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 10, 2007

 

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 10, 2007.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Douglas, Vogel and Mayor Strand.  Absent was Councilmember Schultz.  The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke, City Attorney Brandt, and City Engineer Domras.

 

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 November 26, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the November 26, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the December 3, 2007 Truth in Taxation hearing.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the December 3, 2007 Truth in Taxation hearing is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-183 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. 2007-183 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Sunrise Water Tower Project Final Acceptance And Change Order –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended approval of change order number two for the Sunrise Water Tower Project, acceptance of the project as completed, and authorization for final payment to the contractor.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-184 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order Number Two, Accepting The Sunrise Water Tower 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. 2007-184 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road Project Final Acceptance –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended the Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road project be accepted as completed and authorization be provided to make final payment to the contractor.  Giesking indicated the final cost of the project, after the supplemental agreements issued for the project, was $1,424,822.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-185 entitled “Resolution Accepting Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road Construction 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. 2007-185 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Board of Appeals and Adjustment Modification –  City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the zoning code to reflect the Council’s wishes for membership on the Board of Appeals and Adjustments as being three Councilmembers, the Chair of the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Chair of the Heritage Preservation Commission.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Douglas, Ordinance No. 396, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Of The City Of Saint Peter, Minnesota Amending City Code Chapter 11 ’Land Use Regulation (Zoning)’, Section 11.29 ‘Board of Appeals And Adjustments’ And Adopting By Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1 And Section 11.99, 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. 396, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

2008 Budget/Tax Levy Adoption – Finance Director O'Connell provided a review of the process and results of the process for determining the levy collectible in 2008 and the associated budgets.  O’Connell indicated the proposed levy was in the amount of $2,020,342 and the extension rate would be reduced slightly from the preliminary levy amount.  O’Connell also indicated the extension rate was up 1.43% from 2007.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2007-186 entitled “Resolution Adopting Final 2007 Tax Levy Collectible In 2008“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-186 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-187 entitled “Resolution Approving The General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, Debt Service Funds And Capital Funds For The 2008 Fiscal Year“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-187 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Highway 169 Median Project Grant Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended authorization be given to submit an application for grant funds for the Highway 169 median project from Walnut Street to Jefferson Avenue. Giesking indicated the project should be eligible for the enhancement grant funding. In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-188 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Transportation Enhancement Grant To Fund Highway 169 Median Project From Walnut Street To Jefferson Avenue“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-188 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Giesking pointed out that it was also necessary to adopt a second resolution for the grant application in which the City would agree to maintain the median after construction.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-189 entitled “Resolution Agreeing To Maintain Highway 169 Median Project From Walnut Street To Jefferson Avenue“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-189 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Dodd Avenue Underpass Project –  Public Works Director Giesking reported that grant funds had been received for the Dodd Avenue Underpass Project, however a change in design required by MNDOT had resulted in a substantially increased cost for the project.  Giesking indicated Municipal State Aid funding could be used for the additional $383,000 cost to the City and recommended that staff be authorized to receive bids for the project.  Mayor Strand reminded everyone that the project was being undertaken because of public safety issues.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-190 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Bids For Dodd Avenue 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. 2007-190 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Modification:  MS & GS Enterprises – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a request by MS & GS Enterprises to extend the balloon payment date on their revolving loan to June 18, 2009.   Willie indicated the applicants were current on all loan payments and approval of the request would provide them with stability in their financing and allow expansion of their other business in Saint Peter.  Wille also pointed out that the balance of the loan was secured by a mortgage on the property and there was very little risk to the City in approving the extension.  Councilmember Kvamme indicated the EDA was very comfortable with approving the extension.  Kvamme also requested modification to the resolution to replace the phrase, “…it is necessary to once again consider modifying the terms of the loan”, with “…the applicant has requested consideration to modify the terms of their loan to extend the balloon payment.”  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-191 entitled “Resolution Modifying MS & GS Enterprises Revolving Loan Terms“ was introduced with the requested language modification. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-191 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Lease of City Property:  627 West Park Row –  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a lease agreement with Saint Peter Community Childcare Center, Inc. (SPCCC) for the City owned property at 627 West Park Row.  Prafke indicated SPCCC would utilize approximately 2,800 square feet of the first floor, west wing of the old nursing home building and the lease was for a two year period.  Prafke indicated the proposed tenant was aware the City may not extend the lease past the two years should a City purpose for the building be identified and cautioned the Council that should the business be successful, public sentiment against moving the operation might be difficult to overcome.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-192 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Lease For City Owned Property At 627 West Park Row“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-192 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Fund Application:  Day Care –  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a revolving loan to Saint Peter Community Childcare Center, Inc. (SPCCC) in the amount of $35,000.  Wille indicated the loan would at 0% interest, with payments in the amount of $100 per month for the first 24 months, $200/month for the next 36 months and a balloon payment due in the 60th month.  Wille cautioned that the loan would be virtually unsecured as the only lien would be a second position on the assets of the business.  Wille also indicated the EDA was making an exception to the loan regulations which required $1 of private funding for every $1 of revolving loan funds because of the belief that lack of available daycare opportunities in the community would impede economic development in the community.  Councilmember Eichmann reported the EDA believed the daycare operation would be a value to the entire community and the applicants appeared competent to succeed.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-193 entitled “Resolution Approving Revolving Loan To Saint Peter Community Childcare Center, Inc.“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-193 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Shared Athletic Field Lease Agreement – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval be provided for execution of a shared athletic field lease agreement between the City, School District #508 and Gustavus Adolphus College.  Prafke indicated the approximately $15,000 yearly cost would be funded the first year from parkland dedication funds and reminded Councilmembers that the amount may need to be levied in the future.  Prafke indicated Gustavus would be solely responsible for maintenance of the fields and the cooperative nature of the agreement might be a template for future cooperative efforts.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-194 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Shared Athletic Field Lease“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-194 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Spill Prevention Plan Adoption –  Public Works Director Giesking reported the Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures Plan developed by DeWild, Grant and Reckert Engineers had been completed and Giesking recommended adoption of the plan which was mandated by OSHA.  Giesking indicated the plan included six City facilities and requires mitigation efforts at two of the sites at an approximate cost of $13,500.  Councilmember Pfeifer pointed out that the requirement was yet another unfunded mandate passed on to the City.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-195 entitled “Resolution Adopting Spill Prevention Control And Countermeasures Plan (SPCC)“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-195 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Personnel Policy Modification:  Injured on Duty Pay –  City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the personnel policy language regarding “injured on duty pay” so that the actual practice of allowing employees to utilize accumulated sick, vacation and comp time to supplement worker’s compensation payments is reflected in the policy. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-196 entitled “Resolution Approving Modification To Personnel Policy Handbook Section XI ‘Employee Leaves’“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-196 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Step Wage Adjustment –  City Administrator Prafke recommended step wage modifications for all non-union, non-contract employees based on pay equity points.  Prafke indicated the step wage increases would be provided in addition to the cost-of-living increases which were approved in November.  Prafke recommended additional increases for the Accountant, Director of Finance, Public Works Director, and Recreation and Leisure Services Program Supervisor to reflect market rates. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-197 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. 2007-197 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Greenhill Reservoir Refurbishment Project Engineering –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended issuance of requests for proposals for engineering work on a project to refurbish the Greenhill Reservoir.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned why the proposal was being made before adoption of the 2008 water budget which would fund the project.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the budget would include financing for the work and there was a long lead time on this type of work.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-198 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Proposals For Greenhill Reservoir Refurbishing Project Engineering“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-198 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Hospital Equipment Purchases –  Hospital CFO Cornish addressed the Council to request purchase of equipment for the Community Hospital.  Cornish recommended purchase of endoscope equipment from Stryker in the amount of $76,484.25.  Cornish pointed out that the bid was not the lowest bid, but the equipment was the brand preferred by the doctors and staff and that would make it easier for doctors coming from other hospitals to use.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-199 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Endoscope Equipment For Community Hospital“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-199 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Cornish also requested authorization for purchase of a C-arm compatible operating room table in the amount of $37,492.57 from low bidder Skytron.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-200 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Operating Room Table For Community Hospital“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-200 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included a Region Nine board meeting; a meeting of a new committee made up of community leaders to address various issues including alcohol use by young people; a rural legislative session; and the Council goal session.

 

Council Reception – City Administrator Prafke reminded the public of the reception for outgoing Councilmember Douglas and Councilmember-Elect Wetherill on December 20th from 4-6 p.m. at the Senior Center.

 

Council Goal Session Discussion – City Administrator Prafke indicated the discussion at the goal session was very beneficial.

 

City/County Meeting Discussion – City Administrator Prafke reported discussion at the last City/County meeting included shared dispatch, fuel depot, library contract, and the Nicollet library.

 

City/School Meeting Discussion – Councilmember Kvamme indicated discussion at the last City/School and City/School/Gustavus meeting included Coordinator of Volunteers, field lease, early childhood initiative and community development.

 

Capital For A Day Program – City Administrator Prafke indicated Saint Peter had not been selected as winner of the Capital for a Day program and the capital had been “stolen from us again”.

 

Presentation To Councilmember Douglas – Mayor Strand presented retiring Councilmember Ken Douglas with a “certificate of appreciation” and an engraved clock in recognition of his 12 years of service to the City.

 

Closed Session: Utility Union Negotiations –  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-201 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. 2007-201 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session at 8:54 p.m.  The Council returned to open session at 9:09 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 9:09 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL TRUTH IN TAXATION HEARING

DECEMBER 3, 2007

 

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 3, 2007.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the hearing to order at 7:002 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Douglas, Schultz, Vogel and Mayor Strand.  The following official was present: City Administrator Prafke.

 

Truth In Taxation Hearing – Mayor Strand opened the Truth In Taxation Hearing at 7:02 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell reviewed the process for establishing a tax levy and indicated the proposed levy was 7.08% above the 2007 levy, which is slightly less than the preliminary levy amount due to a reduction in the City contribution to the Fire Relief Association ($6,372 less than anticipated).  O’Connell also indicated the City extension rate was being reduced from 43.85 to 43.72.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the budgets included $50,000 for street seal coating and $30,000 for seal coating trails and library levy due to depletion of the reserve funds which had been used for library operations in the past.  Mayor Strand expressed his belief that Saint Peter was doing well compared to other cities.

 

William Ove, 714 South Fourth Street, addressed the Council to express concern about the amount of money being spent by the City and the resulting taxes.  Ove encouraged the Council to not compare Saint Peter to other cities and to focus solely on City spending and taxation.  Councilmember Pfeifer asked Mr. Ove what services he would like to see cut and Ove indicated he would cut watering parks and lawns at City facilities.   Councilmembers pointed out that the areas are being watered because of the young tress which have been planted in the past few years and that even if no additional services are offered by the City, costs continue to increase for all City operations.  Ove also expressed his belief that the citizens of Saint Peter end up sacrificing more than the City sacrifices.   

 

Greg Schettler, 822 South Third Street, addressed the Council to express his belief that it is “alarming” to see real estate taxes double in the past 8-9 years and questioned why his taxes increased 20% two years ago and 6% this year.  City Administrator Prafke reported that changes in tax laws by the State of Minnesota resulted in dramatic increases and decreases for property tax due to the way school districts are now funded and cuts in local government aid.  Prafke pointed out that for decreases to be made in individual property taxes either changes must be made at the State level or the City must cut services.  Schettler questioned what City issues make up the biggest portion of the tax increases and Prafke indicated it was replacing lost local government aid, Community Center costs and Library operational costs.

 

Mike Niemeyer, 1701 Wood Duck Street, asked whether the Council had considered making any reductions or cuts to help property owners out.  City Administrator Prafke indicated that no cuts were being considered, but no expansions of programs or services were being allowed.  Prafke also pointed out that some cost savings had been implemented including smaller budget amounts for maintenance and repair, putting off road projects, library reorganization to save $27,000, and designating certain trails and sidewalks as “no maintenance”.  Public Works Director Giesking also pointed out that City staff are always looking for ways to save money and the as a result the City is now contracting for diesel fuel purchases at a savings of $30,000.  Councilmember Eichmann reminded everyone that the City’s water reclamation project was expected to save $28,000 per year by reclaiming water at the water treatment plant.   Niemeyer further questioned whether the City had gone overboard with growth and development.  City Administrator Prafke indicated growth in the community helped to lessen the tax burden by spreading the levy among more properties.

 

Schettler asked the Council to scrutinize any future spending carefully in light of the way the economy is going.  Mayor Strand indicated the City tries not to spend frivolously and indicated his belief that the City is doing good for the community.

 

There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:45 p.m.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 26, 2007

 

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 26, 2007.

 

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

 

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

 

Public Hearing – Zoning Regulations Modification – Mayor pro tem Kvamme opened the public hearing on proposed modifications to the existing zoning regulations of the City Code at 7:03 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille reported the Planning Commission had been working to revise the Zoning Code for over 24 months so that the Code conformed to current planning practices and case law.  Wille also pointed out that the Code would allow for conditional uses which was not allowed in the existing code and for a Board of Appeal and Adjustment to hear requests for conditional uses, variances and appeals from decisions of the Zoning Administrator.  Wille also reviewed the five new zoning districts which were proposed and which included Large Lot Residential, Educational/Institutional, separating the existing industrial district into Limited and Heavy Industrial, Gateway Overlay, and C-5 (business, medical, professional).  Councilmember Eichmann questioned whether the proposed C-5 zone along Sunrise Drive would extend all the way to Broadway Avenue.  Wille indicated it would not as there was a parcel of land between the proposed zone and Broadway that was not in the City limits.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:12 p.m.

 

Public Hearing – Assessment Of Unpaid Utility Charges – Mayor pro tem Kvamme opened the public hearing on assessment of unpaid utility charges at 7:12 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell reviewed the process for assessment of unpaid utility charges which included writing off bad debt account balances under $10 and those remaining after death of a customer or bankruptcy.  O’Connell indicated the amounts would be assessed for one year at 4.72% interest.  Bill Trimbo, manager of Green Valley Trailer Court at 1305 Old Minnesota Avenue, objected on behalf of park owner Brian Ertel, to two assessments against the mobile home park.  Trimbo claimed that the tenants for one bill the park was being assessed for were still living in the park in another trailer.  O’Connell indicated the City would remove that bill and make further attempts to collect from the renter.  Trimbo also objected to a bill he believed was for a tenant of another property.  O’Connell indicated staff had erred and the bill was actually for another property and would be removed from the assessment roll.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:19 p.m.

 

Public Hearing – Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges – Mayor pro tem Kvamme opened the public hearing on assessment of unpaid miscellaneous charges at 7:19 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell reviewed the proposed assessments for unpaid weed mowing, snow removal and water line repair charges and indicted the amounts would be assessed for one year at 4.72%.  Bill Trimbo, manager of Green Valley Trailer Court at 1305 Old Minnesota Avenue, again objected on behalf of park owner Brian Ertel to an assessment in the amount of $1,045 against the mobile home park for water line service repair.   Trimbo reported he had lined up someone to make the repair after he entered the manhole himself and shut the water off.  Trimbo objected to being billed for what he said were “two City guys who sat there all day watching”, while his private contractor repaired the leak.  Mayor pro tem Kvamme pointed out that Mr. Trimbo was not allowed to enter the City manhole and cautioned that he could have died.  Prafke also indicated that the City has offered several times to work with the park owner to upgrade the water system to current standards and code requirements including financing the work for the owner.  Prafke also indicated the charges are appropriate and based on the call out fees established by the City.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:24 p.m.

 

Public Hearing – Unpaid Utility Improvement Charges – Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on assessment of unpaid utility improvement charges at 7:24 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell reported the two properties involved in the proposed assessment had signed waivers of assessment for the utility improvements.  O’Connell also recommended that assessments in the amount of $5,246.78 for Parcel #19.008.0425 be deferred until such time as the property is connected to the City’s water or wastewater system.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:26 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the November 13, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the November 13, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – Mayor pro tem Kvamme indicated the appointment of Christina Barnard was being removed from consideration.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-176 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. 2007-176 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Zoning Regulation Modification –  Mayor pro tem Kvamme reported the Planning Commission had worked on the revised zoning code for over two years and he was supportive of most of the document although he struggled with the C-5 district designation.  Kvamme indicated if he were to move the ordinance he would do so to adopt the ordinance as written, with the understanding the Council would have further discussion on the C-5 district after the first of the year, and to remove the C-5 designations from all sections of the official Zoning Map with those sections maintaining their current zoning classification.  Councilmember Pfeifer agreed with the proposed action and expressed concerns that if no action was taken on the new ordinance that future development would be hampered in the community.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Douglas, Ordinance No. 394, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Of The City Of Saint Peter, Minnesota, Amending City Code Chapter 11 ‘Land Use Regulation (Zoning)’ And Adopting By Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1 And Section 11.99, Which Among Other Things, Contain Penalty Provisions“ was introduced with the stipulation that the lands to be designated as C-5 zoning on the zoning map would maintain their current zoning classification and the Council would have additional discussion on the C-5 district after the first of the year. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Ordinance No. 394, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Summary Publication Authorization –  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-177 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Publication Of The Title And Summary Of Ordinance No. 394, Second Series“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-177 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Utility Charges –  Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the assessment roll for unpaid utility charges.  O’Connell pointed out that approximately $7,448.11 in electric charges would be written off as uncollectible in addition to writing off amounts under $10 and charges remaining after death/bankruptcy.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-178 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. 2007-178 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges –  Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the assessment roll for unpaid miscellaneous (snow removal, weed mowing, and water service line repair) charges in the total amount of $1,631.00.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the amount disputed by Mr. Trimbo during the public hearing was included in the resolution, but staff would continue to work with him.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-179 entitled “Resolution Adopting Assessment For Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-179 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Utility Improvement Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the proposed assessment for unpaid utility improvement charges for which waivers of assessments had been signed by the property owners.  O’Connell indicated the assessments would be payable over 10 years at 5.32%.  O’Connell reminded Councilmembers that a portion of the assessments would be deferred until such time as the property in question connected to the water or wastewater service.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-180 entitled “Resolution Adopting Assessment For Unpaid Utility Improvement Charges“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-180 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Hospital Commission Ordinance Modification/Committee Appointments – City Administrator Prafke indicated three actions were being requested of the Council including modification to the Hospital ordinance to allow for operation of a medical clinic; appointment of a building committee should a clinic be constructed; and authorization for $20,000 to fund a physician recruitment firm.  Prafke indicated the primary goal of the Council is to ensure the sustainability of the hospital into the future.  Prafke pointed out that while the finances of the hospital are in very good shape, in-patient days are going down for many reasons and staff had not been able to come to terms with the other clinics and private practitioners in the community on a joint project.  Prafke reported it wasn’t the goal of the Hospital Commission to compete with the other clinics, but the Commission was looking at a medical clinic as a way to assure having physicians with a vested interest in the long term future of the hospital.  Councilmember Kvamme asked whether the third action actually started the “ball rolling” on development of a medical clinic.  Prafke indicated that was the case.

 

Brian Nermoe, Chief Operating Officer of the Mankato Clinic, addressed the Council to read a prepared statement expressing concern with the direction the Hospital Commission was going.  Nermoe indicated that when the Mankato Clinic was established, the intent was to enter into a partnership of cooperation with the City and the medical community and should the City and Hospital Commission continue in the direction of a City owned medical clinic, the Mankato Clinic would view the effort as a “publicly owned predatory health system”.  Nermoe suggested the Mankato Clinic would welcome an opportunity to work collaboratively with the hospital and area medical providers to develop a plan that would address the needs of the community and indicated the Mankato Clinic Chief Medical Officer had met with the Hospital Chief Medical Officer Dr. Chaska in that effort.  Nermoe also offered, on behalf of the Mankato Clinic, to work collaboratively with the City and Hospital staff to spend three months developing a physician need/demand study that would be funded by the Mankato Clinic.

 

Councilmember Kvamme indicated building a medical clinic was not a top choice for the City and the City wished to offer complimentary medical services and not competitive services.  Nermoe countered that the City’s efforts to recruit internal medicine physicians overlaps with the Mankato Clinic services and plans.

 

City Administrator Prafke and Councilmembers expressed interest in continuing to work with the Mankato Clinic through a physician advisory group to steer and plot a course of long range planning for health care in the community. 

 

Councilmembers Pfeifer and Eichmann expressed their belief that years of discussions with both local clinics had resulted in no action and that it was time for the City to move ahead.  Mr. Nermoe expressed concerns regarding legal issues should the Clinic and the City continue joint talks about physician recruitment once the City’s recruitment process begins.

 

In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Ordinance No. 395, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Of The City Of Saint Peter, Minnesota, Amending City Code Chapter 1 ‘Administration And General Government’ And Section 2.36 “Hospital, Nursing Home, And Ambulance Commission’ And Adopting By Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1 And Section 2.99, 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. 395, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Mayor pro tem Kvamme indicated the proposed building committee would be composed of Hospital CEO Spike, CFO Cornish, and Environmental Services Director Wilcox; Hospital Commission Member Kuiper;  City Councilmember Pfeifer and City Administrator Prafke. In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-181 entitled “Resolution Establishing Medical Office Building Construction Committee“ was introduced. Upon roll call, Councilmembers Schultz, Pfeifer, Kvamme, Vogel and Eichmann voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-181 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a resolution that would allow the Hospital Commission to spend $20,000 for a nationwide physician recruitment firm.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-182 entitled “Resolution Establishing Authorizing Expenditure For Physician Recruitment For Community Hospital“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-182 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

American Waterworks Association Volunteer Of The Year – Public Works Director Giesking reported Water Foreman Chris Voeltz had been named “Volunteer of the Year” for the State of Minnesota by the American Waterworks Association in recognition of his work for “Water For People”.

 

SWPPP Plan Approval – Public Works Director Giesking reported the City’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) had been approved by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. 

 

Goal Session – City Administrator Prafke reported the goal session packets would be distributed by Monday evening.

 

Recreation and Leisure Services Brochure Re-Design – City Administrator Prafke displayed the redesigned Recreation and Leisure Services/Community Education brochure which was mailed out to all households in Saint Peter.

 

Truth In Taxation Hearing – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and residents of the Truth In Taxation Hearing scheduled for Monday, December 3, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. in the Governors' Room.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 8:22 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 13, 2007

 

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, 2007.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Douglas, Schultz, and Mayor Strand.  Absent was Councilmember Vogel.  The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke, City Attorney Brandt, and City Engineers Domras and Loose.

 

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

 

Public Hearing – Business Subsidy Agreement:  NAPA – Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on issuance of a business subsidy to Evenson Real Estate Management, LLC (dba NAPA/Valley Auto Parts) in an amount exceeding $100,000 at 7:02 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille provided background information on the application by Mr. and Mrs. Evenson for $140,000 in revolving loan funds to purchase the property at 311 South Front Street and the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of the loan which would enhance the downtown and help stabilize the central business district.  Wille indicated the terms of the business subsidy agreement did not include job creation/retention and the applicants would be required to report to the City on an annual basis and be in operation for at least five years after closing of the loan.  Councilmember Kvamme asked if the loan would have to be repaid if the applicant moved out of Saint Peter.  Wille indicated the loan would be immediately due and payable if the applicant relocated out of the community.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:05 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the October 22, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the October 22, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-150 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the irrigation that was proposed for the lawn at the wastewater treatment plant would be done with treated water or water from the plant.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency rules do not allow the City to use untreated water for lawn irrigation purposes at this time.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-150 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Employee Health Insurance Proposals –  City Administrator Prafke recommended acceptance of the Blue Cross/Blue Shield proposal for 2008 employee health insurance coverage through the South Central Service Cooperative Plan.  Prafke indicated that the proposal, coupled with BC/BS administering the City’s IRS Cafeteria 125 plan and the crossover expenses including employee time, was the least expensive plan.   In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-151 entitled “Resolution Accepting Proposal For Employee Health Care Coverage“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-151 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Sunrise Water Tower Fencing Project: Change Order/Final Acceptance –  Public Works Director Giesking reported the completion of the fencing project at the Sunrise Water Tower had been delayed due to delays caused by the painting contractor.  Giesking recommended a change order be issued to the contract to reflect the new completion date, the project be accepted as completed, and authorization be provided to make final payment to the contractor in the amount of $77,378.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-152 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Change Order No. 1, Accepting The Sunrise Water Tower Fencing 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. 2007-152 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Veteran’s Field Improvement Donation Loan Request –  City Administrator Prafke and Public Works Director Giesking reported the Saint Peter Baseball Association had run out of funding for the improvements they were to donate at Veteran’s field and were requesting the City loan them $16,906.23 to complete the storage building on the north side of the field.  Giesking indicated the term of the “loan” would be four years with no interest.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the money would be paid directly to the Baseball Association.  Giesking indicated the City would pay vendors directly and the Association would repay the City.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-153 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Loan To Saint Peter Baseball Association To Fund A Portion Of Veteran’s Field Baseball Storage Building“ was introduced with a change in the language of the resolution to indicate that, “Upon execution of an agreement with the Saint Peter Baseball Association for repayment to the City within four years, the City Council hereby authorizes payments of invoices totaling no more than $16,906.23 for a portion of the cost of the Veteran’s Field Baseball Storage Building to be funded by the General Fund.”   Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as moved. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-153 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Canvass Of 2007 Election Results –  City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council accept the results of the 2007 general election as provided for in State Statutes.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-154 entitled “Resolution Canvassing 2007 Municipal Election Returns“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-154 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Water Utility Master Plan Acceptance –  Public Works Director Giesking, Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton, and Bolton and Menk, Inc. Engineer Herman Dharmarajah provided the City Council with a review of the findings and recommendations in the update of the Water Master Plan.  Dharmarajah indicated the plan was developed with projections out twenty years and three alternatives were provided for improvements to the water system including drilling new wells, refurbishing equipment at the Jefferson Plant, expanding the St. Julien plant, installing new trunk water mains, abandoning and demolishing the Jefferson Plant, and constructing a new water treatment facility.  Dharmarajah indicated the anticipated cost of each of the three alternatives was $6.5 to $7.5 million and also outlined the risk factors for each alternative.  Dharmarajah pointed out that the current system was operating beyond safe levels during peak use periods and failure in any portion of the system could effect the entire community.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether promoting conservation efforts by the public would have an effect on the need to expand the system.  Dharmarajah indicated that some efforts at conservation were already in place by large users and conservation would not address the need for additional water storage.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-155 entitled “Resolution Accepting The 2007 Water Master Plan Update And Authorizing Staff To Obtain Engineering Proposals To Evaluate Alternatives For Water Supply And Expanded Water Treatment Facilities“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-155 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Electric Utility Master Plan Acceptance – Chad Rasmussen, an engineer with DeWild, Grant and Reckert Engineers (DGR), addressed the Council to provide a review of the electric master plan update.  Rasmussen outlined the system deficiencies including insufficient transformer capacity to handle the loss of a transformer; low voltage and overloaded lines on distribution feeders with the loss of a transformer or other equipment; deficiencies at the main substation; the age of the 69 kV substation transformers; the age and condition of distribution power cable in the oldest portions of the system; overloading of the Broadway transformer under projected future loads; line overloading and low voltages on the distribution feeders under projected future loads; and other issues that would arise under projected future loads if any of the existing system failed.  Rasmussen reviewed the recommended two phases for reconstruction and expansion of the system at a cost of $8,295,000 for Phase 1 and $3,520,000 for Phase 2.  Public Works Director Giesking pointed out that the cost of electric equipment and supplies is steadily increasing and Rasmussen clarified that the projected costs are at today’s cost and costs of transformers could be three to four times higher as time goes by.   In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-156 entitled “Resolution Accepting 2007 Electric Utility Master Plan“ was introduced.  Councilmember Eichmann asked for additional explanation regarding using the generation plant during power outages.  Rasmussen and Giesking indicated that the plant would not supply enough power to run the entire community and that switches would have to be manually closed throughout the distribution system in order to provide power and it would take 1-2 hours before power could be provided to the community.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-156 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Business Subsidy Request:  NAPA –  Community Development Director Wille provided the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a $140,000 business subsidy loan to Evenson Real Estate Management (dba NAPA/Valley Auto Parts) at 3% interest amortized over 30 years with a balloon payment at five years and secured by personal guarantees, a mortgage on the property at 311 South Front Street, and a lien on equipment and furnishings.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-157 entitled “Resolution Approving $140,000 Revolving Loan To Evenson Real Estate Management, LLC dba NAPA To Partially Finance Acquisition Of Commercial Property Located At 311 South Front Street And Authorizing The Mayor And City Administrator To Execute The Associated Business Subsidy Agreement“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-157 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Enterprise Fund Budgets –  Finance Director O'Connell reviewed and recommended adoption of the proposed 2007 budgets for wastewater, environmental services, telecommunications conduit, stormwater, transit and the long term care facility.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-158 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2007 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. 2007-158 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Department of Transportation Master Partnership Agreement –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended execution of a more extensive partnership agreement with the Minnesota Department of Transportation that would outline the roles and responsibilities of the City and MnDOT.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-159 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Contract With State Of Minnesota Department Of Transportation“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-159 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Hospital Equipment Purchase Request – Community Hospital CFO Ken Cornish addressed the Council to request authorization for purchase of two computer software packages that would be one of the steps needed to switch to electronic medical records.  Cornish recommended the purchase from Healthcare Management Systems, the current vendor for other software used by the Hospital, in the amount of $98,975.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-160 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Computer Software“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-160 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2008 Legal Services Contract –  City Administrator Prafke presented the Finance Committee recommendation for approval of the 2008 legal services contract proposed by Brandt & Magnus P.A.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-161 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of 2008 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. 2007-161 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Street Snow Removal Policy – Public Works Director Giesking proposed an updated policy for removal of snow from City streets.  Giesking indicated the policy was more comprehensive than previous policies and would provide information to the public on how and why the process is done.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-162 entitled “Resolution Approving Snow Removal Policy For Streets“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-162 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Sidewalk/Trail Snow Removal Policy – Public Works Director Giesking recommended adoption of an updated snow removal policy for sidewalks and trails for the 15.5 miles of public sidewalks and trails in Saint Peter.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-163 entitled “Resolution Approving Updated Snow Removal Policy For Sidewalks And Trails“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-163 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Trail Closure Policy –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended that certain trails in the community be designated as “no snow removal/maintenance” for the period November 1, 2007 through May 1, 2008.  Giesking indicated that for the most part the trails which are included in the resolution are only one side of a roadway with trails on both sides. Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the trail on Dodd Avenue adjacent to the Orchard Ridge Subdivision should be on the north side instead of the east as indicated in the resolution, as Dodd Avenue runs east-west.   In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-164 entitled “Resolution Establishing ‘No Snow Removal’ Trails For The Winter Of 2007-2008“ was introduced with the correction to the Dodd Avenue listing which should be the “north” side. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-164 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Cost-Of-Living Wage Adjustment – City Administrator Prafke recommended a 2% cost-of-living adjustment be provided for non-union, non-contract employees effective January 1, 2008.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-165 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. 2007-165 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a peddler/transient merchant license for Schwan’s in order to conduct “truck load sales” in parking lots of businesses along Minnesota Avenue.  Prafke indicated Schwan’s is exempt from the peddler license requirements when they are invited to customer homes, but conducting a truck load sale requires the peddler/transient merchant licensure.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-166 entitled “Resolution Approving Peddler/Transient Merchant License“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-166 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Transmission Line Project Engineering –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended DeWild, Grant and Reckert be retained to develop a plan for installation and funding sources for a new electric transmission line on a time and materials basis not to exceed $20,000 to be funded by electric funds.  Giesking indicated it could take as long as a year to develop the plan which will involved private property.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-167 entitled “Resolution Retaining DeWild, Grant And Reckert Engineering To Develop A Plan For Electric Transmission And Funding“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-167 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Stormwater Treatment Project Grant Application – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to submit five grant applications for stormwater projects on North and South Front Streets to install underground treatment equipment for stormwater which would impact the quality of stormwater entering the Minnesota River.  Giesking indicated the grant applications would total $270,000 and the projects could be funded anywhere from 50%-100%.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-168 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Grant Applications For Clean Water Legacy Nonpoint Source Restoration And Protection Grants For Stormwater Projects On North And South Front Streets“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-168 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Request:  Rachel More –  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to approve a revolving loan application in the amount of $24,900 for Charles and Rachel More for operation and start up of a personal training and fitness facility.  Wille indicated the recommended amount was reduced from the application because of a requirement that no more than 50% of project costs be funded by City funds and the recommendation was made contingent upon the applicant filling a $15,090 funding gap.  Wille indicated the applicant had informed him the gap had been filled by a note from Nicollet County Bank.  Wille pointed out the proposed loan was at 3% interest amortized over ten years with a balloon payment due at 5 years guaranteed by personal guarantees and liens on the equipment and assets of the applicant.  Councilmember Pfeifer asked how much in loan funds are available after approval of both loans being considered by the Council at the meeting.  Wille indicated the fund balance was approximately $195,000 and over $30,000 in payments are received each month.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-169 entitled “Resolution Approving $24,900 Revolving Loan To Rachel More dba The Pulse, Inc. To Partially Finance The Acquisition Of Equipment And Furnishings For The Start-Up Of Personal Training/Fitness Studio“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-169 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Assessment Of Delinquent Utility Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended the process for assessment of unpaid utility charges be initiated and the Council direct preparation of the assessment roll and call for a public hearing on November 26, 2007.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-170 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. 2007-170 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-171 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. 2007-171 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended the process for assessment of unpaid miscellaneous charges be initiated and the Council direct preparation of the assessment roll and call for a public hearing on November 26, 2007.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-172 entitled “Resolution Declaring Unpaid Charges To Be Assessed And Ordering Preparation Of Proposed Assessment Of Miscellaneous Charges“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-172 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-173 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. 2007-173 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Assessment Of Unpaid Water, Wastewater, And Street Improvements – Finance Director O'Connell recommended the process for assessment of unpaid water, wastewater and street improvement charges be initiated and the Council direct preparation of the assessment roll and call for a public hearing on November 26, 2007.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-174 entitled “Resolution Declaring Costs To Be Assessed And Ordering Preparation Of Proposed Assessment Of Street, 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. 2007-174 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-175 entitled “Resolution Calling For A Public Hearing On Proposed Assessments Of Street, 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. 2007-175 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included the candidates luncheon sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, the League of Women Voters candidate forum, a regional development organization conference, a community relations breakfast at Gustavus Adolphus College, and the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities conference.  Strand also reported he had received a thank you from an escape artist who had performed 24 escapes in 24 cities in 24 hours including in Saint Peter.  Strand extended his congratulations to all the candidates in the general election and to Veteran’s in recognition of Veteran’s Day.

 

FEMA 1998 Tornado Claim – City Administrator Prafke reported the City had been notified the tornado claim had been closed out.

 

Leaf Collection Update – Public Works Director Giesking reported 480 cubic yards of leaves had been collected curbside, 912 cubic yards had been hauled from the drop off site, and an additional 462 cubic yards had been swept from the streets during the curbside collection period. 

 

Arts Association Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reported the last Area Arts Association meeting had not had a good turnout and encouraged members to participate in the next meeting.

 

Capital For A Day – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and the public to vote for Saint Peter as “Capital For A Day” on the Minnesota Sesquicentennial website.

 

Councilmember Kvamme commented on the tenth anniversary of City Administrator Prafke’s employment with the City.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 9:13 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

OCTOBER 22, 2007

 

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 22, 2007.

 

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

 

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 October 8, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the October 8, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-144 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. 2007-144 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

TIF District #5 Certification – Finance Director O'Connell recommended tax increments from TIF District #5 be obligated to fund the City’s share of costs associated with construction of the Highway 169 median project.  O’Connell indicated sufficient increments had been received to fund obligations which were specified when the District was originally certified, but the district certification could be extended to fund the median project costs.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-145 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Obligation For Tax Increment Finance District No. 5 Within Municipal Development District No. 1“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  Mayor Strand clarified for the public that the proposal would be to take taxes generated in the district to pay for the medians.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-145 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Aerial Photography Agreement – Public Works Director Giesking recommended authorization be provided to contract for aerial photography of the City’s wellhead protection area and other stormwater runoff areas in conjunction with a photography contract the Minnesota Department of Agriculture had issued for photography of the Seven Mile Creek area.  Giesking indicated the $5,900 cost would be funded by water funds and the results would be provided to the City in a digital format.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-146 entitled “Resolution Approving The Agreement For Lidar Aerial Photography“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-146 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether it would be advantageous to include Robard’s Creek in the project.  Giesking indicated the southern portion of the Robard’s Creek area was already included.

 

Call For Public Hearing:  Zoning Ordinance Modifications – City Administrator Prafke recommended a public hearing be scheduled for November 26, 2007 to consider public input on the proposed modifications to the City’s zoning regulations.  Prafke pointed out the Planning and Zoning Commission had recommended new zoning regulations and a revised zoning map which would require a public hearing under State law before adoption.  Prafke pointed out that a hearing was held by the Planning and Zoning Commission in January, 2007 on the proposed changes and subsequent to that hearing, the City Council and Planning Commission had made further changes.  Prafke recommended an additional hearing be scheduled to obtain input from the public.  Mayor Strand pointed out for the public that the Planning and Zoning Commission had been working on the proposed changes for well over a year and the City Council has had numerous discussions on the topic.  Councilmember Kvamme reported several residents attended the January, 2007 public hearing at the Planning Commission and the changes which had been made since that hearing did not impact the portion of the regulations those residents commented on.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-147 entitled “Resolution Calling For Public Hearing Regarding Revision Of City Zoning Regulations“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-147 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

City Council Wage Modification – City Administrator Prafke presented an ordinance that would provide for an increase in the salary of the Mayor and Councilmembers effective January 1, 2008 and an additional increase effective January 1, 2009.  Prafke indicated the current regulations required the Council to review wages in the spring of each odd-numbered year so that the Council wasn’t faced with large increases and wages were kept current.  Prafke indicated the proposed ordinance provided for a 1.5% increase to the Mayor’s wage each of the two years and the Councilmembers wage would be seventy-five percent (75%) of the Mayor’s wage.  Prafke also pointed out that the total wage increase would be $430 in 2008 and $435 in 2009.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Ordinance No. 393, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Section 2.72 Entitled ‘Salaries Of Mayor And Councilmembers’ And Adopting By Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1 And Section 2.99, Which, Among Other Things, Contain Penalty Provisions“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Ordinance No. 393, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

Old Hospital Demolition Consultant RFP – City Administrator Prafke reported one proposal had been received for management consultation on a project to demolish two of the old hospital buildings at 618 West Broadway Avenue.  Prafke recommended acceptance of the proposal from Paulsen Architects in the amount of $6,550 for Phase I of the project and the cost for the remaining phase would be based on a percentage of costs of the demolition project.  Prafke indicated funding for the demolition project would come from the old Hospital fund and the Hospital bond.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-148 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Contract For Construction Consultation For Project To Demolish Hospital Buildings 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. 2007-148 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Old Hospital Preventative Maintenance Repairs And Budget – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided to proceed with preventative maintenance on the old hospital and nursing home buildings and to accept the quote from Cuddy Mechanical in the amount of $3,165.  Prafke also recommended that a budget of $10,000 be established for additional work that needs to be done in the buildings including locating and repairing a water service line leak.  Prafke pointed out that funding would come from the old hospital funds.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-149 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Preventative Maintenance Work At Old Hospital And Nursing Home  Site“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-149 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included attending the Fireman’s Dance and a breakfast meeting at Gustavus regarding recruitment for the new Gustavus President.

 

Area Arts Association Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the Area Arts Association meeting scheduled for November 1st at the Treaty Site History Center.

 

General Election – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and the public of the general election which will take place on Tuesday, November 6, 2007.  Prafke indicated the polls would be open from 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. with voting at the Armory for voters in the North Ward and at the Community Center for voters in the South Ward.

 

City/County Meeting Cancelled – City Administrator Prafke reported the City County meeting which had been scheduled for October 10th had been cancelled due to a light agenda and the absence of one of the County representatives.

 

SMMPA Annual Meeting – Public Works Director Giesking reported on the annual SMMPA meeting which included speakers on the state of the electric utility industry and advanced metering which could help customers conserve energy.  Giesking indicated staff would provide a proposal on advanced metering to the Council in the near future.  Giesking also touched on SMMPA’s withdrawal from the Big Stone II project; wind power, reviewing energy alternatives; transmission line expansion; legislative task force membership; compact fluorescent bulb distribution to low income families; and the CAPX 2020 requirements.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

OCTOBER 8, 2007

 

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 8, 2007.

 

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

 

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 Schultz, to approve the minutes of the September 24, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the September 24, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-136 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-136 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Animal Pound Lease – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by Kind Veterinary Clinic for execution of a new animal pound lease that would reflect changes to Kind Vet charges.  Councilmember Pfeifer expressed his belief that the agreement with Kind Vet for housing and treatment of abandoned and lost animals was a good way to handle stray pets.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-137 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Animal Impound Agreement With Kind Veterinary Clinic“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-137 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Mortgage Subordination Request:  St. Peter Greenhouse – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to approve a request by Gerald Lunderberg, dba St. Peter Greenhouse, for subordination of the City held mortgage on his property to a new bank loan.  Wille reported Lunderberg wished to take a new loan on the property and would subsequently pay off the balance of the $35,000 City revolving loan.  Wille also reported that Lunderberg still owed approximately $14,000 on a second revolving loan he received in 2002.  Wille also pointed out there was sufficient value in the property to provide for a 46% loan to value ratio and Mr. Lunderberg was current on all loan payments.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-138 entitled “Resolution Approving The Subordination Of City Held Mortgage For Refinancing Saint Peter Greenhouse (Lunderberg) Debt“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-138 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Employee Health Insurance RFP – City Administrator Prafke requested authorization to receive proposals for employee health insurance as required by State Statutes and recommended by the City’s auditor.  Prafke indicated the Council had previously reviewed the request for proposal (RFP) and staff would schedule review of proposals received for the first workshop in November, with action on the proposals scheduled at the first regular Council meeting.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-139 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Issuance Of Request For Proposal (RFP) For Employee Health Insurance“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-139 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Applications – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of applications for On-Sale Liquor, Sunday Liquor, Soft Drink, and Show licenses for Richard’s Restaurant & Pub beginning in January, 2008.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-140 entitled “Resolution Approving New License Applications“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-140 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Hospital Equipment Purchase Requests – Hospital CEO Colleen Spike addressed the Council to request authorization for the purchase of equipment for the hospital exceeding $15,000.  Spike requested the purchase of a mobile surgical imaging system (C-Arm) in the amount of $115,093 from Phillips.  Spike indicated bids for the purchase were also requested from two other vendors, one of which did not submit a bid and other company no longer offered the equipment.  Spike reported the hospital had previously owned a C-Arm, but it was not replaced because there were no surgeons on staff who utilized the equipment and there currently are three surgeons who would use the equipment. In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-141 entitled “Resolution Approving Mobile Surgical Imaging System Purchase For Community Hospital“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-141 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Ms. Spike also requested authorization for purchase of software and hardware necessary for installation of intranet service in the hospital in order to meet HIPAA regulations regarding patient information security.  Ms. Spike recommended the purchase be made from CDW in the amount of $26,881.48.  Mayor pro tem Kvamme asked if consideration had been given to making the purchase from the other two local vendors rather than CDW which was a national company.  Ms. Spike indicated she was acting on the recommendation of the hospital’s computer staff.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-142 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Computer Software And Hardware For Intranet Service Installation For Community Hospital“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-142 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Ms. Spike also recommended purchase of $16,818 in podiatric surgery instruments from ConMed.  Spike indicated two quotes were received and ConMed submitted the lowest quote.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-143 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Podiatry Surgical Instruments For Community Hospital“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-143 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor pro tem Kvamme reported Mayor Strand had proclaimed October, 2007 as “National Domestic Violence Awareness Month” in the City.

 

Pandemic Planning Update – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and the public of the codeReady® campaign through the State of Minnesota and encouraged residents to check out the website at www.codeReady.org and plan ahead for emergencies like pandemics.

 

Brush Collection – City Administrator Prafke reported that twenty-one loads of brush had been collected during the fall brush collection.  Prafke indicated the amount was very high and was partially due to the strong storms the week before collection began.  Prafke also pointed out that unusually large amounts of brush and garden waste had been taken directly to the drop-off site during the week before collection.

 

City/County Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the City/County meeting scheduled for October 10th at 3:00 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 7:25 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 24, 2007

 

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 24, 2007.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Vogel, Douglas, Schultz and Mayor Strand.  The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke, City Attorney Brandt, and City Engineer Domras.

 

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 September 10, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the September 10, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-127 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-127 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Water and Electric Fund Budgets – Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the electric and water fund budgets for 2007.  O’Connell reviewed portions of the proposed budgets and corresponding rate changes that will be planned for in 2008.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-128 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2007 Water And Electric Enterprise Fund Budgets“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-128 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Modification:  Java Central LLP – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation to approve a request by Robert Wright dba Java Central LLP to continue making $350 per month payments on the revolving loan he received in 2002.  Wille reported that the loan was callable at the time Mr. Wright closed the Java Central business, but he was allowed to continue making payments.  Wille also indicated the EDA recommendation was to increase the interest rate on the loan from 3% to 1% over prime which would be 9.25%.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-129 entitled “Resolution Amending Terms Of Java Central LLP Revolving Loan“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-129 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Detention Basin Engineering – Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to prepare bid specifications and contract documents for a project to replace leaking pipes at the Gault Street Detention Basin for a fee not to exceed $16,800.  Giesking reviewed the history of the project and the proposed repair work and indicated that staff was working with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).  Giesking also pointed out that the DNR may require a wetland mitigation study and/or may change the scope of the project.  Giesking indicated that should the scope of the project be modified, staff would bring the project back to the Council for further consideration.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-130 entitled “Resolution Retaining An Engineer For Design Of Outfall Sewer At Gault Street Detention Basin“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-130 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Library Staffing Reorganization – Recreation and Leisure Services Director Timmerman recommended modifications to staffing structure at the Library.  Timmerman reported one of the two Library Assistants had resigned and staff had reviewed the current staffing organization and recommended that changes be made that will make the Library more efficient and save funds.  Timmerman recommended the two Library Assistant positions be changed to one Assistant Lead Librarian; the eight Library Aides and two Library Pages be replaced by one Library Technician and seven Circulation Clerks.  Timmerman also pointed out that new position descriptions were recommended with minor changes from the current descriptions and minor changes to the pay equity points.  Timmerman also suggested that a resolution be adopted that would assign current staff to the new titles without changes to wages.  City Administrator Prafke also pointed out that there would be no changes to library hours or the level of service but the changes would result in a savings of approximately $20,000.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-131 entitled “Resolution Establishing Authorized Staffing Levels For Library“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-131 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-132 entitled “Resolution Adopting Modified Job Descriptions For Library Positions“ was introduced for the positions of Assistant Lead Librarian (pay equity points of 146), Library Technician (pay equity points of 100) and Circulation Clerk (pay equity points of 98). Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-132 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-133 entitled “Resolution Assigning Staff To Newly Titled Library Positions“ was introduced.  The resolution assigned Anissa Sandland to the position of Assistant Lead Librarian; Karole Feldman to the position of Library Technician; and Kathy Allen, Monica Kraatz, Michel Freeman, Jeanette Krohnberg, Susan Fredrickson, and Hannah Weinberg to the position of Circulation Clerk.  There also would be one Circulation Clerk position that is currently vacant. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-133 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended the approval of a temporary soft drink license.  Prafke also requested a Temporary Wine License for the Arts Center of Saint Peter on September 29, 2008 be added to the resolution.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-134 entitled “Resolution Approving New Licenses“ was introduced with the inclusion of the Temporary Wine License.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-134 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

St. Julien Backwash Recirculation Project – Public Works Director Giesking reviewed the proposed project to provide for recirculation of water that is backwashed at the St. Julien water treatment plant.  Giesking indicated the Council had approved the proposed project in 2005 at an estimated cost of $85,000 and as the project developed, Department of Health rules were modified requiring storm sewers to be fifty feet away from water wells and underground tanks.  Giesking reported the proposed project specifications were changed to accommodate the Department of Health rules at an estimated additional cost of $50,000.  Giesking expressed his belief that waiting to do the project would not result in improved bid prices and the payback on the project at the lowest price bid would be less than ten years.  Giesking recommended acceptance of the $254,273 bid from Gridor Construction.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-135 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For The Saint Julien Backwash Recirculation Project“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-135 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included chairing a full Region Nine Development Commission meeting; attending the City Council goal session; attending the City/School/Gustavus meeting; and welcoming attendees at the Minnesota Board of Aging conference held in Saint Peter.

 

City/School Meeting – Councilmembers Schultz and Kvamme reported on discussion at the September 19th City/School meeting which included the volunteer coordinator position description; marketing Saint Peter; cooperative facilities/grounds maintenance; and future housing development.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting – Councilmember Schultz reported on discussion at the September 19th City/School/Gustavus meeting which included athletic field lease, trailing spouse program, daycare facilities, the ECI effort, tornado commemoration, and downtown development.

 

Council Goal Session – City Administrator Prafke reported the City Council revisited some old topics and discussed future planning issues as part of the September 18th goal session.

 

Staff Training – City Administrator Prafke reported all non-emergency City offices would be closed until 1:30 p.m. on September 25th for staff training.

 

Capital For A Day/”Joe Rolette Day” – City Administrator Prafke reported that the City would submit an application to be a Capital For A Day as part of the Minnesota sesquicentennial celebration in 2008 and staff was discussing “Joe Rolette Day” as part of the City’s celebration.

 

Storm Update – Public Works Director Giesking reported on cleanup efforts and damage from the strong storm that occurred at 4:45 p.m. on September 24th and indicated crews had cleared blocked roadways and would be out the next morning cutting down trees that posed a danger.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Regional Meetings – City Administrator Prafke asked that Councilmembers interested in attending a League regional meeting notify his office so they can be registered. 

 

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

SEPTEMBER 10, 2007

 

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 10, 2007.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Vogel, Douglas, Schultz and Mayor Strand.  The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke, City Engineer Loose 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 Kvamme, to approve the minutes of the August 27, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the August 27, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-119 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-119 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2008 Preliminary Levy Adoption – City Administrator Prafke and Finance Director O'Connell reviewed the proposed 2008 preliminary levy and the substantive issues for the 2008 budget including transfers from utility funds, transfers from the Economic Development Authority funds, health insurance increases, wage increases, funding for the youth center, funding for the Nicollet County Historical Society, membership in the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, funding for a proposed shared volunteer coordinator, funding for the Fire Relief Association, increased expenditures in the Recreation and Leisure Services Department, seal coating increases, street patching increases, trail seal coating and library operations levy.  Prafke indicated the proposed budget and levy were prepared by staff after many hours of review and the City Council had discussed and reviewed the proposed budget and levy at two workshop sessions.  Prafke also pointed out that Saint Peter was one of only 29 cities to receive an increase in local government aid for 2008.  O’Connell indicted the levy was an increase of $139,845 over the prior year levy of $2,026,000.   In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-120 entitled “Resolution Adopting Preliminary 2007 Tax Levy Collectible In 2008“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-120 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

MMUA Safety Program – Public Works Director Giesking recommended authorization be provided to renew the contract with MMUA for the employee safety program for a fee of $18,410.08 and an additional $2,500 for provision of annual Lineman training.  Giesking indicated the safety program, which had been in place for ten years, had been very successful and the Safety Coordinator worked well with the employees.  Giesking indicated the program provided safety training for employees, establishment of an employee safety committee, compliance with State and OSHA regulations, documentation of safety training and issues, and safety inspections.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-121 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Renewal Of The Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association (MMUA) Contract For The Safety Coordinator“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-121 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Nicollet Avenue Speed Limit Request – Public Works Director Giesking reported the newly opened section of Nicollet Avenue, between County Road 15 and Broadway Avenue, had a designated speed limit of 55 mph under State law in spite of the roadway being designed for 45 mph speeds.  Giesking recommended a resolution be adopted to request a traffic study be conducted on the roadway by the Minnesota Department of Transportation and requesting a reduction in the speed limit to 45 mph.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-122 entitled “Resolution Requesting The Minnesota Department Of Transportation To Make An Engineering And Traffic Investigation For Reducing Nicollet Avenue (CSAH 20) Speed Limit“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-122 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.  Giesking also pointed out that the Nicollet County Public Works Director supported the reduced speed limit and would submit correspondence to that effect along with the City’s application.

 

Gustavus Transit Contract – City Administrator Prafke recommended execution of a contract with Gustavus Adolphus College for provision of transit services to Gustavus students on Friday and Saturday evenings.  Prafke indicated the service, commonly called the “Gus Bus” by students, had been very well received and the Student Senate had requested the service for the 2007-2008  and 2008-2009 school years.  Prafke indicated the hourly charges covered City expenses for provision of the service.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-123 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Transit Service Contract With Gustavus Adolphus College“ was introduced.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-123 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Youth Development/Service Programs Memorandum Of Understanding – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of a new memorandum of understanding with the School District for provision of youth development and youth service programs by the Recreation and Leisure Services Department.  Prafke indicated the agreement needed to be slightly modified to incorporate the correct timeframes for the agreement and to reflect that the funding of $14,200 would be paid in each year of the contract.  Prafke requested adoption of the resolution contingent upon the City Administrator and City Attorney’s approval of the final contract language.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-124 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Youth Development Memorandum Of Understanding“ was introduced contingent upon final approval of the document language by City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-124 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Equipment Certificate Purchase – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to purchase a used sign truck from Le Sueur County for a price of $5,000 to be funded by the funds remaining in the 2007 equipment certificate.  Giesking indicated staff had proposed to replace the City’s 20 year old sign truck as part of the 2008 equipment certificate at a cost of $110,000, however Le Sueur County was purchasing a new truck and their old truck would be available to the City due in part to the assistance the City of Saint Peter provided to Le Sueur County following the August 2006 tornado.  Giesking indicated the Le Sueur County truck would work for the City for a couple of years, although staff would recommend the purchase of a new truck after that time.  Giesking also pointed out that the new Le Sueur County truck would not be delivered until January at which time the City could take possession of the used vehicle.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-125 entitled “Resolution Approving The Purchase Of Replacement Used Sign Truck Funded By 2007 Equipment Certificate“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-125 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke reported a show license had been submitted by Sneaky Productions, LLC to provide magic shows at 214 South Minnesota Avenue for five days in October.  Prafke indicated the applicant had passed a background investigation.  Prafke also pointed out that the location of the show was in a building that had sustained a fire a few years ago and the Building Official had indicated the building was usable for the proposed purpose provided no more than 50 people were allowed in the building at one time.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-126 entitled “Resolution Approving Temporary License“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted. A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-126 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included attending a conference and training session for Region Nine Development Commission in Austin Texas; a meeting for the Developing Communities study with the representatives from Waseca; a Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities board meeting and attending the Rock Bend Folk Festival.  Strand also thanked Mayor pro tem Kvamme for stepping in for him to welcome the Winnebago owners gathering at the Fairgrounds.

 

Arts Association Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reminded interested parties of the meeting of the Area Arts Association on September 12th.

 

Council Goal Session – City Administrator Prafke also reminded Councilmembers of the goal session scheduled for September 18th at 3:00 p.m. in the Governors' Room.

 

Hazardous Materials/Electronics Collection – City Administrator Prafke reported on the results of the hazardous materials and electronics collection held at the wastewater treatment plant.  Prafke indicated 285 households participated in the collections and nearly 11,000 pounds of electronics were collected.  Prafke also reported 4 tons of paint, 2 tons of other hazardous chemicals and 400 fluorescent light bulbs were collected by Tri-County Solid Waste office staff.

 

Chautauqua Assembly Cancellation – City Administrator Prafke reported that officials of the Chautauqua Assembly had notified his office that the assembly would be cancelled this year due to a problem with the play.  Prafke also indicated the organizers might still conduct Friday activities for school children who had been scheduled to visit.

 

Election Filing Period – City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers and the public that the filing period for City Council positions was over on September 11th.

 

Gustavus Adolphus College Stadium Dedication – Councilmember Pfeifer commented on the dedication of the new football stadium at Gustavus Adolphus College which occurred over the weekend and indicated the stadium would be a focal point in the community.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 7:55 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

AUGUST 27, 2007

 

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 27, 2007.

 

A quorum present, Mayor pro tem Kvamme called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Vogel, Douglas, and Schultz.  Absent was Mayor Strand.  The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke, City Engineer Domras and City Attorney Brandt.

 

Approval of Agenda - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the agenda.  City Administrator Prafke asked that a request for City assistance for the Rock Bend Folk Festival be added to the agenda.  The motion/second were modified to include the additional agenda item.  With all in favor, the motion carried as amended.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the August 13, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the August 13, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-114 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-114 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2008 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 operation of the City’s transit system.  O’Connell indicated the operating budget would be $245,762 and the grant funds, if awarded, would fund 80% ($196,610) of the operating costs for the transit system with the remaining 20% funded by miscellaneous revenues and fares.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-115 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Transit Grant Application For 2008“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-115 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Applications – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of two temporary license applications.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-116 entitled “Resolution Approving Temporary Licenses“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-116 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Polar Bear Plunge – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by Nicollet County Sheriff Dave Lange, on behalf of the Special Olympics, to conduct a Polar Bear Plunge event at Hallett’s Pond on February 17, 2008 in conjunction with Winterfest.  Prafke recommended the proposed resolution be modified to waive the requirements of City Code Section 10.43 which prohibits swimming in areas not under the supervision of the City.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-117 entitled “Resolution Approving Polar Bear Plunge Activity At Hallett’s Pond As Part Of Winterfest“ was introduced with the modification to allow swimming in Hallett’s Pond for the Polar Bear Plunge.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Schultz, Pfeifer, Kvamme, Eichmann and Vogel voting aye, Councilmember Douglas voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-117 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

City Assistance Request:  Rock Bend Folk Festival – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for City assistance for the Rock Bend Folk Festival which will take place in Minnesota Square Park  on September 8-9, 2007.  Prafke indicated the requested assistance was the same as in prior years and staff had met with the organizers to review the request.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-118 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. 2007-118 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mass Dispensing Drill Review – City Administrator Prafke provided a review of the mass dispensing drill and expressed congratulations to the Community Hospital staff and County Public Health Department for their efforts.

 

City/County Meeting Discussion – Councilmember Douglas and City Administrator Prafke indicated discussion at the last City/County meeting included extensive discussion on shared dispatching for law enforcement and discussion on official mapping, cooperative efforts and rules for building in the County.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting Discussion – Councilmember Schultz reported on discussion at the City/School meeting which included a job description for the proposed Volunteer Coordinator position, athletic field lease, Early Childhood Initiative, cooperative efforts, housing, childcare, and trailing spouse issues.  Schultz also indicated the City/School/Gustavus meeting included discussion on long range facility needs and commemoration of the 1998 tornado.

 

Council Filing Dates – City Administrator Prafke reminded the public that the filing period for positions on the City Council opens at 8:00 a.m. on August 28th and closes at 5:00 p.m. on September 11th.

 

Budget Work Update – City Administrator Prafke reported that staff continues to work on the proposed budget and levy which must be certified to the County by September 15th.  Prafke indicated the Council will have further discussion at a workshop session and would consider adoption of the preliminary levy at the September 10th Council meeting. 

 

Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road Project Update – City Administrator Prafke pointed out that both portions of the Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road Project would be open to traffic in the next two days and drivers should be aware of stop signs on Traverse Road at the intersection with Nicollet Avenue.

 

MMUA Summer Conference – Public Works Director Giesking reported on discussion at the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association summer conference including new advanced metering systems, changes to the conservation improvement program requirements, and new renewable energy standards.  Giesking also provided a warning about a scam to sell filters to the public to clean up “dirty electricity” in homes.

 

Flood Assistance – Public Works Director Giesking reported City crews were assisting with flood cleanup in southeastern Minnesota at the request of the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 7:41 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

AUGUST 13, 2007

 

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 13, 2007.

 

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

 

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

 

Public Hearing:  Business Subsidy Loan Application – Mayor Strand opened the continuation of the public hearing on a request by JP Olson, LLP dba Richard’s Pub and Restaurant for a business subsidy loan at 7:02 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille reported the applicant had reduced his request for loan funds to $320,000 and the Economic Development Authority had recommended approval of the loan at 3% interest amortized over 15 years with a balloon payment due at the end of five years.  Wille also indicated the applicant would be required to provide a second mortgage on the property and provide personal guarantees from himself and his spouse who was the CEO of JP Olson LLC.   Wille pointed out that there was no job creation requirement attached to the business subsidy agreement, but the agreement did commit the applicant to operation of the restaurant for a five year period.  Councilmember Pfeifer questioned how much money was available in the revolving loan fund.  Wille indicated there was approximately $900,000 and approximately $120,000 was returned to the fund each year through payment of interest and principle on outstanding loans.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:09 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the July 23, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the July 23, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-100 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-100 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Greenhill Pump Station Improvement Project Change Order/Final Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking requested approval of Change Order #1 for the Greenhill Pump Station Improvement Project.  Giesking indicated the change order would remove from the contract the $5,000 in contingency funds which were not used.  Giesking also recommended the project be accepted as completed and authorization be provided for final payment to the contractor in the amount of $6,820 for a total project cost of $340,000.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-101 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #1, Accepting The Greenhill Pump Station Improvement 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. 2007-101 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Councilmember questioned whether the engineers would have any liability for the corrective work that was being done at the Dodd Avenue/Klein Street intersection, the funding for which was included on the disbursement list approved earlier.  Public Works Director Giesking indicated that the issue had to do with semi-trucks turning at the intersection causing ponding of stormwater.

 

Safe and Sober Grant Acceptance – Police Chief Peters requested authorization to accept Safe and Sober Grant funds from the State of Minnesota Department of Public Safety as part of a multi-jurisdictional grant application Saint Peter had entered in with Blue Earth County, City of Mankato, City of North Mankato and Nicollet County.  Peters pointed out that the funds would be used for Officers to focus on traffic enforcement which, studies had shown, oftentimes results in arrests for other violations such as drug use and/or manufacture and that 40% of drug arrests actually occur during a traffic stop.  Peters also reported that each wave of the program would be publicized in advance and reports on the success of the wave would be reported to local media.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-102 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Acceptance Of 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. 2007-102 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Request For City Assistance:  Chautauqua Assembly – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request for City assistance for the Chautauqua Assembly to be held in Gorman Park October 11-14, 2007.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-103 entitled “Resolution Authorizing 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. 2007-103 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Wellhead Protection Plan Update Engineering – Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bonestroo Engineering be retained to prepare an update to the City’s wellhead protection plan for a fee of $15,981.  Giesking indicated the plan must be in place by December, 2008 and the proposed update would be brought for Council consideration in the fall of 2008.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-104 entitled “Resolution Retaining Engineers For The Required Update Of The Wellhead Protection Plan“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-104 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Fund Application:  Richard’s Pub and Restaurant – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation for approval of a revolving loan in the amount of $320,000 to JP Olson, LLC dba Richard’s Pub and Restaurant at 3% interest amortized over 10 years with a balloon payment at five years.  Wille also indicated the loan would be secured through a mortgage on the property at 406-410 South Third Street, personal guarantees by the applicant and his spouse, liens on equipment and furnishings, and would be approved contingent upon Heritage Preservation Commission approval for façade renovations to the property.  Wille indicated the revolving loan/business subsidy from the City was a portion of the total financing package which included a conventional bank loan, Small Business Administration loan and funds from the applicant.   Wille pointed out the appraisal on the property was based on “as-built” values and was expected to cover all but $70,000 of the requested funds and the business subsidy agreement would require the business to be in operation for a minimum of five years.  Wille also suggested that the origination fee on the City loan be capped at $1,000 instead of the 3.2% which was called for in the revolving loan fund guidelines.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-105 entitled “Resolution Approving $320,000 Revolving Loan To J.P. Olson, LLC d.b.a. Richard’s Pub and Restaurant To Partially Finance Renovation And Restoration Of A Historic Commercial Building Located At 406-410 South Third Street And Authorizing The Mayor And City Administrator To Execute The Associated Business Subsidy Agreement“ was introduced with the concession for the lowered origination fee amount.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as amended.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-105 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Donation Acceptance Policy – City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a donation acceptance policy that would encompass donations to parks facilities, other public facilities, and trees.  Prafke indicated the policy also outlined how and in what situations the City would recognize donors.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-106 entitled “Resolution Establishing A City Donation Acceptance Policy“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-106 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Library Associate Position Creation – City Administrator Prafke indicated a recent resignation at the Library had prompted staff to review the library staffing structure and make recommendations for modifications.  Prafke also indicated the proposed re-staffing plan, which would be considered by the Council at a later date, included a recommendation for the creation of a Library Associate position.  Prafke pointed out the recommendation for the position included establishing the pay equity points at 115, a starting salary of $9.74 per hour, be for less than 19 hours a week, include approval of the job description, and authorize recruitment for the position.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-107 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Library Associate Position“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-107 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

City Code Violation Penalties – City Attorney Brandt recommended the City Code definitions of the penalties associated with misdemeanors and petty misdemeanors be modified to match State Statutes.  Brandt indicated that without jail time as part of the penalty for a misdemeanor, judges would not issue bench warrants for criminals who failed to show up in court for violation of City ordinances and modification of the language would allow the City Attorney’s office to fully prosecute those who violate City regulations.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Ordinance No. 392, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending City Code Chapter 1 ‘General Provisions And Definitions Applicable To The Entire City Code Including Penalty For Violation’ Section 1.02 ‘Definitions’“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Ordinance No. 392, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Vehicle Allowance Policy Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended the vehicle allowance policy be modified by an increase of $50 a month to reflect rising costs of vehicle use.  Prafke recommended the increase be effective October 1, 2007 and reported it would only impact the positions of Water Utilities Superintendent, Maintenance Superintendent, Public Works Director and Community Development Director.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-108 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Modification To The Vehicle Allowance Policy“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-108 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a temporary gambling license for Trinity Lutheran Church to conduct a raffle.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-109 entitled “Resolution Approving Temporary License Application“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-109 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Transit Drug and Alcohol Policy – City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a modified drug and alcohol policy for transit employees.  Prafke indicated the changes were required in order to receive continued federal funding for the transit system and would have little effect on the program and the process.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-110 entitled “Resolution Implementing the Federal Transit Administration Regulations On Drug Use And Alcohol Misuse“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-110 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Executive Session:  Police Union Contract Negotiations – City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council adjourn to closed session to discuss union contract negotiations with the Police Officers union.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-111 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. 2007-111 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.  The Council adjourned to closed session at 7:53 p.m.

 

The Council returned to open session at 8:07 p.m.

 

2007-2008 Police Union Contract – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the 2007-2008 labor services contract between the City and the Police Officers union.  Prafke indicated changes to the contract included:  pay modifications for Sergeant which will go from 8% above top Patrol to 10%; a pay increase for all members of 3% in 2007 and 3.25% in 2008; an additional 5% for Drug Task Force assignments in 2008; an additional 1% for Detectives in 2008; and for those working in positions other than their own, Out of title pay at 96% of pay of assigned pay class; uniform increase of $25 in 2008; tactical team equipment purchase of $500 under Chief’s discretion; time and one-half for hours worked on Easter; educational allowance modification; and technical change in who approves extended leaves, leave of absence and workers compensation injury period.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-112 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of 2007-2008 Labor Services Contract By And Between The City Of Saint Peter And Law Enforcement Labor Services Union Local #241 (Patrol Officers)”, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-112 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Board of Zoning Adjustments Appointments – City Administrator Prafke asked that the Council consider the appointment of members to the Board of Zoning Adjustments (BZA).  Prafke indicated a variance request had been received and the Board currently has only two members.   Prafke reported that members of the BZA were to include representatives from the Planning and Zoning Commission and Heritage Preservation Commission and recommended the chairs of both Commissions be appointed to the BZA.  Councilmember Kvamme suggested Councilmember Vogel, who also serves on the Heritage Preservation Commission, also be appointed.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-113 entitled “Resolution Appointing Board of Zoning Adjustments Members” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-113 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities conference at which he was elected second Vice-President; Council goal session; Region Nine Development Commission meetings, Regional Treatment Center liaison meeting, Ambassadors, a request to appear on Minnesota Public Television about reintegration of the National Guard troops and serving as a Herdsmanship Judge at the Nicollet County Fair.

 

Arts Association Meeting – Councilmember Kvamme reported approximately 15 people attended the last Arts Association meting and discussion included what should be considered “art” and included on the website and the possibility of making the Association a more formally structured group separate from the City.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the Arts Association is not a board or commission of the City and the City only served to facilitate the first few months of meetings.

 

Mass Dispensing Preparedness Drill – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and the public of the mass dispensing preparedness/pandemic drill being held in Saint Peter on August 15th and indicated some roads might be closed around Gustavus Adolphus College and the Community Hospital.

 

City/School District/Gustavus Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the City/School/Gustavus meeting on August 14th at Gustavus.

 

City/County Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reported the next City/County meeting would be August 22nd.

 

Power Outage – Public Works Director Giesking reported on the power outage that affected a portion of Saint Peter on August 12th.  Giesking indicated that one phase of the three-phase system went down for undetermined reasons and the crew was working to replace equipment and restore the third phase of power.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the generation plant was providing power.  Giesking indicated the plant would not be used to supply the third phase of power because of safety switches that won’t allow feed back into the system. 

 

Noise Complaint – Councilmember Kvamme questioned staff regarding a noise complaint Councilmembers received.  Kvamme indicated the complainant expressed concern about noise levels from the generator at the Jefferson Water Treatment Plant that he believes exceeds that allowed by State Statute.  City Administrator Prafke indicated staff had also spoken with the complainant and had modified the run times of the generator because of the complaint and were working with the equipment manufacturer to lower the noise levels.  Prafke indicated the generator was used during peak shaving emergencies during high water loads when the plant must run.  Prafke also indicated staff was working to keep customers happy in the most reasonable and efficient way and would move ahead with corrections when some have been identified and would comply with State law.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 8:41 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 23, 2007

 

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 23, 2007.

 

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

 

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

 

Public Hearing:  Business Subsidy Loan Application – Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on a request by David Olson for a business subsidy loan in the amount of $569,000 at 7:01 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille reported the applicant, who was in the process of opening a new restaurant in Saint Peter, had asked to have his application put on hold while he worked out financing issues and the Economic Development Authority had not yet considered the loan request.  Because the public hearing had been duly published in the Saint Peter Herald, Wille recommended any public comments be taken and the hearing continued until August 13, 2007 at 7:00 p.m.  Councilmember Pfeifer asked what the balance of available funding was in the revolving loan fund.  Wille indicated there was approximately $500,000 available and reminded Councilmembers of a later agenda item for a $99,000 loan.  Wille also pointed out that the Economic Development Authority (EDA) revolving loan fund regulations restrict loans to 75% of the available balance of the fund and indicated it was very unlikely the EDA would recommend approval of the entire $569,000.  There being no further speakers at 7:06 p.m., the hearing was continued until 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 13, 2007.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, to approve the minutes of the July 9, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the July 9, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-90 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme again questioned how a proposed pump repair could be funded by utility budgets when no 2007 utility budgets had been adopted as of yet.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the proposed budgets included sufficient funding for the pump repairs.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-90 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Jefferson Park Memorial Reconsideration – City Administrator Prafke presented a request for reconsideration of City Council Resolution No. 2007-67 which authorized installation of a memorial in Jefferson Park contingent upon the area being connected to the park irrigation system at the donor’s cost.  Prafke indicated the area would only include paver bricks and seating and would not need irrigation.  Councilmember Kvamme indicated the original plan had shown trees which would have needed water and the trees are not actually included in the proposed memorial.  Councilmember Douglas questioned whether installation of the paver bricks would include something like grouting sand to make sure bugs and weeds don’t occur in the seating area.  Douglas indicated his belief that any such memorial should have to comply with Public Works construction standards and asked for that a requirement to be included in the resolution.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-91 entitled “Resolution Rescinding Resolution No. 2007-67 And Authorizing Jefferson Park Improvements“ was introduced with the requirement that installation must comply with Public Works construction standards.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-91 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Stormwater Operator Position Description Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended the Stormwater Operator job description be modified to move the experience and education requirements which are currently in the minimum qualifications to the desired qualifications.  Prafke indicated the modification would allow entry level candidates to quality for the position.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-92 entitled “Resolution Approving Revised Stormwater Operator Position Description“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-92 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Long Term Care Facility Change Order #8 – Public Works Director Giesking recommended accepting the quote from Blue Valley Sod for landscaping at the long term care facility in the amount of $24,588.44.  Giesking indicated staff had investigated alternatives for landscaping at the facility within the $30,000 budget and the only alternative that was affordable included removal of the existing weeds, installation of sod in some areas including the drip line of the building and behind sidewalks, and hydro-seeding the remaining acreage.  Giesking indicated staff had already transplanted larger trees which were donated or came from the City’s nursery stock.  Giesking also pointed out that an irrigation system was in place so the hot, dry weather of late should not be an issue in grass growth.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-93 entitled “Resolution Authoring Change Order Number Eight For Landscaping Work At The Long Term Care Facility“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-93 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road Project Supplemental Agreement #2 – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the Council recommend approval for supplemental agreement #2 for the Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road Project to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT).  Giesking reminded Councilmembers MNDOT must approve changes to the project which was being funded by Municipal State Aid funds.  Giesking indicated the change order, amounting to $10,425.85, was for asphalt transition areas at both ends of the Traverse Road section of the project which were not included in the original contract.  City Administrator Prafke indicated that change orders in this amount were not unusual for a project the size of the Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road project.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-94 entitled “Resolution Recommending Approval Of Supplemental Agreement Number Two 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. 2007-94 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Request:  Carol Hayes (Market Properties LLC) – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation for approval of a $99,000 revolving loan to Carol Hayes for purchase of the property at 304 South Minnesota Avenue at 3% interest amortized over 20 years with a balloon payment due at 10 years.  Wille indicated Ms. Hayes would relocate the Contents store to the new building and keep the other location for another retail enterprise.  Wille reported the loan would be secured by a second mortgage on the property and personal guarantees by Ms. Hayes and her spouse.  Wille also pointed out that the value of $275,000 established on the building was not done by a formal appraisal but the EDA felt the value was acceptable.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2007-95 entitled “Resolution Approving $99,000 Revolving Loan To Carol Hayes D.B.A. Market Properties, LLC To Finance Acquisition Of Commercial Building Located At 304 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. 2007-95 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Nicollet County All Hazard Mitigation Plan – City Administrator Prafke indicated Nicollet County had asked for a resolution of support for the All Hazard Mitigation Plan they had developed and which the Council had reviewed at a workshop session.  Prafke indicated approval of the plan would qualify the County for hazard mitigation grant funds in the event of a tanker accident, flooding or other hazards.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-96 entitled “Resolution Supporting Nicollet County All Hazard Mitigation Plan“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-96 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Registered Land Survey #61 – Community Development Director Wille reported that Mick Stephens, a property owner in Washington Terrace Subdivision, had constructed his house across the lot line after misjudging the location of the property pins.  Wille indicated relocating the house would prove to be an undue hardship on the property owner and Stephens had requested City approval of a registered land survey to change the property lines of his property and the two properties to the north.  Wille indicated Stephens would purchase the other two affected lots at the originally established lot price and the City would not lose any revenue.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned what guarantee the City would have that Stephens would go through with purchase of the other two lots.  Wille indicated the City would not record the registered land survey until staff had cash in hand for the other lots.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-97 entitled “Resolution Accepting Registered Land Survey No. 61 To Create Three Lots Within Lots 3-5, Block 3, Washington Terrace Subdivision“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-97 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Multi-Family Housing Project Request For Proposals – Community Development Director Wille recommended issuance of a request for proposals for private development of a multi-family housing project on City owned Outlot C of the Washington Terrace Subdivision.  City Administrator Prafke indicated development of a multi-family project on the parcel had been part of the original subdivision development plan.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-98 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Release And Publication Of Request For Proposals For Development Of A Parcel Of Land Within Washington Terrace Subdivision For Development Of Multi-Family Housing“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-98 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a peddler license application for Michael Weelborg.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Douglas, Resolution No. 2007-99 entitled “Resolution Approving New License“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-99 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included attending the Crime-Free Multi-Family Housing certification event at Sunnyvale Apartments; the Region Nine Development Commission meeting at which he was elected Chairman for the next two years; a Region 9 staff meeting; Ambassadors; Business After Hours; and the welcome home for the Saint Peter/Saint James National Guard Red Bulls Unit.

 

Pandemic Preparedness – City Administrator Prafke reported on the State of Minnesota codeReady program which is a state-wide emergency preparedness public information campaign focusing on personal and family emergency preparedness.  Prafke recommended Saint Peter residents visit the website at www.codeReady.org to prepare their own emergency plans and to educate themselves on what is needed to be prepared in the event of an actual emergency.

 

Water Use – Public Works Director Giesking clarified information which had been put out in the local media the previous week about the City instituting watering restrictions.  Giesking indicated that the City of Saint Peter has no plans to institute restrictions on water use and reported the City’s system was providing plenty of water for resident use.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 7:51 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 9, 2007

 

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 9, 2007.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Douglas, Kvamme, Pfeifer, Schultz, Vogel, Eichmann 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 Vogel, 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 June 25, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the June 25, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Visitors – Jan Waller, 841 Lower Johnson Circle, addressed the Council to question whether rumors she had been hearing about development around Hallett’s Pond were correct.  City Administrator Prafke and Councilmembers indicated that several developers had asked staff for information about development in and around that area and in other areas of the community.  Prafke indicated that should a big box retail development occur, it was likely that there would be opportunities at the Planning and Zoning Commission meetings or City Council meetings for public input.  Prafke also pointed out that the Council had adopted a plan for development in the Hallett’s Pond area.

 

Chamber of Commerce President Larry Haugen addressed the Council to express his appreciation for the support of City employees during preparation for the Fourth of July celebration.  Haugen quoted a popular commercial by saying, “$1,422 for porta-potties; $6,000 for food; the work of City employees and volunteers?  Priceless!”.

 

Judy Ahlstrom, 202 North Third Street, address the Council to question whether rumors she had been hearing about Wal-Mart coming to Saint Peter in the area of Hallett’s Pond were correct.  City Administrator Prafke and Councilmembers reiterated what had previously been said to Ms. Waller and indicated that the City didn’t know anything more than had been publicized a few months earlier.  Ahlstrom asked if the Council was in favor of Wal-Mart coming to Saint Peter.  Mayor Strand indicated that if the company were to comply with all of the City’s regulations he was in favor of it.  Councilmember Eichmann indicated he would “tolerate” Wal-Mart.  Ahlstrom also questioned if Councilmembers had spoken to people in other communities where Wal-Mart had located and Mayor Strand indicated he had spoken to several including Waseca and New Ulm and also to the local hardware store owner who was in favor of Wal-Mart coming to Saint Peter.  Ahlstrom indicated she was “not in favor of Wal-Mart in Saint Peter” and felt it would “change the face of our little town”.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-86 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. 2007-86 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Computer Hardware and Software Purchase – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization for an unbudgeted purchase of computer hardware and software at the electric generation facility.  Giesking reported the computer at the facility had been experiencing operational problems and was running extremely slow and staff had discovered a possible virus in the system that could not be eradicated due to an unknown password protecting the software.  Giesking also indicated the software operated on Windows 98 instead of Windows XP.  Giesking pointed out that there was only one vendor able to provide the software needed for the plant operations and recommended  authorization be provided to make the purchase from Northern Air Corporation in the amount of $8,100 to be funded by electric fund reserves. Councilmember Eichmann questioned whether an upgrade to the VISTA operating system would be required in a short period of time and whether there was a need for a whole new computer.  Giesking indicated he would double check with staff about replacement of the entire computer and report back to the Council at a later date if that was needed and if not necessary, staff would proceed with the purchase as proposed.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-87 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Unbudgeted Purchase And Installation Of New Software For The Electric Generation Plant“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-87 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Drug Free Workplace Policy Adoption – City Administrator Prafke recommended the personnel policy handbook be modified to include a more detailed drug free workplace policy that would outline under what events and conditions drug tests will be required, what rights and responsibilities employees have during the drug testing process and consequences for violations of the drug free workplace policy.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-88 entitled “Resolution Modifying Personnel Policy Handbook Section VII ‘Employment Procedures And Policies’ To Replace Drug Free Workplace Policy“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-88 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included attending the League of Minnesota Cities annual conference at which City Administrator Prafke was elected League President; volunteering to sit in a dunk tank for a fundraiser for the proposed dog park; being in the Fourth of July parade; and visiting with the Courtland City Council about the benefits of joining the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities.

 

Councilmember Eichmann, who also attended the League conference, reported that discussion at the conference showed him that the City of Saint Peter is definitely ahead of other cities and that City Administrator Prafke makes the City look good.

 

City/County Discussion – Councilmember Douglas reported on discussion at the City/County meeting of June 27th which included joint fuel depot; joint dispatching, library services in Nicollet; and the upcoming pandemic exercise.

 

Fourth of July – City Administrator Prafke reported an estimated 10,500 people participated in the Old Fashioned Fourth of July celebration in Saint Peter and reported that vandals had poured manure and fish guts down the slide at Minnesota Square Park on July 3rd and tipped over porta-potties several times.  Prafke encouraged anyone with information on the vandalism to contact the City.

 

Pandemic Exercise – City Administrator Prafke encouraged Councilmembers and members of the public who might be interested in participating in the pandemic mass dispensing exercise on August 15th to contact the Nicollet County Public Health Department as soon as possible to volunteer.

 

Water Use – Public Works Director Giesking provided a report on water usage for the period July 1-8, 2007 and indicated only 52% of the water pumped from the City’s system was being treated at the wastewater treatment plant during this hot, dry spell with the assumption being the remaining 48% was being used to water lawns and plants.  Giesking indicated the peak capacity for water pumping was reached on July 7th with 2,639,100 gallons pumped.  Councilmembers questioned whether staff was recommending watering restrictions and Giesking indicated if there was a need for additional water capacity, the City would stop watering young trees and stop watering the grass in the parks and would also ask Gustavus to stop watering newly laid sod on campus before the public was asked to restrict use.  Giesking indicated no action was being asked of the Council and the report was being presented for Council information only.

 

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

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JUNE 25, 2007

 

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 25, 2007.

 

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

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, to approve the minutes of the June 11, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the June 11, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-78 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. 2007-78 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Storm Sewer Improvement Project South Front/St. Paul Intersection – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton recommended the quote from O’Brien Plumbing and Heating in the amount of $36,103.25 be accepted for reconstruction of a storm sewer at the intersection of South Front Street and Saint Paul Street.  Moulton indicated the failing storm sewer had been a problem for a number of years.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-79 entitled “Resolution Accepting Quote For Storm Sewer Reconstruction At The Intersection of South Front Street And Saint Paul Street“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-79 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2006 Audit Acceptance – Jim Eichten of the City’s auditing firm of Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich, and Company, P.A., provided a presentation on his findings for the 2006 audit.  Eichten reviewed the General Fund and the various utility fund positions and indicated he had issued a clean opinion and the four findings cited were very minimal in nature.  Eichten also pointed out there has been an overall improvement in the financial position of the City and “all in all, there was very positive audit results.”  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the long term debt of the City (over $70 million) was running the City into the ground.  Eichten indicated that as long as the revenue streams being used to pay the debt continued to be sufficient he wouldn’t worry, but indicated that the City of Saint Peter did have more long term debt than comparable cities.  Eichten also pointed out that the City was experiencing positive results in the various areas funded by debt.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-80 entitled “Resolution Accepting 2006 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. 2007-80 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Wellhead Protection Plan Update – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton requested authorization to issue a Request For Proposal for completion of an update to the City’s wellhead protection plan.  Moulton indicated the plan was expected to cost $15,000 and would include a delineation of the wellhead protection area with modeling of groundwater areas and identify goals and activities to protect the City’s water supply.  Moulton indicated the updated plan could be completed in 18 months.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-81 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Request For Proposals For Completion Of Wellhead Protection Plan Update“ was introduced.  Councilmember Pfeifer pointed out requiring the plan update was another unfunded mandate by the State of Minnesota.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-81 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Sunrise Water Tower Irrigation System – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton requested authorization for BNR Irrigation Services, Inc. to install an irrigation system at the Sunrise Water Tower at a cost of $7,950.  Moulton indicated the east side of the site was difficult to landscape due to the steep grade.  Moulton also pointed out that several thousand dollars would be spent on landscaping at the site to keep it looking as nice as the rest of the North Industrial Park Subdivision.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-82 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Lawn Irrigation System For Sunrise Water Tower Site“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-82 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Public Works Building Roof Repair – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton requested authorization for Kato Roofing to make permanent repairs to the roof of the Public Works building at a cost of $8,650.  Moulton indicated the roof line on the west side of the building had experienced leaks for a number of years and attempts to correct the problem had not succeeded.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-83 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Roof Repair At The Public Works Building“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-83 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

SCADA Improvement Project – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton recommended Nuessmeier Electric be retained to provide electrical connection of the Sunrise Water Tower, Greenhill Reservoir and the Summit Park meter building to the City’s Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) system at a price of $4,825.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-84 entitled “Resolution Authorizing SCADA System Electrical Improvements“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-84 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included Region 9 meetings, luncheon with local legislators, Ambassadors meeting, Chamber of Commerce golf tournament, City/School/Gustavus meeting and an open house at First National Bank.

 

City/County Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reported a City/County meeting was scheduled for June 27th at the County.

 

City/School Meeting Discussion – Councilmember Kvamme reported discussion at the City/School meeting included activities and economic development in the community and the impact on youth population.  Councilmember Schultz reported discussion also included a proposal for a new day care facility.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting Discussion  – Councilmember Schultz reported the discussion at the City/School meeting continued with Gustavus officials, shared athletic field use, crisis telecommunications and after school fitness programs.

 

Street Repair Update – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton provided an update on the street repair program.  Moulton reported crack sealing work was completed, street patching was approximately two-thirds completed and staff planned to begin seal coating the second week of August.

 

Councilmembers Eichmann and Kvamme also reported several Councilmembers had met to discuss City issues with Senator Amy Klobuchar who was in Saint Peter over the weekend.

 

Mayor Strand encouraged residents to attend the Old Fashioned Fourth of July celebration.

 

Executive Session:  Police Officers Union Contract Negotiations – City Administrator Prafke requested the Council adjourn to closed session as authorized by State Statute to discuss union contract negotiations with the Police Officers Union. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-85 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. 2007-85 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session at 7:55 p.m.  The Council returned to open session at 8:07 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 8:07 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JUNE 11, 2007

 

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 11, 2007.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Douglas, Kvamme, Pfeifer, Schultz, Vogel, Eichmann and Mayor Strand.  The following officials were present:  City Administrator Prafke, City Engineer Domras 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 Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the May 29, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the May 29, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-74 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. 2007-74 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road Project Supplemental Agreement No. 1 – Public Works Director Giesking recommended execution of Supplemental Agreement No. 1 in the amount of $8,632.34 for the Nicollet Avenue/Traverse Road Project.  Giesking reported there were four additional items needed for the project that were not included in the original contract.  Giesking also pointed out that because the project was being funded by Department of Transportation funds, a supplemental agreement was required rather than a change order and that the Council’s action was to recommend approval to the Department of Transportation.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-75 entitled “Resolution Approving Supplemental Agreement Number One For 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. 2007-75 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Request For City Assistance:  Fourth of July – Chamber of Commerce President Larry Haugen addressed the Council to request City assistance for the Chamber’s Fourth of July celebration.  Haugen indicated the proposed request incorporated suggestions proposed by City staff during a joint meeting about the event.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-76 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. 2007-76 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.  Fourth of July Chairperson Rick Tuomala presented Councilmember Pfeifer with a plaque in recognition of Pfeifer’s thirty-six years of volunteer service to cook chicken for the Fourth of July picnic.

 

Center For Rural Policy Development Lease Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of a modified lease agreement for space at the Community Center which is leased by the Center For Rural Policy Development.  Prafke indicated the space occupied by the Center had been increased and as the leases are based on square footage, it was appropriate to modify the lease agreement to reflect the new rent amounts.  Prafke also pointed out that the School District would occupy less space in the building, but had been using additional gym time to offset the decrease in space.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-77 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Modified Community Center Lease For Center For Rural Policy Development“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-77 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Applications – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of license applications for a peddler and tree worker.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-78 entitled “Resolution Approving New Licenses“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-78 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included a Region 9 Mayor’s gathering and budget/personnel meeting and a town-gown meeting at Gustavus.

 

Pool Opening – City Administrator Prafke reported the outdoor municipal pool opened on June 7th and expressed appreciation to the Public Works staff for their hard work to get the pool ready and complete the painting project.  Public Works Director Giesking indicated the new paint allowed the staff to regulate the pool chemicals in only one hour versus the 1-2 days it has taken in the past.  Giesking pointed out the previous paint allowed chemicals to leech into the pool walls which made it difficult to regulate the chemicals.

 

Appliance Pickup Program – City Administrator Prafke reported over 100 residents had taken advantage of the City’s appliance pickup program.

 

Audit Reports  – City Administrator Prafke reported the City’s auditor would provide further information on the 2006 audit as part of the last Council meeting in June.

 

Street Repairs – City Administrator Prafke reported the crack sealing project had been completed and the crew would begin patching streets in the near future.  Prafke also pointed out that the seal coating project would begin later in the summer.

 

Traffic Courtesy – Councilmember Eichmann reported he had been walking around Saint Peter and expressed his belief that drivers are being more courteous than people think and are allowing pedestrians to safely cross the street.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 7:22 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 29, 2007

 

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 29, 2007.

 

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

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, to approve the minutes of the May 14, 2007 Board of Appeal and Equalization continuation meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the May 14, 2007 Board of Appeal and Equalization continuation meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, to approve the minutes of the May 14, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the May 14, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-71 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme raised several questions about the proposed purchases including the Geldner Construction purchase which had no informational memo included in the packet, trees for the Sunrise Water Tower site and whether quotes for the purchase were received from more than just Bachman’s, and why staff was requesting a blanket purchase order for HD Waterworks when the background memo indicated that another vendor had consistently offered the most competitive prices.  Kvamme also questioned whether the Council would be asked to consider utility budgets in the near future as no budgets had yet been adopted.  Public Works Director Giesking explained that the Geldner Construction purchase was actually for conduit in which new electrical wires would be placed to replace existing older electrical lines located in a portion of Inverness Heights Subdivision.  Giesking pointed out the existing electric lines were located on private property and a property owner wished to install a fence in the area.    Giesking also pointed out staff routinely requests quotes from several vendors for tree purchases and the blanket purchase order for HD Waterworks would not relieve staff of the need to check prices before making a purchase and then purchasing from the lowest priced vendor.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-71 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Award Of 2007 Seal Coating Project Bid – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the bid for the 2007 seal coating project be awarded to Caldwell Asphalt in the amount of $1.86 per gallon.  Giesking indicated staff estimated 130 blocks of seal coating could be completed within the $100,000 budgeted for seal coating in 2007.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-72 entitled “Resolution Awarding 2007 Seal Coating Project Bid“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-72 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included providing a welcome to volunteers in the Senior Center programs; acting as a volunteer judge for the MRCI/SCTC work skills competition; attending the Third Floor end of year barbeque; attending the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Arts Association website calendar; serving as a judge for the High School seniors year end projects; and welcoming everyone to the Memorial Day ceremony in Minnesota Square Park.

 

Nutrient Credit Trading – City Administrator Prafke reported that nutrient credit trades were underway with two companies.  Councilmember Schultz asked if the rates are public information and Prafke and Public Works Director Giesking indicated the market for nutrient credit trading is so competitive numbers are not being advertised and even the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not provide information on numbers.

 

Budget Process – City Administrator Prafke reported the 2008 budget process was underway and Department Directors would begin the first round of planning within a week.

 

Executive Session – City Administrator Prafke requested a closed session be called to discuss Police Officer Union contract negotiations as provided for in State Statutes.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-73 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. 2007-73 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session at 7:28 p.m.

 

The Council returned to open session at 7:48 p.m.

 

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

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 14, 2007

 

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 14, 2007.

 

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

 

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

 

Public Hearing:  Costs For Public Improvements At 1805 Sunrise Drive- Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on the project for water and sewer connection to the property at 1805 Sunrise Drive at 7:01 p.m.  City Administrator Prafke reported the property had been annexed into the City in 2005 and the property owner was required to connect to City water and sewer and the costs would be assessed to the property at an estimated cost of $22,746.48.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:03 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the April 23, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  Councilmember Kvamme requested modification to the information about the Traverse des Sioux (TdS) library contract to reflect the lawsuit was between TdS and the City of “North” Mankato.   With all in favor, the motion carried as corrected.  A complete copy of the minutes of the April 23, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the May 1, 2007 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the May 1, 2007 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-58 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. 2007-58 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Costs For Improvements At 1805 Sunrise Drive – City Administrator Prafke indicated the property owners were required to connect to City water and sewer service or to close and cap the well on the property if no one was going to live at the property.  Prafke indicated he had met with the property owners to outline their options and if they chose to close the well and not live on the property, the water and sewer connection would not take place.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-59 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Staff To Complete Utility Improvements To 1805 Sunrise Drive“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-59 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Minnesota Department of Transportation Cooperative Agreement – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of a partnership agreement with the State of Minnesota Department of Transportation.  Prafke indicated the City had previously partnered with the State on an informal basis and the procedure had worked quite well, but the State wished to formalize the agreement for bookkeeping purposes.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-60 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Contract With State Of Minnesota Department Of Transportation“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-60 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the State could be asked to not mow down the hollyhock plants in the median on the south end of the community.  Prafke indicated he would make the request.

 

On-Sale Liquor Designation Request – City Administrator Prafke indicated changes to state liquor law provided options for liquor service for facilities such as Johnson Hall at the Fairgrounds including designating a licensed on-sale liquor establishment to serve, liquor service by companies with catering licenses who are also serving food at an event; and temporary licenses for non-profit, religious and other groups.  Prafke indicated the Fair Board had made a request to designate the Flame Bar as the liquor provider for events at Johnson Hall.  Prafke pointed out that the designation did not preclude use of the other options at the facility.  Councilmember Schultz asked if the other license holders in Saint Peter had been offered the opportunity.  Prafke indicated State law did not require the Fair Board to bid out the service and the Board had selected the Flame Bar.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-61 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Flame Bar To Dispense Intoxicating Liquor At Johnson Hall (401 Union Street)“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-61 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Waiver of Subdivision Request:  Pine Pointe Subdivision #3 – Community Development Director Wille presented a recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Commission for approval of a waiver of subdivision request by Richard Black to subdivide Lot 2, Block 1 of Pine Pointe Subdivision #3 into two single family lots.  Wille indicated the recommendation was to also establish a drainage and utility easement between the two new lots and an Easement Certificate would also be recorded with the Registered Land Survey.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-62 entitled “Resolution Accepting Registered Land Survey No. 60 To Create Two Lots Within Lot 2, Block 1, Pine Pointe Subdivision #3“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-62 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Application:  Mark Hanson – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation for approval of a revolving loan application submitted by Mark Hanson.  Wille indicated the recommendation was for approval of a $75,000 loan to partially finance purchase of the Gustie Basketball and Leadership Camp and the terms of the loan would be at 5% interest amortized over 10 years with a balloon payment at 5 years, once yearly payments, and personal guarantees and a subordinated mortgage on Mr. Hanson’s personal residence as collateral.  City Administrator Prafke questioned whether the loan would be due and payable should the business cease to operate or relocate.  Wille indicated the loan documents for all revolving loans require immediate repayment of the loan should a business close or relocate.   In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-63 entitled “Resolution Approving $75,000 Revolving Loan To Mark Hanson To Partially Finance Acquisition Of The Gustie Basketball And Leadership Camp“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-63 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Modification/Application:  Chippewa Packaging, Inc. – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendations for approval of a request by Chippewa Packaging, Inc. for modification to the terms of a revolving loan issued in 2005 and for an additional revolving loan in the amount of $100,000.  Wille reported Chippewa Packaging was required to fund costs of purchase of food products and shipping cartons for a contract with Heinz and was experiencing a lack of working capital.  To assist with fulfilling current contracts and to provide additional capital for new contracts, Chippewa was seeking modification to the terms of the 2005 loan and the additional loan.  Wille pointed out the EDA’s recommendation was actually more generous than that asked for by Chippewa Packaging.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-64 entitled “Resolution Approving Modification Of Loan Terms For A Revolving Loan Previously Provided To Chippewa Packaging, Inc.“ was introduced.  The terms of the modification included reducing the interest rate from 5% to 3% and allowing interest only payments for a period of 12 months with additional modification possible after the 12 month period.  Wille pointed out that although the company was in a negative equity position after two years of business, the EDA members were not surprised and the company had actually doubled its gross profit margin in the first quarter of 2007 and had shown a profit in November and December of 2006.    Councilmember Eichmann questioned whether Chippewa had fulfilled its goal of hiring employees and Wille indicated a total of 31 full-time and full-time equivalent employees were in place which exceeded the goal of 24 within the first 24 months of operation.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-64 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-65 entitled “Resolution Approving $100,000 Revolving Loan To Chippewa Packaging, Inc. To Provide Additional Working Capital“ was introduced.  The terms of the loan included a 3% interest rate amortized over 10 years with a balloon payment at the end of 12 months, interest only payments for 12 months, and a personal guarantee and promissory note from the applicants.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-65 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Dog Park Designation – City Administrator Prafke presented the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board recommendation to designate a two acre City owned parcel directly west of the Broadway Water Tower as the site for a potential dog park.  Prafke indicated funding for development of the park would come entirely from private donors and would be needed for fencing, development of a parking area and other amenities at an approximate cost of $15,000.  Prafke pointed out that designating the site did not authorize development of the park and any further activity associated with the dog park would take Council action.  Prafke also pointed out that having a dog park did not relieve dog owners from regulations such as picking up dog waste in the park or having pets licensed and vaccinated.  Councilmember Eichmann expressed opposition to spending any City funds on development of a dog park.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the entire four acre site would be used for the park until such time as another City purpose was identified.  Prafke indicted using the entire site would save fencing costs, but it was really a “timing” factor in making that decision and only two of the four acres was being designated for the dog park in the resolution.  Councilmember Douglas expressed his belief that it would be difficult to maintain a four acre site and to ensure that dog waste was picked up and suggested rules for the park be put in place prior to fundraising taking place so people knew what they were donating for.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-66 entitled “Resolution Designating Site For Potential Dog Park“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Schultz, Pfeifer, Kvamme, Douglas, Vogel and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Eichmann voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-66 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Jefferson Park Improvement Project – City Administrator Prafke presented the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board recommendation for approval of a request to install a sixteen foot diameter of brick pavers and two benches and shade trees in memory of Emily Herr at Jefferson Park between the concession .  Prafke indicated the improvement would be entirely funded by donations and installation done by volunteers under the direction of the City and would follow the recommendation to allow memorials in parks if the improvement was usable and part of the park plan.  Councilmember Douglas questioned whether the Council’s recommendation from the workshop that the area be connected to the parks irrigation system would be included in the resolution.   In motion by Douglas, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-67 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Jefferson Park Improvements“ was introduced with the requirement that the approval be contingent upon the area being connected to Jefferson Park’s existing irrigation system and all associated costs being funded by donations.   Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as amended.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-67 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Curb/Driveway Removal and Repair Project – City Administrator Prafke requested authorization for a multi-year program to replace broken or failing curbs and removal of abandoned driveway accesses to be funded by assessment to abutting/benefiting property owners.  Prafke indicated the property owners would be asked to sign waiver of assessment forms and the City would put up $25,000 for cash flow for the project.  Prafke also pointed out that this would be an ongoing project similar to the sidewalk repair project.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-68 entitled “Resolution Approving Curb And Driveway Entrance Repair And Removal Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-68 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Office Assistant Position – City Administrator Prafke recommended establishment of a part-time Office Assistant position to assist with clerical duties in the Recreation and Leisure Services Department.  Prafke recommended approval of the position description and pay equity points (100), starting wage of $8.35 per hour and authorization for initiation of a part-time position not to exceed 19 hours per week.  Prafke indicated the position was included in the 2007 budget.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-69 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Creation Of Office Assistant Position In The Recreation and Leisure Services Department “ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-69 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

New License Applications – In motion by Douglas, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-70 entitled “Resolution Approving New License Applications“ was introduced.   The resolution included a show license for a circus and a peddler’s license for a fireworks company.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-70 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

National Hospital Week Proclamation – Mayor Strand reported he had proclaimed May 6-12, 2007 as “National Hospital Week”.

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included the Arbor Day ceremony in Minnesota Square Park, Board of Appeals and Equalization meeting, providing a welcome to Special Olympics participants at Gustavus, a Region Nine Board meeting and the Mayor’s conference in Willmar.

 

City/County Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the May 16, 2007 City/County meeting which will be held in the Traverse des Sioux Room at the Community Center.

 

Staff Training  – City Administrator Prafke reported all non-emergency City offices will be closed on Tuesday, May 22nd for staff training.

 

Arts Association Website – City Administrator Prafke reported on the launch/dedication for the arts calendar website which will be held on May 21st at 11:00 a.m. in the Governors' Room of the Community Center.

 

Volunteer Recognition – City Administrator Prafke reported on events which are planned for volunteer recognition.

 

Power Outage – City Administrator Prafke reported on the May 6th power outage which was caused by a downed pole east of Cleveland.  Prafke reviewed the actions taken by staff when a power outage occurs.

 

Councilmember Vogel reported the Housing and Redevelopment Authority was working on developing a carport at the Parkview Manor building and installing a Kasota stone sign in addition to scheduling a picnic for building tenants.  Vogel also reported that a developer who wished to open a restaurant and pub in the Konsbruck Hotel building had made a presentation to the Heritage Preservation Commission.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 8:11 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

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

MAY 14, 2007

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a continuation of the regular meeting of the Board of Appeal and Equalization of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on May 14, 2007

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m.  The following members were present: Strand, Eichmann, Schultz, Pfeifer, Kvamme, and Douglas.  Absent was Councilmember Vogel.  County official present was:  Assessor Doreen Pehrson.  Mayor Strand had received Board of Appeal training from Nicollet County on March 30, 2005.

 

County Assessor Pehrson provided the following recommendations on appeals which were continued from the May 1, 2007 meeting:

 

Ray C. Olson, owner of the property at 1816 West Welco Drive, had expressed opposition to the $171,400 valuation on his town home which was $14,000 higher than another town home in his unit.  County Assessor Pehrson had directed her staff to view the property and following the viewing, recommended a reduction in value to $162,400.  A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme to accept the Assessor’s recommendation and approve a value of $162,400 for the property.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Robert Millard, owner of the property at 618 West Grace Street, had appealed his valuation of $170,900 and cited information from Pell Real Estate that he provided to Councilmembers on May 1, 2007 that put the sale price of the property at $147,500.  Mr. Millard had also pointed out during the May 1, 2007 meeting that Pell Real Estate came up with a different square footage for the property.  County Assessor Pehrson directed her staff to view the property again and re-measure as the value of a home was based in part on square footage.  Assessor Pehrson reported that the re-measurement had shown the initial measurements were correct and indicated her recommendation was either to make no change to the valuation, or to make a deduction of 5% (to $164,900) based on design of the home.  Pehrson indicated there wasn’t quite as much curb appeal for the property, but the home had been updated inside.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz to reduce the value of the property by 5% to $164,900.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, to adjourn at 6:46 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF APPEAL AND EQUALIZATION MEETING

MAY 1, 2007

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the Board of Appeal and Equalization of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Commissioners’ Room of the Nicollet County Government Center on May 1, 2007

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Strand, Eichmann, Schultz, and Pfeifer, Kvamme, and Douglas.  Absent was Councilmember Vogel.  County officials present were:  Assessor Doreen Pehrson, Senior Appraiser Chuck Zieman, and Appraiser Michelle Wills.  Mayor Strand had received Board of Appeal training from Nicollet County on March 30, 2005.

 

County Assessor Pehrson informed the Board that David Skramstad, William Morrison, Alan Joosten, and Cletus Schroepfer had called to indicate they were unable to make their scheduled appointments but would still like their appeals considered.

 

Appeal Hearings - County Assessor Pehrson indicated the Board had twenty days in which to make a decision and once a decision on the appeals was made, her office would notify each property owner in writing of the decision.  Mayor Strand opened the floor to the property owners scheduled to present their appeals.

 

Terri Stratton Hickey, owner of the property at 503 West Sumner, addressed the Council to request an increase in the valuation of $74,400 on per property.  Ms. Stratton Hickey indicated she felt the valuation of all her properties was too low and it would impact her if she tried to sell the property.  When asked what she felt the appropriate valuation for the property was, Ms. Stratton Hickey indicated it should be just under $100,000.

 

Steven and Stacy Menke, owners of the property at 423 North Minnesota Avenue, asked for a reduction in the $299,200 valuation assigned to their property.  Mrs. Menke indicated the value the previous year was $295,000 and it was $239,600 the year before.  Mrs. Menke also expressed her belief that the home would not sell for that amount and that the property should be valued at $275,000.  County Assessor Pehrson indicated that the land values for all property in the older part of Saint Peter had been increased.

 

Ray C. Olson, owner of the property at 1816 West Welco Drive, expressed opposition to the $171,400 valuation on his townhome which was $14,000 higher than another townhome in his unit.  County Assessor Pehrson recommended someone from her staff view the property and make a recommendation to the Council after viewing.

 

Robert Millard, owner of the property at 618 West Grace Street, appealed his valuation of $170,900 and cited information from Pell Real Estate that he provided to Councilmembers that put the sale price of the property at $147,500.  Mr. Millard also pointed out that Pell Real Estate came up with a different square footage for the property.  County Assessor Pehrson recommended her office view the property again and re-measure as the value of a home was based in part on square footage.

 

Mark Bjelland, owner of the property at 916 South Fourth Street, questioned his valuation of $178,200 and cited two comparable properties in his neighborhood that were not selling and had reduced prices.  Mr. Bjelland pointed out that the oversized garage on his property had water damage caused by a lack of concrete blocks separating the flooring from the walls.  Assessor Wills indicated she had been unaware of the water property when she viewed the property.

 

Loren Schwarze, owner of the property at 122 South Fifth Street, objected to the $123,900 valuation on his property at 122 South Fifth Street which was an increase from the $114,4000 valuation the previous year.  Mr. Schwarze indicated he had the property listed for sale at $124,900 and had received no offers.  Mr. Schwarze also indicated his lawyer had told him that if the house sold for less than the assessed value that the City/County must pay him the difference.   County Assessor Pehrson indicated the property was one of those receiving land value increases in the old section of Saint Peter.

 

Ryan Birr, owner of the property at 302 North Front Street, objected to the assessed valuation of $208,900.  Mr. Birr indicated the valuation had increased almost $80,000 in two years and expressed his belief that he would be unable to sell the property for $208,900.  County Assessor Pehrson indicated Victorian properties in Saint Peter had been increased, but after further study of rental properties, recommended the valuation be reduced to $187,800.

 

The Assessor’s office made recommendations on various properties as follows: 

·        Dean and Theresa Winter – 611 North Ninth Street, reduce from $254,400 to $237,100 due to an error regarding the basement finish.

·        Stephen and Elizabeth Hogberg – 549 Stones Way - reduce from $235,900 to $203,300 based on 2 story design town homes and on the current asking price of adjacent properties.

·        Hayden Donelan Duncan – 551 Stones Way, reduce from $215,900 to $185,600 based on 2 story design town homes and on the current asking price of adjacent properties.

·        David Detlefsen – 545 Stones Way, reduce from $234,900 to $202,700 based on 2 story design town homes and on the current asking price of adjacent properties.

·        Stuart Seibert – 547 Stones Way, reduce from $194,900 to $168,500 based on 2 story design town homes and on the current asking price of adjacent properties

·        Joseph and Karla Shepard – 304 North Seventh Street, reduce from $328,300 to $201,100 based on being viewed by the County Assessor’s staff

·        Mariann Wels – 225 Ramsey Street, reduce from $359,000 to $173,000 based on being viewed by the County Assessor’s staff

·        Kraig and Natalie Johnson – 825 Spruce Place, reduce from $410,800 to $252,400 based on being viewed by the County Assessor’s staff

·        Barry and Betty Wood – 113 West Madison Street, reduce from $280,500 to $134,200 based on being viewed by the County Assessor’s staff

·        Evelyn Runkle – 516 North Fifth Street, reduce from $118,600 to $86,600 due to condition and water damage

·        Richard and Cheryl Weisgerber – 503 North Third Street, reduce from $188,500 to $170,700 based on condition of open porch and stucco siding

·        Mark Dummer – 1010 South Front Street, reduce from $97,800 to $78,300 due to condition and water damage

·        Rebecca Ann Gatchell Carlson, 720 South Washington Avenue, reduce from $92,100 to $86,800 due to one bedroom and layout

 

A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to accept the above recommendations by the County Assessor.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

The Council then discussed the appeals received as follows:

 

·        Terri Stratton Hickey, 503 West Sumner.  A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann to make no change to the valuation.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Steven and Stacy Menke, 423 North Minnesota Avenue.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann to decrease the valuation of the property to $294,000 (2% reduction).  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Ray C. Dorothy Olson, 1816 West Welco Drive.  The Council consensus was to ask the Assessor’s office to view the property and make a recommendation.

·        David Skramstad, 222 South Washington Avenue.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann to make no change to the valuation of $194,200.

·        Mark and Barbara Bjelland, 916 South Fourth Street.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, to make a 20% reduction to the valuation of the garage for a final valuation of $175,700 on the property.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Robert Millard, 618 West Grace Street.  The Council consensus was to have the Assessor’s office view the property, re-measure and make a recommendation.

·        Loren Schwarze, 122 South Fifth Street.  A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, to lower the valuation of the property 5% to a total valuation of $119,300.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        William and Pearl Morrison, 833 Lower Johnson Circle.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, to make no change to the valuation of $145,200.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Cletus and Ardis Schroepfer, 1477 Church Street.  County Assessor Pehrson recommended the valuation be lowered to $307,600 after an error in the calculations for the property was discovered.  A motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann to accept the Assessor’s recommendation and lower the valuation to $307,600.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Alan and Joan Joosten, 1620 North Minnesota Avenue.  County Assessor Pehrson indicated the valuation on the property had been dropped from $281,600 to $150,600 after her office was finally able to view the property.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz to make no change to the valuation of $150,600.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Ryan Birr, 302 North Front Street.  A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, to reduce the valuation of the property 5% to $187,800.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

There being no further business until the County Assessor makes further recommendations, a motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme at 8:05 p.m. to recess until May 14, 2007 at which time the Board will consider the remaining recommendations from the County Assessor.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

APRIL 23, 2007

 

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 23, 2007.

 

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

 

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 Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the April 9, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the April 9, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – City Administrator Prafke asked that a purchase for repair of stormwater catch basins to Ron Volk Trucking in the amount of $22,950 be added to the consent agenda.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-52 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced which included the catch basin repairs.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted with the corrected amount.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-52 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Call For Public Hearing:  Assessment Of Costs For Improvements At 1805 Sunrise Drive – City Administrator Prafke recommended the public hearing on assessment of costs for public improvements at 1805 Sunrise Drive be rescheduled for May 14, 2007 to ensure proper notification to the property owner and publication in the official newspaper.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-53 entitled “Resolution Calling For A Public Hearing On Water And Sewer Service Installation At 1805 Sunrise Drive“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-53 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Assistant City Attorney Appointment – City Attorney Brandt indicated his firm had hired Stefanie Olson as an attorney and recommended she be officially appointed as an Assistant City Attorney so she could work on City cases.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-54 entitled “Resolution Appointing Stefanie L. Olson As An Assistant City Attorney“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-54 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Mayor Strand administered the Oath of Office to Ms. Olson.

 

City Attorney Contract Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of a contract modification for 2007 legal services.  Prafke indicted the modification outlined the reimbursement rate for Assistant City Attorney Olson.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-55 entitled “Resolution Approving Modification To The 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. 2007-55 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Fire Relief Association Request – Finance Director O'Connell recommended approval of a request by the Fire Relief Association for an increase in the lump sum pension benefit amount for Saint Peter Volunteer Firefighters to $2,350 per year of service effective May 1, 2007.  O’Connell indicated that the increased benefit level would require a municipal contribution to the relief association in the amount of $10,000 which had already been budgeted.   City Administrator Prafke indicated the recommendation is based on timing of the request, which was part of the overall plan for consideration of benefit increases for the Relief Association, and comparison to other communities.  Prafke reported the Relief Association had done a good job managing their resources.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-56 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. 2007-56 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Library System Contract For Services – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of a contract with the Traverse des Sioux (TdS) Regional Library System to provide services such as inter-library loan program to the City’s library at an estimated cost of $24,920.  Prafke indicated the contract was similar to those executed in the past, with the exception of language related to the City of North Mankato lawsuit against the TdS system.  Prafke also pointed out that while the City could certainly contract with other vendors for the services provided by TdS, it would not be cost-effective to do so.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-57 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Library Services Contract With Traverse des Sioux Library System“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-57 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included a Region 9 board meeting, the City/School/Gustavus meeting, and the C.A.R.E. ribbon cutting ceremony.  Strand also reported the Minnesota State Historical Society would be meeting in Saint Peter on April 27th and over 160 members would be in town and would be touring Saint Peter.

 

Yushta Retirement – Mayor Strand invited the public to attend a cake and coffee retirement event for Police Investigative Sergeant Jerry Yushta on April 26, 2007 at the Senior Center.  Strand indicated Sergeant Yushta was retiring after over 30 years of service to the City.

 

Goal Session Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reported on discussion at the April 12th Council goal session which included problem properties, travel policy, work-up program, big box development, housing issues, and the Green City pilot program.

 

City/School Meeting – Councilmember Schultz reported on discussion at the City/School meeting of April 18th which included early childhood initiative, athletic field lease, arts calendar and the possible volunteer coordinator.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting – Councilmember Kvamme reported on discussion at the City/School/Gustavus meeting which included the same topics as the City/School meeting and also official mapping and day care concerns.

 

Grass Clippings – City Administrator Prafke reminded residents not to mow grass clippings into the street and leaving the clippings on the lawn was preferable to keep phosphorus out of the storm sewers and ultimately, the Minnesota River.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 7:28 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

APRIL 9, 2007

 

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 9, 2007.

 

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

 

Approval of Agenda - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, 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 March 26, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the March 26, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-46 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out the actual cost for the handicapped approach and curb replacement would be $19,569.22.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted with the corrected amount.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-46 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Equipment Certificate Budget Modifications and Purchase – Public Works Director Giesking requested modification to the 2007 Equipment Certificate budget to replace the dump truck purchase ($40,000) with a V-box sander and prewetter system in the amount of $39,984.18 to be purchased from State Purchase Contract No. 437049.  Giesking indicated the system would be loaded onto an existing truck before a snowstorm arrives and used to apply a salt brine liquid to hills and other areas that normally require a large amount of salt/sand mixture.  Giesking also indicated staff was developing a new policy for application of salt and sand and would have the policy ready for Council consideration later this year.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the prewetter application would save money and/or salt and sand.  Giesking indicated the amount of salt and sand would be decreased but the total expenditure would be about the same.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-47 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Modification To 2007 Equipment Certificate Budget And Authorization For Purchase Of V Box Sander And Prewetter“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-47 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007/2008 Fire Service Contracts – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the 2007/2008 fire service contracts with Oshawa ($9,808), Lake Prairie ($23,103) and Traverse Townships ($16,216).    Prafke indicated the amounts were based on property valuations and did not include funding for significant capital purchases or Fire Relief Association contributions.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-48 entitled “Resolution Approving 2007/2008 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. 2007-48 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Playground Material Purchase – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for purchase of replacement “landing” material for the TREEmendous playground.  Prafke indicated approximately $12,000 had been budgeted for maintenance at the playground funded by yet to be received donations.  Prafke reported he had met with the Friends of TREEmendous Playground who indicated they were willing to begin fundraising efforts to finance the materials purchase and other maintenance needs this year as well as into the future.  Prafke recommended the $9,800 expenditure be funded initially from the fund and $3,000 from General Fund reserves to be repaid by the fundraising efforts.  Councilmembers questioned whether the suggestion to use ground rubber bits or a rubber mat had been considered.  Public Works Director Giesking indicated the rubber matting would cost between $75,000-$90,000 and although it had a longer life expectancy, the life cycle cost would be the same as the materials proposed for purchase.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-49 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Materials For TREEmendous Playground“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-49 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke indicated the background investigation on the applicant for the Soft Drink License for the new China Town restaurant had discovered nothing that would lead to staff recommending against the license.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-50 entitled “Resolution Approving New License“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-50 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Sidewalk Installation Project – Public Works Director Giesking recommended authorization be provided for an unbudgeted project to install sidewalk from the new storage building at Jefferson Park (which was donated by the Softball Association) to the existing restroom/concession building.  Giesking indicated contractors are looking for work at this time and good quotes were received.  Giesking recommended the quote from Kassulke Masonry in the amount of $4,342 be approved to be funded by the Parks budget with modifications made to the budget to allow for the financing.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether there was additional sidewalk planned for the park and whether that work should be completed at this time.  Giesking indicated there was additional sidewalk planned in the park, but the cost would not allow for construction at this time.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-51 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Installation Of Sidewalk At Jefferson Park“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-51 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Arbor Day Proclamation – Mayor Strand proclaimed April 27th as “Arbor Day” and April, 2007 as “Arbor Month” in the City.

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included Region 9 board and commission meetings; the Benedictine Living Community of Saint Peter dedication; and the project to compare Saint Peter to Waseca as part of a University of Minnesota program.

 

Benedictine Living Community of Saint Peter Dedication – City Administrator Prafke reported on the dedication ceremony for the Benedictine Living Community of Saint Peter.

 

Arts Association Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the April 25th Arts Association meeting and reported on the subcommittee meeting regarding the website calendar.

 

Goal Session Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the Goal Session scheduled for April 12th at 3:00 p.m. in the Traverse des Sioux Room of the Community Center.

 

City/School Meeting and City/School/Gustavus Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reported the next City/School and City/School/Gustavus meeting would be held on April 18th.  Prafke reminded everyone that Councilmembers Kvamme and Schultz were representatives for the City/School meetings and Councilmembers Schultz, Kvamme, Vogel and Mayor Strand were representatives for the City/School/Gustavus meetings.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Annual Conference – City Administrator Prafke asked Councilmembers interested in attending the LMC Annual conference in Duluth to let the Administrator’s office know so registrations can be completed.

 

Affordable Housing Design Symposium – City Administrator Prafke reported the University of Minnesota was hosting a traveling affordable housing design symposium and Nicollet Meadows and Washington Terrace were prominently featured as part of the program.

 

Community Addiction Recovery Enterprise (C.A.R.E.) – Councilmember Eichmann reminded Councilmembers of the open house and dedication ceremony for C.A.R.E. (formerly known as Johnson Hall Chemical Dependency Center) on April 20th from 1-7 p.m. for the open house and the dedication at 10:00 a.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 7:41 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MARCH 26, 2007

 

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 26, 2007.

 

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

 

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 Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the February 26, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the February 26, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.  There was no Council meeting on March 12, 2007.

 

Visitors – Human Rights Commission members April Valentine and Kim Schultz presented the 2006 Human Rights Award to Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Institute (ChYLI) Director Veronica Alba.  Ms. Alba accepted the award on behalf of ChYLI and provided information on the work the institute does with Latino youth.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-38 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  City Administrator Prafke reported the two candidates proposed for appointment as Temporary Youth Center Coordinators would be Co-Coordinators and would work until the end of the school year when the Youth Center closes.  Police Chief Peters provided a review of the process used for the promotion of Police Officers Matt Grochow and Travis Sandland to the position of Detective to replace retired Detective Curt Tuma and Retiring Investigative Sergeant Jerry Yushta.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-38 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Call For Public Hearing:  Assessment Project 1801 Sunrise Drive – City Administrator Prafke recommended the process for assessment of water and sewer costs for the property at 1805 Sunrise Drive be re-started.  Prafke reported staff had failed to publish proper notice of the March 12th hearing in the official newspaper and it was appropriate to restart the process for assessment to ensure compliance with assessment notice regulations.  Prafke recommended a public hearing on the proposed assessments be called for April 23, 2007.  Prafke also indicated he had met with the property owner to discuss and, hopefully, resolve some of the outstanding issues on the property.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-39 entitled “Resolution Calling For A Public Hearing On Assessment Of Costs For Water And Sewer Service Installation At 1801 Sunrise Drive“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-39 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Storm Water Fee Modifications – City Administrator Prafke indicated staff had reviewed the expenses associated with storm water management work in the right-of-way and recommended modifications to the stormwater fees to more accurately reflect the actual cost of staff time.  Prafke indicated several of the fees would be decreased.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-40 entitled “Resolution Adopting Updated 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. 2007-40 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Street Maintenance Program – Public Works Director Giesking presented the proposed 2007 street maintenance program which included crack sealing, seal coating of approximately 130 blocks on the north end of Saint Peter, handicap approach construction, sidewalk repairs and curb replacement.  Giesking indicated the budgeted amount for the program was $314,500 and the actual amount of seal coating would be dependent on the bids received and material costs.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the plan was just a plan and that changes may be made based on need and budget amounts.  Giesking also pointed out that should funding be available, staff would consider seal coating municipal parking lots and downtown alleys.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-41 entitled “Resolution Approving 2007 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. 2007-41 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Equipment Certificate Bid Award – Finance Director O'Connell reported bids for sale of the $161,500 in 2007 equipment certificates had been received from Hometown Bank, First National Bank and Nicollet County Bank.  O’Connell recommended the Nicollet County Bank bid at 4.5% interest each of the five years be accepted.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned why the estimated cost for the police patrol car was so much higher than the actual cost.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the car was being purchased at the State bid price and when the equipment certificate budget had been prepared the State bid price is unknown.   In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2007-42 entitled “Resolution Awarding The Sale Of $161,500 General Obligation Equipment Certificates Of Indebtedness Of 2007; 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. 2007-42 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Equipment Certificate Vehicle Purchase – Police Chief Peters requested authorization to purchase a Ford Crown Victoria patrol vehicle from Saint Peter Ford at the State bid price of $21,876 and authorization for an additional $3,500 for equipment installation and marking graphics for the new car to be funded by the 2007 equipment certificate.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-43 entitled “Resolution Approving 2007 Equipment Certificate Purchase“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-43 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Old Hospital Re-Use Study Contract – City Administrator Prafke requested authorization to enter into an agreement with Paulsen Architects to prepare a re-use study of the old hospital and nursing home buildings for a not to exceed fee of $7,000.  Prafke indicated Paulsen’s had done similar work at the request of the school district and some of that information could be used in the study for the Council.  Prafke also indicated the study results would include information on what buildings should be kept, what buildings would be recommended for demolition, estimated costs of gutting the buildings, relative reuse value, current value, and 3-4 conceptual ideas and the cost per square footage for those ideas.  Prafke reported funding for the study and any possible changes/demolition of the building was available from $300,000 which had been set aside from the new hospital project and rent revenues received from the State’s lease of the old hospital which was being kept in a City maintained Community Hospital Fund.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-44 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Contract For Architectural Services For Old Hospital/Nursing Home Re-Use Study“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-44 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.  Councilmember Kvamme requested staff rename the City maintained fund to alleviate any confusion over new hospital funds and old hospital funds.

 

HickoryTech Confidentiality Agreement – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers HickoryTech leases space in the City’s conduit system and the lease payment is based on the number of users/subscribers HickoryTech has.  Prafke reported he had been attempting to secure additional information from HickoryTech regarding the user numbers and HickoryTech would not provide that information without execution of a confidentiality agreement which had been drafted and recommended for execution by Special City Attorney Robert Vose.  Prafke indicated the information would help ensure the City was receiving appropriate compensation for the conduit lease.  In motion by Victoria, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-45 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Confidentiality Agreement With HickoryTech“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-45 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

APPA Rally – Mayor Strand reported on his participation in the American Public Power Association Rally in Washington D.C. the week of March 12th.  Strand indicated the focus of discussion with legislators was the lack of railroad competition, climate change, regional electrical markets, and Western Area Power Administration.  Councilmembers Schultz and Eichmann, who also attended the Rally, indicated the trip was beneficial and they learned a lot about the issues.

 

Women’s History Month Proclamation – Mayor Strand reported he had proclaimed March, 2007 as “Women’s History Month” in Saint Peter.

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included a joint Council workshop with the City of Mankato on March 5th; Region Nine budget and personnel committee meetings and a Board of Directors meeting; attendance at an Ambassador’s meeting; and the Saint Patrick’s Day parade.

 

Seized Vehicle Auction – Police Chief Peters indicated the online auction of seized vehicles went very well.  City Administrator Prafke reported over $10,000 was generated from the auction.

 

Former City Attorney Schmitz – City Administrator Prafke reported former City Attorney Robert Schmitz had passed away and the City had sent a memorial.  City Attorney Brandt indicated Mr. Schmitz had served honorably during his service as City Attorney from the mid 1960’s  through the mid-1990’s.

 

Snow Removal Complaints – Public Works Director Giesking reported on staff contact with the two residents who had complained about snow removal in Nicollet Meadows subdivision at the February 26, 2007 regular meeting.  Giesking indicated that repeated attempts to contact Mr. Olinger were unsuccessful but staff had spoken with Mr. Mayo who, while still objecting to the bill he received, had expressed his belief that the City’s policy and procedures were correct.

 

Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the Olinger request to have a “slow” sign installed in the subdivision was possible.  City Administrator Prafke indicated traffic studies have repeatedly shown that installation of such a sign had no long term impact on traffic speed and the speed display trailer being occasionally placed in the subdivision would actually have more of a lasting impact.

 

Climate Change- Public Works Director Giesking reported on the impact of global warming and the cycle of warming that has occurred over the past 450,000 years.  Giesking also provided information on adaptation that may be necessary for our area to respond to sustained warmer temperatures and increased precipitation including modifications to production in electrical energy.

 

City/School District Meeting – Councilmember Kvamme reported discussion at the City/School meeting included early childhood initiatives and getting the City and County involved with preschool education; joint athletic fields lease; volunteer needs coordination; and continued appreciation for the Safe Routes To School grant.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting- Councilmember Kvamme also reported discussion at the City/School/Gustavus meeting, which also was attended by County Commissioners, included child care needs, the joint athletic fields lease, and the arts in the community calendar website.

 

Third Grade Council Meeting – City Administrator Prafke and Mayor Strand reported on their mock Council meeting with students from Mrs. Steffen’s third grade class at South Elementary.   Prafke indicated the class included math, budgeting, and mapping skills and allowed the students to spend budgetary moneys on different issues like fixing potholes and improving parks.  Strand reported the students had come up with some good ideas for the City.  Prafke also reported Jordan Kleinholz was elected Mayor of the mock Council and each student was able to speak as either a member of the Council, City staff member or resident of the community. 

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

FEBRUARY 26, 2007

 

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 26, 2007.

 

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

 

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 February 12, 2007 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  A complete copy of the minutes of the February 12, 2007 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 17. 

 

Visitors – Randy Olinger, 902 Wettergren Street, addressed the Council to object to a snow removal bill he received for failing to remove snow from the handicap ramp abutting his property.  Olinger also complained about the way snow removal is done on the streets in Nicollet Meadows Subdivision; not receiving a phone call before the City came to remove snow on the sidewalk at his property; comments made to him by City staff when he questioned the procedure; the City focusing on homeowners not removing snow at handicap ramps when the City had not hauled snow away from the intersections in the subdivision; the City not “maintaining” the subdivision; and the City not “maintaining” the alleys and median in the subdivision.  Olinger also stated his belief that the City had promised to develop the open area between Nicollet Meadows and Pine Pointe Subdivisions as a park and indicated he had written proof of the promise.  City Administrator Prafke was quick to point out that no such promise had been made by the City and the City has always had the express intention of leaving the area as a conservancy.  Prafke invited Olinger to provide him copies of the documentation he referenced. 

 

Olinger also said children in Nicollet Meadows were being yelled at by the manager of the apartment complex in the subdivision when they tried to play in the playground at the site and indicated the sign saying the property was for tenant use only wasn’t taken down until Labor Day.  Olinger asked the City to develop a park in the subdivision.

 

Brian Mayo, 1013 Wettergren Street, also objected to the City clearing snow from the private sidewalks in the subdivision and indicated City crews had damaged the plastic edging around his garden while clearing the sidewalk abutting his property.  Mayo also objected to having to clear snow from a 15’ wide handicap ramp abutting his property.

 

Olinger asked, on behalf of a neighbor, what it would take for the City to post “slow” signs in the subdivision because of all the children that live in the area.  Olinger indicated his belief that the 30 mile per hour speed limit is “too fast”.

 

City Administrator Prafke indicated staff would respond to the concerns of both residents before the end of the week.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-28 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. 2007-28 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Long Term Care Facility Change Order – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of change order #7 for the long term care facility project in the amount of $77,122.26.  Prafke pointed out that some of the changes were due to changes in federal regulations which occurred while the facility was under construction.  Prafke also indicated there were several outstanding items that may be considered as a change order for Council consideration at a later meeting.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-29 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order #7 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. 2007-29 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Highway 169 Median Project Design Concept – Minnesota Department of Transportation Project Manager Peter Harff presented the design concept for the Highway 169 median project as proposed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation.  Harff indicated the design was based on discussions with the public and business owners, the Minnesota Design team recommendations, project consultant SRF, City staff and officials, and MNDOT staff.  Harff said the median was proposed to enhance vehicle and pedestrian safety, enhance the historic corridor in downtown Saint Peter, and provide for resurfacing of the roadway.  Harff pointed out that the aesthetics of the project were limited by Federal historic preservation rules.  Harff indicated the median would eventually be built from Elm Street to Ramsey Street and include a raised median with planters and bump outs of the sidewalk so pedestrians would have a better view of oncoming traffic.  Harff reported the median would allow crossing the highway at College, Walnut, Myrtle, Mulberry, Nassau, Broadway, Skaro and Ramsey and the other intersections would be closed to east-west traffic. 

 

Harff further indicated the design elements included:  mid-block medians would be 18’ wide, raised 13.5”, have 2.5” of sidewalk on each side of the planters, and the planters would be approximately 36” tall with the plantings; intersection planters would be substantially higher than the mid-block planters to provide a clear indication that it was not open to vehicular traffic; and trees to be planted in the medians in the areas outside the downtown area.  Harff also reported that any additional aesthetics like benches or screening of parking areas would have to be at City expense.  Finally, Harff indicated MNDOT was expecting construction in 2010 to include only the medians in the downtown area and the remaining medians were not scheduled for construction at that time due to funding limitations.  Councilmembers questioned and objected to closing the highway for this project more than once and asked for the entire median to be completed as a single project.  Harff indicated only $1 million was available for the project which limited the scope to the downtown area and no timeline or funding had been identified for the medians north and south of the downtown area.  

 

In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-30 entitled “Resolution Endorsing Design Concept For Proposed Highway 169 Median Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-30 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Youth Center Coordinator Position – City Administrator Prafke reported that the Youth Center Coordinator, who had been working under the temporary authority provided to the City Administrator, had resigned.  Prafke recommended the position of part-time Youth Center Coordinator be formally established including adoption of a position description and establishing pay equity points and beginning wage for the position.  Prafke also recommended staff be authorized to initiate recruitment for the position.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-31 entitled “Resolution Establishing Youth Center Coordinator Position“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Schultz, Eichmann, Douglas, Kvamme and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Pfeifer being absent during the vote, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-31 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Public Improvement Project Assessment – Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of assessments for installation of a water meter building at Summit mobile home park and water, sewer, curb and gutter improvements at two other properties.  O’Connell indicated the property owners had executed waivers of assessment for the work.  O’Connell reported the assessments would be spread over 15 years at 5.75% interest.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-32 entitled “Resolution Adopting Improvement Assessments“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-32 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Air Conditioning Repair Equipment Purchase – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization for purchase of equipment that would allow the City’s Mechanic to make repairs to air conditioning units in City vehicles.  Giesking pointed out the $2,320.52 purchase was unbudgeted but would eliminate the expense of paying private mechanics $200-$500 each time repairs are needed.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2007-33 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Air Conditioning Recycling Equipment“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-33 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Acceptance of Library Donation – City Administrator Prafke reported the Carl and Verna Schmidt Foundation had made a donation to the City in the amount of $31,400 for library programs and materials.  Prafke recommended the Council formally accept the donation in accordance with the internal donation policy.  Prafke also pointed out that no funds had been levied for the programs and materials and unless the donation was accepted, the Library would be unable to continue to provide the programming.  In motion by Douglas, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2007-34 entitled “Resolution Accepting Donation From Carl And Verna Schmidt Foundation“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-34 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Construction Standards Modification – Public Works Director Giesking recommended modification to several City public improvement construction standards (#3005NR, 3005R, 4001, 4002, 4004, 4005, 4006, 4020, 4023, 4029, 4030, 5001, 5003, 5004, 5007, 5013, 6001, 6004, 6005, 6007, 6024, 7017A, 7020R, and 7020C) to address changes in construction methods and materials.  Councilmember Kvamme suggested that changing the radius to make smaller handicap ramps which results in more traditional right angle corners, would actually reduce traffic speeds and address concerns from the speakers earlier in the meeting.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-35 entitled “Resolution Approving Updates For City Construction Standards“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2007-35 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Request – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the Saint Peter Ambassador’s request for City assistance for the St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 17, 2007.  Prafke recommended approval be given for Police assistance for the event for traffic and crowd control and for “NO PARKING” designation along the parade route on South Third Street from Broadway Avenue to Mulberry Street.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2007-36 entitled “Resolution Approving City Assistance 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. 2007-36 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Tennis Association Donation Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking presented the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board recommendation for acceptance of a donation by the Saint Peter Tennis Association for purchase of a sixteen foot wide, eight foot high section of sand filled backboard to be installed at the tennis courts at Veteran’s Memorial Park.  Giesking indicated the estimated value of the backboard was $5,622.  Giesking also indicated the Parks Board recommended City staff be authorized to install the backboard at an estimated cost of $850.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2007-37 entitled “Resolution Accepting Donation From Tennis Association For Backboard Improvement 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. 2007-37 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported Winterfest had been concluded, the Polar Bear Plunge event included 110 plungers, and Commissioner of Health Diane Mandernach had presented the City with a plaque designating the City’s participation as a Governor’s “Fit City”.

 

Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association – Public Works Director Giesking provided an extensive report on legislation being considered and legislation which has already been adopted by the Minnesota Legislature concerning utilities.  Giesking reported recently enacted legislation calls for all utilities to provide for 25% of electrical energy being supplied by renewable resources by 2025.  Giesking indicated SMMPA would be looking at wind energy, biomass, water, sun, biogs, and biodiesel fuels as alternatives and provided estimates on the billions of dollars this legislation would cost the utility industry ($8 billion for wind turbines, $3 billion for transmission for wind generated energy; $16 billion for support generation; and $1 billion for transmission of the generation).  Giesking indicated SMMPA would spend the next four months reviewing the requirements and anticipated costs before making a recommendation on the best ways to meet the new requirements.  Giesking pointed out that actions which must be taken to meet the requirements will be funded by rate payers and there would be no federal funds available to utilities.  Giesking also touched on changes to the conservation improvement program, transmission and regulatory legislation, legislation that is being discussed because of climate changes including restrictions on construction of fossil fuel (coal) generating facilities, and the need to make nuclear energy an option for utilities to meet energy needs.

 

Sidewalk Clearance Regulations – City Administrator Prafke reminded residents that sidewalks must be cleared of snow and ice within 24 hours of a snowfall.

 

Youth Activities Directory – City Administrator Prafke encouraged residents who had not received a Youth Activities Directory to pick one up at the Community Center.  Prafke indicated the directories had been sent home with school children.

 

Surplus Property Auction – City Administrator Prafke reported the vehicles which had been declared as surplus property by the City were being auctioned off on-line as part of the State of Minnesota Department of Administration surplus services division.  Prafke indicated the cars and snowmobile could be viewed by contacting the Police Department and anyone interested in bidding on the vehicles could do so at www.mnsurplus.org.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Annual Conference – City