MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

DECEMBER 8, 2008

 

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 8, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Schultz, Vogel, Wetherill 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 Pfeifer, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried. 

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Wetherill, to approve the minutes of the November 24, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the November 24, 2008 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the December 1, 2008 Truth in Taxation hearing including a correction to the members present.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved as corrected.  A complete copy of the minutes of the December 1, 2008 Truth in Taxation hearing is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – City Administrator Prafke asked to modify the consent agenda to include an application for an Exempt Permit to permit a raffle for the Church of St. Peter at the fairgrounds on March 21, 2009.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-233 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced with the raffle permit.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as modified.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-233 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2009 Tax Levy/Budget Adoption –  Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the 2008 tax levy which is collectible in 2009.  O’Connell indicated the levy would decrease 12.5% and the City’s extension rate would decrease from 43.72 to 37.93.  O’Connell reviewed the funds included in the tax levy amount.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-234 entitled “Resolution Adopting Final 2008 Tax Levy Collectible In 2009“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-234 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

O’Connell also presented the proposed governmental fund budgets and indicated an increase in the general fund of 7.14% over the previous year.  O’Connell also indicated the proposed budgets included an equipment certificate issuance in the amount of $300,500, using $83,720 of reserve funds, an allocation of $20,000 to the youth center, capital purchases for computer and website upgrades, tennis court improvements at Veteran’s Field and preliminary engineering work on restoration of the Minnesota Square Park pavilion.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned what the plan would be if the City’s budget was impacted by State cuts/changes for which the City had no control.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the plan would be to do a prioritization of programs and services within the City with funding being provided to those programs/services that have the highest priority.  Prafke also indicated the budget is very tight and staff would continually discuss options to work through any funding cuts.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-235 entitled “Resolution Approving The General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, Debt Service Funds, Capital Funds, And Agency Funds For The 2009 Fiscal Year“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-235 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

SMMPA Commercial Paper Program –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended the Council support a resolution by Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA) to expand SMMPA’s commercial paper program from a maximum of $85 million to $100 million.  Giesking indicated the commercial paper program is short term financing at net interest rates of 2.6% for three to six month terms and indicated the program has been very beneficial for SMMPA.  Giesking reported SMMPA was expecting $22 million in capital expenditures in 2009 and 2010 and the resolution being considered by the board would increase the maximum allowable amount of commercial paper expenditures and make any borrowing done under it subject to a weighted vote of the members which would most likely result in the City Council acting on SMMPA capital purchases in the future.  Councilmember Kvamme requested modification to the proposed resolution to support the increase “provided that the total borrowing under this program does not exceed $68 million without further authorization from the members.”  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-236 entitled “Resolution Confirming Support For The Expansion Of SMMPA’s Commercial Paper Program“ was introduced with the language change.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned what the estimated cost of long term financing would be without the commercial paper program.  Giesking reported it would be at approximately 5% interest. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-236 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2009 Municipal Fee Schedule –  City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the municipal fee schedule to take effect January 1, 2009.  Prafke indicated new fees for catch basin cleaning on private property and removal of seasonal water meters were included in the modified schedule and some minor adjustments in other fees including salt/sand road mix fees were suggested.  Prafke also indicated that should the Council choose to not modify any or all of the fees as suggested, the budget would not be impacted negatively.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-237 entitled “Resolution Establishing Year 2009 License Fees, Permit Fees, And Other Charges For Municipal Services“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-237 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Bad Debt Receivables –  Finance Director O'Connell recommended writing off approximately $12,700 in bad debt receivables from March 2005 through December 2007.  O’Connell indicated staff would continue attempts to collect the debts, but recommended the receivables be removed from the active accounts.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-238 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Miscellaneous Accounts Receivables To Be Written Off“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-238 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Benedictine Health Systems (BHS) Agreement –  City Administrator Prafke recommended the City enter into a land lease and development agreement with Benedictine Living Community Of St. Peter for development of a senior housing/assisted living facility on City owned land near the nursing home and hospital.  Prafke indicated the City would receive approximately $40,000 per year from the lease.  Prafke also pointed out that the plan for the new building would need Council approval and BHS would be required to complete a market study for the services being provided.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-239 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Land Lease And Development Agreement With Benedictine Living Community Of St. Peter“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-239 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Non-Contract/Non-Union Employee Wage Increase –  City Administrator Prafke recommended step wage increases for non-union/non-contract employees ranging from 1% to 1.4% depending upon pay equity point ranges.  Prafke also recommended the two Administrative Secretary positions be provided with an additional 1% increase and probationary employees not be provided the step increase until successful completion of their probationary period.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-240 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. 2008-240 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Police Vehicle Purchase –  Police Chief Peters requested authorization for the unbudgeted replacement of a police vehicle which is in need of expensive repairs which are expected to exceed the value of the vehicle.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned who will be driving the vehicle, whether it was a standard model or Police package, and whether Dodge or Ford vehicles were better for Police work.  Peters indicted the vehicle would be assigned to the Police Detective who was currently driving the vehicle to be replaced, the new car would have some Police equipment in it but would remain unmarked; and indicated the recommendation to purchase a Dodge was because the local Dodge dealer could offer the car at State contract pricing and the City would receive good service from the local dealer.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-241 entitled “Resolution Approving Unbudgeted Vehicle Purchase For Police Department“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-241 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Compost Turner Purchase –  Public Works Director Giesking indicated the City’s compost site would need a permit from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency which maintains strict regulations regarding turning and temperature of compost piles.  Giesking indicated the City could meet the MPCA requirements with the aid of a compost turner and staff had found a used turner and successfully bid at auction on the equipment in the amount of $5,362.50.  City Administrator Prafke indicated he had authorized purchase of the equipment and was seeking Council ratification of the action.  Giesking indicated the equipment would be used 200-250 hours per year and would be funded with unused 2008 Equipment Certificate funds.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned whether the purchase would result in savings to the City.  Giesking indicated there would be no obvious savings, but having the equipment would allow the City to meet the MPCA requirements for a compost and site permit.   In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-242 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Compost Turner For Environmental Services Utility“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-242 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant Screener Replacement – Public Works Director Giesking reported that a screener system at the wastewater treatment plant was not working correctly and required repairs in the amount of $20,000.   Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to prepare plans, specifications and contract documents for replacement of the existing equipment with a new fine screener that is expected to remove more solids from the system.  Giesking indicated the proposed cost of the new equipment would be $200,000.  Giesking indicated the project would be recommended as part of the 2009 wastewater budget.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-243 entitled “Resolution Retaining Bolton and Menk, Inc. To Prepare Plans, Specifications, And Contract Documents For Installation Of Replacement Fine Screener In The Wastewater Treatment Plant“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-243 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Resolution Calling For Closed Session –  City Administrator Prafke requested a closed session be convened as provided for in State Statute to discuss Parks and Streets union contract negotiations.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-244 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. 2008-244 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session at 8:01 p.m.

 

The Council returned to open session at 8:11 p.m.

 

2009-2011 Parks Union Contract –  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the 2009-2011 contract with the Parks Union which included wage increases of 3.2% the first year and 3% each year following; provisions for working on the Fourth of July and the day before holidays; additional vacation accrual after the 361st month of employment; modification to the language when staff assumes the role of Temporary Foreman; approval for carryover of up to $525 in uniform allowance; and inclusion of a table of contents.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-245 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of 2009-2011 Contract Between International Union Of Operating Engineers Local No. 70 (Parks) And The City Of Saint Peter“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-245 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2009-2011 Streets Union Contract –  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the 2009-2011 contract with the Streets Union which included wage increases of 3.2% the first year of the contract and 3% in each of the following two years; removal of the non-discrimination clause; additional wage increase for the Facilities Maintenance Lead Worker; modification to language related to service as Temporary Foreman; authorization for carryover of up to $525 in uniform allowance; and moving the Forester into a Foreman position and allowing the Assistant Foreman to move up higher in the wage scale than was previously allowed.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-246 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of 2009-2011 Contract Between International Union Of Operating Engineers Local No. 70 (Streets) And The City Of Saint Peter“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-246 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports- Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included Region Nine Development Commission meetings and the Council goal session.  Strand also extended his thanks to Councilmember Eichmann  for serving as Mayor pro tem during his absence in November.

 

Goal Session Discussion – City Administrator Prafke indicated the discussion at the Council goal session on December 4th was very in-depth and will serve to set the course on a number of issues into 2009.

 

Sidewalk Clearance Regulations – City Administrator Prafke reviewed the sidewalk clearance regulations and reminded residents that if City crews are required to clear sidewalks, property owners will be charged a minimum of $65.

 

Snow Emergency Notice – City Administrator Prafke reminded residents they can call the City information line for snow emergency notices.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, to adjourn at 8:24 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL TRUTH IN TAXATION HEARING

DECEMBER 1, 2008

 

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 1, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the hearing to order at 7:01 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Wetherill, 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 12.5% below the 2008 levy.  O’Connell reviewed handouts on the proposed tax levy which included information on market values, influences on City taxes, the proposed budget, services provided by the City, the levy impact and deadlines for adoption of the final budget and levy.

 

Michael Steinhaus, 215 North Third Street, addressed the Council to voice his concerns regarding the economy and increases in market values from 2008 to 2009.  Steinhaus questioned how the Council was responding to the slowdown in the economy and high taxes.  Several Councilmembers pointed out that the City would be required to either reduce services or increase taxes or provide for a combination of the two.

 

Jorge Ragla, 2025 Moore Drive, addressed the Council to question what it means to live in a tax increment financing district as indicated on his property tax statement.  City Administrator Prafke and Finance Director O'Connell provided information on tax increment financing, how it is used and what it means to property owners.

 

There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:39 p.m.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 24, 2008

 

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 24, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor pro tem Eichmann called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Schultz, and Wetherill.  Absent was Mayor Strand and 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 Schultz, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried. 

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, to approve the minutes of the November 10, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the November 10, 2008 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Public Hearing:  Assessment of Unpaid Street/Water/Wastewater Improvements – Mayor pro tem Eichmann opened the public hearing on the assessment of unpaid street, water and wastewater improvements at 7:01 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell recommended assessment of unpaid charges for improvements the property owners had already agreed to in the total amount of $118,279.06.  O’Connell indicated the proposed assessments included the reconstruction of Dranttel Street and the assessments would be at 4.92% interest.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:03 p.m.

 

Public Hearing:  Assessment of Unpaid Utility Charges – Mayor pro tem Eichmann opened the public hearing on the assessment of unpaid utility charges at 7:03 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell recommended assessment of unpaid utility charges and indicated that charges associated with bankruptcy, death of the account holder and for charges less than $10 would be written off.  O’Connell indicated the assessable portion of the $29,538.48 in unpaid utility charges would be $14,035.76.  O’Connell also presented a letter from Jerry Chua objecting to charges for a renter being assessed to his property at 113 West Madison.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:05 p.m.

 

Public Hearing:  Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges – Mayor pro tem Eichmann opened the public hearing on the assessment of unpaid miscellaneous charges at 7:05 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell indicated the proposed assessments in the total amount of $155 were for unpaid snow removal charges and water repair at two properties.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:06 p.m.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-220 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. 2008-220 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Safe Routes To School Project Supplemental Agreement – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided to enter into a supplemental agreement for the Department of Transportation to act as fiscal agent for federal funds the City was awarded for the education and encouragement portion of the Safe Routes to School project in the amount of approximately $5,000.  Prafke indicated the action was a paperwork issue only and did nothing to change the project scope.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-221 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Supplemental Agreement For Minnesota Department of Transportation To Serve As Agent For Safe Routes To School Education And Encouragement Program“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-221 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Dodd Avenue Underpass Project Final Acceptance – City Administrator Prafke indicated the Dodd Avenue underpass had been completed as per the plans and specifications and recommended the project be accepted and authorization be provided to make final payment to Chard Tiling.  Prafke also pointed out the warranty period on the project would start with Council acceptance of the project.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-222 entitled “Resolution Accepting The Dodd Avenue Pedestrian Underpass 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. 2008-222 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Old Minnesota Avenue Stormwater Retention Basin Engineering – City Administrator Prafke recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to prepare plans and specifications and contract documents for a project to construct a stormwater retention basin along Highway 169 north of the Dranttel Sales and Service property.  Prafke indicated the project had been on hold because the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) had been unable to clear the title to the highway right-of-way.  Prafke also indicated the project would be an assessment project and serve the area north of Dodd Avenue.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether it was common for a city to spearhead a MNDOT project. Prafke reported it was not uncommon and it was better for the City to steer the project than be directed by MNDOT.   In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-223 entitled “Resolution Retaining Bolton And Menk, Inc. To Prepare Plans, Specifications, And Contract Documents For Construction Of Old Minnesota Stormwater Basin“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-223 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Seasonal Trail Closure Recommendation – City Administrator Prafke recommended several trails and sidewalks be declared as “no maintenance” areas from December 1st to May 1st and reminded Councilmembers the same declaration had been adopted last year with no complaints being received.  Prafke indicated the list provided for closure of trails or sidewalks on only one side of the road and included the interior sidewalks in City parks.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned why both sides of Broadway Avenue were recommended for closure and questioned how people running on Gardner Road would be able to run back into town without running on the road.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-224 entitled “Resolution Establishing ‘No Maintenance’ Trails For The Winter Of 2008-2009“ was introduced with the condition that the Public Works Department ensure that at least one side of the trail/sidewalk along Broadway Avenue is maintained.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted with the condition.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-224 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Donation Acceptance:  Warren Park Play Equipment – City Administrator Prafke recommended acceptance of a donation of $18,897.61 from the Friends of Warren Park for purchase and installation of playground equipment in the park.  Prafke indicated City staff will install the equipment and provide for some additional purchases for footings, pea rock and other minor needs.  Councilmember Schultz complimented Amy Kamm for her work raising the funds and indicated the project would not have moved as quickly as it had without her efforts.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-225 entitled “Resolution Accepting Donation To Fund Purchase Of Play Equipment In Warren Park“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-225 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Traverse des Sioux Library System Agreement – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of a contract for Traverse des Sioux Library system to provide library services to the Saint Peter Library.  Prafke indicated the proposed contract was a 2% increase over 2008 and while it would be possible to buy the services somewhere else, the price would most likely be higher.  Prafke also cautioned that the $27,000 indicated in the resolution was an estimate based on past years service and was totally dependent upon usage by library patrons and staff.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-226 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. 2008-226 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2009 Non-Union/Non-Contract Cost-of-Living Adjustment – City Administrator Prafke recommended a cost-of-living increase in the amount of 2% be provided to all non-union, non-contract employees effective January 1, 2009.  Prafke indicated the cost-of-living adjustment was the first part of a two-step wage increase for these employees and a recommendation for a step increase would be made at the December Council meeting.  Prafke also pointed out the proposed increase was within the parameters of the budget.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-227 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. 2008-227 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Hospital Capital Purchases – Hospital CEO Colleen Spike addressed the Council to request authorization for purchase of new telemetry equipment in the amount of $228,129 from Panorama.  Spike indicated the previous equipment, which is used to allow heart patients to be mobile and to continue to be monitored, had been leased and would no longer be supported by the manufacturer which was forcing the purchase of replacement equipment.  Spike also indicated using the previous monthly lease cost of $5,100 as a guide showed payback on the new equipment would only be four years.  Councilmember Wetherill asked several questions regarding the purchase including whether the new equipment could be leased, how long the warranty period was, if the purchase was budgeted and when the new equipment would arrive.  Spike indicated it was leasable at the same price that had been paid in the past, the warranty period was two years, it was a budgeted purchase and the new equipment would be operational in January.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-228 entitled “Resolution Approving Capital Purchase 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. 2008-228 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Hospital CEO Spike also recommended purchase of replacement endoscopy equipment from Pentax in the amount of $108,411 to replace equipment that was up to 12 years old and which frequently needed expensive repairs.  Spike indicated the equipment would be used by three different surgeons and approximately 40-50 colonoscopy and endoscopy procedures were being done at the Hospital each month.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned whether the equipment could be leased.  Spike indicated it could, but the payback on purchasing the equipment was very short and it was more economical to purchase it.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-229 entitled “Resolution Approving Capital Purchase 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. 2008-229 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Water/Street/Wastewater Improvement Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the assessments for unpaid water, street, and wastewater improvement charges.  O’Connell pointed out that each of the property owners involved had agreed to the project and signed waivers of assessments.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned how the City funds these projects.  O’Connell reported the funding comes from the PIR (public improvement revolving) fund and if there would be insufficient funds in that account, bonds would be issued.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-230 entitled “Resolution Adopting Miscellaneous Street, Water, And Wastewater Improvement Assessments“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-230 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Utility Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the assessment of unpaid utility charges in the amount of $14,035.76.  O’Connell also recommended modification to the resolution to indicate that the property owned by Wade Thomas (parcel #19.755.0040) would be assessed at 4.08% interest over a term of three years versus the one year term and lower interest rates for the other properties.  O’Connell also pointed out that the property owners had a thirty-day window to pay the full amount of the assessment without incurring interest.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-231 entitled “Resolution Adopting Assessment Of 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. 2008-231 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the assessment of unpaid miscellaneous charges for snow removal and a water service repair totaling $155 for two different properties.  O’Connell indicated the amount would be assessed for a term of one year at 2.44% interest.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-232 entitled “Resolution Adopting Assessment For Unpaid Snow/Weed Removal And Water Repairs“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-232 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

Joint City Council/School Board Workshop – Mayor pro tem Eichmann commented on discussion at the joint workshop session of the City Council and School Board which included discussion on cooperative efforts.  Councilmember Kvamme indicated the meeting was very impressive and held the attention of everyone in attendance.

 

Truth In Taxation Hearing – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and the public of the City’s truth in taxation hearing which was scheduled for December 1, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. in the Governors' Room of the Community Center.

 

December Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reviewed the Council’s December meeting schedule which will include workshops on the first and fifteen and a regular meeting on December 8th.  Prafke indicated that many of the housekeeping items normally acted on during the first meeting in January would be considered at the December 8th meeting.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 7:52 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 10, 2008

 

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 10, 2008.

 

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

 

Approval of Agenda – City Administrator Prafke requested that a closed session be added to the agenda to discuss Parks and Streets union contract negotiations.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, to approve the agenda with the addition of the closed session.  With all in favor, the motion carried. 

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the October 27, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the October 27, 2008 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-203 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned the purchase from Menard’s for construction materials for the Gault Park facility.  Public Works Director Giesking indicated the materials were identical to the that quoted by the other company and the price was actually lower than quoted because Menards was donating delivery of the materials.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-203 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Council Travel Request – City Administrator Prafke presented a resolution which had been tabled at the October 27th Council meeting to authorize Mayor Strand and Councilmember Wetherill to travel to Washington DC in February, 2009 for the APPA rally.  Prafke indicated formal approval of the request was required under the State mandated elected official travel policy which had been adopted by the Council.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-204 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Elected Official Travel“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-204 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-17 Public Hearing – Community Development Director Wille recommended a public hearing be scheduled for January 12, 2009 regarding creation of a tax increment financing district on the south end of Saint Peter.  Wille indicated creation of the district would provide funding for redevelopment in the area including a planned Kwik Trip convenience store and car wash.  Wille also indicated creation of the district would provide funding to eliminate blight and encourage private development and to fund City costs associated with redevelopment.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned the impact on private property owners if they would choose not to redevelop their properties.  Wille reported there would be no impact to the property owners and they would be under no obligation to improve their properties.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned why the vacant land north of the Highway 22/169 intersection was not included and Wille indicated the property was State owned highway right-of-way.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-205 entitled “Resolution Calling Public Hearing On Creation Of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-17 Therein And The Adoption Of A Tax Increment Financing Plan Relating Thereto“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-205 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Medical Office Building Project Interiors Bid Awards – City Administrator Prafke recommended award of several bids for interiors components of the Medical Office Building project including approval of an alternate for build out of the second operating room at the hospital which would be funded by the hospital.  Prafke indicated the operating room build out was projected to cost $217,000 and the actual bid was $134,518.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-206 entitled “Resolution Awarding Interiors Bids For The Medical Office Building Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-206 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Refuse Contract Bid Award – City Administrator Prafke reported two very competitive bids had been received for the residential refuse hauling contract and recommended award of the bid to Waste Management in the amount of $6.33 per month per residential customer.  Prafke indicated the only changes in the new contract for the years 2009-2014 was increased insurance requirements and options for customers to have different sized curbies for recycling.  Prafke also pointed out that the bid amount was actually lower than the current amount being paid.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-207 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For City Refuse Hauling Contract“ was introduced with a change to the contract dates to read “…for the five year period March 1, 2009 through February, 2014.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as modified.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-207 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Water System Improvements Grant Application – Public Works Director Giesking recommended authorization be provided for submission of a grant application to the Public Facilities Authority for low interest loans to finance construction of new water wells.  Giesking indicated the water system improvements would be done in three parts and the City was lucky to get on the possible funding list with PFA as some eligible projects that would have bumped the City off the list will not be constructed due to the economy.  Councilmember Kvamme asked if authorizing submission of the grant application meant the water system improvements were already decided.  Giesking indicated the grant application was simply the first step in the process.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-208 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Grant Application For Public Facility Authority (PFA) Funding For Water Wells“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-208 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Highway 333 Turnback Agreement – Public Works Director Giesking recommended execution of an agreement with the Minnesota Department of Transportation for “turnback” of Highway 333 to the City.  Giesking indicated the State would do $60,000 in improvements to the roadway before turning the road over to the City and the City’s plan is to vacate the roadway, which is located on the campus of the Regional Treatment Center (RTC), and turn over the property to the RTC.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-209 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Agreement With Minnesota Department Of Transportation For Turnback Of State Highway 333“ was introduced.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the resolution should specify the agreement would be signed by the Mayor pro tem due to the absence of Mayor Strand.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-209 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Highway 295 Turnback Agreement – Public Works Director Giesking recommended execution of an agreement with the Minnesota Department of Transportation for “turnback” of Highway 295 to the City.  Giesking pointed out the City would eventually vacate the portion of Highway 295 that is on the Regional Treatment Center property.  Giesking indicated the State would fund removal of the existing intersection of Freeman Drive (Highway 295) and Highway 169 and construction of a new intersection with turning lanes and acceleration lanes further to the south on 169.   Giesking also indicated that Marwey trailer court would be impacted by the change in that their only access would be a new connection to Washington Avenue to the south of the property.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-210 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Agreement With Minnesota Department Of Transportation For Turnback Of State Highway 295“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-210 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Canvass of 2008 Election Results – City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council formally accept the 2008 general election results.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-211 entitled “Resolution Canvassing 2008 General Election Returns“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-211 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2009 Refuse/Stormwater Budget – Finance Director O'Connell presented information on the 2009 environmental services (refuse) and stormwater budgets and recommended approval of both budgets.  O’Connell indicated no rate changes were anticipated in either budget.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-212 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2009 Refuse And Stormwater Enterprise Budgets“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-212 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended initiation of the assessment process for unpaid miscellaneous charges and calling for a public hearing on November 24, 2008.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-213 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. 2008-213 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-214 entitled “Resolution Calling For 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. 2008-214 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Utility Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended initiation of the assessment process for unpaid utility charges and calling for a public hearing on November 24, 2008.  O’Connell indicated the amount of unpaid utility charges was increasing and that $15,350.66 of the $30,866.83 in unpaid bills as of May 1, 2008 was assessable.  Councilmember Wetherill asked why some of the charges weren’t assessable and O’Connell indicated that charges for electricity in rental properties were not assessable to the property owner and that unpaid charges involving death of the customer or bankruptcy were not assessed.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-215 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. 2008-215 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-216 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. 2008-216 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Water/Street/Wastewater Improvement Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended initiation of the assessment process for unpaid water, street, and wastewater improvement charges and calling for a public hearing on November 24, 2008.  O’Connell indicated the majority of the charges on the assessment roll were for improvement of Dranttel Street and curb repairs and that the property owners involved had agreed to the projects.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-217 entitled “Resolution Declaring The Cost 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. 2008-217 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-218 entitled “Resolution Calling For Public Hearing On 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. 2008-218 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

Leaf Collection Program – Public Works Director Giesking provided an update on the leaf collection program and indicated 780 cubic yards of leaves had been taken to the yard waste drop off site and another 480 cubic yards had been collected by City staff.  Giesking indicated the collection was ongoing and would continue weather permitting.

 

City Council/School Board Joint Workshop – City Administrator Prafke reported the City Council would meet jointly with the School Board on November 17, 2008 to discuss cooperative efforts.

 

Arts Association Meeting – Councilmember Kvamme reported discussion at the recent Arts Association meeting included planning for upcoming Second Saturday events and the possibility of expanding the events to coordinate with other events in the community.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meetings – Councilmember Wetherill reported discussion at the last City/School/Gustavus meeting was mostly a review of issues to get the new Gustavus President Ohle up to speed and discussion of the continued effort of Gustavus to construct wind generation on campus.

 

Closed Session:  Parks and Streets Union Contract Negotiations – City Administrator Prafke requested adoption of a resolution calling for closed session to discuss union contract negotiations with the Parks and Streets unions.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-219 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. 2008-219 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session at 8:25 p.m.

 

The Council returned to open session at 8:37 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 8:38 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

OCTOBER 27, 2008

 

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 27, 2008.

 

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, Wetherill and Mayor Strand. 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 Wetherill, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried. 

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the October 12, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the October 12, 2008 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-194 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. 2008-194 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Dranttel Street Improvement Project Final Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the Council accept the Dranttel Street Improvement Project as completed and authorize final payment to the contractor.  Giesking indicated the project was completed for $1,747.90 less than the original bid and the majority of the project costs would be assessed to the two benefiting property owners.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out the resolution also directed staff to initiate the assessment process.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-195 entitled “Resolution Accepting Dranttel Street 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. 2008-195 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Skaro Street Stormwater Detention Basin Project Final Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the Council accept the Skaro Street Stormwater Detention Basin Project and authorize final payment to the contractor.  Giesking reported the project included an additional $10,118.90 for corrections and repairs to the elevation of the roadway which were outside of the project scope.  Giesking also indicated the project would be funded by stormwater and street maintenance funds.  Councilmember Kvamme asked if the project fell within the parameters of the stormwater assessment policy.  City Administrator Prafke indicated it did not and was part of an annual program for repair of failing catch basins.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-196 entitled “Resolution Accepting Skaro Street Stormwater Detention Basin 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. 2008-196 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Fire Truck Bid Award – City Administrator Prafke presented the Fire Department recommendation for award of the bid for a replacement water tender truck for the Fire Department to Midwest Fire Equipment and Repair Company in the amount of $186,779.  Prafke also reminded Councilmembers the Department received grant funds in the amount of $170,404 for the truck purchase and the remainder of the cost would be funded by fire call funds which are designated for capital equipment purchases.  Councilmember Pfeifer questioned the $70,000 difference between the low bidder and the other bidders.  Prafke indicated the Department had carefully reviewed the bids received because of the difference and Midwest met all the specifications for the truck.  Prafke also pointed out that Midwest builds water trucks on a regular basis and the other companies submitting bids build pumper trucks which may account for the difference in bid prices.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned what would happen to the old truck after the new truck was delivered.  Fire Chief Block indicated the grant requires the truck to be used for non-fire purposes and there are a lot of businesses that would be able to use the truck.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-197 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Fire Truck“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-197 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Medical Office Building Lease Approval – City Attorney Brandt recommended approval of a lease with Mankato Chiropractic for space in the Medical Office Building at the rate of $14.96 per square foot.  Brandt indicated the lease was for a term of five years with three additional five year options for a maximum lease of 20 years and the lessee would be required to pay their share of taxes, upkeep/cleaning charges, and utilities.  Brandt pointed out the lessee was concerned about competition by the River’s Edge Clinic and the lease included a non-solicitation clause for chiropractic, massage and acupuncture services.  Brandt indicated the proposed lease was within the original projections of the Council for the space.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned what portion of the rent paid would be for fixed costs versus variable costs like construction of the space.  Brandt indicated the City would build a “vanilla shell” space and the lessee would be able to provide for additional modifications within the space up to a cost of $40 per square foot and anything over that amount would be paid by the lessee.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-198 entitled “Resolution Approving Lease Of Space In Medical Office Building To Mankato Chiropractic“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-198 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Swift Street Stormwater Improvement Project – Community Development Director Wille recommended execution of a stormwater improvement “cost sharing agreement” with MS & GS Enterprises.  Wille indicated MS & GS Enterprises would be expanding their current facility on North Swift Street and the existing stormwater pipe runs under their building.  Wille also pointed out the existing pipe was too small and had resulted in stormwater backing into the MS & GS Enterprises building causing lost production and destroyed inventory.  Wille reported he had worked with the business and City staff to develop a project for installation of a new stormwater pipe in the right-of-way of North Swift Street that would run to the east across City property at a projected cost of $97,585.28.  Wille recommended the City share in the cost of the project with 99.4% of the cost being paid by the City because of the amount of City owned land in the drainage area and 0.60% ($5,058.57) being paid by MS & GS Enterprises.  Wille indicated MSGS would employ M & R Paving to complete the work and the City would reimburse MS & GS Enterprises from stormwater funds when the project is completed at which time the stormwater pipe would be turned over to the City.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the project should be assessed under the stormwater assessment policy.  City Administrator Prafke indicated it should not.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-199 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Stormwater Improvement Cost Sharing Agreement With MS&GS Enterprises, LLC.“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-199 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2009 Legal Services Contract – City Administrator Prafke presented the Finance Committee recommendation for approval of the 2009 legal services contract with Brandt Law Office.  Prafke indicated the only change to the 2009 contract was an additional $5 per hour reimbursement for the City Attorney, Assistant City Attorney, and student practitioner should one be employed.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-200 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of 2009 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. 2008-200 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Donation Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended acceptance of a donation by the Softball Association for purchase and installation of paver bricks in Jefferson Park.  Giesking indicated the cost for the project if the work had been contracted was estimated to be $36,500.  Giesking also pointed out the City would remove the existing pea rock in the area and plant an Imperial Locust tree that would eventually provide muted shade throughout the entire central area of the park.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-201 entitled “Resolution Accepting Softball Association Donation Of Pavers For Jefferson Park“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-201 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a raffle license for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation for February 21, 2009.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-202 entitled “Resolution Approving Temporary License“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-202 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Council Travel Request – City Administrator Prafke presented a resolution which would authorize Mayor Strand and Councilmember Wetherill to travel to Washington DC in February, 2009 for the APPA rally.  Prafke indicated formal approval of the request was required under the State mandated elected official travel policy which had been adopted by the Council.  Councilmember Kvamme indicated his belief that the trip, which was fun in addition to being a working trip, should be parceled out among all Councilmembers and that it was important that everyone had a chance to participate because of possible changes to the Council makeup during the next election.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann to table action on the proposed resolution for two weeks so that the Council could discuss the issue at a workshop session.  With all in favor, the motion carried. 

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included Region Nine Development Corporation meetings; Business After Hours; providing the State of the City address at the Chamber luncheon; introducing former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani at a rally for Senator Coleman; and serving as a judge for the P.A.W.S. walk.  Strand also reported the Halloween Fun Run was very well attended.

 

Customer ID Theft Program – City Administrator Prafke reported the City was working on developing a program to prevent customer identity theft.

 

Tree/Brush Grinding – Public Works Director Giesking reported the City saved $7,000 in tree/brush grinding costs by arranging for employees from a power plant in Thief River Falls to chip the brush and haul the grindings away to be used in the power plant.

 

Highway 169 Coalition Technical Committee Update – Public Works Director Giesking provided information on the discussion at the meeting of the Highway 169 Coalition Technical Committee.

 

Sublease Term Update – City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers that the correct term of the sublease of the City owned property at 627 West Park Row was through December 31, 2008.  Prafke also indicated he expected officials from the child care center to request Council approval for extension of the sublease.

 

City/School/Gustavus Adolphus College/County Meetings – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the October 29th meetings with the City and School District and the City/School/Gustavus/County meeting that would follow.

 

City/County Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the 4:00 p.m. City/County meeting on October 29th.

 

Website – City Administrator Prafke encouraged the public to check out the City’s website at www.saintpetermn.gov.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

OCTOBER 13, 2008

 

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 13, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, and Mayor Strand.  Absent were Councilmembers Schultz, Vogel and Wetherill.  The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke, City Attorney Brandt, and City Engineer Loose.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the September 22, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the September 22, 2008 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the October 6, 2008 special City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the October 6, 2008 special 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. 2008-180 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. 2008-180 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Safe Routes To School Project Final Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended acceptance of the Safe Routes To School project and requested authorization for final payment to the contractor in the amount of $62,938.15.  Giesking reminded Councilmembers the project was funded mostly by grant funds, but was also funded by the general fund and donations from the Softball Association.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-181 entitled “Resolution Approving Final Estimate And Accepting Safe Routes To School Improvements Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-181 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Medical Office Building Project Change Order – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval for a change order to the landscaping contract for the Medical Office Building project.  Prafke indicated the subcontractor for the irrigation system did not have the appropriate equipment to attach the system to the existing system at the Hospital and Hospital officials wanted a seamless connection.  Prafke indicated the $16,500 deduction to the contract would still be expended, but it would be through the Hospital irrigation system contractor instead of Blue Valley Sod.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-182 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order For Medical Office Building Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-182 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Hallett’s Detention Basin Improvement Project Final Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended acceptance of the Hallett’s Detention Basin Improvement Project and requested authorization for final payment to the contractor in the amount of $58,167.89.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-183 entitled “Resolution Approving Final Estimate And Accepting Hallett’s Detention Basin Improvements 2007 Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-183 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Medical Office Building Financing – Shannon Sweeney from David Drown Associates addressed the Council to request a modification to a previous resolution which provided for sale of revenue bonds for the Medical Office Building project at a maximum interest rate of 4.75%.  Sweeney indicated changes in the market were resulting in higher interest rates and the bond pool underwriter felt it was important for the Council to authorize up to 6% interest for sale of the bonds which was a half-point higher than what was included in the proposed resolution.  Sweeney also pointed out that the bond sale was expected to take place on October 14th.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the Council would have the opportunity to decline the sale.  Sweeney indicated that if the Council approved the modified resolution and the proposed interest rate was under 6%, the Council would not be able to decline.  Kvamme then questioned whether it was a good idea to proceed with the sale at this time or wait another month to see if the market settled down.  City Administrator Prafke indicated his preference to proceed with the sale of the bonds for the first phase of financing at this time as the interest rate fell within the financing parameters established at the beginning of the project.  Sweeney pointed out his firm had originally looked at traditional underwriters like Piper Jaffrey and the interest rate was 5% one year ago and this summer the rate was 6% so the pool rates are still under current rates.  Sweeney expressed his belief that “the pool offers a sound alternative for this phase.”  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-184 entitled “Resolution Amending Resolution No. 2008-166 Authorizing The Issuance Of An Approximately $2,700,000 Healthcare Revenue Note, Series 2008C (Clinic Project)“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-184 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Preliminary Plat:  Chapel View Subdivision – Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation for approval of the preliminary plat of Chapel View Subdivision which is to be located in a previously platted Outlot E west of the Catholic Church.  Wille indicated the 4.11 acre property was owned by Welco West Development Inc. and would be sold contract for deed to Richard Black who intended to develop multi-family three or four-plex housing on the site.  Wille reminded the Council the property is zoned R-3 and utilities would be placed in Outlots A and B with Outlot C being reserved for future development.  Wille also indicated there would be no City streets within the subdivision and access would be provided by means of a private driveway that would be shared with the Catholic Church.  Wille cautioned that the developer would be responsible for maintaining and clearing the private driveway as it was not a City street and the development agreement, which would be considered later in the agenda, would spell that out so future residents would also know it is a private drive.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the private drive would be built to City street specifications and Wille indicated it would not and if required, the Developer would not go forward with the project.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-185 entitled “Resolution Accepting Preliminary Plat Of Chapel View Subdivision“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-185 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Final Plat:  Chapel View Subdivision – Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation for approval of the final plat of Chapel View Subdivision contingent upon execution of the development agreement.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-186 entitled “Resolution Providing Conditional Approval For Final Plat Of Chapel View Subdivision“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-186 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Development Agreement:  Chapel View Subdivision – Community Development Director Wille recommended execution of a development agreement for public and private improvements in Chapel View Subdivision.  Wille indicated the agreement outlined the responsibilities of the City and the developer and the developer would bear all costs associated with the improvements including permits, traffic control signs, lighting, the City’s legal fees, the actual cost of inspection by either City or Bolton and Menk, Inc. staff, as well as maintenance and snow removal costs for the private driveway in the subdivision and $13,475 in parkland dedication fees.  Wille also indicated Outlot C in the subdivision would be used as a temporary stormwater detention basin and when Outlot C is developed, the developer would be required to install an underground system for diversion of stormwater to a pond site on the Church of Saint Peter property.  Wille also pointed out the Church had already provided the developer an easement for the stormwater diversion.  Wille further pointed out that although the development agreement was with WELCO West Development, any future property owners would be required to abide by the terms of the development agreement.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned the “orphaned” sidewalks that don’t connect to anything and Wille indicated the developer would be connecting the sidewalks to existing sidewalks under the terms of the development agreement.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-187 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Development Agreement For Construction Of Public/Private Improvements Within Chapel View Subdivision“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-187 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Water Wells/Water Treatment Plant Engineering – Public Works Director Giesking, Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton, and Engineer Kris Swanson from Bolton and Menk, Inc. provided information on the water alternatives study and the recommendations for new wells and a new water treatment plant.  The recommendations included construction of a gravity filtration with reverse osmosis water treatment plant, demolition of the Jefferson Water Treatment Plant and the existing wells at that site, and construction of several new wells.   Swenson reviewed the proposed timetable for implementation of the recommendations beginning with construction of new wells before 2009; design of the new plant and submission of an application for funding from the PFA by March 2, 2009; construction of the new plant from June 2009 through December 2010 and finally making changes at the St. Julien Water Treatment Plant for a total cost of approximately $14,000,000.  Public Works Director Giesking pointed out the two keys issues involved in the recommendations which included an aging Jefferson plant, and the need for additional treatment to obtain the necessary quantities of quality drinking water City wide.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned when final numbers for the recommendations would be available regarding the output of the new wells and the cost of constructing a plant.  Public Works Director Giesking indicated the final information would be available in the spring.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-188 entitled “Resolution Accepting Water Alternatives Study And Authorizing Design Engineering For New Water Sources And Water Treatment“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-188 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Open Gym Supervisor Position Description – City Administrator Prafke recommended modifications to the position description for Open Gym Supervisor to more accurately reflect the position requirements and to qualify additional candidates for the position.  Prafke indicated that some of the minimum qualifications are things that can be learned on the job and those requirements have eliminated qualified candidates in the past.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-189 entitled “Resolution Modifying Part-time Open Gym Supervisor Position Description“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-189 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Hospital Equipment Purchase Requests – River’s Edge Hospital CFO Cornish addressed the Council to request authorization to purchase computer hardware and operating software in the amount of $58,153,12 from ICE Technologies.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-190 entitled “Resolution Approving Capital Purchase 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. 2008-190 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Cornish also requested authorization for the purchase of laboratory diagnostic equipment in the amount of $32,015 from Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-191 entitled “Resolution Approving Capital Purchase 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. 2008-191 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Old Nursing Home Sublease Request – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by Saint Peter Community Childcare Center to sublease a portion of the City owned property at 627 West Park Row to the Minnesota Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church who would use the area as an office.  Prafke indicated the subleasee would not be using the space for church services.  Councilmembers questioned the term of the sublease which indicated it was through December 31, 2008.  Prafke asked for leeway to verify the term on the sublease before finalizing the resolution.  Staff suggested the resolution read “….authorized to sublease a portion of the City owned space at 627 West Park Row to Minnesota Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church for a term to run concurrent with the original lease.”  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-192 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Sublease Of City Owned Property“ was introduced with the language modification if necessary.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-192 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included attending the drug court graduation ceremony; a NADO training conference in Alaska for Region Nine including a side trip to Wasilla to visit the City Hall of Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin; attending the Ambassador’s meeting; and welcoming the tri-state rally for the Winnebago club.

 

Exercise Of Land Option – City Administrator Prafke reported Benedictine Health Systems had turned in their paperwork for exercise of an option to lease 3.5 acres of land near the hospital from the City.  Prafke reminded Councilmembers the goal was for that land to be used for alternative care for seniors.

 

Highway 169 Corridor Update – Public Works Director Giesking and Councilmember Pfeifer reported their disappointment with the direction of discussion at the most recent Highway 169 Corridor group meeting.  Both gentlemen reported the focus of the discussion appeared to be on projects in Mankato and Hennepin County which are higher priority than Saint Peter.  Giesking also indicated there is discussion on a joint powers agreement and member fees.

 

Historic Plaque Project – Community Development Director Wille provided information on the project to install historic plaques on properties within the district designated on the National Register.  Wille indicated that ten properties have been selected by the Heritage Preservation Commission and nine of the property owners had agreed to have the plaques installed on their buildings.

 

Arts Association Meeting Discussion – City Administrator Prafke reported the Second Saturday events sponsored by the Arts Association had been extended to November and December.  Prafke also reminded the public to check out the calendar of art events on the website at www.stpeterarts.org.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer to adjourn at 8:37 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING

OCTOBER 6, 2008

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a special meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on October 6, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor pro tem Eichmann called the meeting to order at 7:31 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Pfeifer, Wetherill, Schultz, Eichmann, and Vogel.  Absent was Councilmember Kvamme and Mayor Strand.  The following official was present: City Administrator Prafke.

 

Gault Park Restroom Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking recommended award of bids for subcontracts for the Gault Park restroom facility.  Giesking reminded Councilmembers City staff was acting as general contractor for the project and recommended award of bids for electrical, heating, plumbing, concrete and masonry.  Giesking also recommended change orders to the plumbing/heating to include installation of a water heater and hot water piping as required by the Department of Health; and a deduction in the masonry portion for removal of exterior concrete and a row of block.  Giesking further recommended all materials bids be rejected for failure to include the appropriate bid security documents. City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the resolution to indicate the masonry change order was a “deduction” and to change the title to reflect change orders are also being approved.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-180 entitled “Resolution Awarding Subcontracts For Gault Shelter/Restroom/Concession Stand Project and Authorizing Two Change Orders For The Project“ was introduced. 

 

Councilmember Vogel left the meeting at 7:52 p.m.

 

Councilmembers discussed the funding for the project which had previously been authorized by the City Council to be funded by Parkland Dedication Funds.  Councilmember Wetherill suggested using additional parkland funds so that roll-up doors, which had been deleted from the project, could be re-included.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the Council had previously had discussion regarding what appropriate uses for parkland dedication funds were and the need to not completely deplete the fund.  Councilmember Schultz indicated her belief that the Council had previously agreed, after lengthy discussion, on a maximum amount members were willing to spend from the parkland fund.  Giesking pointed out that the building was being constructed so the roll-up doors could be added later without additional construction being needed.

 

Upon roll call, Councilmembers Pfeifer, Wetherill, Schultz and Eichmann voting aye, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-180 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 22, 2008

 

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 22, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Wetherill, Schultz, Eichmann, Vogel 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 Schultz, seconded by Vogel, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  Mayor Strand indicated an employee appointment would be added to the consent agenda.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the September 8, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the September 8, 2008 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. 2008-174 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced with the addition of the employee appointment mentioned previously.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-174 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Medical Office Building Bid Award – City Administrator Prafke recommended awarding the landscaping bid for the Medical Office Building project to Blue Valley Sod in the amount of $42,473 and technical change orders for landscaping for drip line irrigation and re-work of the existing system in the total amount of $2,300 and awarding the bid for aluminum windows to South Central Glass in the amount of $86,960.  Prafke also pointed out that alternate #5 for decorative glass in the amount of $34,589 was also recommended to be completed by South Central Glass.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-175 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bids For Construction Of Medical Office Building“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-175 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Safe and Sober Grant Application – Police Chief Peters recommended authorization be provided to enter into a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for the Safe and Sober Program.  Peters indicated the City would be working jointly with Mankato, North Mankato, Blue Earth County and Nicollet County on the project and the grant award of $15,000 would fund overtime for traffic enforcement efforts.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-176 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Acceptance Of A Traffic Safety Grant“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-176 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Coordinator of Volunteers Program – City Administrator Prafke recommended the coordinator of volunteers program be established, the coordinator position description be adopted, the wage for the position be established at $13.05 per hour; Gretchen Taylor be appointed to the position and staff be directed to report back on the program.  Prafke reminded Councilmembers the program was a pilot project being funded jointly by the City, School District and Nicollet County.  Prafke also cautioned that it would be two months or more before volunteers will be working through the program.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-177 entitled “Resolution Establishing Coordinator Of Volunteer Program“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-177 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Part-time Bus Driver Position Description – City Administrator Prafke recommended modifications to the part-time Bus Driver position.  Prafke indicated that the current qualifications for the position seemed to be eliminating qualified candidates for the position and that several of the current minimum qualifications were things that could be learned on the job.  Prafke recommended modifications to both the minimum and desired qualifications for the position.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-178 entitled “Resolution Modifying Part-time Bus Driver Position Description“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-178 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Generator Connection Policy – Public Works Director Giesking recommended DeWild, Grant, Reckert (DGR) engineers be retained to develop a policy and procedure for connection of private generators to the City system.  Giesking indicated market place changes to personal generators to make them less costly and easier to use were expected to result in more homeowners installing the generators and staff recommended a policy be put in place to identify proper/safe connection to ensure the safety of City staff and the City’s electric system.  Giesking indicated DGR was willing to perform the work on an hourly basis not to exceed $3,500.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-179 entitled “Resolution Retaining Engineer To Develop Generation Interconnection Policy“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-179 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included a Region Nine meeting; the Council goal session; meeting with Gustavus Adolphus College President Ohle; meeting with representatives from ClearWay Minnesota; welcoming the Minnesota Winnebago owners club; attending business after hours; attending a Region Nine strategic planning meeting; and attending a meeting Senator Coleman hosted.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Regional Meetings – City Administrator Prafke provided information on the regional meetings hosted by the League of Minnesota Cities each fall and encouraged Councilmembers interested in attending one of the meetings to let him know.

 

City/School/Gustavus/County Meetings Discussion – Councilmember Schultz provided information on discussion at the September 17th City/School meeting which included cooperative transit services, Coordinator of Volunteers program; Safe Routes To School project; long range planning; development on the west side of Saint Peter; marketing/promotion of Saint Peter and Senior Citizen initiative.

 

Councilmember Kvamme provided information on the meeting of the City/School/Gustavus/County which included discussion on the “thinking green” initiative; emergency alert system being used by the school and Gustavus; senior citizen housing on campus of Gustavus Adolphus College for alumni; and City/School/Gustavus cooperation and joint activity and facility efforts.

 

Arts Association Meeting Discussion – Councilmember Kvamme also provided information on discussion at the September 17th Arts Association meeting which included the Second Saturday program and the Arts Center hiring a coordinator to increase their profile in the community.

 

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

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 8, 2008

 

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 8, 2008.

 

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

 

Approval of Agenda – A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried.  Mayor Strand indicated an employee appointment would be added to the consent agenda.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, to approve the minutes of the August 25, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the August 25, 2008 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. 2008-163 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced with the addition of the employee appointment mentioned previously.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-163 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2009 Tax Levy – Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of a resolution which would provide for the City to levy the maximum allowed under the levy limits imposed by the State of Minnesota.  O’Connell indicated the mill rate would decrease from 43.72 to 38.25 and that once the levy was adopted, the final levy could do down but could not increase.  O’Connell also pointed out that the percentage of funds in the general fund reserve would be 34.6% which is less than the target amount, but an expected surplus in the general fund in 2008 would be put into the reserve fund.  O’Connell also indicated the resolution established December 1, 2008 as the date for the required Truth in Taxation hearing.  City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers the City’s audit report showed the City was in good financial shape, but cautioned that the City was becoming more and more dependent on Local Government Aid (LGA) and any cuts in LGA would result in substantial increases in taxes if services were to remain unchanged.  Prafke also indicated that the levy limits did not allow the City a lot of choice or options and staff would continue to provide the best service possible under the limitations imposed.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-164 entitled “Resolution Adopting Preliminary 2008 Tax Levy Collectible In 2009“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-164 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Medical Office Building Project Funding Authorization – Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates (DDA)  addressed the Council to request two actions related to financing for the Medical Office Building project.  Sweeney reminded Councilmembers they had authorized DDA to negotiate with the Minnesota Rural Water Association for participation in a bond pool to finance the project through issuance of health care revenue notes by negotiated sale.  Sweeney provided information on the program which provided for members of the joint powers to pool bond issuances.  Sweeney indicated that issuance costs were not reduced by participating, but there was lowered risk and subsequently higher bond ratings and lower interest rates since most other bonds issued through the pool were general obligation bonds.   Sweeney indicated the proposed $2,700,000 issuance for the City would be at an interest rate of 4.5% which was approximately 1.5% lower than would be expected if normal financing options were used resulting in hundreds of thousands of dollars in savings.  Sweeney indicated the project would be financed through the pool in two separate issuances with the second one to occur after the first of the year; the term of the notes would be approximately 26 years; pricing and locking the interest rate will occur on September 15th; and closing on the notes would occur on September 25th.

 

Sweeney asked the Council to consider two resolutions with the first approving the joint powers agreement, authorizing issuance of the bonds by the joint powers board and appointing the Finance Director as the City’s delegate to the board, and the second resolution authorizing issuance of approximately $2,700,000 in health care revenue notes.

 

In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-165 entitled “Resolution Approving Joint Powers Agreement, Authorizing The Issuance Of Bonds By The Joint Board, And Appointing A Delegate To Represent The City“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-165 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-166 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Issuance Of An Approximately $2,700,000 Healthcare Revenue Note Series 2008C (Clinic Project)“ was introduced.  City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers that the resolution contained in the Council packet was a draft and the final resolution would be modified based on the completed sale information.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-166 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Medical Office Building Interiors Component Bid Receipt – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided to solicit bids for the interiors components of the Medical Office Building project.  Prafke pointed out the bid authorization would include receipt of alternate bids to finish the second operating room at the Hospital which had never been completed.  Prafke indicated the approximate cost of $1.7 million for the interiors components of the project and pointed out that it did not include build out of the chiropractic space or the pharmacy space.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-167 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Bids For Interiors Components Of Medical Office Building Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-167 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Skaro Street Stormwater Basin Improvement Project Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the bid for the Skaro Street Stormwater Basin Improvement Project be awarded to Chard Tiling and Excavating in the amount of $35,500.30.  Giesking pointed out the project would replace all four catch basins at the intersection of Skaro and North Third Street as well as rebuilding the intersection to reduce the crown which had built up over a number of years.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned how many catch basins were failing and Giesking reported City staff was currently conducting an inventory on the catch basins and staff would report back on the repairs needed by the end of the year.  City Administrator Prafke recommended the resolution be modified to indicate funding for the project would be provided by stormwater funds.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-168 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Skaro Street Stormwater Basin Improvement Project“ was introduced with the funding language included.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-168 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

MMUA Safety Contract Renewal – Public Works Director Giesking reported the safety program contract with the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association had been in place for eleven years and included safety training, coordination of the safety committee, and ensuring adequate training records and procedures were developed.  Giesking recommended authorization be provided to enter into another one year contract for these services.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the program was effective and provided benefits in other ways such as lowering the City’s workers compensation experience rating (.93 compared to most cities which had a 1.00 rating), and ultimately resulting in lower worker’s compensation insurance costs.   In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-169 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Renewal Of Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association (MMUA) Safety Coordinator Contract“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-169 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Fire Truck Replacement Bid Authorization – City Administrator Prafke presented Fire Chief Block’s request for authorization to receive bids for a replacement fire truck.  Prafke reminded Councilmembers the Department had been awarded a $170,000 grant for the truck and there would be a 4-5 month delay in delivery of the truck once it was ordered.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-170 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Bids For Fire Truck Purchase“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-170 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

MS&GS Enterprises Revolving Loan Term Modification – Community Development Director Wille provided information on a request by MS&GS Enterprises for extension of the balloon payment date on their revolving loan and authorization to subordinate the City loan to a new loan from Pioneer Bank of Mankato.  Wille indicated the Council had previously authorized subordination of the City loan to a new loan from Voyageur Bank, but that loan action had not been completed and the applicant was working with Pioneer Bank instead on an SBA 504 guaranteed loan.  Wille indicated the Economic Development Authority had recommended approval of the request with an extension on the balloon payment to June 18, 2014 (five years rather than the 10 years sought by the applicant); approval for subordination to the new Pioneer Bank loan in an amount not to exceed $1,875,000; and making the loan contingent upon completion of a 9,000 square foot expansion of their Saint Peter facility.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-171 entitled “Resolution Modifying Terms Of $250,000 Revolving Loan To MS&GS Enterprises“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-171 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Revolving Loan Request:  Ooodles – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation for approval of a $2,200 revolving loan to Dwight Schmit (dba Ooodles Restaurant) to make accessibility improvements at his business.  Wille indicated the proposed terms of the loan included a five percent (5%) interest rate, three year amortization, and the loan security being personal guarantees from the applicant and his spouse.  Councilmember Pfeifer questioned how much was left in the revolving loan funds.  City Administrator Prafke indicated it was over a million dollars combined.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-172 entitled “Resolution Approving $2,200 Revolving Loan To Dwight Schmit To Partially Finance Accessibility Improvements To Ooodles Restaurant (402 South Third Street)“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-172 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Refuse Hauling Contract – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for receipt of bids for a refuse hauling contract for 2009-2014.  Prafke indicated the proposed contract would be for the same system including separate curbies for refuse and recycling, but also offer customers a choice of recycling curbie sizes and the option to have more than one curbie for recycling.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned the cancellation clause which was also different than the existing contract.  Prafke indicated the current cancellation clause, under which either party could cancel the contract with thirty days notice without cause, provided difficulty for contractors who might attempt to get financing based on the contract and having a 120 day cancellation notice would benefit contractors who might bid on the contract.  Prafke also reviewed options for comingling of recycling versus requiring customers to separate the different types of recycling materials which he indicated was a step backwards for Saint Peter customers.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-173 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Bids For Refuse Hauling Services“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-173 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included a Region Nine Development Commission planning meeting, a Region Nine strategic planning meeting, the groundbreaking ceremony for River’s Edge Clinic; a Highway 169 coalition meeting; an Economic Development Initiative meeting; and speaking with a report for the London Financial Times to compare Saint Peter to the Alaskan hometown of the Republican Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin.

 

Gustavus/City/School Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the City/School/Gustavus meeting on September 10th.

 

Fog Sealing/Seal Coating Project – Public Works Director Giesking provided a report on the fog sealing and seal coating project which had recently been completed.  Giesking indicated Saint Peter was the only city using the fog sealing materials on streets and the Minnesota Department of Transportation was monitoring how the application would hold up.

 

Dodd Avenue Underpass Project – Public Works Director Giesking reported the Dodd Avenue Underpass project was substantially completed with some details left to be done and fencing left to be installed.

 

Safe Routes To School Project – Public Works Director Giesking reported the Safe Routes To School Project would be completed once sodding is complete, some asphalt is placed, and final touch-ups are completed.

 

Election Reminder – City Administrator Prafke reminded voters of the primary election on Tuesday, September 9th.

 

City Website – City Administrator Prafke directed attention to the City’s website address at www.saintpetermn.gov.

 

Councilmember Tours – City Administrator Prafke encouraged Councilmembers interested in touring the Sherco 3 plant and water treatment plants to notify his office.

 

Council Goal Session Reminder – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the Council goal session scheduled for September 11th at 3:00 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, to adjourn at 8:18 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

AUGUST 25, 2008

 

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 25, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Wetherill, Schultz, Vogel and Mayor Strand.  Absent was Councilmember Eichmann.  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 Schultz, seconded by Vogel, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Kvamme, to approve the minutes of the August 11, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the August 11, 2008 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. 2008-154 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  City Administrator Prafke asked for the addition of a replacement employee appointment on the consent agenda.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as amended.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-154 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Medical Office Building Project Bids – City Administrator Prafke requested adoption of a resolution clarifying a previous resolution and specifying the landscaping portion of the Medical Office Building project would be re-bid and Alternate #3B would be rejected.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-155 entitled “Resolution Clarifying Medical Office Building Bid Award“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-155 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Human Rights Commission Strategic Plan – City Administrator Prafke presented the proposed Human Rights Commission Strategic Plan for 2008-2010 as recommended by the Commission.  Prafke indicated the plan was important to identify the scope of responsibility for the Commission.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-156 entitled “Resolution Adopting Human Rights Commission Strategic Plan For 2008-2010“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-156 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Wellhead Protection Plan Part I – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton and Mark Janovec of Boonestro Engineering presented the findings of Part 1 of the updated Wellhead Protection Plan for Saint Peter.  Janovec indicated Part 1 focused on scientific information identifying where water in the protection area comes from while Part 2 focused on planning and how to protect the City’s aquifers.  The information presented included maps outlining the different City wells and the acreage that the aquifers drew from over a period of twenty years.  Janovec pointed out the Jordan aquifer was very susceptible to contaminants because a majority of the flow into the aquifer was from overland agricultural areas.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned how the City could influence activities in rural areas outside of the control of the City.  Moulton indicated the City was working with the County and the Department of Agriculture to educate and promote proper land use and as stewards of the land, farmers were very accepting of ideas to reduce contaminants which might also impact their own wells. 

 

Donation Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended acceptance of a donation from the Saint Peter Softball Association for improvements at Jefferson Fields including sidewalk in the amount of $8,800 (which had already been installed) and an irrigation system on Field #4 in the amount of $7,880.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-157 entitled “Resolution Accepting Donation From Saint Peter Softball Association For Jefferson Fields“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-157 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Hospital Name Change – City Administrator Prafke presented the recommendation of the Hospital Commission to change the name of the Hospital to “River’s Edge Hospital and Clinic” and directed Council attention to the information sheets included in their Council packets regarding the name change.  Ray Olson, 1816 West Welco, addressed the Council in opposition of the name change and asked the Council to table action until more input has been received.  Mayor Strand read a letter from Roberta Mulvehill of 1825 West Welco opposing the name change.  Mayor Strand also reported the change had been discussed by the City Council for over six months and was part of a marketing effort to expand the healthcare campus in the community.  Councilmember Pfeifer pointed out that providing for the name change would allow higher Medicare reimbursement for the Hospital and Clinic.  Councilmember Wetherill expressed his opposition to the name change and called for a public hearing on the issue.  Wetherill cited numerous examples in Minnesota of the name “River’s Edge” and indicated the City shouldn’t lose the name “Saint Peter” in the Hospital.  A motion was made by Wetherill to table action until further evaluation on the subject.  The motion died for lack of a second.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-158 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Community Hospital Name Change To River’s Edge Hospital“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Schultz, Pfeifer, Kvamme, Vogel and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Wetherill voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-158 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Hospital Commission Modification – City Administrator Prafke presented the Hospital Commission recommendation for modification to the membership of the Commission to designate the President of the medical staff as an ex-officio, non-voting member of the Commission.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Ordinance No. 402, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending City Code 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. 402, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Spill Prevention Containment Engineering Design – Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to provide engineering design for a system to contain spills of hazardous materials at two areas at Public Works for a fee of $9,800.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the cost would be funded by a split between the utility funds and the general fund.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-159 entitled “Resolution Retaining Engineer For Spill Prevention Containment Design“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-159 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Building Department Office Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for an unbudgeted purchase to modify the reception area of the Building and Community Development Departments.  Prafke indicated the counter did not meet Minnesota Accessibility Code regulations and modifying the area would also provide additional work and storage space.  Prafke recommended funding for the project (approximately $4,400) be provided from General Fund reserves.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-160 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Unbudgeted Purchase For Building And Community Development Departments“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-160 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Tree Worker License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a tree worker license for Adam Wels dba Adam’s Lawn Service.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-161 entitled “Resolution Approving Tree Worker License“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-161 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

City Assistance Request:  Rock Bend Folk Festival – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request to provide City assistance to the Rock Bend Folk Festival.  Prafke indicated staff had met with the organizers to discuss their request and review staff concerns from the 2007 festival.  Prafke recommended approval of the request as outlined in the proposed resolution.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-162 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. 2008-162 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Reports – Mayor Strand thanked Councilmember Eichmann for serving as Mayor pro tem at the last Council meeting and reported on his recent activities which included the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities conference in Mankato; groundbreaking ceremony for the St. Peter Clinic; Regional Treatment Center Liaison meeting; Region Nine Development Commission meeting, business after hours at the Arts Center and the fireman’s dance.

 

City/County Meeting Report – City Administrator Prafke reported on discussion at the August 13, 2008 City/County meeting which included the Nicollet library; the Coordinator of Volunteers position; administrative fines; cooperative efforts to conduct voter registration at the County fair; road closures; and shared facilities use.  Councilmembers also noted attendees met the new County Engineer.

 

SMMPA Update – Public Works Director Giesking provided an overview of SMMPA activities and discussions which included efforts to meet the 25% renewables mandates by 2025; the 100 mw wind farm being online by the first of the year; the energy conservation reduction audit program; CO2 reduction; and transmission line funding.  Giesking also pointed out that the wind farm will generate 10% of the kilowatt hours of energy used by SMMPA members.

 

Giesking also pointed out that the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association (MMUA) was discussing future territory issues and the national standard for identify theft protection that may impact utilities.  Giesking also reported the City may be asked to contribute funds for legislative activities being undertaken by MMUA.

 

Primary Election Reminder – City Administrator Prafke reminded voters of the primary election which would be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2008.  Prafke indicated the polls were open from 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. on election day.

 

Labor Day Closure – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and the public that all non-emergency City offices would be closed on September 1, 2008 for the Labor Day holiday.

 

Medical Office Building Groundbreaking – City Administrator Prafke reported the groundbreaking ceremony for the Medical Office Building project would be August 28th at 4:00 p.m. at the Hospital.

 

Electronic Recycling – City Administrator Prafke reported the e-recycling event sponsored by the City and Waste Management was very successful and over two semi-truck loads of electronics were collected for recycling.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

AUGUST 11, 2008

 

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 11, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor pro tem Eichmann called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Wetherill, Schultz, and Vogel.  Absent was Mayor Strand.  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.  City Administrator Prafke asked that the business subsidy request for Vet Rx Holdings LLC be withdrawn from the agenda as the applicant was no longer seeking assistance from the City.  With all in favor, the motion carried on the modified agenda.

 

Public Hearing:  Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-16 Creation –  Mayor pro tem Eichmann opened the public hearing on creation of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-16 at 7:03 p.m.  David Drown of David Drown Associates indicated Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-13 was created in 2002 to assist with development of lots in the North Industrial Park Subdivision during a nine year life span of the district.  Drown recommended District No. 1-13 be decertified by removal of the remaining undeveloped lots in the subdivision and a new district (No. 1-16) be created to provide an additional nine years of economic development revenue.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:08 p.m.

 

Public Hearing:  Tax Abatement/Business Subsidy Request- Mayor pro tem Eichmann opened the public hearing on a tax abatement/business subsidy request for Immanuel-St. Joseph/Mayo Health Systems at 7:08 p.m.  City Administrator Prafke indicated Immanuel-St. Joseph/Mayo Health Systems was seeking a tax abatement exceeding $100,000 which required a public hearing under State Statutes.  Prafke indicated the exact amount of the business subsidy being requested would not be known until later in the development.  Prafke also pointed out that the request was not dissimilar to the requested assistance previously provided to the Daniels Clinic.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:11 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the July 28, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the July 28, 2008 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. 2008-144 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. 2008-144 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-16 – Community Development Director Wille recommended adoption of a resolution that would amend the boundaries of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-13 by the removal of approximately 30 undeveloped parcels of land.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-145 entitled “Resolution Amending The Boundaries Of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-13“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-145 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a resolution that would establish Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-16 in the North Industrial Park Subdivision for a period of nine years.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-146 entitled “Resolution Approving The Establishment Of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-16 And Adopting Of The Tax Increment Financing Plan Relating Thereto“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-146 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Saint Julien Backwash Recirculation Project Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended approval for a change order for the Saint Julien Backwash Recirculation Project that would result in a $6,236 deduction to the contract amount, final approval of the contract as completed, and authorization to make final payment to the contractor.  Giesking indicated the total cost of the project was $247,947.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-147 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order Number One And Accepting Saint Julien Backwash Recirculation Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-147 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Medical Office Building Financing Plan – City Administrator Prafke and David Drown of David Drown Associates (DDA) reviewed a recommendation by DDA to submit an application to the Minnesota Government Agency Finance Group (MGAFG) for bond funds to assist with the Medical Office Building Project funding.  Drown indicated the interest rate on this funding source was approximately 1% lower than conventional revenue bonds and would result in a savings of up to $750,000. Prafke indicated the action would authorize DDA to begin negotiation on the initial terms of the loan for possible Council action on August 25th.  Prafke also pointed out that this option was a benefit of the City’s membership in the Minnesota Rural Water Association which administered the MGAFG funds.  Drown also pointed out that if the funding request was approved, it would put the City in good shape to seek additional funding for the Medical Office Building project in 2009.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-148 entitled “Resolution Authorizing David Drown Associates, Inc. To Seek Project Financing From The Minnesota Governmental Agency Finance Group“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-148 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

West Welco Letter of Credit – City Administrator Prafke reported Welco Development LLC had entered into a development agreement in 2004 for public improvements in West Welco Subdivision and the development agreement required the developer to maintain a letter of credit equal to 50% of the cost of the public improvements.  Prafke reported the developer had asked to be released from the letter of credit requirement and the proposed resolution provided for the City Attorney to draft a modification to the development agreement releasing the letter of credit.  Prafke also pointed out that the developer would be responsible for all costs involved in the action.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-149 entitled “Resolution Modifying Development Agreement For Welco West Subdivision To Release Letter Of Credit“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-149 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Dranttel Street Improvement Project Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the Dranttel Street Improvement Project be awarded to W.W. Blacktopping in the amount of $76,569.15.  Giesking indicated the unit prices were very close to the estimated assessments which had been provided to the property owners before the project was bid.  Giesking also pointed out the project should be completed within two months.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-150 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Dranttel Street Improvement Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-150 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Highway 99 Bridge Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking reported the Highway 99 bridge over the Minnesota River had been deemed “fracture critical” by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and would be replaced.  Giesking reported the bridge was on the National Historic Register and MnDOT was required to save the bridge.  Giesking indicated the Parks Board was recommending the City accept the bridge for relocation to an area near the Mill Pond in Riverside Park where the bridge would span the river and ultimately connect to a Le Sueur County Park.  Giesking pointed out that acceptance of the bridge would be contingent upon confirmation of the funding sources for the relocation, evaluation of City costs for the project; and the ability to receive the appropriate permits from MnDOT, the Department of Natural Resources and the Army Corps of Engineers.  Giesking also informed Councilmembers the target date for the bridge relocation was 2013.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-151 entitled “Resolution Accepting Highway 99 Bridge To Be Relocated To Riverside Park Adjacent To The Mill Pond Contingent Upon Certain Conditions“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-151 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Transit Grant Submission – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for submission of a grant to the State of Minnesota for funding to operate the City transit system in 2009.  Prafke indicated the proposed budget for transit was $277,987.96 and if received, the grant funding would be 80% of the operating budget.  Prafke also pointed out that the proposed budget was approximately $13,000 higher than 2008 and if the grant was not approved, the transit system would be underfunded by over $200,000.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-152 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Transit Grant Application For 2009“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-152 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a tree worker’s license and indicated the background investigation had shown nothing that would prohibit issuance of the license.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-153 entitled “Resolution Approving New Tree Worker License“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-153 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

City/County Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the City/County meeting scheduled for August 13th.

 

Seal Coating – Public Works Director Giesking reported seal coating would begin the week of August 18th, weather permitting.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 7:52 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 28, 2008

 

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 28, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Wetherill, Schultz, Vogel, 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 Wetherill, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the July 14, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the July 14, 2008 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. 2008-135 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. 2008-135 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

ISJ Clinic Lease – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the final lease with Immanuel-St. Joseph/Mayo Health Systems (ISJ) for City owned land near the hospital.  Prafke indicated the most substantial change to the lease since the Council last discussed it was a “request for proposal” process if a vacancy exists in the City owned medical office building which Prafke indicated would put “everyone on an even playing field” as far as lease of the vacant space.  Prafke reported the lease was for 33,000 square feet of land and ISJ would pay the City $33,000 the first year and $100 per year thereafter.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-136 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of A Land Lease With Immanuel St. Joseph/Mayo Health System For City Owned Property“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-136 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.  Councilmember Kvamme recognized Councilmember Pfeifer for his contribution on the issue and indicated he admired and appreciated Councilmember Pfeifer’s efforts.

 

Rezoning Request:  622 Sunrise Drive – Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation to rezone the property at 622 Sunrise Drive from R-2 (one and two family residential) to C-5 (business/professional).  Wille indicated the owners of the property wished to have the land rezoned and the Planning Commission had petitioned for the action.  Wille also pointed out that in the near future the Planning Commission would also petition for C-5 of other property along Sunrise Drive.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Ordinance No. 401, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Chapter 11 By Rezoning A Tract Of Land From (R-2) One & Two Family Dwelling To (C-5) Business/Professional Office District“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Ordinance No. 401, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Medical Office Building Project Bid Award – City Administrator Prafke indicated the proposed resolution included award of bids, approval of several alternates, rejection of some bids, and authorization to rebid a portion of the project.  David Yanik, from Yanik Companies (the City’s construction management firm), addressed the Council to recommend award of bids for several components of the shell and core of the Medical Office Building.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned whether the 85% leased goal had been achieved.  City Administrator Prafke and Hospital CEO Spike indicated that the lease with the chiropractic practice was very close and that final construction numbers are required in order to determine the lease rate.  Spike indicated Mankato Chiropractic had already hired the Chiropractor to work in Saint Peter and 1,000 patients from their practice are from Saint Peter.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-137 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bids For Construction Of Medical Office Building“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-137 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Safe Routes To School Concrete Sidewalk Project Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking recommended award of the bid for the Safe Routes To School Concrete Sidewalk Project to D.J. Siehndel in the amount of $111,072.08.  Giesking also recommended a supplemental agreement for the project be authorized for additional sidewalk at Jefferson Fields and from Broadway Avenue to Inverness Lane subject to MnDOT approval.  Giesking further pointed out that the resolution authorized $21,769 in expenditures funded by grant funds, for signage and caution lights that will be installed by City staff.  Following a question by City Administrator Prafke, Giesking indicated the project was planned to be completed in August before school begins.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-138 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Safe Routes To School Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-138 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Hospital Equipment Purchases – Community Hospital CEO Spike requested authorization to purchase a phacoemulsification unit that is used during cataract surgery from Alcon in the amount of $60,000.  Spike indicated the Alcon unit was not the lowest bid, but the low bidder’s equipment didn’t have the safety features specified in the bid documents.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-139 entitled “Resolution Approving Capital Purchase 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. 2008-139 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Spike also requested authorization to purchase an automated medication dispensing unit for the hospital from low bidder Pyxis in the amount of $135,589.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-140 entitled “Resolution Approving Capital Purchase 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. 2008-140 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Transmission Line Easements – Public Works Director Giesking outlined the plan for a new electric transmission line from the proposed north substation to the Broadway Substation and ultimately connecting to the Excel lines along Highway 99 West.  Giesking reported a portion of the line will go underground through the North Industrial Park Subdivision and will cross City owned lots.  Giesking recommended utility easements be established on the City owned lots before the lots are sold to private owners.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-141 entitled “Resolution Establishing Easements On Certain Properties In North Industrial Park Subdivision“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-141 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

North Industrial Park Subdivision Tax Increment Financing Plan – Community Development Director Wille recommended a public hearing be called for August 11th to consider certification of new tax increment financing district No. 1-16.  Wille indicated the district encompasses a portion of North Industrial Park Subdivision and would be beneficial for development of the Saint Peter Development Corporation spec building which was recently sold to Vet RX.  Wille also pointed out that both Nicollet County and School District #508 had agreed to waive the 30-day notice provision for the hearing.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-142 entitled “Resolution Calling Public Hearing On The Creation Of Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-16 Therein And The Adoption Of A Tax Increment Financing Plan Relating Thereto“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-142 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Public Works Remodel Project Architectural Services – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization for architectural services related to remodeling of a portion of the Public Works administration building.  Giesking indicated the original project had been deemed too costly and City staff had been working on portions of the project to remodel the break room and remodeling another space into a locker room as time allowed.  Giesking indicated the Building Official had pointed out changes in the Building Code requiring additional architectural services and Paulsen Architects had agreed to do the work for a fee of $2,300.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-143 entitled “Resolution Retaining Architects To Re-Design Locker Rooms For Public Works“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-143 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 1.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included attending a Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities board meeting and plans to attend the Coalition annual conference in Mankato the following week; attending the first meeting of the Highway 169 Coalition; and meeting with Gustavus Adolphus College Vice-President Gwen Freed regarding a study she is doing on town-gown relationships.

 

Crack Sealing/Seal Coating Project Schedules – Public Works Director Giesking provided an update on the projected schedule for completion of crack sealing and seal coating.

 

Website Information – City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the City’s financial report for 2007 is now available on the City website under the finance/utility billing section.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 14, 2008

 

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 14, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Wetherill, Schultz, Vogel, and Mayor Strand. 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.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, to approve the minutes of the June 23, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the June 23, 2008 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Visitors – Ray Olson, 1816 West Welco, addressed the Council to ask questions about the Dodd Avenue Underpass project including where the idea originated from, the cost, and whether pedestrian traffic counts were completed prior to the project being authorized.  Olson complained about the lack of handicap accessibility at the intersection of Dodd Avenue and North Washington Avenue.  City Administrator Prafke provided a brief overview of the underpass project and indicated he would meet with Olson at a later date regarding the handicap access issue.

 

Consent Agenda – Mayor Strand requested the addition of three additional election judges to be added to the consent resolution.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-120 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced with the additional judge appointments.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-120 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

SJ Louis Lawsuit Settlement – City Attorney Brandt recommended settlement of a lawsuit between the City and S.J. Louis Construction regarding work done by a subcontractor of SJ Louis.  Brandt stated the settlement offer of $65,000 was a “good faith attempt to settle a disappointing situation”.  City Administrator Prafke indicated that approval of the resolution would also close out the contract for the work.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-121 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Settlement In S.J. Louis Construction, Inc. Versus City of Saint Peter“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-121 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

ISJ Clinic Lease and Tax Abatement/Business Subsidy Request Hearing – City Administrator Prafke presented the proposed lease with Immanuel-St. Joseph/Mayo Health System (ISJ) for City owned land adjacent to Community Hospital.  Prafke indicated the lease had been modified based on Council discussion at the previous workshop session and was for 33,000 square feet (building on 25,000 square feet), for a term of fifty years at $1.05 per square foot, and $100 per year.  Prafke indicated the lease addressed issues such as location, look of the building, signage, insurance, shared maintenance costs for snow removal and lawn mowing and future parking lot rebuild as well as addressing a request by ISJ regarding possible vacant space in the City medical clinic building.  Prafke indicated that should space become available in the City building, ISJ would have thirty days advance notice before other possible tenants to lease the space at fair market rate.  Prafke also pointed out that market rate would be determined by a certified appraiser and if the rate was not acceptable or if ISJ had no interest in the space, it could be rented to other parties at that same, but not lower, market rate. 

 

Councilmember Kvamme expressed his uneasiness with the wording regarding lease of space in the City owned clinic building which he felt was unclear and needed additional discussion by the Council.  Councilmember Eichmann agreed.   City Attorney Brandt indicated the language provided ISJ with the right of first negotiation on any vacant space as it would be more efficient for ISJ to lease from the City than to expand and it was only for space in the City medical office building and not the Hospital.  City Administrator Prafke indicated it was the best attempt by staff and the City Attorney to address Council concerns.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz to table action on the proposed lease for two weeks.  A representative of ISJ, who was in the audience, indicated it was their intent to break ground on the new building the following week.  Councilmember Pfeifer indicated his belief that trust was required on both sides to make the project work.  Councilmember Kvamme indicated he agreed if the lease was for a five year period, but not for a fifty year lease.  On the motion, with Councilmembers Schultz, Vogel, Kvamme and Eichmann voting aye, Councilmembers Wetherill and Pfeifer voting nay, the motion carried and action was tabled.

 

City Administrator Prafke recommended a public hearing be called for August 11th for a tax abatement business subsidy being requested by ISJ.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-122 entitled “Resolution Setting A Date For A Public Hearing On The Approval Of A Tax Abatement Resolution And Business Subsidy For The Purpose Of Funding Development Costs For A Proposed Medical Clinic“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-122 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Rezoning Request:  622 Sunrise Drive – A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann to table action on the rezoning request which was tied to the ISJ lease that was tabled earlier in the meeting.  With Councilmembers Schultz, Vogel, Kvamme, and Eichmann voting aye, Councilmembers Wetherill and Pfeifer voting nay, the motion carried and action was tabled.

 

Petition For Improvement Of Dranttel Street – City Administrator Prafke pointed out that three actions were being requested including acceptance of the petition for improvement and authorizing preparation of a feasibility study; acceptance of the feasibility study; and authorizing Bolton and Menk, Inc. to provide for preparation of plans and specifications and receipt of bids for the project.  Community Development Director Wille and City Engineer Domras reviewed the petition received by Fred and Joy Struck and David and Judy Kerr for improvement of Dranttel Street from Highway 169 to Old Minnesota Avenue which would be funded by assessments to the two property owners.  Wille indicated the roadway included a sixty foot right-of-way and customers at Traverse des Sioux Garden Center were currently parking in the right-of-way.  Domras reported the project included a six foot concrete sidewalk on the north side, curb and gutter, nine ton design with a fifty-two foot (52’) wide street with on-street parking (diagonal on the north side and parallel on the south side); storm sewer improvements and catch basins for an estimated cost of $90,900.  Domras also pointed out the City’s share of costs at the intersections was approximately $9,700.  Wille reported the Kentucky Fried Chicken property, which would be built south of the roadway, would be built to gateway standards and the property owner may be petitioning for waiver of subdivision to split the property into two separate parcels.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-123 entitled “Resolution Declaring Adequacy Of Petition And Ordering Preparation Of Feasibility Report For Proposed Improvement For Dranttel Street“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-123 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-124 entitled “Resolution Receiving Feasibility Report On Proposed Improvement Of Dranttel Street“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-124 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-125 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Plans and Specifications For The Proposed Improvement Of Dranttel Street“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-125 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Purchase Of Replacement Electric Utility Truck – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to proceed with the purchase of a truck chassis from Wolf Motors, Inc. in the amount of $31,910.80 plus trade-in of the existing truck and purchase of a stainless steel dump box and hoist from Crysteel Manufacturing in the amount of $10,875.67, all to be funded by budgeted and reserve funds from the electric utility.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-126 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of One And One-Half Ton Truck Chassis And Box For Electric Utility“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-126 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Seasonal Employee Wage Scale Modification – City Administrator Prafke reported the federal minimum wage was increasing July 24, 2008 and recommended modifications to the wage scales for Recreation and Leisure Services seasonal positions as well as modifications to individual employee wages to be effective July 14, 2008 to coincide with the City’s payroll schedule.  Prafke indicated the increases were for all positions to ensure the wage scale does not become compressed.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-127 entitled “Resolution Modifying Recreation and Leisure Services Department Seasonal Wage Scales“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-127 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-128 entitled “Resolution Modifying Seasonal Employees Wages“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-128 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Highway 169 Coalition Representation – City Administrator Prafke recommended the City designate one appointed and one elected representative to the Highway 169 Coalition which was formed by the City of Jordan.  Prafke recommended the elected representative be Mayor Strand with Councilmember Pfeifer designated as the alternate and the appointed representative be Public Works Director Giesking with Community Development Director Wille as the alternate.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-129 entitled “Resolution Designating City Representation To Highway 169 Coalition“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-129 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Warren Park Playground Donation – Public Works Director Giesking indicated residents of the Standard Subdivision wished to have additional playground equipment installed in Warren Park and were undertaking fundraising to buy new equipment for the park.  City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a motion of support for the project and the fundraising efforts.  Prafke indicated that once all funding was reached, the Council would be asked to accept the donation as provided for in the City’s donation policy.  A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel in support of the fundraising efforts for additional playground equipment for Warren Park.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Request For City Assistance:  Nicollet County Fair – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by the Nicollet County Fair board for use of City picnic tables and the City water truck during the County Fair.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-130 entitled “Resolution Approving Request For City Assistance For Nicollet County Fair“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-130 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Community Education Memorandum Of Understanding – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval for execution of a memorandum of understanding between the City and School District #508 for provision of services which were previously provided by the District.  Prafke indicated the City had entered into the agreement for the past few years due and the programs were being provided more efficiently by the City.  Prafke indicated the payment to the City for the programming was $4,000 less than the previous year but the City was still breaking even.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-131 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Youth Development Memorandum Of Understanding“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-131 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2007 Audit Acceptance – Finance Director O'Connell reviewed the findings of the City’s auditor for the 2007 audit and indicated the City had received an unqualified audit and the five findings were minimal.  O’Connell indicated the audit showed the City’s general fund balance was increasing, the enterprise funds were doing well and the overall debt level of the City was decreasing.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the good results were due to adherence to the budget and day to day decisions being made by all City staff.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-132 entitled “Resolution Accepting 2007 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. 2008-132 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Greenhill Reservoir Refurbishment Project – Public Works Director Giesking indicated the paint on the Greenhill Reservoir was failing and recommended a project to refurbish the reservoir which was last completed in 1994.  Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to prepare plans, specifications and contract documents and solicit bids for the project for a fee of $40,000.  Giesking indicated the “best value contracting” approach would be utilized when making a recommendation for a contractor on the project and staff hoped the work could be completed during the low water usage period this fall.  Giesking also pointed out that Bolton and Menk, Inc. had a trained paint inspector on staff who would work on the project to ensure compliance with specifications.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-133 entitled “Resolution Retaining Engineers To Prepare Plans, Specifications, Contract Documents And Solicit Bids For Repainting Of Greenhill Reservoir“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-133 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Fire Department Uniform Funding – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by the Fire Department to assist with financing for dress uniforms for existing members.  Prafke recommended the Department be “loaned” $18,600 to be re-paid over five years and that the City authorize budgeted Fire Department funds to pay for one-half of the uniform cost for future members. In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-134 entitled “Resolution Approving Funding For Fire Department Dress Uniforms“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-134 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 Fourth of July festivities; the all school reunion; the rubber duck derby fundraiser for the Creative Play Place; and Region Nine Development Commission meetings.  Mayor Strand commented about how successful the reunion and the Fourth of July events were for the community.  Strand also indicated he continues to serve as Chairperson of Region Nine.

 

Fourth of July Assistance Thanks – City Administrator Prafke passed on the appreciation of Chamber of Commerce President Larry Haugen for the assistance provided by City employees for the Fourth of July event.

 

SMMPA/APPA Updates – Public Works Director Giesking provided a lengthy update on activities and issues being discussed by Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA) and the American Public Power Association (APPA).  Giesking indicated SMMPA was entering into a project to develop 100 megawatts of wind power on a wind farm 60 miles east of Saint Peter.

 

Arts Association Meeting Discussion – Councilmember Kvamme reported the first “Second Saturday” event for the Arts Association would take place on August 9th and the public would have an opportunity to shop in Saint Peter and visit with local artists or purchase their work.

 

City/School and City/School/Gustavus/County Meeting Discussion – City Administrator Prafke reported that discussion at the City/School and City/School/Gustavus/County meetings of July 9th included volunteer coordinator, green communities, shared athletic fields, vital age initiative, Regional Treatment Center and State owned property, the Safe Routes to School project, and the economic development impact on population, school development, and tax increases.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 8:04 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JUNE 23, 2008

 

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 23, 2008.

 

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

 

Approval of Agenda – Mayor Strand announced the request for purchase of a replacement truck would be removed from the agenda because the truck had been sold to someone else.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, to approve the agenda as modified.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Public Hearing:  Rezoning Request For Property At 622 Sunrise Drive – Mayor Strand opened the public hearing  on a request to rezone the property at 622 Sunrise Drive from R-2 (one and two family residential) to C-5 (business/professional office) at 7:02 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille reviewed the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation to rezone the property at 622 Sunrise Drive.  Wille indicated the owner of the property, Immanuel-St. Joseph/Mayo Health System, will be building a new clinic next to the Hospital and they want to ensure the marketability of the current site after they relocate.  Wille pointed out the current use is a non-conforming use under the zoning regulations and if the property were rezoned it could be used for any of the approved uses in the zoning code and could be considered for any of the conditional uses identified in the code.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:06 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the June 9, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the June 9, 2008 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Visitors – Peter Rheaume, 419 West Jefferson Avenue, addressed the Council to voice his concerns about the detour of Highway 295 onto Jefferson Avenue, potholes on Minnesota Avenue, naming of streets, and the lack of copies of the agenda in the Governors' Room.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-110 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-110 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Business Subsidy Request:  N & D Of St. Peter, LLC (dba MGM Liquor Warehouse) – Community Development Director Wille presented a recommendation for approval of a revolving loan in the amount of $111,500 to N & D of St. Peter, LLC for expansion of their business at 100 North Minnesota Avenue.  Wille indicated the loan request had been tabled at the June 9th Council meeting and since that time the owners had been able to sell the home on the property directly to the west of the current building and the house would be moved to Le Sueur.  Wille indicated the Economic Development Authority recommendation for the loan terms included amortization over thirty years with a balloon payment at five years; 3% interest; and the loan being collateralized by personal guarantees by the applicants and their spouses; a mortgage on the property at 100 North Minnesota Avenue; and a lien on furnishings and equipment from the business.  Wille also indicated the owners had asked him to point out to the Council that the two week delay had resulted in an additional $5,000 in costs for the materials.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-111 entitled “Resolution Approving $111,500 Revolving Loan To N & D Of St. Peter, LLC dba MGM Liquor Warehouse To Partially Finance The Expansion Of The Commercial Building Located At 100 North Minnesota Avenue 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. 2008-111 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

SCADA Improvement For Upper Water System Project Acceptance – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton, appearing on behalf of Public Works Director Giesking who was out of town, presented the recommendation to accept the SCADA Improvement For Upper Water System Project.  Moulton indicated the project had been substantially completed on February 25th, but the contractor had failed to turn in the correct as-built drawings for the project until recently.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-112 entitled “Resolution Accepting SCADA Improvements For The Upper System Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-112 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

City Assistance Request:  Fourth of July Celebration – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval for the request for City assistance submitted by the Chamber of Commerce for the Fourth of July celebration in Saint Peter.  Prafke indicated the only change from the 2007 request was for an extension of the parade staging area and a smoother transition area at the end of the parade for entries to leave the parade route.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-113 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. 2008-113 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2008 Seal Coating Project Bid Award And Change Order #1 – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton recommended award of the bid for the 2008 seal coating project to low bidder Southern Minnesota Construction.  Moulton indicated the project was budgeted in an amount that would seal coat 160 blocks, five miles of trail and the wastewater treatment plant road, but the actual number of blocks may vary.   Moulton also indicated that all three of the bidders had bid a type of oil that was different than what the City had specified and staff had confirmed with SMC that they would use the correct type which was priced $0.30 per gallon cheaper than the type bid which meant the City could complete additional blocks of seal coating.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-114 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For 2008 Seal Coating Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-114 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton recommended change order number one for the seal coat project be approved which would lower the contract price based on using the correct type of oil.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-115 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order Number One For The 2008 Seal Coating Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-115 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Hallett’s Detention Basin Improvements Bid Award – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton recommended the bid for the Hallett’s Detention Basin Improvements Project be awarded to low bidder BCI Brunz Construction, Inc. in the amount of $55,865.15.  Moulton indicated BCI had previously done work on the Hallett’s settling basin.  Moulton also pointed out the project included installation of additional riprap at the Gault Detention Basin.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-116 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Hallett’s Detention Basin Improvement Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-116 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Parking Lot #5 Development Funding – City Administrator Prafke recommended a budget of $24,750 be established for hiring consultants to assist in development of feasibility information related to construction of a building on Parking Lo #5.  Prafke indicated the feasibility work would include design and development, cost estimating, and legal services which is all information that will be important in deciding whether to proceed with development of a building.  Prafke indicated the engineers from I & S understood the Council’s desire to be sympathetic with the historic nature of the downtown and that different building sizes and uses including, retail, office and housing are being looked at for the building.   Prafke pointed out that should no project be developed, the funds expended by the City may not be recoverable, however it was a good opportunity to develop public/private partnerships and enhance the quality of business opportunities in Saint Peter.  Councilmember Kvamme indicated he was supportive of the development and the Food COOP relocating to the building but he felt the I & S proposal focused on only one approach and he wanted to ensure the Council had cost estimates for alternatives.  Prafke pointed out that the resolution doesn’t authorize I & S to perform the services, it only established funding for consultant services.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-117 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Development Funds For Municipal Parking Lot #5 Development“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-117 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Crack Sealing Project – Water Utilities Superintendent Moulton recommended acceptance of the quote from Hardline Asphalt in the amount of $0.99 per pound applied for the crack sealing project.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out the total linear feet to be sealed would be limited by the previously adopted budget.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-118 entitled “Resolution Accepting Quote For Crack Sealing Streets And Trails“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-118 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 Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-119 entitled “Resolution Approving Licenses“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-119 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 League of Minnesota Cities annual conference which he indicated was the best conference he had ever attended; the town-gown luncheon at Gustavus Adolphus College; Business After Hours at the Amigo golf tournament; and the Moondogs game with the Ambassadors.

 

League of Minnesota Cities Conference – Councilmember Wetherill reported on his attendance at the League annual conference and indicated it was informational and fun.

 

Norseland Sesquicentennial Celebration – Councilmember Wetherill complimented the organizers of the Norseland Sesquicentennial celebration on a successful event.

 

Arts Association Meeting Discussion – Councilmember Kvamme reported the focus of discussion at the last Arts Association meeting was development of the Second Saturday events which will begin in August.

 

City/County Meeting Discussion – City Administrator Prafke and Councilmember Pfeifer reported on discussion at the City/County meeting of June 18th which included state health grant funds, fuel usage, water planning issues, credit card acceptance for payment of City and County services; mandates; and library services in Nicollet.  Councilmember Pfeifer also pointed out the group had been informed of the new County Engineer’s appointment.

 

Council Goal Session – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the Council goal session scheduled for Thursday, June 26th at 3:00 p.m. in the Governors' Room of the Community Center.

 

Dodd Avenue Closure – City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers and the public that Dodd Avenue would be closed from Sunrise Drive to the north Summit Park entrance (Oxford Lane) for approximately six weeks while the contractor completes the Dodd Avenue Underpass Project.

 

Upcoming Events – Mayor Strand reminded everyone of upcoming events including the Fourth of July parade and the All School reunion.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 8:04 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JUNE 9, 2008

 

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 9, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Wetherill, 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.

 

Public Hearing:  Business Subsidy Request – N & D of St. Peter, LLC (dba MGM Liquor Warehouse) – Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on a business subsidy request submitted by N & D of St. Peter, LLC at 7:02 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille provided information regarding a request from N & D of St. Peter, LLC dba MGM Liquor Warehouse for a business subsidy in the amount of $135,500 for expansion of their building at 100 North Minnesota Avenue.  Wille indicated the public purpose of the business subsidy included enhancement of economic diversity and stabilizing the community by the expansion of retail services within the central business district.  Wille also reviewed the goals of the business subsidy which included successful completion of the expansion of the MGM Liquor Warehouse business, but cautioned that creation or retention of jobs is not a goal of the project.  Wille also pointed out that the term of the business subsidy agreement would be the same as the terms of the loan being requested.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:04 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Wetherill, to approve the minutes of the May 27, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the May 27, 2008 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. 2008-102 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. 2008-102 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Highway Banner Policy Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended the specifications for highway banners be modified to reduce the maximum length of a banner from thirty feet (30’) to twenty feet (20’) due to safety concerns for City staff during installation and removal.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-103 entitled “Resolution Modifying Specifications For Highway Banners“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-103 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Business Subsidy Request:  N & D of St. Peter, LLC (MGM Liquor Warehouse) –  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation for approval of a business subsidy (revolving loan) in the amount of $135,500 to N & D of St. Peter LLC, the real estate holding company owned by MGM Liquor Warehouse owners Raymond and Gregory Dembouski, which would be amortized over thirty years with a balloon payment at five years.  Wille indicated the loan would be at three percent interest and would be collateralized by personal guarantees from the applicants and their spouses, and a mortgage on the property.  Wille also pointed out that the project would include removal or demolition of the house directly to the west of the business and the applicants had not been able to find someone who would relocate the house.  Wille indicated neither local house movers nor Habitat for Humanity were interested in the house and the plumbing and electrical systems in the home were not up to code and would have to be improved if the house were relocated in Saint Peter.   Councilmember Kvamme, who is also a member of the EDA, indicated the original application was for $98,000 and the additional funds were recommended by the EDA to assist the applicant with moving the house somewhere else, costs for filling in the foundation and demolishing the garage on the property.  Wille indicated that was not his understanding of the EDA action and indicated he would listen to the meeting tape to verify.  Councilmember Vogel suggested the action be tabled for two weeks to allow more discussion by Councilmembers.  Councilmembers discussed having the City arrange for moving the house and holding the house for a period of time until the housing market improves.   City Administrator Prafke cautioned against adopting an opened ended resolution when so many issues surrounding the house were still unanswered and suggested a two week delay should not adversely impact the developers project.  Mayor Strand pointed out that the house issue was not addressed in the resolution before the Council.

 

Raymond Dembouski, owner of MGM Liquor Warehouse and half owner of N & D of St. Peter, LLC, addressed the Council to report he had been unable to find anyone interested in moving the house and it would cost $10,000-12,000 to put the house up on wheels for a move and up to $5,000 a mile if it was actually moved.  Mr. Dembouski indicated they could wait two weeks for City Council action on their loan request.  Gregory Dembouski, half-owner of N & D of St. Peter, LLC, expressed concern that a two week delay meant higher costs for supplies and indicated they had yet to order the building.  Councilmember Pfeifer indicated he was opposed to holding up the developers after the City had already imposed design restrictions on them.  Mayor Strand expressed his belief that no one on the Council had expressed opposition to the revolving loan request.  A motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, to table action on the requested subsidy for two weeks to allow for additional discussion by the City Council.  With Councilmembers Vogel, Eichmann, and Kvamme voting aye, Councilmembers Pfeifer and Wetherill voting nay, the motion carried and action was tabled for two weeks.  Raymond Dembouski then asked the Council for a “straw poll” regarding how they would likely vote on the revolving loan request.  City Administrator Prafke cautioned the Council against acting on a request for a straw vote on an action which may be interpreted as providing an assurance and no further action was taken on the agenda item.

 

Medical Office Building Project Authorization – City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council approve the design of the medical office building, receipt of bids for construction of the building, and using $1.5 million of Hospital funds to partially finance the project.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned what had changed in the project to result in a two to three times larger and more expensive facility.  City Administrator Prafke indicated that the scope of physician recruitment has changed due to a reduction in full-time equivalent doctors in town and the building was being designed in pods which used more square footage, but was more efficient for doctors.  Prafke also indicated the shared entrance with the ISJ Clinic required more square footage and increases also were seen in larger lease space for one doctor and an enhanced cardiac recovery area.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-104 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Actions Related To Medical Office Building Clinic Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-104 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Community Center/Library Policy – Recreation and Leisure Services Director Timmerman recommended adoption of a policy that would provide staff authorization to deal with individuals at the Community Center and Library who are disruptive.  Timmerman indicated the City’s desire was to provide for a safe and positive environment and having a formal policy would make it easier for staff to deal with people who were not engaged in positive activities within the buildings.  Timmerman recommended the policy be, “Individuals or groups may be in the Community Center/Library when they are participating in an activity that promotes a positive, safe environment.  If behavior does not fit these criteria, the offending party(ies) will be asked to leave. Staff will have discretionary authority in enforcement of this policy.”  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the phrase “Staff will have….” should be “Staff shall have…”.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Victoria, Resolution No. 2008-105 entitled “Resolution Adopting Community Center/Library Policy“ was introduced with the language change to “shall”.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-105 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Municipal Fee Schedule Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the municipal fee schedule to increase the charge for the City contract mower to mow private property which is in violation of City weed and tall grass regulations to $75 plus $30 per hour after two hours.  Prafke indicated the proposed charge would cover City costs related to this service.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-106 entitled “Resolution Modifying Municipal Fee Schedule Related To Removal Of Weeds And Tall Grass“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-106 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Applications – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of license applications for a temporary Soft Drink License for Paul Estenson dba Doc E BBQ’s and a Use of City Property permit for Terry Blaschko dba Embassy Bar.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-107 entitled “Resolution Approving Licenses“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-107 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Closed Session:  Communication Technician Union Negotiations – City Administrator Prafke recommended a closed session be conducted to discuss union contract negotiations with LELS Local No. 242 (Communications Technicians).  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-108 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. 2008-108 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session at 8:12 p.m.

 

The Council returned to open session at 8:17 p.m.

 

2008-2009 Communications Technician Union Contract – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the 2008-2009 Communications Technician union contract which included wage increases of 3.25% in each year of the contract and an increase in educational reimbursement limits to $5,000 per individual.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-109 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of 2008-2009 Labor Services Contract By And Between The City Of Saint Peter And Law Enforcement Labor Services Local No. 242 (Communications Technician Union)“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-109 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 Region Nine budget and personnel meetings and graduation parties for the foreign exchange student his family was hosting.

 

Benedictine Living Community Architectural Design Award – City Administrator Prafke reported the long term care facility project had been given a design award and additional information on the award would be provided in the future.

 

Arts Association Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reported the next meeting of the Arts Association was scheduled for June 11th at the Arts Center at 5:30 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Wetherill, to adjourn at 8:25 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 27, 2008

 

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 27, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Schultz, Eichmann, Wetherill, Vogel, 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 Eichmann, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the May 12, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the May 12, 2008 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Visitors – Mayor Strand indicated the presentation of the 2007 Human Rights Award would be delayed until the recipients arrived.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-95 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-95 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Transit Grant Acceptance – City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a resolution providing for formal acceptance of $247,500 in Federal Transit Administration grant funds.  Prafke indicated the grant funds would be used to finance purchase of a transit bus in 2009 and 2010 and for purchase of bus “shelters” which would be placed at locations which utilize the transit on a regular basis.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-96 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Agreement Accepting Federal Transit Administration Capital Fund Grant“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-96 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Visitors 2007 Human Rights Award Presentation –  Councilmember Vogel, speaking on behalf of the Human Rights Commission, presented the 2007 Human Rights Award to representatives from the Building Bridges Conference at Gustavus Adolphus College.  Vogel reported the conference had been organized and led by Gustavus Adolphus College students for 13 years and in 2008 over 1,200 people participated in the conference.  Vogel presented the award to organizers Jessica Sussman and Jing Han Soh for their efforts in furthering human rights in the Saint Peter community.  Also in attendance were Human Rights Commission Chairperson Margaret Bolstad and Commission member Michael Steinhaus.

 

Request For City Assistance:  All School Reunion Event – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by the All School Reunion committee for City assistance for their event to be held July 5th which included use of downtown streets on Third from Broadway to Grace and on Nassau from Third to Minnesota Avenue; establishing a fenced beer garden on Nassau Street; transportation of a mobile stage; free electricity; use of picnic tables; allowing music until 11:00 p.m.; cleaning the streets before and after the event; placement of fencing for the beer garden; Transit service to and from parking areas; and additional Police and Reserve Officers.  Prafke reported staff had met with the organizers to review the request and modifications had been made to their request based on City policy and staff concerns.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-97 entitled “Resolution Approving City Assistance For 2008 All School Reunion Community Event“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-97 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Request for City Assistance:  Relay For Life Event – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request for City assistance by the organizers of the American Cancer Society Relay For Life Event to be held June 20th in Minnesota Square Park.  Prafke indicated the recommendation was for the City to allow use of the park; overnight tent camping in the park; erection of three larger tents provided Gopher State One Call procedures are followed; use of sand from the volleyball court for the luminaries; temporary closure of West Elm Street from Highway 169 to South Fourth Street; use of City barricades for the street closure; use of portable above ground fire pits in the park; and use of a restroom key for restocking restroom paper products.  Prafke also indicated the committee would be responsible for contacting Gopher State One Call; placing and then removing the barricades; removal of all refuse from the park; ensuring that no pets or glass containers are in the park; and ensuring there is no smoking or alcohol use in the park during the event. In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-98 entitled “Resolution Authorizing City Assistance For Relay For Life Event“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-98 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Banner Policy Modification – City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the highway banner policy to decrease the maximum length of the banners from thirty feet (30’) to sixteen feet (16’) because of safety concerns for the Lineman installing and removing the banners.  Prafke pointed out that the longer banners were seldom used although one banner approved for Fall of 2008 is the 30’ length and that banner will still be put up.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned why the proposed change had not been discussed at a workshop session and indicated his belief that the banners provide color downtown, a distraction for drivers, and are a good source of information.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann to table action on the proposed resolution for two weeks to allow time to discuss the proposal in a workshop session.  With all in favor, the motion carried and action was tabled for two weeks.

 

Stormwater Basin Designation – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the old wastewater treatment ponds be formally designated as a stormwater basin to protect the City’s interests and preserve the City’s options for use of the area.  Giesking indicated the Department of Natural Resources was continuing to declare similar sites as wetlands which would prohibit the City’s use of the 270 acre site for stormwater treatment.  Councilmembers Kvamme and Pfeifer expressed their belief that the recommendation was a good idea.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-99 entitled “Resolution Establishing City-Owned 270 Acre Pond Site As A Stormwater Treatment Facility“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-99 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Application:  MSLH Real Estate Management – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a revolving loan for MSLH Real Estate, LLC.  Wille reported Dr. Laura Hulsebus and Dr. Mary Snyder had formed the LLC to acquire the property at 202-206 West Walnut where Dr. Hulsebus would operate a chiropractic practice and Dr. Snyder currently operates a dental practice.  Wille indicated the recommendation for the terms of the loan was $62,000 at three percent (3%) interest; amortized over thirty years with a balloon payment at five years; guaranteed by personal guarantees by both applicants and their spouses; and with a mortgage that will be subordinated to a Nicollet County Bank mortgage.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-100 entitled “Resolution Approving $62,000 Revolving Loan To MSLH Real Estate Management, LLC To Partially Finance Purchase Of Property At 202-206 West Walnut Street“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-100 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Application:  MS/GS Enterprises – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation for approval of a request to modify the due date of the balloon payment on a revolving loan issued to MS/GS Enterprises to June 18, 2012.  Wille indicated MS/GS wished to expand their current facility by 9,000 square feet and the estimated value of the property after the expansion was estimated to be $2.375 million to $2.568 million meaning the property would be collaterialized at 84%.  Wille pointed out the applicant was current on all loan payments to the City and the balance of the original loan was approximately $222,000.  Councilmembers questioned the financial stability of MS/GS and Councilmembers Kvamme and Eichmann, who are members of the EDA, indicated the size of the current facility was a limiting factor on the company’s growth and expansion would allow for increased production.  Councilmember Eichmann also pointed out that approval of the modification would not increase the risk to the City.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned whether the company would employ additional staff after the expansion.  Wille indicated the company currently employs 49.7 FTE which is almost double the number of employees originally projected when the company began in Saint Peter.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-101 entitled “Resolution Modifying Terms Of A $250,000 Revolving Loan To Mark & Geri Steele“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-101 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 several Region Nine Development Commission meetings, welcoming recreational vehicle owners at the Good Sam Samboree at the fairgrounds; attending a Business after Hours event; and providing the welcome at the Memorial Day ceremony in Minnesota Square Park.

 

City/School/Gustavus/County Meeting Discussion – Councilmember Kvamme reported on discussion at the City/School meeting which included introduction to the intern working with the Coordinator of Volunteers project; the Tech Now program; Safe Routes to Schools; and the School/Community liaison.  Kvamme also reported on discussion at the City/School/Gustavus/County meeting which included promotion of “green” living; emergency notification system; leadership institute; Gustavus student voter pre-registration; use of the Regional Treatment Center property; assistance for the new President; and shared athletic fields.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the discussion also included the Partners In Employment project.

 

Arts Association Meeting Discussion – City Administrator Prafke reported discussion at the Arts Association meeting of May 14th included planning for an arts event of some type that will be held once a month on the second Saturday of the month. 

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 12, 2008

 

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 12, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Schultz, Eichmann, Wetherill, Vogel, 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 Eichmann, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Public Hearing:  Alley Vacation Request – Mayor Strand opened the public hearing at 7:02 p.m. on a request submitted by Timothy and Becky Sievert for vacation of the west one-half of the east-west alley located in Block 59 of Skaro and Evenson’s Addition.  Community Development Director Wille reported that County records and City hand drawn maps indicate the alley in question had previously been vacated, but no recorded action of that action by the City could be located.    Wille pointed out there were no utilities in the area of the requested vacation and none of the abutting properties would be adversely impacted by the vacation.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:05 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the April 28, 2008 continuation of the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the April 28, 2008 continuation of the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the April 28, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the April 28, 2008 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – City Administrator Prafke requested the addition of a tree worker’s license for Belek Tree Service.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-85 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced with the additional tree worker’s license included.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-85 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Hospital Computer Hardware Purchase – Hospital CFO Ken Cornish presented the Hospital request for authorization to purchase computer hardware that would provide for wireless operation of the hospital’s computer system.  Cornish recommended acceptance of the quote from Midwave in the amount of $142,808.87 to be funded by Hospital depreciation funds.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-86 entitled “Resolution Approving Computer Hardware Purchase By Community Hospital“ was introduced.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned what efficiencies the Hospital would expect if the purchase was implemented.  Cornish pointed out that wireless operation of the computer system would cut down on staff time and errors involved in patient charting and would allow various departments of the Hospital to enter information into patient charts without having to leave their offices.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-86 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Fire Relief Association Pension Increase – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request to increase the yearly pension benefit for Volunteer Firefighters from $2,350 to $2,400.  Prafke indicated the financial information presented by the Relief Association indicated the fund was over 90% sound due to very good management practices over a number of years.  Councilmember Pfeifer expressed his belief that the Firefighters provide tremendous service to the community and are good representatives for the City.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-87 entitled “Resolution Approving Increase In Lump Sum Pension Benefit For 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. 2008-87 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Alley Vacation Request – Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation for approval of a request to vacate the west one-half of the east-west alley in Block 59, Skaro and Evenson’s Addition.  Wille also indicated the City Attorney had recommended modification to the resolution so the action read “The application for vacation of the west one-half of the East-West alley within Block 59, Skaro and Evenson’s Addition, Saint Peter, Minnesota is approved and said alley is hereby vacated.”  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-88 entitled “Resolution Approving The Vacation Of The West One-Half Of The East-West Alley Within Block 59, Skaro And Evenson’s Subdivision To The City Of Saint Peter“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-88 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Compost Site Relocation Plan – Public Works Director Giesking reported the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) was no longer allowing compost sites within the flood plain and the City had been notified the compost facility at the old wastewater treatment pond site would need to be closed within two years.  Giesking indicated there was substantial cost involved in buying land for a new site and recommended staff work with neighboring cities and counties to possibly develop a regional site.  Giesking also recommended a request be submitted to MPCA requesting a five year timeframe for development of a regional site.  Giesking pointed out that the yard waste drop off site in the City would not be impacted by the MPCA ruling as long as materials are moved out of the site on a weekly basis.   City Administrator Prafke indicated the MPCA could deny the extension on closing the pond site and pointed out that the City was not required to provide the service.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2008-89 entitled “Resolution Requesting Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Approval Of Five Year Process To Establish New Compost Site“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-89 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Request:  Laura Hulsebus – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a revolving loan in the amount of $45,000 to Dr. Laura Hulsebus who is purchasing the Hartman Chiropractic practice.  Wille indicated the recommended terms for the loan were 3% interest; amortized over 10 years with a balloon payment due at 5 years; second lien on furniture, fixtures, equipment, inventory and accounts receivable; a personal guarantee by the applicant and her spouse; and an insurance policy on the applicant naming the City of Saint Peter as the beneficiary.  Wille pointed out that the transaction did not involve real estate and that the building the practice is located in may be purchased by Dr. Hulsebus as part of a limited liability corporation to be formed in the near future.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-90 entitled “Resolution Approving $45,000 Revolving Loan To Laura J. Hulsebus, PA To Partially Finance Acquisition Of Hartman Chiropractic“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-90 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Fiber Conduit Contract – City Administrator Prafke recommended the appointment of Attorney James Strommen of Kennedy and Graven as a Special City Attorney to represent the City in pursuit of payments from HickoryTech for lease of City owned conduit.  Prafke pointed out that HickoryTech is making payments, however HickoryTech is interpreting the provisions of the contract differently than the City resulting in HickoryTech paying less than City staff believes is due and negotiations to resolve the differences had been unsuccessful.  Prafke reported Kennedy and Graven had previously represented the City in telecommunications matters including the conduit contract.  Prafke also recommended Attorney Strommen be directed to pursue legal proceedings to enforce the terms of the contract.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-91 entitled “Resolution Appointing Special City Attorney“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-91 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of off-sale liquor, on-sale liquor and Sunday liquor licenses for Frank Weber dba Country Kitchen of Saint Peter.  Prafke indicated a background check had revealed nothing that would prohibit issuance of the licenses.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-92 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. 2008-92 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2008 Fire Service Contracts – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of 2008 fire service contracts between the City and Lake Prairie, Oshawa and Traverse Townships.  Prafke reminded Councilmembers the contracts were based on operational expenses for the Fire Department and did not include equipment costs or Fire Relief Association benefits.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-93 entitled “Resolution Approving 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. 2008-93 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 being a judge for high school senior presentations; attending the National Day of Prayer event; attending a community coalition on alcohol use meeting; attending the Minnesota Mayor’s Conference; and providing a welcome for the Special Olympics held at Gustavus Adolphus College.

 

May Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and the public that the next regular meeting would be held on Tuesday, May 27th because of the Memorial Day holiday. 

 

Memorial Day Closures – City Administrator Prafke reported all non-City offices would be closed for Memorial Day and the Community Center would be closed from Friday though Memorial Day.

 

MPCA Certificate of Commendation – Public Works Director Giesking reported the wastewater treatment plant staff had been awarded a certificate of commendation by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for operation of the wastewater treatment plant.

 

Resolution Calling For Closed Session – City Administrator Prafke requested a closed session to discuss union negotiations with Law Enforcement Labor Services Local No. 242 (Communications Technicians).    In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-94 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. 2008-94 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session at 7:51 p.m. to discuss union contract negotiations.

 

The Council returned to open session at 8:02.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Pfeifer, to adjourn at 8:04 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

APRIL 28, 2008

 

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 28, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Schultz, Eichmann, Vogel, and Mayor Strand.  Absent was Councilmember Wetherill.  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 Schultz, 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 April 14, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the April 14, 2008 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. 2008-80 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. 2008-80 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Stormwater Master Plan Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking and City Engineer Domras provided an overview of the stormwater master plan which had been developed by Bolton and Menk, Inc. at the direction of the Council.  Domras indicated the goals of the plan were to review the City’s growth area, analyze stormwater treatment methods, analyze existing stormwater infrastructure, recommend infrastructure improvements, identify deficiencies in the stormwater pipe system and coordinate with the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).  Domras reviewed some of the recommendations for infrastructure improvements and indicated the City’s piping system was designed for 10 year storms rather than 100 year storm events due to cost limitations.  Domras also reviewed the recommendations for the entire master plan including establishing future regional basin areas; continuing standard review procedures to ensure all development is in compliance with proper erosion control practices; requiring detailed hydrologic analyses of all developments; establishing high water levels governing building elevations adjacent to basins; establishing and maintaining overflow routes to provide relief during extreme storm conditions; continuing the stormwater maintenance program to ensure the successful operation of the drainage system; and continuing with the educational program for City residents, staff, and developers.

 

Councilmember Kvamme questioned some of the information in the proposed plan including language that indicated large basins are more effective at treating stormwater than small basins.  Engineer Domras indicated that there isn’t much difference in effectiveness between large and small ponds.  Kvamme also questioned the statement that large ponds promote wildlife habitat development.  Giesking indicated that over time, as the shoreline of a stormwater pond develops, wildlife will begin to flourish in and around the pond similar to what has occurred at Hallett’s Pond.  Kvamme further questioned the use of the existing piping to direct stormwater under the Minnesota River to the old wastewater treatment ponds and whether the pipe could be used with a higher flow rate.  Domras indicated increasing the flow in the pipe to a level that would effectively handle the first half inch of rainfall would devastate the pipe and the pipe would fail in as little as two days.  Kvamme asked why the report didn’t indicate how residents can help minimize the impact of stormwater runoff.  Domras and Giesking reported individuals could help by reducing fertilizer on their lawns, especially those containing phosphorus, reducing impervious areas on properties, and possibly installing rain gardens.  Giesking also pointed out that the SWPPP contains information on how individual property owners can minimize stormwater pollution.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-81 entitled “Resolution Accepting Stormwater Master Plan“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-81 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Sidewalk Snow Removal Fee – City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the fee for City staff to remove snow and ice from sidewalks when property owners fail to comply with City regulations.  Prafke recommended the fee be increased to $65 per hour with a $65 minimum to reflect the large amount of staff time involved every time the City must perform this service.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-82 entitled “Resolution Modifying Municipal Fee Schedule Related To Sidewalk Snow Removal By City Staff“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-82 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Private Use Of Public Streets, Parking Lots, And Sidewalks – City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of an ordinance which would modify the regulations related to private use of public streets, parking lots and sidewalks.  Prafke pointed out the Council had discussed the modification on previous occasions.  Prafke recommended permits for private use of parking lots and streets for such things as block parties be valid for the period of the event only, have a $25 fee, and require insurance in the amount of $1,000,000 if the event involves sale of alcohol or $500,000 if not.  Prafke also recommended that permits for use of public sidewalks for private purposes be for five years with the same insurance requirements as that for street and parking lot use.  Prafke also requested that City Code Section 7.14 be further modified to remove a section that indicated reserved on-street parking is limited to City owned vehicles.  City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers that in the past they have generally exempted downtown sidewalk sales sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce from these regulations and asked if the Council objected to continuing this exemption.  Councilmembers expressed no objection to the practice.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Ordinance No. 400, 2nd Series entitled “An Ordinance Of The City Of Saint Peter Amending City Code Chapter 7 ‘Streets And Sidewalks Generally’ And Section 7.14 ‘Private Use Of Public Streets, Parking Lots And Sidewalks’, And Adopting Chapter 1 And Section 7.99, 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. 400, 2nd Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-83 entitled “Resolution Modifying Municipal Fee Schedule Related To Private Use Of Public Parking Lots, Streets And Sidewalks“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-83 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 Chamber of Commerce meetings; Region Nine Development Commission meetings; an open house at the new restaurant/hotel; and attending a conference on alcohol use sponsored by the Minnesota Institute on Public Health.

 

City/County Meeting Discussion – City Administrator Prafke reported the April 22nd City/County meeting included discussion on the Nicollet Library; City staff performing adult and day care facility inspections; compost site needs; a proposed triathlon; shared dispatch and radio issues; tornado follow-up and a report by the County Engineer on highway funding.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting Discussion – City Administrator Prafke reported on the discussion at the April 17th City/School/Gustavus/County meetings which included a proposed leadership institute; green community; additional partnership opportunities; an update on the Volunteer Coordinator; and the search for a new Gustavus president.  Councilmember Kvamme indicated the meetings are occurring more frequently and a wide range of topics are being discussed.

 

Arts Association – City Administrator Prafke indicated the Arts Association continues to move forward and Councilmember Kvamme expressed his belief that the Arts people are taking more ownership of the Association.

 

Tree Planting Program – Councilmember and Tree Advisory Board member Schultz and Public Works Director Giesking reported on the City’s tree planting program.  Giesking indicated approximately 500–1,500 trees are planted in the City’s nurseries every year and there currently are 34 varieties of trees.

 

SMMPA Energy Audit Program – Public Works Director Giesking reported SMMPA staff are available to provide energy audits for City commercial utility customers and those interested should contact Public Works to make an appointment.

 

Brush/Yard Waste Collection- Public Works Director Giesking reported the Spring brush and yard waste collection will begin on May 5th and residents need to have brush and yard waste at curbside by 7:00 a.m. that day.

 

Light Bulb Recycling – Public Works Director Giesking reminded residents the City will be accepting used fluorescent light bulbs for recycling at no cost for the first 10 bulbs from City residents and small businesses on May 5th at the Public Works building.

 

Clinic Projects – City Administrator Prafke presented a slide show of artist renderings of the proposed hospital clinic and ISJ/Mayo clinic buildings which are proposed to be constructed on the hospital campus.

 

Councilmember Eichmann reported he had attended a volunteer recognition event and felt it was important for volunteers to be recognized for their contributions to the community.

 

Resolution Calling For Closed Session – City Administrator Prafke requested a closed session to meet with the City Attorneys regarding pending litigation.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-84 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. 2008-84 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session at 8:05 p.m. to discuss pending litigation covered under attorney-client privilege.

 

The Council returned to open session at 8:59 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 9:00 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

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

APRIL 28, 2008

 

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 April 28, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 6:44 p.m.  The following members were present: Councilmembers Schultz, Pfeifer, Kvamme, Eichmann, Vogel and Mayor Strand.  Absent was Councilmember Wetherill.  County official present was Senior Appraiser Chuck Zieman.  Mayor Strand and Councilmember Kvamme had both received Board of Appeal training from Nicollet County on March 30, 2005.

 

Appeal Hearings – Appraiser Zieman provided a recommendation to the Board on the two remaining appeals for James Bixby, owner of the property at 1407 Wilkinson Court and Brad Braun, owner of the property at 1400 Wilkinson Court.  Zieman reported he had conducted a site visit at both properties as per direction of the Board at the April 8, 2008 meeting.

 

Zieman indicated the Assessor’s recommendation was to lower the $351,900 valuation on the Bixby property to $304,900.  Zieman indicated he had viewed the property and the overall grade was being reduced to reflect the interior quality and condition of the property.

 

Zieman further reported the Assessor was recommending a ten percent (10%) reduction on the Braun property to $343,900 from the original amount of $381,900 due to a structural defect on the property.

 

A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, to accept the Assessor’s recommendation on the remaining two appeals.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Vogel to adjourn at 6:52 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

APRIL 14, 2008

 

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 14, 2008.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Schultz, Eichmann, Wetherill 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 Kvamme, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Public Hearing:  BHS Equipment Certificate Debt Issuance – Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on the issuance of equipment certificate debt on behalf of Benedictine Living Community of St. Peter at 7:02 p.m.  Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates addressed the Council to review the request made by Benedictine Health Systems (BHS) dba Benedictine Living Community of St. Peter, for City assistance to finance equipment purchased for operation of the nursing home BHS is leasing from the City.  Sweeney indicated a public hearing was required under State Statute whenever a municipality incurred debt on behalf of a non-profit, tax-exempt entity.  Sweeney indicated two actions were being recommended associated with the debt issuance including modification of the current nursing home lease with BHS so that the debt payments were paid by BHS and award for the sale of the equipment certificates.  Mayor Strand indicated action on the proposed actions would take place under Old Business.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:04 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the March 24, 2008 regular City Council meeting.  Councilmember Eichmann requested correction to the minutes to remove the name of former Councilmember Douglas and replace it with “Councilmember Eichmann” wherever the error occurred.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved as corrected.  A complete copy of the minutes of the March 24, 2008 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the April 8, 2008 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the April 8, 2008 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-63 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  City Administrator Prafke asked the Council to include an additional seasonal appointment for Emily Phillips as a Certified Lifeguard at $6.75 per hour.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted with the addition.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-63 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

BHS Lease Modification/Equipment Certificate Debt Issuance –  City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the lease with Benedictine Health Systems for the City owned nursing home facility to provide for BHS payment of the monthly debt issuance costs for the equipment certificate debt BHS had requested.  Prafke indicated the modified lease document had been prepared by an attorney from Gray, Plant and Moody and had been signed by officials of BHS.  Prafke pointed out that the lease modification provided additional security for the City that the debt service would be paid by BHS.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-64 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Lease Modification With Benedictine Health Systems“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-64 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates, recommended acceptance of the bid from First National Bank Minnesota of Saint Peter at a net interest rate of 3.6914% for $365,000 in general obligation equipment certificates to fund equipment purchases by BHS at the nursing home facility.  Sweeney indicated the interest rate was just slightly higher than projected.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned when taxpayer approval is necessary for issuance of a general obligation debt.  City Administrator Prafke indicated that State Statute spells out when a referendum is necessary although the City held a referendum on the hospital debt issuance which was not required under State law.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-65 entitled “Resolution Providing For The Issuance And Sale Of $365,000 General Obligation Equipment Certificates, Series 2008B And Levying A Tax For The Payment Thereof“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-65 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Application:  Anytime Fitness –  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a revolving loan application in the amount of $50,000 submitted by Chad Guentzel who was purchasing the Anytime Fitness franchise in Saint Peter.   Wille indicated the purchase would also involve a conventional loan and owner equity and the terms would be 3% interest amortized over ten years with a balloon payment at five years.  Wille also reported the loan would be collateralized by a lien on furniture, fixtures, equipment, inventory, and accounts receivable along with a personal guarantee and the applicant taking out a life insurance policy naming the City as beneficiary in an amount equal to the outstanding balance of the loan.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-66 entitled “Resolution Approving $50,000 Revolving Loan To Chad Guentzel To Partially Finance Acquisition Of Anytime Fitness Franchise In Saint Peter“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-66 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Revolving Loan Application:  Saint Peter Cinema 5 –  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a revolving loan application in the amount of $87,405 for Midwest Theaters Corp. (dba Saint Peter Cinema 5).  Wille indicated that Midwest Theaters Corp. operates the movie theater but the building itself is owned by Cinema 2 LLC and Midwest wished to reduce the annual debt service on the theater to be able to cash flow during low attendance periods and make the business more sustainable.  Wille reported the EDA recommendation for approval of the loan included terms of 3% interest amortized over 15 years with a balloon payment at three years, and collateralized by a UCC lien against the furniture, fixtures, equipment, inventory and accounts receivable.  Wille also pointed out the request and recommendation by the EDA was to modify the maturity date of an existing Cinema 2 LLC loan to June 1, 2011 to coincide with the new loan.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-67 entitled “Resolution Approving $87,405 Revolving Loan To Midwest Theaters Corp. To Refinance Fixtures, Furnishings An Equipment And Approving Extension Of An Existing $40,000 Revolving Loan“ was introduced.  Wille reported the City was also collecting $9,900 annually in tax increments on the property.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-67 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

SMIF Grant Request –  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for a $1,000 donation to the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) for their regional endowment fund which will be matched by the McKnight Foundation.  Wille indicated the SMIF provides community economic development assistance to Saint Peter and southern Minnesota.   In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-68 entitled “Resolution Approving $1,000 Contribution To Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-68 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

SBDC Grant Request –  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for a $2,000 donation to the Small Business Development Center which provides free one-on-one counseling services to small business owners in Saint Peter and the nine county area.  Wille indicated the services provided by SBDC are invaluable to those starting or operating a small business.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-69 entitled “Resolution Approving $2,000 Contribution To Small Business Development Center“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-69 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Zoning Regulation Modification:  Accessory Buildings –  Community Development Director Wille recommended modification to the zoning ordinance to allow detached accessory structures to be constructed in back yards with a setback of 6’ from the side and back property lines.  Wille indicated the provision had been missed when the zoning ordinance was re-written and the Planning and Zoning Commission felt it was important to add back in.  Wille also pointed out the setback recommendations were different from the old zoning ordinance and would prevent anyone from constructing an accessory structure within the utility/stormwater interior easements.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Ordinance No. 398, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Chapter 11 ‘Land Use/Zoning’ And Section 11.27, ‘Exceptions/Modifications’ And Adopting By Reference 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. 398, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Day Care Inspection Authorization – Director of Building Busse recommended City staff be authorized to perform inspections of day care and adult foster care facilities when the State Fire Marshal is not available to do so.  Busse also recommended the inspections be limited to within a 15 mile radius of Saint Peter, a $45 per inspection fee be established for inspections in the City limits and a $55 per inspection fee plus mileage be established for inspections outside of the City limits. City Administrator Prafke indicated it wasn’t the City’s intent to take over the inspections from the State Fire Marshal, but to fill in and get inspections performed in a shorter timeframe when State personnel aren’t available.  Prafke also pointed out that inspections will only be performed if City staff is available and it doesn’t impact other building inspection services. In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-70 entitled “Resolution Authorizing City Staff To Perform Inspections Of Day Care And Adult Foster Care Facilities“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-70 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

City Code Amendment:  Building Code Enforcement –  Director of Building Busse recommended adoption of an ordinance specifying the 2006 International Code as the code to be followed for building code enforcement in the City.  Busse indicated the action was recommended by an auditor from the State Building Code office following an audit of City procedures for building inspection.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Ordinance No. 399, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending City Code Chapter 4 ‘Construction Licensing, Permits And Regulations’, Section 4.01 ‘Adoption of Codes’ And Adopting By Reference Saint Peter City Code Chapter 1 And Section 4.99, Which, Among Other Things, Contain Penalty Provisions“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Ordinance No. 399, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Personnel Policy Modification: Travel/Personal Expense Reimbursement –  City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the personnel policy section on travel and personal expense reimbursement to allow up to $40 reimbursement per day for meals and $130 per night excluding tax for hotel stays.  Prafke also recommended the City Administrator be required to sign off on any hotel stays exceeding one night in duration and any expense reimbursements exceeding $50.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-71 entitled “Resolution Modifying Personnel Policy Section XX ‘Travel/Personal Expense Reimbursement’“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-71 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Nicollet School Library Agreement – City Administrator Prafke recommended execution of an agreement with the Nicollet County Library Board for the City to provide library services to non-City residents at the Nicollet Schools.  Prafke indicated the Library Board would provide $20,000 to the City for each year of the agreement and the service provided would be an “enhanced page peddler program”.  Prafke pointed out that the draft agreement the Council was provided would be modified to remove the phrase “…not to exceed” from the provision related to payments to the City.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2008-72 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Library Services Contract For Provisions Of Library Services To Nicollet School“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-72 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Community Hospital Equipment Purchase –  Community Hospital CEO Colleen Spike addressed the Council to request purchase of a picture archiving and communication system in the amount of $188,511.45 and patient scheduling software in the amount of $37,445 both from Healthcare Management Systems.  Spike indicated the purchases were the next step in the phased in project to have electronic patient records which would be required by the Federal government by 2015.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned whether the software would be compatible with the software being used by Immanuel-St. Joseph’s or the Mankato Clinic.  Spike indicated that eventually interfaces would be made, but not until such time as the federal government determines the guidelines which must be met nationwide.  Spike also indicated that the doctors at the clinic would be provided with a computer networked to the hospital system so they can look up patient information.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-73 entitled “Resolution Approving Computer Hardware/Software Purchase By Community Hospital“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-73 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

2008 Street/Trail Maintenance Plan – Public Works Director Giesking outlined the 2008 street and trail maintenance program which would include crack sealing, seal coating, full depth asphalt patching, FOG sealing (misting a thin application of asphalt over a street), handicap sidewalk approach installation and curb replacement.  Giesking indicated the areas that will be completed have been prioritized and will be completed as the budget allows.  Giesking also pointed out that the plan will include trail replacement on one block of trail along Ninth Street and maintenance in other areas and City crews will be busy doing preparation work for some of the contracted work and doing some of the actual maintenance in-house.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-74 entitled “Resolution Approving The 2008 Street/Trail Maintenance Plan“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-74 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

SMMPA Representative Designation – Public Works Director Giesking requested adoption of a resolution that would appoint Lewis Giesking as the City’s representative to SMMPA and Todd Prafke as the alternate representative.  Giesking reported the Council had previously taken action to designate the Public Works Director and City Administrator to those roles, but the attorney for SMMPA had discovered the designations must be by name and not by title.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2008-75 entitled “Resolution Designating City Delegates To Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-75 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

MSA Funding Request:  Dodd Avenue Underpass Project – Public Works Director Giesking recommended adoption of a resolution requesting an advance of $366,966 on the City’s Municipal State Aid (MSA) allotment to be used to finance a share of the costs for the Dodd Avenue Underpass Project.   In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-76 entitled “Resolution Authorizing A Request To Advance Municipal State Aid Funding For The Dodd Avenue Underpass Project“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-76 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Dodd Avenue Underpass Project Construction Services –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to provide construction engineering services for the Dodd Avenue Underpass Project for a fee not to exceed $83,500.  Giesking indicated the City’s Engineering Technician would be doing day-to-day oversight of the project, but Bolton and Menk, Inc. would provide surveying, construction staking and periodic construction inspection.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2008-77 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Construction Engineering Services For The Dodd Avenue Underpass Project“ was introduced. Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-77 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Closed Session –  City Administrator Prafke requested a closed session of the City Council to discuss Utility Union contract negotiations as allowed by State Statute.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2008-78 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. 2008-78 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.  The Council adjourned to closed session at 8:21 p.m.

 

The Council returned to open session at 8:36 p.m.

 

2008-2009 Utilities Union Contract – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the 2008-2009 utility union contract between the City and Local No. 70 of the International Union of Operating Engineers.  Prafke indicated changes to the contract would include a term of two years (2008 and 2009); sick leave modification to include leave for child care; increase in comp time accrual allowance from 40 to 80 hours; wage increase of 3.2% in each of the two years of the contract; clarification of the “Holiday Help“ provision; an increase in “On Call” pay from $175 to $180 in both years of the contract; a change in the uniform allowance provision which allows for carry over up to a maximum of $525; addition of Stormwater Operator and Foreman to the contract; and some technical and formatting changes.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2008-79 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of 2008-2009 Labor Services Contract By And Between The City Of Saint Peter And International Union Of Operating Engineers Local No. 70 (Utility Union)“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2008-79 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 16.

 

Reports

 

Proclamations – Mayor Strand proclaimed April, 2008 as “National Child Abuse Awareness Month”, April 25, 2008 as “Arbor Day” and May, 2008 as “Arbor Month” in the City.

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included Region Nine Development Commission meetings and strategic planning committee meetings; a meeting of the coalition on alcohol awareness in the community; attending the Board of Appeals and Equalization; a meeting with the City’s auditor, and attending the annual Chamber of Commerce benefit.

 

City/County Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the date for the next City/County meeting on April 22nd at 3:00 p.m.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reported the next meeting of the City/School/Gustavus would be April 17th at Gustavus Adolphus College.

 

Arts Association Meeting – City Administrator Prafke reported the Arts Association seemed to be moving along and the group elected a Chair and Vice Chair at the last meeting and plans were being made for a series of studio walk/”Second Saturday” events.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, to adjourn at 8:50 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF APPEAL AND EQUALIZATION MEETING

APRIL 8, 2008

 

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 April 8, 2008.

 

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

 

Appeal Hearings – Mayor Strand informed the audience that the members of the Board were not professional appraisers and the majority of time the Board would make no change to the valuations of property.  Strand informed the audience that anyone making an appeal who did not get the result they wanted should take their appeal to the County Board of Appeals which was better trained.  Mayor Strand opened the floor to the property owners scheduled to present their appeals.

 

Ray Olson appeared to appeal the valuation of $162,400 on his property at 1816 West Welco Drive.  Mr. Olson indicated his belief that the value of the property should not include personal property which was included with the sale price and he estimated that to be $3,000 for the appliances and $3,000 for carpet.  Olson also indicated his belief that cabinetry should not be included and the valuation should be adjusted by $2,000 to be comparable to other town homes sold in the area.  Appraiser Zieman indicated the Olson town home was valued at a higher level because it had a fireplace and a storm shelter.

 

James Bixby appeared to appeal the valuation of $351,900 on his property at 1407 Wilkinson Court.  Mr. Bixby requested a reduction to $308,000 which is what he paid for the property in 2007 and indicated his belief that he would not be able to sell the property at the higher amount.  Bixby offered several comparable properties for review which were all located in subdivisions featuring larger luxury lots and indicated his home had no fireplace and laminate countertops.

 

Pamela Kittelson appealed the valuation of $179,200 on her property at 1438 Leonard Street.  Ms. Kittelson provided a comparison of five properties she felt were comparable at an average valuation of $163,786 and indicated she was currently taking over the mortgage on the property from her husband at $162,000.  Kittelson also indicated a local realtor had indicated the property would be put on the market for no more than $170,000.  When questioned as to what she felt the valuation of her property should be, Kittelson indicated it should be $10,000-$15,000 less.  County Assessor Pehrson reminded the Board and the audience that the estimated market value on properties are based on sales of property in the City during 2006 and 2007 and the valuations are established to bring equalization to properties within the community.

 

MGM owners Ray Dembowski and Greg Dembowski appealed the valuation of $150,200 on their property located at 213 West Broadway Avenue.  Ray Dembowski indicated they had purchased the home with the intent of moving the home to provide for expansion of their liquor store business.  The owners requested relief from the taxes due on the property as they will be moving the house and donating it.  County Assessor Pehrson informed the property owners that the Board had no authority to provide tax relief and they would have to file a tax court appeal by April 30th.  The owners then asked for a reduction in the valuation to $100,000 which is what they paid for the property after approaching the previous homeowner and offering to purchase the property.

 

Michael Maas, owner of 514 North Minnesota Avenue, addressed the Board asking for a reduction in the property taxes on his home.  Assessor’s office staff indicated the property had been valued at $550,400 because the Assessor could not get into the home to view it.  Appraiser Zieman indicated he had finally viewed the property and was recommending a valuation of $272,600.  Maas indicated he pays over $5,000 in taxes on the home and asked for tax relief.  Assessor Pehrson indicated the only option to get tax relief was to go to tax court and asked Mr. Maas to contact her office for instructions on how to do so.

 

Brad Braun appealed the valuation of $381,900 on his property at 1400 Wilkinson Court.  Mr. Braun provided a list of comparable properties including another property in his cul-de-sac which had just recently sold for $308,000.  Braun also indicated a local realtor had indicated he would market it for $340,000-$350,000.  Mr. Braun also revealed his property had a structural deficiency he called a “truss uplift” which caused substantial cracking on the main floor of the property requiring repair every 2-4 years and it was a deficiency that could only be repaired by removing the home’s roof and replacing it.  Assessor Pehrson suggested her office staff visit further with Mr. Braun to get a more detailed explanation on the deficiency and make a recommendation to the Board following the discussion.

 

Michael Steinhaus appealed the valuation of $172,100 on his property at 215 North Third Street based on what he indicated was a “15% drop in property values”.  When questioned as to what he felt the appropriate valuation on the property was Steinhaus indicated it should be the 1999 valuation of $150,000.  The documentation provided to the Board prior to the meeting included a recommendation by Assessor Pehrson to reduce the valuation to $158,700 after her staff reviewed the property.

 

Mark Karlsrud, owner of the property at 711 North 8th Street, addressed the Board to appeal the valuation of $189,800 which he indicated was a 11.6% increase over the previous year.  Karlsrud provided information on the sale price of several properties he felt were comparable to his own.  Assessor Pehrson recommended the value be reduced to $184,000.

 

JoAnn Fossen Pedersen appealed the valuation of $189,700 on her property at 723 North Minnesota Avenue.  Ms. Pedersen indicated she was in the process of selling the property and the realtor had indicated she could get no more than $158,000 - $164,000 for the property.  Pedersen indicated the property was currently listed at $168,900 and was zoned commercial.

 

Arthur Fogel appealed the valuation of $22,500 on his mobile home at 87 Summit Park.  Mr. Fogel indicated he had purchased the mobile home in September of 2007 for $13,800 and that his home was valued much higher than all the other mobile homes which were for sale in Summit Park.

 

Patti Pherson appealed the valuation of $171,400 on her property at 720 Lower Johnson Circle.  Ms. Pherson indicated that although her home was nice, she knew as a realtor that she would be unable to sell the home for the valuation amount.  Pherson indicated the home needed new siding and shingles and in 2007 no single car garage homes listed on the multiple listing service at  $170,000 or more had sold.

 

The Board considered recommendations from the County Assessor on eight properties as follows:

·        Abigail Lamberton, 526 West Locust – reduce value from $211,600 to $120,200 after being viewed.

·        Howard and Suzanne Putz, 1501 South Fourth Street – reduce value fro $249,100 to $127,300 after being viewed. 

·        Timothy and Rebecca Sievert, 717 North 8th Street – increase value from $145,800 to $148,500 due to the detached garage being omitted from the valuation calculation.

·        Gayle Miller, 717 North Swift Street – reduce value from $134,800 to $131,300 due to a clerical error in the basement finish calculations.

·        Daryl and Phyllis Dierks, 711 North Swift Street – reduce value from $135,900 to $133,100 due to a clerical error in the basement finish calculations.

·        Nancy Landaas, 411 West Mulberry – reduce value from $346,400 to $143,900 after being viewed.

·        Arthur Swanson, 445 West Union Street – reduce value from $158,000 to $50,300 after being viewed.

·        William and Pearl Morrison, 833 Lower Johnson Circle – reduce value from $145,200 to $138,100 due to a difference in basement square foot finish and condition.

 

A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz to accept the Assessor’s recommendation on these eight properties.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

A motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, to make no change to the valuation of the Ray Olson property.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

Judith Ahlstrom appealed the valuation of $293,300 on her property at 202 North Third Street.  Ahlstrom cited a recent Mankato Free Press article that indicated home values were stagnant and compared her property to several older homes located in the community which were valued at lesser amounts than her property.  Appraiser Zieman pointed out that the valuation was not an increase from the previous year, but the amount she was being taxed on was now the $293,300 level and previously she was paying on a limited taxable valuation due to State law.  Board member Kvamme pointed out that Ms. Ahlstrom had really been receiving a discount the past couple of years.  Ahlstrom indicated there were no comparable properties to her home in Saint Peter and her house needs lots of updating and finishing that she can’t afford. 

 

The Board then discussed the appeals received as follows:

 

·        James Bixby, 1407 Wilkinson Court.  Assessor Pehrson recommended the property be viewed again in light of the other appeal from the same cul-de-sac.  Pehrson asked the property owner if he was available for staff to review the property within the next week and Mr. Bixby indicated he would do so.  Mr. Bixby was informed the Board would reconvene on April 28th at 6:45 p.m. in the Governors' Room of the Community Center.

·        Pamela Kittelson, 1438 Leonard Street.  The Board recommended a reduction to $174,400.

·        MGM, 213 West Broadway Avenue.  The Board recommended no change to the valuation.

·        Michael Maas, 514 North Minnesota Avenue.  The Board took no action as the issue was actually a tax relief request.

·        Brad Braun, 1400 Wilkinson Court.  Assessor Pehrson recommended the property be viewed again regarding the structural deficiency and indicated a recommendation would be provided to the Board before they reconvene on April 28th.

·        Michael Steinhaus, 215 North Third Street. Assessor Pehrson recommended the valuation be reduced to $158,700 after having reviewed the property.

·        Mark Karlsrud, 711 North 8th Street.  Assessor Pehrson recommended the valuation be reduced to $184,000.

·        JoAnn Fossen Pedersen, 723 North Minnesota Avenue.  The Board recommended a reduction to $164,400.