations work.  Strand also indicated the members expressed concern that the City of Saint Peter was not a member of the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities.

 

College Students - Mayor Strand reported he had been interviewed by two Mankato State University students who were doing a history of Saint Peter.

 

St. Patrick’s Day Parade - Mayor Strand commented on the large turnout for the St. Patrick’s Day parade and indicated he had heard nothing but positive comments about the event.

 

Median Project Open House  - City Administrator Prafke indicated there was good public participation at the open house event for the Highway 169 median project.  Councilmember Vogel expressed her belief that “everyone is for it”.

 

Council Goal Session Schedule - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the goal session scheduled for March 29th beginning at 3:00 p.m. in the Senior Center.

 

SAC/WAC/EAC Charges - City Administrator Prafke reported that sewer access, water access and electric access charges will go into effect for building permits applied for starting on April 1st and the charges must be paid at the time the building permit is issued.  Prafke reminded Councilmembers that the charges were put into place to so that new customers pay for additional capacity needed as the City grows. 

 

Bickford PCB Site Settlement - City Attorney Brandt explained that the auditors who determined costs associated with disposal of transformers at the Bickford site in New Lisbon, Wisconsin had made an error on the amount owed by the City because they had billed under both the “City of Saint Peter” and “Saint Peter Public Works”.  Brandt indicated that as a result of the error, the City actually owed $5,000 rather than the $1,000 approved by the City Council in 2006.

 

Tornado Anniversary - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the 8th anniversary of the March 29, 1998 tornado.

 

MMUA Legislative Rally - City Administrator Prafke asked Councilmembers interested in attending the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association legislative rally on March 29th and 30th to contact the Public Works Department or the City Administrator’s office.

 

Executive Session - City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council adjourn to closed session to discuss union contract negotiations between the City and the Communications Technician union.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2006-43 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. 2006-43 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.  The Council adjourned to closed session at 7:40 p.m. to discuss union contract negotiations between the City and Law Enforcement Labor Services Union Local No. 242 (Communication Technicians).

 

The Council returned to open session at 7:51 p.m.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 MARCH 13, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on March 13, 2006.

 

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

 

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

 

Public Hearing:  Park Improvement Project - Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on park improvement projects at 7:02 p.m.  Public Works Director Giesking indicated the Department of Natural Resources had grant funds available for outdoor recreation projects and the Parks Board was recommending two projects be considered for construction and for inclusion in grant applications.  Giesking reviewed the proposed projects which included construction of an enclosed picnic shelter/warming house/restroom/storage building in Gault Park for an estimated cost of $250,000 with the City’s in-kind donation being $30,000 in labor for roof construction and $95,000 of parkland dedication funds and a project to reconstruct the large hockey rink at Veteran’s Memorial Park including installation of a post-tension concrete floor and a roof over the rink at a cost of $326,000 with the required 50% in-kind contribution by the City to be funded by parkland dedication funds.  Giesking pointed out that improvements to the hockey rink would have the additional benefit of allowing inline skating and/or skateboard use at the rink during warmer months.  Giesking asked Councilmembers to review letters of support for the Gault Park project from the Community Hospital, the Wilds of Sand Prairie and Saint Peter Public Schools and a letter of support for the Veteran’s Memorial Park project from the Bulldog Youth Hockey Association.  Mayor Strand questioned whether the City would be required to fund additional costs if a grant were awarded for less than the City was asking for.  Giesking indicated the project could be scaled back to accommodate the grant funding.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:19 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the February 27, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the February 27, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-32 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. 2006-32 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

North Industrial Park Subdivision Lot Prices - Community Development Director Wille recommended the price of all unsold lots within North Industrial Park Subdivision be increased by 5% to assure adequate funds are available for the semi-annual bond payments.  Wille pointed out that some of the unsold lots were under options to purchase and the City would honor the prices indicated in the option agreements unless the agreements were not acted upon.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-33 entitled “Resolution Increasing Sales Prices Of Lots Within North Industrial Park Subdivision“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-33 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Transit System Budget - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the 2006 transit system budget in the amount of $241,846 which included a capital purchase of new radios and did not require a change to the fare structure.  Prafke pointed out that the 2007 budget might include purchase of a new bus.  Councilmember Vogel expressed her belief that the transit system was very useful to residents of the community.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-34 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2006 Heartland Transit Enterprise Fund Budget“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-34 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Department of Natural Resources Grant Applications - Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to submit grant applications to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for projects to improve Gault Park in the amount of $250,000 and improvements to Veteran’s Memorial Park in the amount of $326,000 with each grant requiring a 50% in-kind contribution by the City.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-35 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of An Outdoor Recreation Grant Application To Fund Gault Park Project“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-35 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

In motion by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-36 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of An Outdoor Recreation Grant Application To Fund Veterans Memorial Park Project“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-36 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2005 Equipment Certificate Purchase - City Administrator Prafke requested authorization to purchase computer hardware and software to be funded by the 2005 equipment certificate and utility funds.  Prafke explained that the proposed purchases were needed in conjunction with the new financial, payroll and utility billing software that was previously approved for purchase by the City Council and the delay in making the purchase was due to the need to coordinate the equipment with the new billing software.  Prafke indicated there was sufficient funding allocated in the 2005 equipment certificate and utilities funds to fund the purchase from CTS Mankato in the amount of $18,294.60 including sales tax.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-37 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Computer Hardware/Software Purchase To Be Funded By 2005 Equipment Certificate And Utility Funds“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-37 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Women’s History Month Proclamation - Mayor Strand proclaimed March, 2006 as “Women’s History Month” in the City.

 

APPA Rally - Mayor Strand and Councilmember Kvamme reported on their participation in the American Public Power Association Rally in Washington, D.C. and visits with area legislators.

 

Region Nine Development Commission Meeting - Mayor Strand reported on his attendance at a Region Nine Board meeting and indicated he has been appointed to the budget/personnel committee.  Strand indicated discussion at the meeting included numerous topics including Medicare reimbursement for ambulance systems, local government aid, unfunded mandates, transit systems, school funding, Highway 14, increase in gas tax and support of renewable fuels legislation.

 

Arts Meeting - Mayor Strand reported the meeting on arts in the downtown had been well attended and another meeting was scheduled for April 12th.

 

Board of Appeal And Equalization Meeting - City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers the annual Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting had been scheduled for Tuesday, May 2nd at 6:00 p.m. at the Nicollet County Government Center.  Prafke also reported County Assessor Doreen Pherson would be in attendance at the next Council workshop to review the Board of Appeal process and responsibilities.

 

Curbie Repair - City Administrator Prafke reminded residents whose refuse and/or recycling curbies are damaged during collection that they should contact the City Finance Department to make arrangements for a new curbie.

 

Highway 169 Median Project - City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers and the public that information on the Highway 169 median project was available on the internet at www.dot.state.mn.us under the “Projects” and “Highway 169” section.  Prafke also reported an open house on the project design would be held on March 23rd from 4-7 p.m. in the Senior Center at the Community Center.

 

Snow Emergency - City Administrator Prafke reminded residents a snow emergency had been declared and would be in effect for 48 hours.  Prafke encouraged compliance with snow emergency regulations.  Prafke also encouraged those who employ private snow removal companies and the owners of such companies to refrain from plowing snow into the street.  Prafke indicated such action was a violation of the City Code and becomes a safety issue.  Mayor Strand pointed out that the City had no issues with power outages that were experienced by neighboring communities and praised the work of the Utilities staff for their efforts to underground utility lines.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 FEBRUARY 27, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on February 27, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor pro tem Douglas called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Douglas, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Vogel, and Schultz.  Absent were Councilmember Kvamme and Mayor Strand.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the February 13, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the February 13, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-29 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. 2006-29 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Subordination Request:  MS & GS Enterprises - Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation to approve a request by MS & GS Enterprises to subordinate the City revolving loans they have to a new loan from Eagle Valley Bank contingent upon receipt of an appraisal on the building at 907 North Swift Street of at least $1,300,000.  Wille reviewed the history of the revolving loans provided to the company through Exceed Packaging, Chippewa Packaging and MS & GS Enterprises (all owned by various members of the Steele family) and indicated owner Mark Steele wished to refinance the debt to provide capital to be used for purchase of controlling interest in the Technipac company in Le Sueur.  Wille indicated MS & GS was current with all loan payments and he had been assured by the appraiser that the appraisal on the building would result in a value of at least $1,300,000 which would provide more than enough security for the City’s second position on the mortgage.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-30 entitled “Resolution Approving The Subordination Of City Held Mortgages For The Refinancing Of The MS & GS Enterprises Debt“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-30 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

City Assistance Request:  St. Patrick’s Day Celebration - City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by the Ambassadors for City assistance for the Saint Patrick’s Day parade to be held on March 17, 2006 on South Third Street.  Prafke indicated the requested assistance included traffic control, “no parking” designation along the parade route and staging area, and use of South Third Street for the parade.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-31 entitled “Resolution Authorizing City Services For Saint Patrick’s Day Parade“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-31 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Newly Elected Officials Conference - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers who had attended the League of Minnesota Cities newly elected officials conference of the need to submit expense reports if they wished to be reimbursed for expenditures.

 

Arts Meeting - City Administrator Prafke reported a meeting had been conducted on February 22, 2006 regarding development of the arts in the downtown areas.  Prafke indicated several people had attended, the discussion included both visual and performing arts, and a second meeting had been scheduled in April.

 

Goal Session Schedule - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers the next goal session had been rescheduled for March 29th at 3:00 p.m.

 

SAC/WAC/EAC Fees - City Administrator Prafke also reminded Councilmembers and the public that the new sewer access charge (SAC), water access charge (WAC), and electric access charge (EAC) would take effect April 1st and anyone applying for a building permit prior to that date would not have to pay those fees.  Prafke also pointed out that the fees were implemented to help pay for future capacity needs.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 7:17 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

 FEBRUARY 13, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on February 13, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Douglas, Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Vogel, Schultz and Mayor Strand.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the January 23, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the January 23, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-17 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. 2006-17 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Long Term Care Facility Project Bid Correction -  City Administrator Prafke indicated the City’s construction manager Yanik Companies had discovered a mathematical error on the storefronts bid for the long term care facility project.  Prafke recommended adoption of a resolution correcting the bid amount to $40,533 which was substantially lower than the bid amount previously approved.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-18 entitled “Resolution Correcting Bid Amount For Long Term Care Facility Project“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-18 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

PCB Liability Settlement -  Public Works Director Giesking recommended acceptance of a settlement of $1,000 as the City’s share of costs for cleanup of a disposal site in New Lisbon, Wisconsin.  Giesking reminded Councilmembers the City had disposed of PCB contaminated materials at the site and all users were being asked to participate in the cleanup costs which totaled $800,000.  City Attorney Brandt indicated the City would be released from further liability by the City of New Lisbon and the purchaser of the property upon payment of the $1,000.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-19 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Settlement For City Liability For The New Lisbon, Wisconsin PCB Disposal Site“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-19 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

2006 Enterprise Fund Budgets and Rate Modification -  Finance Director O'Connell provided information on the proposed 2006 Enterprise fund budgets and the related rate increases which were being proposed.  O’Connell indicated the water fund budget included completion of a new water tower, improvements to the Greenhill Reservoir, a projected sales increase of 1.5%, $20,000 transfer to the General Fund in addition to the normal 6.5% transfer, new revenues from water access charges and a total budget of approximately $3.9 million.  O’Connell reported no increase in rates was projected for the water fund.  O’Connell also reviewed the wastewater budget which included a $20,000 transfer to the General Fund in addition to 6.5% of sales, revenues from sewer access charges, an increase in rates of $1.09 per 1,000 gallons and increases for the Regional Treatment Center and City of Kasota.  O’Connell also pointed out the total budget was $2.9 million.  O’Connell next reviewed the Environmental Services budget of $675,000 which funds Christmas tree collection, leaf pickup, tree planting and replacement, collection of refuse in parks, the compost site and the residential refuse collection.  O’Connell recommended a $1.00 per month increase in rates.  O’Connell also recommended an increase in stormwater rates to $15 per acre beginning with bills due May 15th, to $19.50 per acre for services provided in September and $22.50 per acre for services provided in January.  O’Connell pointed out the stormwater fund budget was established to finance state and federal mandates for controlling stormwater runoff for communities adjacent to impaired waterways and included revenues for hiring a Stormwater Foreman in October of 2006 and plans for hiring a Stormwater Operator in January of 2007 with a fund balance of $7,312 at the end of 2006.  The final enterprise fund budget reviewed was the Electric budget which included purchase of a bucket truck and billing software, and included rate increases.  O’Connell recommended electric rates increase by an average of 24%, a transmission charge and a decrease in the load control rebate offered to customers.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the reserve fund for the electric utility was only at $600,000 and the budget would not provide for an increase in the reserve to the targeted $1 million amount.  O’Connell reminded Councilmembers the proposed rate increases would take effect with bills due May 15, 2006. 

 

Mayor Strand pointed out that staff had spent numerous hours working on the proposed budgets and rates and the City Council had discussed the issues over several weeks.  Councilmembers expressed regret at having to pass on increases to customers.  Councilmember Kvamme indicated his belief the action was a “crummy thing to do” and the City had an obligation to provide subsidies so that those on fixed incomes could stay in their homes.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-20 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2006 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. 2006-20 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2006-21 entitled “Resolution Adopting Electric, Environmental Services, Wastewater And Stormwater Rates“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-21 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Minnesota Cities Participation Program -  Community Development Director Wille recommended authorization be given for City participation in the Minnesota City Participation Program which provides low interest loans to low and moderate income homebuyers from a bond issuance generated by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency.  Wille indicated the City’s share of the program would be $150,273, but after six months the remainder of the $42 million pool becomes available to any participant that has expended their original share.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-22 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Participation In Minnesota Housing Finance Agency Minnesota City Participation Program“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-22 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Transportation Master Plan Update -  Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk be retained to update the City’s Transportation Master Plan for a fee not to exceed $5,800.  Giesking indicated the City has been working with Nicollet County to identify “growth areas” on the north and west side of the community and the Transportation Master Plan needs updating to identify future collector and sub-collector streets in the growth area.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-23 entitled “Resolution Retaining Bolton And Menk To Prepare Updated Transportation Master Plan“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-23 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

DNR Grant Application Public Hearing -  Public Works Director Giesking recommended a public hearing be scheduled for March 13, 2006 regarding improvements at Gault Park.  Giesking indicated a public hearing was a  requirement to be considered for the Department of Natural Resources grant program staff was preparing an application for. Giesking also pointed out that the proposed improvement project was still being developed and would be available for public review prior to and at the public hearing.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-24 entitled “Resolution Calling For A Public Hearing Concerning Gault Park Improvements For A Grant Application To The Minnesota Department Of Natural Resources“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-24 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Motor Vehicle Sales Tax Legislation Support -  Public Works Director Giesking recommended adoption of a resolution in support of a constitutional amendment which will be on the November election ballot that would dedicate all motor vehicle sales tax revenues to transportation uses including road construction/repair and mass transit.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-25 entitled “Resolution Supporting Motor Vehicle Sales Tax Legislation To Transfer Money To The Transportation Fund“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-25 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Bucket Truck Bid Process -  Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to receive bids for the purchase of a replacement bucket truck for the electric utility.  Giesking indicated the City’s two bucket trucks had failed in 2005, had been declared surplus and disposed of.  Councilmember Vogel questioned what staff had been using to replace streetlights and do other work since that time.  Giesking indicated the crew had used a lift and/or the tree trimming bucket truck, neither of which were safe to use to work on Highway 169.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-26 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Bids For Purchase Of Bucket Truck For Electric Utility“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-26 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Community Center Coffee Shop Proposal -  City Administrator Prafke recommended execution of a license agreement between the City and Khalid and Andrea Shehata for operation of a coffee shop at the Community Center.  Prafke pointed out the license agreement provided for a $100 minimum monthly rent, $500 damage deposit, 3% of sales under $20,000 and 4% of sales over $20,000 with minimum operation hours of 3:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. on weekdays September through May.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2006-27 entitled “Resolution Authorizing License Agreement For Operation Of Coffee Shop In Community Center“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-27 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Dance License Application -  The Council considered approval of a dance license application submitted by the Nicollet County Historical Society for a dance at the fairgrounds on January 18th as part of Winterfest.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-28 entitled “Resolution Approving License Application“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-28 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Reports

 

Mayor Activities - Mayor Strand reported on his activities in the last few weeks which included induction as a Region Nine Board member, a meeting at the Regional Treatment Center, City/School meeting, City/School/Gustavus meeting, the Economic Development Initiative luncheon, tour of the Fire Department, reading to fifth grade students, speaking at Ambassadors and Rotary and participation in the Winterfest parade.

 

City/School Meeting - City Administrator Prafke reported on discussion at the recent City/School and City/School/Gustavus meeting which had focused on combined recreational facilities and senior activities.

 

Employee Recruitment Process - City Administrator Prafke reported the process for recruitment of a Wastewater Operator, Recreation and Leisure Services Secretary/Receptionist and Youth Recreation Specialist positions was ongoing.

 

Workshop Schedule - City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers the next workshop session would be on Tuesday, February 21st due to the President’s day holiday.

 

League of Minnesota Cities conference - Mayor Strand reported he and Councilmembers Eichmann, Vogel, and Schultz would be attending League of Minnesota Cities elected officials training in Bloomington the week of February 17th.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 8:36 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JANUARY 23, 2006

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on January 23, 2006.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Douglas, Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Vogel, Schultz and Mayor Strand.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt.

 

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

 

Public Hearing: Reassessment Of Costs For WELCO West And Windsor Pond Second Addition Subdivision- Mayor Strand opened the continuation of the public hearing on reassessment of costs for the WELCO West and Windsor Pond II subdivisions at 7:01 p.m.  City Administrator Prafke reviewed the projects.   There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:02 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the January 9, 2006 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the January 9, 2006 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17.

 

Visitors - Mayor Strand presented a Certificate of Recognition to retired Firefighter Tom Kennedy.  Strand praised Firefighter Kennedy’s 28 year and five month period of service to the community which included serving as Department Safety Officer from January 1991 through January 2001; as Lieutenant from January 2001 until May 2004; and as Assistant Fire Chief from May 3, 2004 until his retirement on November 7, 2005.  Strand also praised Kennedy for putting in over 4,340 hours of volunteer time, attending 323 meetings and 382 drills and fighting over 1,299 fires.  Following a standing ovation by the City Council and the audience, Fire Chief Windy Block also presented Mr. Kennedy with a retired Firefighter sign and thanked him for his service to the Department.  Mr. Kennedy expressed his appreciation to the City Council, City staff, his family, Fire Chief Block and the members of the Fire Department.

 

Fire Chief Block introduced the four new Firefighters who began their service January 1 2006 including Nick Strand, Tom Roessler, Jr., Ed Johnson and Richard DeLestre.  Mayor Strand welcomed the Firefighters.

 

Consent Agenda - In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-11 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. 2006-11 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.  Councilmember Kvamme requested a copy of the final version of the elected official travel policy.

 

WELCO West/Windsor Pond Second Addition Reassessment Of Costs -  Finance Director O'Connell presented the proposed reassessment of costs for public improvements in WELCO West Subdivision and Windsor Pond Second Addition.  O’Connell indicated the final costs for the subdivisions had been determined and recommended an additional $108.90 be assessed on each of the remaining lots in Windsor Pond Second Addition and an additional $155.26 per lot be assessed on the remaining lots in WELCO West Subdivision.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2006-12 entitled “Resolution Adopting WELCO West And Windsor Pond Second Addition Subdivision Additional Assessments“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-12 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Long Term Care Facility Project Bids -  City Administrator Prafke requested a correction be made to the bid award for the storefronts category of the long term care facility project.  Prafke indicated the correct amount for the John’s Glass Service bid for storefronts was $82,612 and pointed out John’s Glass would still be the low bidder.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2006-13 entitled “Resolution Correcting Bid Amount For Long Term Care Facility Project“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-13 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Long Term Care Facility Project Change Order -  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of Change Order #1 for the long term care facility project which would result in a total addition to the contract price in the amount of $23,426.  Prafke indicated the change order included a tree relocation credit, NPDES (stormwater) credit; and additional charges for screening of unsuitable sols; revision of site utility pipe castings and relocation of a transformer.  Prafke also pointed out the additional funds would be paid from the contractor contingency fund.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2006-14 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order For Long Term Care Facility Project“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-14 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

Highway 169 Median Project Design Committee - City Administrator Prafke recommended appointment of City representatives to the Highway 169 Median Project Design (Project Advisory) Committee.  Prafke indicated the candidates represented the City, Planning and Zoning Commission, Heritage Preservation Commission, Development Corporation, Chamber of Commerce, and Gustavus.  Public Works Director Giesking provided information on the upcoming opportunities for public involvement in the design process and indicated that the Department of Transportation would hold two day-long workshops and have three open houses to allow the public opportunity to review and comment on the proposals.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2006-15 entitled “Resolution Designating City Representation On Highway 169 Median Project Design (Project Advisory) Committee“, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-15 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

City Assistance Request:  Winterfest 2006 -  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request from the Chamber of Commerce to provide City assistance for the second annual Winterfest event February 10-19, 2006.  Prafke indicated the requested assistance included hauling snow (if available) to Minnesota Square Park, use of City property for the medallion hunt, “no parking” designation along the parade route, waiver of the fireworks permit fee, and use of downtown sidewalks for a sidewalk sale.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2006-16 entitled “Resolution Approving Request For City Assistance For Winterfest“, was introduced.  Councilmember Vogel questioned whether there was a possibility of producing artificial snow for the event.  Prafke indicated the process would be cost prohibitive.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2006-16 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 15.

 

City Annexation Petition -  City Administrator Prafke presented the Planning Commission recommendation for approval of the City petition to annex 0.48 acres of property in Traverse Township which was owned by Eugene and Marcella Wytaske.  Prafke indicated the property was completely surrounded by property within the City limits and the property owners had no objection to being annexed.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Ordinance No. 386, 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. 386, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.   Councilmember Eichmann asked when the property owner would be required to connect to City water and sewer.  Prafke indicated the City policy was to provide five years to connect to the water system, but the well would have to be capped sooner than that.

 

Billboard Moratorium -  City Administrator Prafke presented the Planning Commission recommendation to establish a six month moratorium on construction or relocation of a sign (billboard) in excess of seventy-five square feet.  Prafke explained the Planning Commission was currently reviewing the “gateway” district requirements which would include regulations concerning large signs.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Douglas, Ordinance No. 387, Second Series entitled “An Interim Ordinance Of The City Of Saint Peter, Minnesota Temporarily Prohibiting The Issuance Of Permits For And Erection Of Signs In Excess Of Seventy-Five Square Feet In Size, And Adopting By Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1, Which, Among Other Things, Contains Penalty Provisions“, was introduced.  Councilmember Pfeifer asked whether the City was in receipt of any sign permits for billboards.  Prafke indicated he was unaware of any permit applications.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Ordinance No. 387, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Reports

 

Region Nine Commission - Mayor Strand reported he had been inducted as the City’s representative on the Region Nine Development Commission on the same evening that former Mayor Hawbaker was recognized for his service to Region Nine.

 

City/School Meeting Schedule - City Administrator Prafke reported the next meeting of the City/School Committee would be at 6:00 p.m. on January 25, 2006 in the lobby of the Gustavus student union.

 

City/County Meeting