MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

DECEMBER 14, 2009

 

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 14, 2009.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Pfeifer, Kvamme, Vogel, Wetherill, Eichmann, Spriggs 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 that Item “K” – Bernhagen Open Agreement – would be removed from the agenda and an employee appointment would be added under the consent agenda.  A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, to approve the agenda as modified.  With all in favor, the motion carried. 

 

Approval of Minutes –  A motion was made by Spriggs, seconded by Wetherill, to approve the minutes of the November 23, 2009 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 23, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Councilmember Presentation – Mayor Strand presented outgoing Councilmember Vogel with a Certificate of Appreciation and a clock for her service on the Council.  Councilmember Vogel expressed her appreciation to the voters of Saint Peter and wished the Council and the City well.

 

Consent Agenda –  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-231 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced with the addition of the appointment of a new Youth Center Coordinator.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as modified.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-231 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

2010 Tax Levy/Budget Adoption –  Finance Director O'Connell reviewed the property tax process including the agencies that are included on local tax bills; influences on taxes such as levy limits and unallottment actions by the State; the budget process; a 3.9% decrease in spending in the general fund; revenue and expenditure projections; an increase in general fund reserves; action to levy back funds which were previously unallotted; and a decrease in tax capacity.  O’Connell recommended adoption of the tax levy in the amount of $2,020,342 or a 14.28% increase in taxes.   In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-232 entitled “Resolution Adopting Final 2009 Tax Levy Collectible In 2010” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-232 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-233 entitled “Resolution Approving The General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, Debt Service Funds, Capital Funds, And Agency Funds For The 2010 Year” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-233 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Construction Mitigation Loan Program –  Community Development Director Wille reported 22 loans for the Construction Mitigation Loan Program had been distributed with one more expected before the end of the year and the program had been extremely successful and well received by the business community.  Wille recommended December 31, 2009 be established as the deadline for applications for the loan program.   In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-234 entitled “Resolution Providing Deadline For Applications For Construction Mitigation Micro Loan Program” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-234 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Stormwater Assessment –  Finance Director O'Connell recommended approval of the proposed assessment of $8,604.70 for stormwater improvements to property owned by David Neiman which had been removed from a prior Council agenda.  O’Connell also recommended the assessments be spread over a 10 year period at 4.49% interest as per the City’s assessment policy.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-235 entitled “Resolution Adopting Stormwater Improvement Assessment” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-235 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Revolving Loan Fund Application:  Hunter Hardwoods –  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to approve an application for a revolving loan for Hunter Hardwood, Inc. to fund partial remodeling of their existing structure at 220 Dodd Avenue.  Wille indicated the loan amount was for $29,748 which would be amortized over 15 years at 3% interest with a balloon payment at five years.  Wille also outlined the loan security which would include liens on fixtures, furnishings, equipment, vehicles, and accounts receivable as well as personal guarantees by the owner Greg Schletter and his spouse.  Wille commended Mr. Schletter for his ability to increase his revenues by over 13% in an economic downturn which was accomplished by expanding his product line to other floor coverings.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-236 entitled “Resolution Approving A $29,748 Revolving Loan To Hunter Hardwood, Inc. To Partially Finance Remodeling Of Commercial Structure At 220 Dodd Avenue” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-236 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Pharmacy Lease At River's Edge Clinic – City Administrator Prafke recommended execution of a lease with Erickson’s Diversified for operation of a pharmacy within River's Edge Hospital and Clinic.  Prafke indicated the lease document, which had been drafted by the City Attorney, had not been signed by Erickson’s Diversified yet, but was expected any day.  Prafke recommended the lease be executed following approval of the final document by the City Attorney.  Prafke indicated the lease term was for 24 months with five additional 3-year options; 2,300 square feet; $23,000 per year plus a prorated share of common space maintenance; and the lease to start within 60 days of when pharmacy operations begin whichever comes first.  Councilmember Kvamme asked for a bullet point in the resolution to be modified so the language was more understandable.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-237 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Lease With Erickson’s Diversified For Pharmacy Space At River's Edge Clinic” was introduced with the requested modification to the resolution.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-237 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Water Rates/Budget –  Finance Director O'Connell recommended approval of an increase in water rates effective with bills due March 15, 2010.  O’Connell indicated the proposed rate increase was 2.5% on base charges and an increase in rates for irrigation meters larger than 5/8”.  O’Connell also recommended the water budget be approved with the new rates included in revenue projections.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether his irrigation rates would increase and staff indicated very few property owners had meters larger than 5/8”.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Spriggs, Resolution No. 2009-238 entitled “Resolution Adopting Water Rates” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-238 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Spriggs, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-239 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2010 Water Fund Budget” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-239 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Wastewater Rates/Budget –  Finance Director O'Connell recommended approval of a 4.6% increase in wastewater rates effective with bills due March 15, 2010.  O’Connell also recommended approval of the wastewater fund budget which included revenue projections based on the increased rates.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-240 entitled “Resolution Adopting Wastewater Rates” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-240 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Spriggs, Resolution No. 2009-241 entitled “Resolution Adopting The 2010 Wastewater Fund Budget” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-241 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  O’Connell also reported that customers would be notified of the rate increase prior to incurring charges under the new rates.

 

Municipal Fee Schedule Update –  City Administrator Prafke recommended several modifications to the municipal fee schedule to be effective January 1, 2010.  In motion by Spriggs, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-242 entitled “Resolution Establishing Year 2010 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. 2009-242 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Donation Acceptance –  City Administrator Prafke recommended acceptance of a $25,000 donation from an anonymous donor to be used for purchase of holiday decorations for the downtown.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-243 entitled “Resolution Accepting Donation For Downtown Holiday Decorations” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-243 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  Councilmembers Pfeifer and Wetherill expressed their appreciation to the donor.

 

Fire Department Engineer Position Description –  City Administrator Prafke recommended the position of full-time Engineer/Maintenance Worker be established following the retirement of the Fire Department Engineer.  Prafke reported the new position would work 4/5ths in the Fire Department and the remainder in the Public Works Department assisting Parks and Streets.  Prafke recommended approval of the proposed job description, pay equity points, starting wage, and authorization for staff to begin recruitment for the position.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-244 entitled “Resolution Establishing Engineer/Maintenance Worker Position” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-244 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

No Maintenance Trail/Sidewalk Designation –  City Administrator Prafke recommended certain trails and sidewalks be once again designated as “no maintenance” during the winter months to save money.  Prafke indicated the proposal was for the same trails and sidewalks as were previously considered and the only change was to approve the designation for a two year period.  Councilmember Spriggs asked if complaints had been received in the past about the designation and staff indicted there were a few.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Spriggs, Resolution No. 2009-245 entitled “Resolution Establishing ‘No Maintenance’ Trails For The Winters Of 2010-2011” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-245 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

City Administrator Contract Extension – City Attorney Brandt recommended execution of a contract extension for City Administrator Prafke.  Brandt reviewed all the accomplishments of the City Administrator in 2009 and indicated that while a substantial salary increase was certainly warranted, Mr. Prafke had agreed to waive any salary increase due to the economic climate.  Councilmember Pfeifer commended Mr. Prafke for his services and asked that future Councils don’t forget Mr. Prafke’s accomplishments in 2009 when considering any compensation for him.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-246 entitled “Resolution Modifying City Administrator’s Employment Contract” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-246 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Non-Union/Non-Contract Employee Wages – City Administrator Prafke recommended all full-time, non-union, non-contract employees be provided with a 3% wage increase effective January 1, 2010.  Prafke reminded Councilmembers of their desire that all employees be treated equitably and noted three unions had been unwilling to reopen their contracts to provide for reduced wage increases.  Prafke also pointed out that the 3% increase had been provided for in the 2010 budgets and if the State would approve additional unallocation of State aid, the City would look at reducing full-time equivalent employees.   In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-247 entitled “Resolution Establishing 2010 Wage 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. 2009-247 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Contract Diesel Fuel Purchase –  City Administrator Prafke recommended accepting the quote from Genesis in the amount of $2.39/gallon for the contract purchase of 18,000 gallons of #1 diesel fuel.  Prafke indicated that 3 out of 4 previous contract fuel purchases had saved the City money.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-248 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Contract Purchase Of Diesel Fuel” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-248 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

Mayor’s Report – Mayor Strand thanked Councilmember Spriggs for serving as Mayor pro tem during his absence and indicated how impressed he was with the downtown lighting and all the Christmas lights.  Strand expressed his appreciation to the anonymous donor.

 

City Council Reception – City Administrator Prafke reminded the Council of the reception for outgoing Councilmember Vogel and incoming Councilmember-elect Carlin which had been scheduled for December 15th.

 

Snow Emergency Notification Procedures – City Administrator Prafke reviewed the procedures used to notify the public of snow emergencies and encouraged the public to call the City information line for snow emergency information.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 23, 2009

 

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 23, 2009.

 

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

 

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

 

Public Hearing:  Assessment of Unpaid Street, Water, Wastewater And Miscellaneous Improvement Charges – Mayor pro tem Spriggs opened the public hearing on assessment of unpaid charges for street, water, wastewater and miscellaneous improvements at 7:02 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell provided an overview of the process used for assessment of charges relating to water, street and wastewater improvements along Highway 169, driveway repairs, and also pointed out the proposed assessments included costs associated with replacement of a play structure in Nicollet Meadows Subdivision which had been requested and agreed to by the property owner.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:04 p.m.

 

Public Hearing:  Assessment of Unpaid Utility Charges – Mayor pro tem Spriggs opened the public hearing on assessment of unpaid utility charges at 7:04 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell reviewed the proposed assessments for unpaid utility charges which equaled approximately $33,000, of which $13,588.29 would be assessed and $19,557.86 would be written off as bad debt.  O’Connell reported the assessments would be for one year at 1.39% interest.  City Administrator Prafke reported an appeal letter had been received from Trinity Lutheran Church asking for forgiveness of the $993.15 assessment proposed for the Church’s rental residential property.  Mayor pro tem Spriggs read the letter to the Council.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:06 p.m.

 

Public Hearing:  Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges – Mayor pro tem Spriggs opened the public hearing on assessment of unpaid miscellaneous charges at 7:06 p.m.  Finance Director O'Connell recommended assessment of $1,345 in miscellaneous charges for snow removal, weed removal, sidewalk repair and other services provided on private property.  O’Connell pointed out that $1,925.81 in additional debt was recommended to be written off as bad debt due to bankruptcies.  There being no further speakers, the public hearing was declared closed at 7:07 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes – A motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel to approve the minutes of the November 9th Finance Committee meeting and the regular Council meeting.  City Administrator Prafke asked the Council to consider each set of minutes as a separate action and the motion and second were withdrawn.

 

A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the November 9, 2009 Finance Committee meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the November 9, 2009 regular Finance Committee meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the November 9, 2009 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 9, 2009 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. 2009-216 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. 2009-216 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Assessment of Unpaid Street, Water, Wastewater And Miscellaneous Improvement Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended assessment of unpaid street, water, wastewater and miscellaneous improvements that will be assessed based on the City’s assessment policy at 4.49% interest.  City Administrator Prafke asked the Council to remove the proposed assessment for David Neiman to give staff some time to review issues related to the work which had been completed.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-217 entitled “Resolution Adopting Street, Water, Wastewater And Miscellaneous Improvement Assessments” was introduced with the requested modification to remove the Neiman assessment.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned where the City was getting the money from for the upfront costs associated with the $211,000 in water and sewer line repairs which were being assessed.  O’Connell indicated the money was from the Permanent Improvement Revolving (PIR) fund and when the assessments are paid, those funds plus interest would be returned to the PIR fund.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-217 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Utility Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended assessment of utility charges remaining unpaid as of May 15, 2009 in the amount of $13,588.29 over one year at 1.39% interest.  O’Connell reported the amount is slightly higher than in the last few years based on a business bankruptcy in the amount of $7,000.  O’Connell also reported that the remaining funds, which were unpaid utility charges, could not be assessed because Minnesota law does not allow assessment of unpaid electric charges from tenants to be assessed to the property owner.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned how the City could assess a non-taxable entity like the church.  O’Connell indicated the proposed assessment was recordable and non-taxable properties pay other taxes such as stormwater assessments.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned whether there was a precedent for allowing non-profits to not pay assessments for unpaid utilities.  O’Connell indicated there was not.   In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-218 entitled “Resolution Adopting Assessments For Unpaid Charges For Municipal Utilities And The Writing Off Of Bad Debt Utility Charges” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-218 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Assessment of Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges – Finance Director O'Connell recommended assessment of unpaid charges for snow and weed removal, sidewalk repairs and service repairs totaling $1,345.39 to be assessed over one year at 1.39% interest and $1,925.81 for water shut off and sidewalk replacement be written off as bad debt under bankruptcies.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-219 entitled “Resolution Adopting Assessment For Unpaid Miscellaneous Charges And Authorizing Writing Off Certain Charges” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-219 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Trunk Highway 333 Mill and Overlay Project Final Acceptance – Public Works Director Giesking recommended acceptance of the Trunk Highway 333 Mill and Overlay Project which had been completed as per the plans and specifications.  Giesking announced the final contract price was $40,762.25.  Giesking also expressed appreciation to City Engineer Jeff Domras who took over administration of the project while City staff was busy with the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-220 entitled “Resolution Accepting Trunk Highway 333 (Sheppard Drive) Mill And Overlay Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-220 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Refunding Bonds Approval – Finance Director O'Connell recommended Council ratification of the refunding bond purchase which had been approved by the Mayor and City Administrator under the conditions outlined in a previous Council resolution.  O’Connell reminded Councilmembers they had adopted an earlier resolution directing David Drown Associates to negotiate the sale of refunding bonds for the Nicollet Meadows, Mason Street and North Industrial Park Subdivision bonds if the savings that would be realized exceeded $150,000.  O’Connell indicated a savings of $155,064 were being realized upon negotiation with Northland Securities for the sale of $2,990,000 in bonds at 3.25% interest.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out the terms of the bonds would not be longer than the original issuance, but the interest rate had dropped resulting in the savings.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-221 entitled “Resolution Providing For The Issuance And Sale Of $2,990,000 General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 21009C And Pledging For The Security Thereof Tax Increments 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. 2009-221 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

SMMPA Contract Extension – Public Works Director Giesking and City Administrator Prafke presented a recommendation for extension of the power sales contract between the City and Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA).  Giesking indicated SMMPA had asked for a 20 year extension to ensure future projects, which are to be financed, would be eligible for financing.  Giesking indicated the lending agencies would be less willing to finance capital projects if the life of the debt exceeded the SMMPA member contracts.  Prafke outlined all the information staff had gathered to assist the Council with their decision including rate studies, a study commissioned by SMMPA member cities; discussions with other power providers; projections on future electric rates and current rates for other providers; and information on the Sherco 3 coal fired generation plant which is partially owned by SMMPA.  Prafke indicated his discussions with other power suppliers had resulted in a willingness for some to work with the City, but an unwillingness to execute an agreement now for power sales in 2031 and beyond.  Prafke also pointed out that all the research and discussion was basically a risk/loss analysis and staff felt the City’s ability to provide power to customers in the future was enhanced by being a member of SMMPA. 

 

Prafke also pointed out that SMMPA’s rates were not the lowest, but that Sherco 3 was the newest coal fired generation facility in the upper Midwest which is a benefit and as the debt for Sherco 3 is paid off the City’s rates should be affected favorably.  Councilmember Pfeifer asked Giesking to explain what “MISO” is.  Giesking reported MISO is Midwest Independent System Operator polls generators in nine different states in order to make bids on the lowest cost electricity and SMMPA staff was very well versed in working with MISO and that the rates fluctuate all day long every day of the week.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned what maintenance or upgrading is done at the Sherco 3 plant.  Giesking reported maintenance is done every three years in October, when demand and purchase costs are lower, and indicated Excel Energy, the majority owner of the plant, wants to keep it a state of the art facility and the plant has already been switched from analog operation to digital.

 

Councilmember Spriggs questioned what would happen to the investments the City has made in SMMPA.  Giesking pointed out that any investments the City has made must be left with SMMPA should the City’s membership in SMMPA cease.

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-222 entitled “Resolution Approving Extension Of Power Sales Contract With Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA)” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-222 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Curb Cut Agreement:  Nielsen/Rislove – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization for execution of curb cut agreements between the City and Robert Nielsen and Paul Rislove for two parcels owned by them which are currently for sale.  Giesking pointed out driveway access to the two parcels owned by Nielsen and Rislove had been closed to facilitate completion of sidewalk and amenities along Highway 169 and the property owners had agreed to it upon the condition that the future property owner(s) would have the right to request installation of driveway access(es) funded by the City.  Giesking indicated current prices would suggest a price for installation of each driveway at $12,000.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that should development occur on either or both of the parcels in question, the City would push for development at the curb line with parking in the rear of the property as is standard in the Heritage Preservation District and that would lessen the chance of the driveways being installed.   In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-223 entitled “Resolution Approving An Agreement With Nielsen-Rislove Regarding Possible Future Installation Of Driveways” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-223 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Substation Transformer Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking presented a recommendation regarding the bid award for purchase of a substation transformer which included rejection of the Howard Industries bid for failure to meet bid requirements (unsigned bid); rejection of the low bid from WESCO for failure to meet bid requirements (failure to pre-qualify for the bid, using an unacceptable manufacturer, having a limited track record and in-service history with similar transformers, and unfavorable quality control issues expressed by other customers); and acceptance of the bid form Delta Star in the amount of $359,278.  Giesking indicated the transformer is important to the continued operation of the main substation where at least two other transformers are over 40 years old.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out the engineer’s estimate on the transformer was $500,000.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2009-224 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Electric Power Transformer For The Substation” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-224 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Water Supply Plan Adoption – Public Works Director Giesking and Water Utility Superintendent Moulton recommended adoption of an updated water supply plan for the City.  Moulton reported the plan update was authorized by the Council two years ago and staff had been waiting for State approval.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-225 entitled “Resolution Adopting Water Supply Plan” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-225 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Solicitation Of Bids For 2009 Streetlight Replacement Project – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to solicit bids for the purchase of replacement streetlights along Highway 169 outside of the downtown area.  Giesking indicated the lights would be LED lights and would provide for a much lower level of lighting on the Highway similar to what is on North Washington Avenue.  Giesking also indicated MnDOT had asked the City to handle the project and the estimated budget was $290,000 with $150,000 budgeted in electric funds and $140,000 being funded by MnDOT.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned when the lights would be installed and Giesking responded the work would be done in the spring and summer of 2010.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-226 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Bids For 2009 Streetlight Replacement Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-226 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2010 – 2011 Legal Services Contract – City Administrator Prafke presented the Finance Committee recommendation for approval of a two year contract with Brandt Law Offices to provide legal services to the City.  Prafke indicated the contract called for a $5 per hour increase for the City Attorney and Assistant City Attorney in 2010 and no increase in 2011.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-227 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of 2010-2011 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. 2009-227 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2010 Environmental Services And Stormwater Fund Budgets – Finance Director O'Connell recommended adoption of the Environmental Services budget ($706,652) and the Stormwater budget ($1,113,678) for 2010.  O’Connell indicated neither fund was slated for a rate increase, but the Stormwater budget included $575,894 for capital projects.  Councilmember Kvamme pointed out that much of the stormwater work done by MnDOT as part of the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project would have been funded by the City if not for the project.  City Administrator Prafke indicated that was the case and that the stormwater “defenders” being utilized for stormwater treatment as part of the project cost hundreds of thousands of dollars which the City did not have to pay.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-228 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2010 Environmental Services 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. 2009-228 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2010-2011 Senior Services Contract – City Administrator Prafke recommended execution of a contract with Nicollet County for provision of senior services through utilization of the County’s Senior Coordinator and shared costs for the monthly senior newsletter.  Prafke indicated the cost to the City was approximately $20-22,000 per year and the contract would be for two years.  Prafke also pointed out that previously the Council had considered the contract in conjunction with a transportation services contract, however staff was no longer recommending the transportation contract because the services were rarely used by the County.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-229 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Senior Citizen Contract Between The City And Nicollet County” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-229 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Equipment Certificate Purchases – Finance Director O'Connell requested authorization for purchase of a computer network server, a scanner and UPS system in the amount of $12,219.02 to be funded by the 2003 and 2009 equipment certificates and by utilities funds.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-230 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Computer Hardware Funded By 2003 And 2009 Equipment Certificates And Utility Funds” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-230 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update-  Public Works Director Giesking reported on the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project and indicated several items will be installed in the spring including lighting, urns, fencing, stormwater defenders at Skaro, Chatham and Mulberry, sidewalks north and south of the downtown area, boulevards re-graded, and installation of trees and sod.  Giesking also indicated the temporary stoplights would be coming down at the end of the week and the truck detour would be eliminated.

 

City/County Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke and Councilmember Pfeifer reported on discussion at the City/County meeting of November 18th which included future compost site, library services, Highway 169 Coalition, and a possible composting partnership with the County.

 

City Council Reception – City Administrator Prafke informed the Council that December 15th had been scheduled for the reception for outgoing Councilmember Vogel and incoming Councilmember-elect Carlin.

 

Councilmember Thanks – Councilmember Vogel, who indicated the meeting was one of her last as a Councilmember, thanked the residents of Saint Peter for electing her to the Council and wished success to the City of Saint Peter and the City Council.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 9, 2009

 

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 9, 2009.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:18 p.m. after explaining that technical difficulties with the public access equipment prevented the meeting from starting on time. The following members were present:  Councilmembers Pfeifer, Kvamme, Vogel, Wetherill, Eichmann and Mayor Strand. Absent was Councilmember Spriggs.  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 Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, to approve the agenda.  With all in favor, the motion carried. 

 

Approval of Minutes – A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, to approve the minutes of the October 26, 2009 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 26, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda –  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-201 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned the stormwater repairs included on the consent agenda and asked where the repairs were made and how much pipe was involved.  Public Works Director Giesking indicated he wasn’t sure of the location for the repair in question, but the repair included replacement of catchbasins which are budgeted for replacement at the rate of 4 per year and that numerous catch basins, maybe as many as half of the entire system, were failing and would be budgeted for replacement.  Upon roll call, all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-201 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Wellhead Protection Plan Public Hearing – Public Works Director Giesking recommended a public hearing be scheduled for January 25, 2010 regarding the City’s wellhead protection plan update.  Giesking pointed out the Council held a public hearing on this issue at the October 26, 2009 meeting, but had since discovered that the proper notice of the hearing had not been published and it would have to be done again to comply with state regulations.   In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-202 entitled “Resolution Scheduling Public Hearing To Receive Comments On The City’s Wellhead Protection Plan Update” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-202 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

General Election Results Canvass -  City Administrator Prafke recommended acceptance of the general election results of November 3, 2009 as required by State law.  Prafke also pointed out that adoption of the resolution would trigger the period for contesting the election.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-203 entitled “Resolution Canvassing 2009 Municipal Election Returns” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-203 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.   Councilmember Kvamme extended a warm welcome to Councilmember-Elect Susan Carlin who was in the audience.

 

Library Services Contract -  City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for execution of a contract with Nicollet County for the City to provide library services to County residents living outside the City limits.  Prafke indicated the contract amount had increased to $45,017 based on the elimination of library service to the Nicollet Schools but the City would actually experience a net loss of funding of $3,000-4,000 in 2010.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-204 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Library Services Contract” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-204 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

School District Lease Of City Owned Property At 618 West Broadway Avenue -  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a resolution providing for lease of space in the old hospital to the School District for storage of paper products for a one year period at $400 per month.  Prafke indicated the space to be used was the old physical therapy room and one bay of the old emergency room.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-205 entitled “Resolution Approving Lease Of City Owned Property At 618 West Broadway Avenue By School District #508” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-205 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Unbudgeted Purchase:  Replacement Fax Machine -  City Administrator Prafke requested authorization to purchase a replacement fax machine for City Hall to be funded by general fund reserves.  Prafke recommended acceptance of the quote from Marco in the amount of $1,236.25.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-206 entitled “Resolution Approving Unbudgeted Purchase Of Replacement Fax Machine” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-206 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Electric Utility Easement Agreement -  Public Works Director Giesking recommended execution of a permanent electric utility easement agreement with Nash-Finch for installation of streetlight wires.  Giesking indicated the recommendation to cross private property was being made because it would eliminate the need to cross the highway and any disruption to the Econofoods parking lot which now stretched across vacated Myrtle Street.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-207 entitled “Resolution Approving Electrical Utility Easement” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-207 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Gault Park Project Modification – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to purchase roll up garage doors, ceiling board and insulation for the Gault Park concession/restroom building.  Giesking indicated the additional expenditure of $22,251.68 would allow the building to be completed for use in three different seasons.  Giesking outlined a plan for financing the additional expenditures which included $9,918.13 from Parkland Dedication Funds, $9,500 from savings from other projects funded by the parks budget, and $3,500 from reserve funds which would be reimbursed by future donations.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-208 entitled “Resolution Approving Funding For Additional Items To Complete The Basic Shelter/Restroom/Concession Building At Gault Park” was introduced.  Councilmember Eichmann questioned who would be able to use the building and what the fees would be for use of it.  Giesking indicated use of the building would be open to the public, would be scheduled using the reservation process that is utilized for other City buildings and a fee would be established by the Council at a later date.   Giesking did indicate his belief that the building would be very popular with the public because of its proximity to a parking lot, being a three season building, and heavier park use on the north end of the community.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-208 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Assessment Of Unpaid Street, Water, Wastewater And Miscellaneous Improvements -  Finance Director O'Connell recommended initiation of the process for assessment of unpaid street, water, wastewater and miscellaneous improvements that will be assessed based on the City’s assessment policy at 4.49% interest.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-209 entitled “Resolution Declaring Cost To Be Assessed And Ordering Preparation Of Proposed Assessment Of Street, Water, Wastewater And Miscellaneous Improvements” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-209 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2009-210 entitled “Resolution Calling For Public Hearing On Proposed Assessments Of Street, Water, Wastewater, And Miscellaneous Improvements” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-210 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 process for assessment of utility charges remaining unpaid as of May 15, 2009 in the amount of approximately $33,000 assessed over one year at 1.39% interest.  O’Connell reported the amount is slightly higher than in the last few years based on a business bankruptcy in the amount of $7,000.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-211 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. 2009-211 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-212 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. 2009-212 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 process for assessment of unpaid charges for snow and weed removal, sidewalk repairs and service repairs totaling $3,877.67 to be assessed over one year at 1.39% interest.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-213 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. 2009-213 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-214 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. 2009-214 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 Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities board meeting where he had the opportunity to interview candidates for Governor; attending a Gustavus Adolphus College football game as a guest of President Ohle; and the local election.

 

Strand also reported about an anonymous mailing that was being distributed to local businesses and the elderly prior to the election and indicated he felt the mailing was a “scare tactic”.  Strand indicated the $70 million debt referenced in the mailing was caused by construction of new buildings since the tornado and the City’s Auditor had assured the Council that the debt was being handled appropriately.  Councilmember Kvamme pointed out that less than $10 million of the bonds were funded by property taxes and that portion of the debt was ax increment financing.  Kvamme also pointed out that the remaining debt was funded by income derived from the project the bonds funded. 

 

Election Appreciation – Councilmember Eichmann thanked residents for re-electing him to the Council and apologized for not being able to attend the candidates forum when he was at his son’s military graduation ceremony.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update-  Public Works Director Giesking reported on the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project and outlined the numerous activities that are currently underway throughout the project site.  Giesking also encouraged residents to attend the project celebration on November 14th and indicated most of the work would be done on the Highway by that date.  Giesking also indicated the public would be able to stroll on the highway which would still be closed to traffic on the 14th and would open in the very near future.  Giesking also pointed out the stormwater “defenders” that will be used along Front Street and are a significant improvement in the treatment of stormwater.

 

Highway 333 Turnback Project – Public Works Director Giesking reported the contractor had finished reconstruction of Highway 333 which is located south of Highway 99 off Nicollet Avenue.  Giesking also pointed out the project had been completed under budget and the City would be able to retain the difference between the actual amount and the $60,000 to be allocated to the City by the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

 

City/County Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reported the City/County meeting had been rescheduled for November 18th at City Hall.

 

Closed Session:  Union Negotiations -  City Administrator Prafke requested a closed session to discuss union negotiations with all five of the City’s bargaining units.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-215 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. 2009-215 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss negotiations with Law Enforcement Labor Services Local No. 241 (Police) at 8:30 p.m.  The Council returned to open session at 8:31 p.m.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss negotiations with Law Enforcement Labor Services Local No. 240 (Dispatchers) at 8:32 p.m.  The Council returned to open session at 8:35 p.m.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss negotiations with International Union of Operating Engineers Local No. 70 (Utilities) at 8:35 p.m.  The Council returned to open session at 8:37 p.m.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss negotiations with International Union of Operating Engineers Local No. 70 (Streets) at 8:38 p.m.  The Council returned to open session at 8:42 p.m.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session to discuss negotiations with International Union of Operating Engineers Local No. 70 (Parks) at 8:42 p.m.  The Council returned to open session at 8:46 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 8:47 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING

NOVEMBER 9, 2009

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a meeting of the City Council Finance Committee was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on November 9, 2009.

 

A quorum present, Chairperson Kvamme called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Vogel and Mayor Strand.  The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke, City Attorney Brandt and Assistant City Attorney Menning.  Also present were Councilmembers Wetherill and Eichmann.

 

2010 Legal Services Contract – City Attorney James Brandt provided a presentation on the contract proposed by Brandt Law Office to provide legal services for the City of Saint Peter in 2010 which included a $5 per hour increase for both attorneys.   Councilmembers discussed whether the increase was a strategy that is utilized by other vendors who have contracts with the City; at what level the City Attorney participates in union discussions; and how the student practitioner is utilized by the City Attorney’s office.  Answers were provided by City Attorney Brandt and City Administrator Prafke.

 

Councilmember Wetherill, who was not a member of the Finance Committee, but was attending the meeting, asked a question about service provision regarding cell phones and health insurance.  City Administrator Prafke provided information about the implication of the contract and that those costs were paid wholly by the City Attorney and that the contract only provides access to the rates provided to the City. Councilmember Kvamme questioned how much was budgeted legal services in 2010 and City Administrator Prafke provided the budgeted amount.

 

A motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme to recommend approval of the 2010 legal services contract to the City Council.    With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:37 p.m.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

OCTOBER 26, 2009

 

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 26, 2009.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Pfeifer, Spriggs, Kvamme, Vogel, Wetherill and Mayor Strand.  Absent was Councilmember Eichmann.  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. 

 

Public Hearing:  Wellhead Protection Plan – Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on the City’s wellhead protection plan at 7:03 p.m.  City Water Utility Superintendent Moulton and Engineer Mark Janovec from Bonestroo Associates provided an overview of Part 2 of the City’s wellhead protection plan.  Janovec outlined the goals of the plan which included public education to increase awareness of where the City’s drinking water comes from, establishing where the drinking water supply is vulnerable to contaminants, and development of a management plant to ensure best management practices are followed and the City meets all State and Federal drinking water standards.  Councilmember Kvamme asked who is responsible for inspection of septic systems in the wellhead protection area.  Janovec indicated the County is responsible for inspecting those systems and the City can ask to be notified by the County of any septic systems that fail.  City Administrator Prafke reported the City had a wonderful working relationship with the County Environmental Services Department and information is shared on a regular basis.

 

Approval of Minutes – A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Kvamme, to approve the minutes of the October 12, 2009 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, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda –  In motion by Spriggs, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-193 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-193 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Revolving Loan Fund Request:  Mary’s Flowers -  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a revolving loan in the amount of $37,000 to Preston and Mary Smith dba Mary’s Flowers.  Wille reported the terms of the loan provided for 3% interest amortized over 20 years with a balloon payment due at five years; a mortgage on the property which will be second to a mortgage held by Nicollet County Bank; a lien on the furnishings, equipment, inventory and accounts receivable; personal guarantees by Preston and Mary Smith; and a requirement that all proceeds will be due and payable should the operation cease to exist in Saint Peter.  Wille also pointed out that the loan funds would be provided after the first of the year for tax purposes.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-194 entitled “Resolution Approving $37,000 Revolving Loan To Mary And Preston Smith (dba Mary’s Flowers) To Partially Finance Remodeling Of 1123 South Minnesota Avenue” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-194 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Revolving Loan Fund Deferral Request:  Volk Electric -  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to approve a request from Brian Grey of Volk Electric to defer the November 1, 2009 balloon payment due on his revolving loan to November 1, 2011.  Wille indicated Mr. Grey had cited the general economic conditions and start-up of a plumbing and heating business as his reasons for making the deferral request.  Wille pointed out Mr. Grey is current on all payments and would continue to make monthly payments at the current rate.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Spriggs, Resolution No. 2009-195 entitled “Resolution Modifying Terms Of Revolving Loan Previously Provided To Volk Electric” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-195 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Revolving Loan Fund Deferral Request:  Traverse des Sioux Garden Center -  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to approve a request from Lydell and Joy Struck of Traverse des Sioux Garden Center for deferral of the balloon payment which was due on their revolving loan October 1, 2009 to October 1, 2011.  Wille indicated Mr. Struck was seeking the deferral due to the impact the economic downturn has had on his business and the need to pay assessments for the improvement of Dranttel Street.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-196 entitled “Resolution Modifying Revolving Loan Terms For Lydell And Joy Struck D.B.A. Traverse Des Sioux Garden Center” was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned the process used by the EDA for revolving loans, which included requiring a balloon payment, and all the recent deferral requests loan recipients are making.  Wille indicated the EDA will certainly review the process and it is possible that in 1-2 years there will not be a recommendation for deferral of a balloon payment.  Wille also pointed out that some cities would require a denial letter from a bank before considering a request to defer a balloon payment.  Wille cautioned that the deferral requests already considered by the Council were not likely to be the last that would be submitted.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-196 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Approval For Water/Sewer Projects -  Water Utility Superintendent Moulton requested approval for repair of private water and sewer lines for properties along Highway 169 in an amount totaling $39,461.48 and indicated the work would be done by two separate contractors.  Moulton also pointed out the projects would be assessed to the private property owners under the City’s assessment policy and the total amount of these projects had risen from the original $149,000 total to $188,000.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-197 entitled “Resolution Approving Water And Sewer Line Repair Along Highway 169” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-197 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Accounts Payable Clerk/Receptionist Position -  City Administrator Prafke recommended the creation of a full-time Accounts Payable Clerk/Receptionist position that would replace a full-time Receptionist and a part-time Accounts Payable Clerk.  Prafke recommended establishing the pay equity points at 135, the starting wage at $12.25 per hour and approval of the job description with authorization to begin the recruitment process.  Prafke also pointed out savings would be realized by the creation of the new position and elimination of the two current positions and that savings had already included been in the preliminary budget for 2010.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-198 entitled “Resolution Establishing Accounts Payable Clerk/Receptionist Position” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-198 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Rental Re-Inspection Fees -  Director of Building Busse addressed the Council to request modification to the rental inspection fees.  Busse recommended establishing a $20 re-inspection fee that would help with the goal of achieving compliance prior to inspection so that additional staff time is not necessary to re-inspect rental units.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out the impact on the 2010 budget was approximately $7,000 and Busse reported there were just over 1,000 rental units in Saint Peter.  Busse asked for the fee change to be effective January 1, 2010 so that letters notifying rental owners of the need to re-certify their properties, which are ready to be sent out for next year’s inspections, could reflect the change in fees.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-199 entitled “Resolution Modifying Municipal Fee Schedule Regarding Rental Housing Registration And Inspections” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-199 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

License Applications -  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of soft drink and tobacco licenses for the new owner of Shell Super Stop convenience store.  Prafke pointed out the licenses would only be for November and December and renewal would be required in January with other other license holders.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-200 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. 2009-200 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

Sister City Visit – Mayor Strand reported on the visit to Saint Peter by officials from Petatlan, Mexico, the City’s “Sister City”.  Strand reported the Petatlan officials felt very welcomed by the Saint Peter community and he thanked the committee members for their work on the project and during the visit.  Strand also expressed appreciation for those who hosted or attended events for the visitors. 

 

Mayor’s Reports- Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included Region Nine Development Commission meetings and the candidate’s forum.  Strand also encouraged voters to cast their ballot on election day.

 

Public Access Schedule – Councilmember Pfeifer mentioned that the public access schedule was inaccurate and asked for staff to correct the schedule.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update-  City Administrator Prafke indicated the changes in the Highway detour were a good indication the project is nearing the end and encouraged interested residents to attend the public meetings held each Friday at 7:30 a.m. at the Senior Center.  Community Development Director Wille provided information on the November 14th events being held in the downtown area to commemorate the conclusion of the project and encouraged residents to attend all or part of the festivities.  Wille also reported 21 applications had been distributed for the construction micro loan program, five businesses had received funds already, two more had been approved for funding and three more were underway.

 

General Election – City Administrator Prafke reminded residents of the general election being held on Tuesday, November 3rd and encouraged everyone to remember to vote.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

OCTOBER 12, 2009

 

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 12, 2009.

 

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

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes – A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Spriggs, to approve the minutes of the September 28, 2009 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 28, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda –  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2009-184 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Councilmember Spriggs questioned whether the bicycles that were proposed as surplus property had been advertised so owners could get their bikes back.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the bikes are not advertised before surplus declaration and that the Police Department works to return all registered bikes back to the licensed owner.  Upon roll call, all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-184 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Refinancing Bond Correction -  Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates, the City’s financial consulting firm, addressed the Council to ask that the refinancing bond resolution adopted by the City Council on September 28th, be rescinded due to an error in information provided in that resolution.  Sweeney indicated the previous resolution specified “gross savings” of $300,000 for refinancing bonds related to North Industrial Park Subdivision, Nicollet Meadows and Mason Street and the actual figure should have been “net present value savings” of $150,000 based on current rates.  Sweeney also pointed out there would be no change in the Hospital portion of the resolution.  In motion by Spriggs, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-185 entitled “Resolution Rescinding Resolution No. 2009-169 And Approving Issuance Of Up To $3,100,000 General Obligation Refunding Bonds And $14,400,000 General Obligation Hospital Refunding Bonds Subject To Approval Of Mayor And Administrator And Ratification By City Council” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-185 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Water Plant Bond Qualification Designation -  City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a resolution that would designate the water treatment plant bonds as “non-bank qualified” bonds that would still be tax exempt.  Prafke pointed out that the action was being taken because the proposed refinancing of the bonds indicated in the previous Council action, which was not anticipated when the PFA bonds were being accepted, would push the City to the statutory limit for issuance of bonds in any one year.  Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates indicated the water bonds are not considered “issued” until $50,000 in funding is drawn from the bonds, but the recommendation to change the designation from “bank qualified” to “non-bank qualified” was being made to ensure the City is forthright with the Internal Revenue Service about the status of the bonds.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-186 entitled “Resolution Amending Accepting Offer Of The Minnesota Public Facilities Authority To Purchase A $16,731,458 General Obligation Water Revenue Note Of 2009, Providing For Its Issuance And Authorizing Execution Of A Bond Purchase And Project Loan Agreement” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-186 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Highway 169 Construction Micro Loan Program -  Community Development Director Wille recommended establishment of a Highway 169 Construction Micro Loan program to assist businesses abutting Highway 169 with payment of lease/rent, and utility payments during the construction project.  Wille indicated many businesses are struggling due to decreased sales and the loans would be available in amounts up to $6,000 (depending on location of the business along the Highway 169 corridor), at zero percent interest, and deferred repayment until February 1, 2011.  Councilmember Pfeifer expressed his belief that the loan program is a really good way for the City to help businesses during the construction project.  Wille indicated several businesses had already contacted him about the program and he no more than 15-20 applications.  In motion by Spriggs, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-187 entitled “Resolution Establishing ‘Construction Mitigation Micro Loan Program’ To Assist Existing Businesses With Immediate Cash Flow Needs Resulting From The 2009 Highway 169 Reconstruction Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-187 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

295 Plat Right-of-Way -  Community Development Director Wille and City Engineer Domras reviewed the proposed alignment of South Washington Avenue with the new exit road off Highway 169 and presented the Planning Commission’s recommendation for approval of the City of Saint Peter’s Plat Right-Of-Way No. 1.  Wille indicated that turn back of Highway 295 from the State to the City led to a proposal to enhance safety by the addition of acceleration and deceleration lanes along the highway and construction of a new entrance/entry to Freeman Drive from Highway 169 to connect to South Washington Avenue.  Wille also reported that the public hearing conducted by the Planning Commission on the proposed right-of-way plat included a show of support for the project from Regional Treatment Center officials and expression of concerns by private property owners.  Wille also reported the concerns had been addressed by staff to the satisfaction of the property owners.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-188 entitled “Resolution Adopting The City Of Saint Peter Road Right-Of-Way Plat No. 1” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-188 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Multi-Use Bike Trail Designation -  City Administrator Prafke and Public Works Director Giesking                                                                                                                                                                reviewed the multi-use bike trail proposed for development in Traverse des Sioux Park and indicated the trails would be developed with three different skill levels for hiking, cross country skiing, and mountain bike use.  Prafke reported the Historical Society was very interested in having the bike trail developed in the park which they felt would increase traffic in the Treaty Site museum.  Prafke requested approval for staff to negotiate a modification to the NCHS lease regarding parking for trail users.  Prafke also pointed out the trails would be developed using volunteers from the Gustavus Adolphus College community service office, the estimated cost of trail development was $18,500 and the cost would be funded by donations.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Spriggs, Resolution No. 2009-189 entitled “Resolution Designating Location For Multi-Use Bike Trail And Authorizing Execution Of Modification To Lease Agreement With Nicollet County Historical Society” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-189 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Dog Park Designation -  Public Works Director Giesking reported the Parks Board was recommending the dog park site at the Broadway Water tower, which had previously been approved by the Council, be relocated to just south of the Nicollet County Historical Society (NCHS) building in Traverse des Sioux Park due to development of the new water plant at the water tower site.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the lease with the NCHS would be modified and NCHS was in favor of locating the dog park near their building.   Prafke also pointed out the resolution provided for acceptance of $7,300 in donations for fencing, benches and refuse containers at the dog park and that a $5,000 donation from the Carl and Verna Schmidt Foundation had already been accepted by the Council.  In motion by Spriggs, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-190 entitled “Resolution Establishing Dog Park Location, Accepting Donations For Dog Park Development And Approving Modification To Nicollet County Historical Society Lease Related To Dog Park Development” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-190 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Minnesota Community Capital Fund Membership Termination -  Community Development Director Wille recommended the City terminate membership in the Minnesota Community Capital Fund (MCCF) and request return of the City’s $25,000 deposit.  Wille indicated the funding program had only been used once, (the application had been refused) and with Region Nine Development Commission becoming a member of the MCCF, City residents would still be eligible for funds from MCCF through the Region Nine membership.  Councilmember Pfeifer asked where the deposit money would be placed when it is returned and City Administrator Prafke indicated the deposit would be returned to the revolving loan fund which had originally provided the money.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2009-191 entitled “Resolution Terminating The City of Saint Peter’s Membership And Participation In The Minnesota Community Capital Fund (MCCF)” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-191 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Realtor Agreement:  430 Ritt Street Property -  Community Development Director Wille recommended Lidstrom Realtors be retained to market the City owned commercial property at 430 Ritt Street (Creation Technologies).  Wille recommended the term of the agreement be one year at 4.5% commission, but also reported the commission would not be paid should the building be sold to either of the two businesses that were previously discussing purchase of the building with City staff.  Councilmember Pfeifer asked about the status of the new Creation Technologies building and Wille indicated the building was underway and a footing inspection was scheduled for October 14th.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-192 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Real Estate Listing Agreement With Lidstrom Commercial Realtors For Sale Of 430 Ritt Street” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-192 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 a trip to Petatlan, Mexico as part of the Sister City program.  Strand described the wonderful reception afforded the Saint Peter delegates and the things the group saw and experienced while in Petatlan.  Strand also reported delegates from Petatlan would be visiting Saint Peter starting October 19th and events for them to meet the Council would be scheduled.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update-  Public Works Director Giesking provided an update on the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project and reviewed what is currently underway which included storm sewer on the south end which is being slowed by rock formations; closure of Jefferson Avenue and Broadway Avenue intersections for extended periods of up to 20 days; testing of the watermain installed on the north end of the highway; storm sewer work at four locations on South Front Street; and an expected date of November 18th to have traffic back on the highway.  City Administrator Prafke expressed excitement about the stormwater containment methods that will be used along Front Street which will be a substantial environmental improvement and lessen contaminated stormwater runoff to the river.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Spriggs, to adjourn at 7:58 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 28, 2009

 

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 28, 2009.

 

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

 

Mayor Strand noted the marriage of Councilmember Schultz and her name change to Kimberly Spriggs.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes – A motion was made by Spriggs, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the September 14, 2009 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 14, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda –  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Spriggs, Resolution No. 2009-168 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-168 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Bond Refinancing:  Hospital, North Industrial Park Subdivision, Nicollet Meadows, Mason Street -  Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates, the City’s financial consulting firm, addressed the Council to recommend refinancing of bond issuances related to the Hospital, North Industrial Park Subdivision, Nicollet Meadows and Mason Street.  Sweeney indicated interest rates on long maturities were declining to a point where it would be possible to save over $1,000,000 on the hospital bond and over $300,000 on the other bonds after expenses.  Sweeney did point out that the Hospital bond would be considered an “advance refunding” which meant the bond could be refinanced before the original bonds could be called, but the money received ($14,000,000) would need to be held for a year until the original bond became callable.  Sweeney also pointed out that the other bonds are callable at any time and would be done as “current refunding” bonds.  Sweeney requested Council authorization to negotiate the transaction on behalf of the City and for authorization for the Mayor and City Administrator to sign a bond purchase agreement if there was more than $1,000,000 in savings on the hospital bond and more than $300,000 in savings on the other bonds.  Sweeney indicated bond ratings would be purchased from Standard and Poor’s and Northland Securities would purchase the bonds.  Sweeney also indicated a resolution for final approval would be needed from the Council, and cautioned that if the Mayor and Administrator sign the bond purchase agreement, there would be no backing out of the deal.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned what would happen to the $14,000,000 in Hospital bond money that needs to sit for a year and Sweeney indicated it must be put in “SLUGS” which are government securities (U.S. Treasuries).  Councilmember Wetherill questioned when the savings would be realized from the refinancing and Sweeney reported the savings would occur over the original term of the bond issuances.  Sweeney asked for a modification to the resolution to indicate issuance of general obligation Hospital bonds in the amount of $14,400,000 and the other bonds in the amount of $3,100,000.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-169 entitled “Resolution Approving Issuance Of Up To $3,100,000 G.O. Refunding Bonds And $14,400,000 General Obligation Hospital Refunding Bonds Subject To Approval Of Mayor And Administrator And Ratification By City Council” was introduced with the changes proposed by Sweeney.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-169 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Unbudgeted Filing System Replacement Purchase -  City Administrator Prafke recommended purchase of a replacement “Lektriever” electric filing system used by the Police Department in the amount of $27,409.  Prafke indicated the current system had failed and repair costs were almost as much as the cost of new equipment.  Prafke also pointed out that the system takes the place of 14 full sized filing cabinets and the Police Department doesn’t have the room to replace the system with cabinets.  Prafke suggested funding for the unbudgeted purchase be from the 2003 and 2005 equipment certificates.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Spriggs, Resolution No. 2009-170 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Unbudgeted Purchase To Be Funded By 2003 And 2005 Equipment Certificates” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-170 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Bernhagen Development Proposal -  Community Development Director Wille recommended the sale of Lots 4-6, Block 1 in the North Industrial Park Subdivision to Kirk Bernhagen in the amount of $181,122.48 for development of a senior housing facility that would offer various levels of services to residents.  Wille indicated the price of the lot had been previously established by the City Council ($1.05 per square foot) and the sale would be contingent upon Mr. Bernhagen using the materials and design previously shown to the Council.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-171 entitled “Resolution Approving Sale Of Lots 4-6, Block 1, North Industrial Park Subdivision To Kirk Bernhagen For Construction Of Senior Housing Complex” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-171 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

All Hazard Mitigation Plan -  City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a resolution that would provide for the City to participate in Nicollet County efforts to update the All Hazard Mitigation Plan.  Prafke reminded the Council the City has previously participated in development of the plan.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-172 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Participation In Hazard Mitigation Planning Process” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-172 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Highway 333 Project Bid Award -  Public Works Director Giesking recommended award of the bid for mill and overlay of Highway 333 to Wm. Mueller and Sons in the amount of $45,046.  Giesking indicated the roadway was turned back to the City and from the State of Minnesota consisted of the area from Highway 99 to the guard shack at the Regional Treatment Center (RTC).  Giesking indicated mill and overlay of the roadway at this time would allow the City to vacate the road and turn over ownership to the RTC eliminating the need for the City to maintain and plow the road this winter.  Giesking also reminded Councilmembers the State would reimburse the City for $60,000 in costs related to the roadway upgrade.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-173 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Trunk Highway 333 (Sheppard Drive) Mill And Overlay Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-173 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Highway 333 Turnback Funding Request -  Public Works Director Giesking recommended a request be submitted to the State of Minnesota for advance funding for the Highway 333 turnback work.  Giesking indicated if the City were to wait and request funding for the project in the normal State cycle, funding would not be available until February, 2010 and State officials had indicated a request for advance funding would most likely be approved.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-174 entitled “Resolution Requesting Advance Turnback Funding For The Trunk Highway 333 (Sheppard Drive) Mill And Overlay Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-174 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Fire Department Purchase Request -  City Administrator Prafke presented the Fire Chief’s request to purchase nine replacement air bottles for the Fire Department at a cost of $17,890.48.  Prafke indicated the bottles no longer met NFPA standards and must be replaced.  Prafke also pointed out that although the purchase was unbudgeted, savings from other budgeted purchases were sufficient to fund the air bottles purchase.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-175 entitled “Resolution Approving Air Bottle Replacement Purchase For Fire Department” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-175 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

MVAC Community Center Lease Renewal -  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a renewal lease for Minnesota Valley Action Council (MVAC) in the Community Center.  Prafke indicated the rental amount was a five percent (5%) increase over the final year of the first lease which had expired in July and the new lease provided for 5% increases each year of the seven year lease term.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-176 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Lease With Minnesota Valley Action Council For Space In The Community Center” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-176 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Revolving Loan Request;  Sweat Equity, LLC -  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a $75,000 revolving loan to Sweat Equity, LLC.  Wille indicated the loan terms included a two percent (2%) interest rate, 15 year amortization with a balloon payment due after five years, personal guarantees required of the four principals of Sweat Equity and a requirement that the new building meet Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) guidelines when a color scheme is chosen.  Wille indicated the HPC had already approved the design of the building.  Wille asked for a modification to the resolution to indicate the mortgage on the property will be subordinated to a first mortgage held by Nicollet County Bank.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-177 entitled “Resolution Approving $75,000 Revolving Loan To Sweat Equity LLC To Partially Finance Construction Of New Commercial Building At 303 South Minnesota Avenue” was introduced with the requested modification.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-177 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

SWMHP Bunker Street Townhomes Project -  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of two resolutions related to a proposed rental townhome project on Bunker Street.  Prafke indicated Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership, which has previously constructed multi-family projects in the community, was seeking a resolution of support and commitment for the project from the City and a resolution indicating the City will act as legal sponsor for the project as it relates to applications for funding to the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency and Department of Employment and Economic Development.   Prafke pointed out that the support being requested of the City includes tax increment financing, a 10% reduction in permits and fees, a $7,500 reduction in the assessments on the property,  approval for density and zoning considerations (which are already in place in Washington Terrace Subdivision), and fast-tracking of the permitting process. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-178 entitled “Resolution Providing Support And Commitment For Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership Housing Development Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-178 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-179 entitled “Resolution Relating To Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership Housing Development Project (Bunker Street Townhomes)” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-179 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Windsor Pond Subdivision Sign Request -  Community Development Director Wille presented a request by the Windsor Pond Subdivision Homeowners’ Association to erect a subdivision identification sign on City owned property near the stormwater detention basin.  Wille indicated a “License To Sign” Agreement had been developed by the City Attorney which provided for all maintenance and other costs associated with the sign to be provided by the Homeowners’ Association.  Councilmembers questioned what the sign would be constructed of, what color it would be and whether or not it would be lighted.  Community Development Director Wille and City Administrator Prafke indicated the Association would need to have City approval before lighting the sign and they must meet City standards for construction.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-180 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of License Agreement With Windsor Pond Homeowners Association, Inc. For Installation And Maintenance Of A Subdivision Identification Sign Located On The City Stormwater Pond Site” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-180 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Greater Mankato Growth Agreement -  Community Development Director Wille indicated staff has been in discussion with the Greater Mankato Growth (GMG) organization regarding a joint economic development services agreement wherein GMG would work to facilitate industrial growth in Saint Peter and other member cities and counties.  Wille recommended proceeding with the 15 month contract at a cost of $14,650 as a demonstration project.  Wille also pointed out that the agreement would expand the City’s opportunities beyond current capabilities and GMG would work to retain existing businesses,  address new/emerging technologies and work for new industrial business development.  City Administrator Prafke reiterated that the agreement was only for industrial development and would not involve any retail or Chamber of Commerce activities.  Prafke characterized the agreement as “a positive experiment with a great potential for success”.  Jonathan Zierdt, director of GMG, addressed the Council and indicated the agreement among all the area cities and counties would be an opportunity for “individual strengths – collective success” and said the process would be handled in a fair, open and transparent manner with an advisory council made of up member representatives.  In motion by Spriggs, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-181 entitled “Resolution Approving Joint Services Agreement By And Between Greater Mankato Growth, Inc And The City Of Saint Peter And Authorizing The Mayor And City Administrator To Execute The Agreement On Behalf Of The City” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-181 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Lease Of City Owned Property -  Public Works Director Giesking requested approval of an agreement for five year lease of City owned land along the CSAH #15 right-of-way by Patrick and Pamela Kienlen for agricultural uses for a total lease amount of $175.  Giesking indicated the City would benefit from not having to maintain the land.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned whether there was an escape clause in the lease and City Attorney Brandt indicated the lease could be terminated with six months notice.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2009-182 entitled “Resolution Approving Lease Of City Owned Land” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-182 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Street Closure:  St. Paul Street at South Minnesota Avenue -  Public Works Director Giesking reported a property owner living at the intersection of St. Paul Street and South Minnesota Avenue had asked for the one block of St. Paul Street between the Highway and South Front Street to be vacated.  Giesking indicated that after discussing the vacation process with the property owner, a recommendation was being made to close the access to the Highway from St. Paul Street which was also in line with one of the goals of the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project in reducing entry accesses to the highway.  Giesking further indicated staff had visited with all the property owners abutting the roadway and one had indicated opposition to the closure, but later indicated they wouldn’t stand in the way if the other neighbors were in favor and the roadway continued to be plowed by the City.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned who would maintain the mowing and weeding of the new boulevard that would be created by closure of the access.  Giesking reported the neighbors would be responsible similar to what is being done at the closure at Jackson Street/Minnesota Avenue.   In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-183 entitled “Resolution Approving Closure Of The Saint Paul Street Access To Trunk Highway 169 (Minnesota Avenue)” was introduced.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Spriggs, Pfeifer, Kvamme, Eichmann, Wetherill and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmember Vogel voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-183 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 meetings related to the Sister City program and his upcoming trip to a sister city in Mexico; Region Nine Development Commission meetings; and a Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities board meeting and press conference.  Mayor Strand also congratulated Councilmember Jerry Pfeifer on his community service award from the Kiwanis Club.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update-  Public Works Director Giesking provided an update on the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project and reviewed the various portions of the project that are currently underway including work north of Broadway Avenue to install a new water main; continued work on storm sewer installation on the south end, including catch basins and water service lines; work on the planters in the medians; and base compaction.  Giesking also reported that concrete paving will begin this week at Walnut Street going north to Broadway Avenue before coming south again and the work will involve concrete sawing which will occur in early evening/late night time periods after the concrete has cured.  Giesking also indicated work on the sidewalks next to buildings will begin one block at a time on October 12th and the contractor is required to maintain access to each business during the sidewalk work.

 

H1N1 “Cover Your Cough” -  City Administrator Prafke reminded the public to “cover your cough” which is the campaign being undertaken by the Minnesota Department of Health effort to protect against the H1N1 flu.  Prafke also reported River's Edge Hospital and Clinic will be the Nicollet County flu center.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, to adjourn at 8:34 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 14, 2009

 

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 14, 2009.

 

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

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes – A motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the August 24, 2009 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 24, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Life Saving Awards Presentation – Police Chief Peters presented life saving awards to Saint Peter Police Officers Ryan Eberhart and David Arpin for their efforts on June 20, 2009 when they saved four men from drowning in the Minnesota River.  Mayor Strand extended his congratulations on their award and their life saving efforts.  The meeting recessed at 7:08 p.m. to allow the Officers to have photographs taken with their families.  The meeting resumed at 7:13 p.m.

 

Officer Arpin asked the Council to also recognize Le Sueur EMT Ashley Samora who assisted with the rescue of the four drowning victims.  Police Chief Peters indicated Ms. Samora would be provided with a similar award at a later date in Le Sueur.  The Council extended a round of applause to Ms. Samora in recognition of her efforts to save the drowning victims.

 

Consent Agenda –  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-155 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced. Upon roll call, all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-155 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

2010 Preliminary Levy -  Finance Director O'Connell and City Administrator Prafke presented information on the proposed tax levy of $2,020,342.  O’Connell indicated the proposed levy included the maximum levy and levy back of $270,000 which was unalloted in 2009.  O’Connell also pointed out that the proposed levy included funding for the Fire Relief Association, Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities membership, Nicollet County Historical Society, and The Third Floor.  Prafke pointed out that the General Fund expenditures were actually being decreased by about 4%, but the increase in levy was due to levy back of reductions in Local Government Aid and the levy amount would be equal to the amount in 2008.  O’Connell reiterated that this was the only opportunity the City would have to levy back the amounts which were previously taken away from the City and that tax capacity numbers were not expected to increase.  Prafke also pointed out several important factors of note including the fact that General Fund expenditures were decreasing by 4%, the proposed equipment certificate amount was simply a placeholder and may change; that changes in fees will be proposed at a later date; that the amount of transfers from utility funds to general funds would not change and that the Council and staff had spent a large amount of time on budget considerations and would be devoting en more time to budget discussions before the final levy is adopted in December.  Councilmember Kvamme indicated he was a proponent of the increase back to 2008 levels because it would be irresponsible to leave the City open to the whims of State government and because of the need to protect the City by having more funds in reserves. In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-156 entitled “Resolution Approving Preliminary 2009 Tax Levy Collectible In 2010” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-156 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Waiver of Subdivision Request:  Robert Johnson -  Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation for approval of a waiver of subdivision request submitted by Robert Johnson for property at Jefferson Avenue/South Front Street.  Wille indicated the proposed lot lines would provide for a ten foot (10’) setback from existing buildings on the property and allow for development of an auto repair business.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-157 entitled “Resolution Approving Waiver Of Subdivision For Lots 1-6, Block 193, Amended Plat, City Of Saint Peter, Nicollet County, Minnesota” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-157 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

MMUA Safety Contract Renewal -  Public Works Director Giesking requested Council authorization for renewal of the safety contract with Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association in the amount of $19,771.89 plus $2,750 for Linemen training.  Giesking reviewed the services provided by MMUA as part of the program and the benefits to staff and the City.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the City’s “experience modification” for worker’s compensation insurance was 0.93 which is less than other local governments and which may, in part, be attributable to the safety program.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-158 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Renewal Of Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association (MMUA) Contract For The Safety Coordinator” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-158 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Jefferson Avenue Design Engineering -  Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to provide construction design engineering for a project to improve Jefferson Avenue from Highway 169 to South Front Street, replace curbing on the east side of the highway south of Jefferson Avenue and replace sidewalk on the west side of the Highway south of Jefferson Avenue.  Giesking indicated the proposed development of a Kwik Trip business and the auto repair business at South Front and Jefferson Avenue would require updating of utilities in the roadway and driveway access and if the project were to move forward, construction would be scheduled in Spring, 2010.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that the project would not move forward until the City was more sure of the proposed developments actually occurring.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned how the sidewalks would be connected to the trail in the area and Giesking indicated the trail would be adjacent to Highway 169 on the east side of the highway which would connect to the sidewalk system.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-159 entitled “Resolution Retaining Bolton And Menk, Inc. To Design Street Reconstruction And Related Items For Jefferson Avenue From Minnesota Avenue To South Front Street” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-159 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

West Trail Connection Design Engineering -  Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to provide design engineering for a project to install a trail along Jefferson Avenue and Gardner Road connecting to existing trail on Broadway Avenue.  Giesking indicated the City has been awarded grant funds through the Area Transportation Partnership program and the project must have Department of Transportation approval by April 2010 to move forward.  Giesking also pointed out that Gustavus Adolphus College was interested in working with the City for design of a trail that would go through the Gustavus arboretum.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-160 entitled “Resolution Retaining Bolton And Menk, Inc. To Provide Design Engineering For A Project To Construct Trail Connection To The West From Broadway Avenue To Jefferson Avenue” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-160 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Community Center Tenant Lease:  Community Education -  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a renewal seven year lease for Community Education at the Community Center.  Prafke indicated the proposed lease included a five percent increase in rental amounts each year.  Councilmember Pfeifer questioned where the rental revenue goes and Prafke indicated the Community Center fund.  Councilmember Kvamme expressed his belief that the proposed rental rate in the last year of the new lease was the amount the original lease in 2002 should have started at.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2009-161 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Lease With School District #508 For Space In The Community Center” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-161 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Revolving Loan Modification:  Bores -  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to approve a request from Kevin and Patricia Bores to extend the balloon payment that is due on their revolving loan by twenty-four (24) months.  Wille indicated the current balance on the loan is $26,563, the Bores’ are current on the loan and all other terms of the loan including making the monthly payment will continue.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-162 entitled “Resolution Modifying Terms Of Revolving Loan Previously Provided To Kevin And Patricia Bores” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-162 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Unbudgeted Purchase:  Fencing -  City Administrator Prafke requested Council approval for an unbudgeted purchase of fencing in the amount of $5,736.  Prafke indicated the seized vehicles which are normally stored at the Public Works site must be moved to facilitate the improvement to the St. Julien Water Plant and staff had investigated several sites for the cars before recommending the compost site.  Prafke reported he had approved purchase of fencing to secure the site for the vehicles as time was of the essence so as not to delay construction of the water plant.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-163 entitled “Resolution Approving Unbudgeted Fencing Purchase” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-163 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

BHS Sunroom Addition Request -  City Administrator Prafke presented a request by the Benedictine Living Community of Saint Peter to attach a sunroom to the nursing home facility they lease from the City.  Prafke indicted the lease requires Council approval for any improvements over $5,000 in value and that if the Benedictines were to end the lease, the sunroom would stay.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-164 entitled “Resolution Approving Construction Of Sunroom By Benedictine Living Community 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. 2009-164 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

BHS Senior Housing Project-City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a project proposed by Benedictine Health Systems (BHS) for construction of a senior housing facility on the hospital campus.  BHS representative Linda Nelsen indicated the facility would have forty units consisting of one bedroom, one bedroom plus den or two bedroom units with underground parking that would connect the nursing home at the common space area.  Nelsen also reported the facility had been designed in a way that would provide for future expansion as needed and that the proposal was well within the findings of a market study.  Nelsen also indicated the facility would be flexible and multi-purpose including individual living, assisted living and possibly home care.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-165 entitled “Resolution Approving Proposal For Construction Of A Senior Housing Facility By Benedictine Health Systems On 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. 2009-165 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Library Position Description Modification -  City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the Library Associate position description to have “12 or more post-secondary semester credits” as a desired qualification rather than a minimum qualification.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-166 entitled “Resolution Approving Modification To Library Association Position Description” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-166 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Building Supervisor Position Description Modification -  City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the Building Supervisor qualifications to eliminate the qualification of being 21 years of age or older.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-167 entitled “Resolution Approving Modification To Part-Time Building 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. 2009-167 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 Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities meetings, Region Nine meetings and NADO conference, a meeting regarding the Boy Scouts and declining enrollment; Ambassador’s, providing a welcome to the District 2 Fair board members, Council goal session and a meeting about the Sister City program and upcoming visit to Petatlan, Mexico.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update-  Public Works Director Giesking provided an update on the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project and review the various portions of the project that are currently underway.

 

City/County Meeting Discussion -  City Administrator Prafke reported discussion at the City/County meeting of September 9th included the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project, electric service, budgets, wind turbines, dispatching services, elections, census 2010, and Volunteer Coordinator.

 

City Offices Closed For Staff Training -  City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers and the public that all non-emergency City offices would be closed from 8:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on September 22, 2009 for staff training.

 

Council Goal Session Discussion -  Councilmembers indicated the September 9th goal session was an extremely long meeting and budget concerns were extensively addressed.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 8:26 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

AUGUST 24, 2009

 

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 24, 2009.

 

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

 

Approval of Agenda – City Administrator Prafke asked the Council to modify the agenda to include consideration of a request for City assistance for the Rock Bend Folk Festival.  A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, to approve the agenda as modified.  With all in favor, the motion carried. 

 

Approval of Minutes – A motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the August 10, 2009 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 10, 2009 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. 2009-148 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned why the proposed purchases related to resurfacing of a basketball court at Minnesota Square Park and installation of a walkway near the tennis courts at Veteran’s Memorial Park had not been previously discussed by the City Council as part of budget discussion.  Kvamme also expressed concern that the priorities for park projects seem to focus only on athletics and the needs of older citizens are not given attention.  Councilmember Pfeifer pointed out the walkway at Vet’s had been in the budget four years ago and Councilmember Schultz indicated the Parks Board sets goals and priorities for park improvements and she thought their recommendations could come to a Council workshop in the future.  City Administrator Prafke also expressed his hope to have further discussion on the process for consent agenda items and the budget as part of the upcoming goal session.  Upon roll call, all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-148 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Water Treatment Plant Bond Approval -  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a resolution accepting $16,731,458 in general obligation water revenue bonds from the Public Facilities Authority (PFA) at 2.745% interest to be used as the primary funding mechanism for the water treatment plant project which includes renovation at the St. Julien water plant.  Prafke pointed out that the City could use alternate sources to finance the plant and other loan sources would be at almost 2% higher interest rates.  Councilmember Wetherill asked how much money would be saved at the lower PFA interest rate.  Prafke indicated it would be approximately $3 million over the life of the project.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-149 entitled “Resolution Accepting The Offer Of The Minnesota Public Facilities Authority To Purchase A $16,731,458 General Obligation Water Revenue Note Of 2009, Providing For Its Issuance And Authorizing Execution Of A Bond Purchase And Project Loan Agreement” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-149 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Transit Grant Submission -  Finance Director O'Connell requested authorization to submit a grant application to the Minnesota Department of Transportation Office of Transit for funds for operation of the City’s transit system in 2010.  O’Connell indicated the grant funds, if approved, would fund 80% ($238,880.98) of the total proposed operating budget.  O’Connell also reported the transit system may experience a $6,800 shortfall this year.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned the transit system operation in Kasota.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the Department of Transportation had asked the City to provide service to Kasota and the City has never asked Kasota to help fund operational deficits.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-150 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Transit Grant Application For 2010” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-150 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Council Out Of State Travel Request -  City Administrator Prafke presented a resolution which would authorize Mayor Strand to travel to Petatlan, Mexico as the City’s representative for the Sister City program from October 3-9, 2009.  Prafke indicated $500 had been budgeted for the Sister City program and Mayor Strand had agreed to personally pay for any expenses exceeding that amount.  Prafke indicated Petatlan had been chosen by the committee (comprised of representatives from the School District and Gustavus Adolphus College along with Mayor Strand) as the site to visit because of the growing Mexican population in the Saint Peter area and because Petatlan had a university/technical school in the community.  Prafke also indicated representatives from Petatlan would be visiting Saint Peter at the end of October.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-151 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. 2009-151 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Equipment Certificate Purchase -  Finance Director O'Connell requested authorization for purchase of computers, monitors and one laptop computer in the total amount of $6,399.66 to be funded by the 2003 and 2009 equipment certificates and a split between the utility funds.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-152 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Computer Equipment Funded By 2009 Equipment Certificate, 2003 Equipment Certificate And Utility Funds” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-152 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Wellhead Protection Plan Public Hearing -  City Administrator Prafke recommended a public hearing be scheduled for the October 26, 2009 Council meeting to receive public comment on Part II of the Wellhead Protection Plan.  Prafke indicated the public hearing was a requirement for adoption of the plan and copies had been provided to other jurisdictions for their comment.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-153 entitled “Resolution Calling For Public Hearing Regarding Updated Wellhead Protection Plan” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-153 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Request For City Assistance:  Rock Bend Folk Festival -  City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for City staff to provide assistance to the Rock Bend Folk Festival.  Prafke indicated staff had not yet met with the organizers, but the request was similar to prior years.  Prafke also noted the proposed resolution called for approval of a show license which hadn’t been required for the event in the past due to an oversight on the part of staff.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-154 entitled “Resolution Approving Request For 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. 2009-154 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, a Regional Treatment Center liaison meeting, meetings of the Ambassadors and providing a welcome to the Redmen State Convention of Officer’s.

 

City Council Filing Period -  City Administrator Prafke reminded the public and the Council that the filing period for seats on the City Council opens on August 25th and runs through September 8th.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update-  City Administrator Prafke provided an update on the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project and pointed out a change to the southbound detour which would take place during reconstruction of the Jefferson Avenue/Minnesota Avenue intersection.  Prafke also reported adult crossing guards would be stationed at the intersection of Grace Street and South Washington Avenue and at the intersection of Flandrau Street and North Washington Avenue and the guards would be funded by “Safe Routes To School” grant funds.  Prafke encouraged interested residents to attend the weekly construction update meeting on Fridays at 7:30 a.m. at the Senior Center.

 

Discover 169 Promotion -  City Administrator Prafke encouraged those participating in the Discover 169 promotion to turn completed cards in to participating businesses in time for the August 28th prize drawing.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, to adjourn at 7:43 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

AUGUST 10, 2009

 

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 10, 2009.

 

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

 

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

 

Public Hearing:  114 West Pine Street – Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on a petition to rezone property at 114 West Pine Street at 7:02 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille reviewed the rezoning petition and indicated the property was currently zoned I-2 (general industrial) and the applicant wished to rezone the property to C-4 (Highway service commercial) to facilitate future development on the south end of the parcel.  Wille indicated the Planning Commission recommended approval of the petition and one of the benefits of the C-4 zoning would be the setback for the buildings would be reduced from 20’ to 10’.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned the zoning designation for other properties in the area and Wille reported the properties were either I-1 or C-4 and approval of the rezoning petition would not result in “spot” zoning.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was closed at 7:05 p.m.

 

Approval of Minutes – A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the July 27, 2009 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 27, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann to approve the consent agenda with the deletion of the Geldner Construction purchases for installation of electric service to the two “WELCOME TO ST. PETER” signs.  Councilmember Kvamme indicated a desire to further discuss the proposed purchases and possibly delay the purchases to next summer due to the economy and more pressing needs for the funds.  Kvamme also questioned when the Council had approved or even discussed payment for the electrical services.  Councilmembers agreed the discussion occurred some time ago.  Upon roll call of the motion, Councilmembers Eichmann and Kvamme voting aye, Councilmembers Schultz, Wetherill, Vogel, Pfeifer and Mayor Strand voting nay, the motion failed. 

 

In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2009-143 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced as originally presented and including the Geldner Construction purchases.  Upon roll call, Councilmembers Wetherill, Vogel, Pfeifer, Schultz and Mayor Strand voting aye, Councilmembers Eichmann and Kvamme voting nay, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-143 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Rezoning Request:  114 West Pine Street-  Community Development Director Wille presented the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation for approval of a request by Robert Johnson to rezone the property at 114 West Pine Street from I-2 (General Industrial) to C-4 (Highway Service Commercial).  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Ordinance No. 406, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Chapter 11 By Rezoning A Tract Of Land From 1-2 (General Industrial) To C-4 (Highway Service Commercial) District” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Ordinance was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Ordinance No. 406, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.  

 

Minnesota Square Park Pavilion Repair Bonding Request-  City Administrator Prafke requested authorization to submit a request for State bonding funds for repair or rehabilitation of the Minnesota Square Park Pavilion through State Representative Terry Morrow.  Prafke pointed out that submission of the request does not guarantee funding.  Councilmember Pfeifer expressed support for a project and encouraged the City Council to become involved in the design issues so that the City is not “burned” by authorizing a project to repair the pavilion without input from the City.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-144 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Bond Request For Minnesota Square Park Pavilion Renovation Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-144 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Minnesota Square Park Banner Standards-  Public Works Director Giesking presented the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board recommendation for installation of temporary banner supports in Minnesota Square Park including adoption of the construction standard and locations for three banners.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-145 entitled “Resolution Adopting Construction Standard For Removable Banners And Approving Proposed Banner Locations At Minnesota Square Park” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-145 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 for the St. Peter Community Childcare to sublease additional space in the City owned building at 627 West Park Row to the United Methodist Church through December 31, 2009.  Prafke indicated the sublease wouldn’t expand the amount of the building being used by tenants and would simply provide for the Church to host services one day a week in space already being used by the daycare.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-146 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Sublease Of 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. 2009-136 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Dog Park Donation Acceptance-  City Administrator Prafke requested Council acceptance of a $5,000 donation from the Carl and Verna Schmidt Foundation for development of a dog park.  Prafke reported funds donated for the dog park were within $2,000 of the original budget established for development of the park near the Broadway Water Tower site and staff would prepare an estimated cost for development of the park at an alternate location near the Treaty Site History Center.  Councilmember Pfeifer expressed gratitude to the Foundation for their continued contributions to the City.  Prafke pointed out acceptance of the donation did not authorize construction of the dog park.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-147 entitled “Resolution Accepting Dog Park Donation” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-147 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 election as the President of the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities; attending the Night To Unite event in Gorman Park; and a meeting on the Sister City program where he volunteered to be the City representative for a trip to Mexico in October.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update-  Public Works Director Giesking provided an update on the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project and indicated the focus continued to be installation of sewer lines.  Giesking reported the contractor had encountered rock which was slowing progress, but that installation of water main was being installed once sewer mains were put in.  Giesking also reported storm sewer plans are completed and had been distributed for comment and when installation of storm sewer was completed many more areas of construction would begin.

 

City Administrator Prafke encouraged families in town to participate in the “Road Safety Matters” event on August 18th and indicated the event would focus on safe road crossing for children and include an opportunity to tour the Highway construction area and to climb around the big pieces of construction equipment.

 

Warren Park Play Structure -  Public Works Director Giesking reported the Warren Park Play structure was installed and in use.  Giesking also pointed out that 180 hours of work assembling the structure 0was provided by the Sentence to Serve crew.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, to adjourn at 7:36 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 27, 2009

 

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 27, 2009.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes – A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the July 6, 2009 special City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the July 6, 2009 special City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the July 13, 2009 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 13, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-128 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. 2009-128 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

2009 Concrete Work Project Final Acceptance-  Public Works Director Giesking recommended final acceptance of the 2009 Concrete Work Project.  Giesking indicated the project included a significant change in cost related to City expenses for additional curb and gutter on South Front Street and Walnut Street which resulted in increased City costs of $3,328.99.  Giesking indicated the asphalt patching program would be reduced by an equal amount to remain within budget for the Street budget.  Giesking also pointed out that the costs being assessed to private property owners increased by $8,506 as some property owners chose to replace their entire curb sections or entire sidewalk because of the low prices offered by the contractor.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned how many handicapped sidewalk entrances were left and Giesking indicated the 17-18 year long program should be finished next year.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-129 entitled “Resolution Accepting Concrete Work Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-129 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

South Front Street Watermain Project Change Order/Final Acceptance –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended approval of Change Order #1 for the South Front Street Watermain Project in the amount of $4,250, final acceptance of the project, and authorization for final payment to Holtmeier Construction in the amount of $70,039.44.  Giesking indicated the change order was necessary to seal and fill in a collapsing underground tunnel and there was some increase in the project cost based on some additional work done at unit pricing.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-130 entitled “Resolution Approving Change Order Number One, Accepting The South Front Street Watermain 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. 2009-130 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Request For City Assistance:  TRAM –  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of the Chamber of Commerce request for City assistance related to The Ride Across Minnesota (TRAM) event which was stopping overnight in Saint Peter on July 29-30.  Prafke reviewed the recommendation for assistance which included allowing overnight camping in Minnesota Square Park, use of electricity and water for showers, “no parking” designations, and Police assistance along the routes riders will use to enter and leave the City.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-131 entitled “Resolution Authorizing City Assistance For The Ride Across Minnesota (TRAM)” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-131 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Revolving Loan Fund Application:  Hendrickson Organ – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to approve a $100,000 revolving loan request (administered as a line of credit) for Hendrickson Organ for purchase of materials necessary to fill existing orders.  Wille indicated the loan would be provided at three percent (3%) interest with a balloon payment due after five years.  Wille further indicated the loan would be collateralized through liens on fixtures, furnishings, equipment, inventory, and accounts receivables, along with a personal guarantee from Charles and Birgitta Hendrickson.  Wille also pointed out that the loan was being recommended contingent upon First National Bank releasing two mortgages and the City having a subordinated mortgage to the two existing mortgages with repayment being made from 25% of the current account receivables.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-132 entitled “Resolution Approving $100,000 Revolving Loan To Hendrickson Organ Company, Inc. To Finance Acquisition Of Inventory” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-132 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Balloon Payment Deferral:  Dr. Dirks –  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation for approval of a request by Blake and JoEllen Dirks for deferral of the balloon payment due on a revolving loan.  Wille indicated Dr. Dirks had initially created an investment account to fund the balloon payment, but the economic downturn had caused the account to not earn as much and making the balloon payment at this time would be a financial hardship.  Wille indicated the balance of the loan was $58,685, and the recommendation was to defer the balloon until July 1, 2011.  Wille also pointed out that the Dirks’ would continue to make monthly payments and no other changes would be made to the terms of the loan.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-133 entitled “Resolution Amending Revolving Loan Terms For Blake And JoEllen Dirks, D.B.A. Saint Peter Eyecare Center” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-133 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

EDA Joint Marketing Request –  Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to finance artist renderings depicting post-development options for the St. Peter Ford and Four Seasons Interiors sites to be used by the Fisher Group, the realtor for both properties.  Wille indicated I & S Engineers had quoted a price of $2,750 to do the renderings which was a heavily discounted price from what other engineering firms had quoted.  Wille indicated the renderings would remain the property of the EDA and should the properties be sold, the costs would be reimbursed to the EDA.  Wille further indicated that should the Fisher Group listing for the properties expire, the renderings could be used by another realtor.  Wille pointed out that the EDA was undertaking the renderings as a demonstration to see if this type of assistance was a viable use of EDA funds and if it worked out, the assistance may be provided to other property owners on a case by case basis.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-134 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Joint Marketing Agreement With Fisher Group Regarding Promotion/Redevelopment Of Saint Peter Ford And Four Seasons Interiors Sites” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-134 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Transformer Specifications And Receipt Of Bids –  Public Works Director Giesking reported staff had discovered a problem in a transformer in the Broadway substation which was causing explosive levels of hydrogen to build up inside the transformer and it needed to be sent in for repairs to the factory.  Because of a five month lead time for transformers and the need to maintain transformer capacity and redundancy in the substation during the heavy use periods, staff was recommending DGR Engineers be retained to prepare specifications and bid documents for purchase of a new transformer that would be used while the defective transformer is being repaired and which can be moved into the new substation when it is constructed.  Giesking indicated staff had looked at the possibility of renting a transformer during the repair of the defective piece and costs were $20,000-$30,000 per month with additional set up fees and extra fees to match the existing rental to the existing City equipment.  Giesking reported the original estimated cost of a new transformer was $600,000 but prices are coming down and a new one should be less expensive.  Giesking also pointed out that as the transformer oil is being scrubbed of the hydrogen, staff will also investigate whether there is a simpler solution for repair of the problem.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-135 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Agreement With DeWild, Grant, And Reckert For Substation and Distribution System Improvements And Authorizing Preparation Of Plans, Specifications And Contract Documents And To Receive Bids For New Transformer At Broadway Substation” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-135 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2005 Equipment Certificate Purchase –  City Administrator Prafke requested authorization to proceed with purchase of a hand held computer device that will be used to track and maintain the City’s sign inventory.  Prafke recommended the $2,300.49 purchase be funded by 2005 equipment certificate funds.  Councilmember Kvamme suggested the device could also be used for inventory of trees, fire hydrants, and other City facilities.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-136 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of A Juno SB Handheld Device And Implementation Services From The 2005 Equipment Certificate” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-136 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Transit Radios Purchase –  City Administrator Prafke recommended acceptance of a quote from Alpha Wireless for replacement of the handheld and bus mounted radios used by the Transit system in the amount of $3,873.63.  Prafke reminded Councilmembers that the State of Minnesota would fund 80% of the cost with the City funding the remaining portion.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-137 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Radio Equipment For Transit System” was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme suggested a change to the resolution to identify both City and State funds as the funding source for the purchase.  Councilmembers Pfeifer and Vogel modified their motion and second on the resolution to include the change.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as modified.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-137 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Well #10 Redevelopment Project –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended Traut Wells be retained to make repairs to Well #10 in the amount of $29,768 to eliminate the infiltration of sand into the well.  Giesking reviewed the proposed repair plan.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-138 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Well #10 Repair Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-138 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant Motion Switches –  Public Works Director Giesking recommended Volk Electric be retained to install 55 motion switches in the wastewater treatment plant at a cost of $9,100.   Giesking indicated an energy audit conducted by SMMPA staff had led to the recommendation and with the SMMPA rebate of $1,932, the cost of the work would be recouped through energy savings (estimated at $1,902 per year) in 3.75 years.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-139 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase And Installation Of Motion Sensors At The Wastewater Treatment Plant” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-139 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Highway 295 Project Wetland Credits –  Public Works Director Giesking and City Engineer Domras recommended the City purchase wetland credits from Bill Feldman in Scott County to replace the wetland impact the Highway 295 Turnback Project will have on existing wetlands.  Domras indicated the City was required to buy credits or reconstruct a wetland to twice the size of the wetlands being impacted.  Domras recommended purchase of credits banked with the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BOWSR) for Type 3 and Type 7 wetlands at $0.65 per square foot ($24,900.85) and a 6.5% administrative fee ($1,618.56) to BOWSR.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-140 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Wetland Credits For The Highway 295 Turnback Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-140 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.   Councilmember Wetherill opined that the project would be a benefit to constituents as it would allow for bypass of Highway 169. 

 

Gambling License Application –  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of an application by the New Ulm Youth Wrestling Association to conduct a raffle as part of the Nicollet County Fair.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-141 entitled “Resolution Approving LG230 Application To Conduct Off-Site Gambling” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-141 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Infrared Camera Purchase –  Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to join with the cities of New Prague and Le Sueur in the purchase of an infrared camera which would be used to determine possible electric failures and losses.  Giesking indicated $20,000 had been budgeted for the purchase, but by purchasing the camera with the other cities, the cost to the City would only be $3,439.37 and each City would have their own memory stick for the camera.  Giesking indicated maintenance costs would be financed jointly by each of the cities and should the camera be damaged or lost while in possession of one of the cities, that City would be responsible for repair or replacement.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-142 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Joint Purchase Of An Infrared Camera” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-142 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.   Councilmember Kvamme congratulated Electric Foreman Kocmick for his efforts to work with the other cities on the joint purchase and also suggested a program be put in place to use the camera to assist property owners with home weatherization improvements for homes in the community.

 

Reports

 

“Night To Unite” Proclamation – Mayor Strand proclaimed August 4, 2009 as “Night To Unite” day in Saint Peter and encouraged all residents to attend and participate in the Night To Unite event which is being sponsored by the Police Department at Gorman Park from 3-7 p.m.

 

Mayor’s Reports- Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included planning for the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities annual conference and attending a recent Mankato Moon Dogs game with the St. Peter Ambassadors.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update -  City Administrator Prafke provided the construction update for the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project for the week of July 27th.  Public Works Director Giesking reported the water main work is moving along well and the contractor is having to address a lot of issues with underground water lines, and phone and cable lines at the intersections which slows down the work.

 

City/School Meeting Discussion-  Councilmember Kvamme reported discussion at the last City/School meeting included the Volunteer Coordinator, the Read and Feed program, scheduling a joint meeting of the School Board and City Council, the proposed City levy and proposed School referendum and the impact on local taxpayers.  Kvamme also indicated that the cancellation of the City/School/County/Gustavus meeting, which normally follows City/School meetings, led to the suggestion that future City/School meetings be scheduled separately from the second meeting so there weren’t time constraints on the discussion.

 

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

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 13, 2009

 

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 13, 2009.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Pfeifer, Eichmann, Kvamme, Wetherill, and Mayor Strand.  Absent were Councilmembers Vogel and Schultz.  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 Eichmann, seconded by Wetherill, to approve the minutes of the June 22, 2009 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 22, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Firefighter Recognition –  Mayor Strand presented a Certificate of Recognition to retiring Firefighter Ronald “RC” Neary, Sr. who retired on July 13, 2009 after over 41 years of service to the community.  Fire Chief Block also presented Mr. Neary with a retired firefighter plaque and a cap.  Neary thanked his fellow Firefighters, the past Fire Chiefs (with special recognition to Chief Block), and the current and past City Councilmembers who provided for the Fire Department to have good equipment throughout the years.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-121 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced with a correction to the purchases to reflect a total of $90,000 in asphalt purchases between two different vendors.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-121 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Highway 295 Turnback Engineering – Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to provide engineering design and receipt of bids for a project related to turnback of State Highway 295 (Freeman Drive).  Giesking indicated that with the completed turnback, the recommendation was to reconstruct the entrance of Freeman Drive off Highway 169 to a location that was further to the south and which would line up with a new roadway which would connect to South Washington Avenue.  Giesking indicated the costs would be funded 100% by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) in an amount up to $2.5 million.  Councilmembers questioned how residents of Marwey Trailer Court would access their homes and Giesking indicated they would enter either by Highway 169 or Washington Avenue and turn north to the trailer park.  Giesking also pointed out that a driveway off Highway 169 to the west, which is used by MnDOT, could be used by residents or emergency workers if an emergency occurred.  Giesking indicated bids would be received in late August, work would begin in the fall, and an expected completion date in the Spring.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-122 entitled “Resolution Retaining Bolton and Menk, Inc. To Develop Plans And Receive Bids For Highway 295 Turnback Reconstruction Project” was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-122 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Water Treatment Plant Project Construction Services – Public Works Director Giesking recommended Bolton and Menk, Inc. be retained to provide construction engineering services for the water treatment plant project for a fee not to exceed $700,000 which would include construction observation, air permitting, project administration, materials and soil testing and an as built drawing.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned why Bolton and Menk, Inc. was being retained for this work without looking at other firms.  City Administrator Prafke indicated that Bolton and Menk, Inc. prepared the plant design materials and because of their familiarity with the project, their fees would be less than another firm that would have to spend time familiarizing themselves with the project.  Prafke also stressed Bolton and Menk, Inc.’s familiarity with other City systems, projects, and processes and the benefit that familiarity brings to the water treatment plant project.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2009-123 entitled “Resolution Retaining Bolton And Menk, Inc. To Provide Construction Engineering Services For The Water Treatment Plant Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-123 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Registered Land Survey #62 – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of Registered Land Survey #62 which would provide for subdivision of a parcel of land in Nicollet Meadows Subdivision which is owned by Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership and which is being given to the City because of the play structure that has been installed and will be maintained by the City.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned if the transfer of the property meant the public could use the play structure and Prafke indicated the public has been using it since the new equipment was installed and there should be no further issues with use of the equipment.   In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-124 entitled “Resolution Approving Waiver Of Subdivision For Lot 1, Block 6, Nicollet Meadows Subdivision, City Of Saint Peter, Nicollet County, Minnesota, And Acceptance Of Registered Land Survey No. 62“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-124 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Library Donation Acceptance – City Administrator Prafke recommended acceptance of an $8,000 donation from the Carl and Verna Schmidt Foundation to be used for purchase of books and materials for the library.  Councilmember Pfeifer expressed his belief that the City is fortunate to have organizations such as the Schmidt Foundation which are willing to make donations.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-125 entitled “Resolution Accepting Library Donation“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-125 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

2005 Equipment Certificate Purchase – City Administrator Prafke recommended authorization be provided for purchase of a laptop computer in the amount of $1,254.57 to replace a failed computer.  Prafke indicated funds which had been budgeted in the 2005 equipment certificate for technology improvements were still available to fund the computer purchase.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Kvamme, Resolution No. 2009-126 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Laptop Computer From The 2005 Equipment Certificate“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-126 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 the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project groundbreaking ceremony, Fourth of July parade, Region Nine Development Commission meetings; Ambassador’s meeting; and the Creative Play Place rubber duck race.  Strand also reported he will be on the nominating committee for officer’s of the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update-  City Administrator Prafke reported that trees have been removed from the sidewalks in the downtown and while it had been hoped that the trees could be relocated to City property, the City Forester decided that they were unable to be replanted somewhere else.   Prafke also reported detour routes are being used and it has been going fairly well and fewer trucks are using the in-town detours.  Prafke did caution that some trucks will continue to be on the in-town detours as they make deliveries to their customers in town.  

 

Public Works Director Giesking provided an update on the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project and reported Shafer Construction has numerous crews in town all working on different portions of the project including removal of the asphalt surface of the Highway and the concrete surface that was under the asphalt with both materials being recycled.  Giesking also reported electric work is being done by one of the subcontractors on the project including installation of temporary stoplights along portions of the detour routes, removal of existing streetlights in the downtown area and installation of water and sewer piping which will be installed soon from Broadway to Mulberry.    Giesking indicated the front doors of businesses were still accessible and while sidewalk had been removed along the project route, six feet of sidewalk remains in front of each of the downtown businesses so that customers still have front door access.  Giesking pointed out accesses for crossing the Highway continue to be open at Jefferson Avenue, Mulberry Street, College Avenue and Broadway Avenue although those access locations will change throughout the project. 

 

City/County Meeting Discussion-  Councilmember Pfeifer reported discussion at the June City/County meeting included trails, the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project, budgets, Vital Living Initiative, long range planning including dispatching; wind turbines at Gustavus Adolphus College, a tax abatement request for Immanuel/St. Joseph’s clinic, and development updates.

 

LMC Conference-  Councilmember Wetherill reported on the sessions he attended at the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC) annual conference which included budgeting/fund shortages, law enforcement ideas, and networking.  City Administrator Prafke reported he had met with the Department of Transportation ombudsman regarding state efforts to assist business owners when federal stimulus projects were underway.  Prafke also reported he had participated in a presentation on recovery/response after a natural disaster and that Saint Peter was still seen as the model for response by cities.

 

Well #10 Repairs-  Public Works Director Giesking reported a well specialist had been retained to video Well #10 to try and determine the causes of the sand at the bottom of the well and the contractor had determined the cause was a hole at the bottom of the casing at the top of the well.  Giesking indicated options for repairs are being developed and the costs could be in the tens of thousands of dollars.  Giesking also pointed out that because the well provides 25% of the water treated at the St. Julien plant, that water restrictions might be necessary should temperatures rise substantially and water use increase.

 

Night To Unite – Councilmember Pfeifer pointed out the invitation from Officer Arpin to attend the “Night To Unite” event in Gorman Park which was included in Councilmember packets.  City Administrator Prafke encouraged residents of Saint Peter to attend the event on August 4th.

 

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

 

 

MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 6, 2009

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a special meeting of the City Council of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Governors' Room of the Community Center on July 6, 2009.

 

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

 

Water System Improvement Project Bid Award– City Administrator Prafke requested Council consideration of a staff memorandum included in the special meeting packet regarding the June 22, 2009 Council action to award the bid for the Water System Improvement Project (construction of a new water plant) to Rice Lake Construction in the amount of $16,845,000 which included the base bid and alternate number three (demolition of the Jefferson Water plant).   City Attorney Brandt reviewed the action taken at the June 22nd meeting and described his understanding of
“unit priced contracts” and how that type of contract is not applicable to the discussion the Council had on June 22nd relating to state law and reduction of contract amounts.  Brandt encouraged the Council to review the reasons behind inclusion of the alternates in the project bid award including the findings of costs and challenges to re-use of the Jefferson Plant. 

 

Robert Smith and Doug Landrau from Knutson Construction, one of the bidders on the project, expressed their belief that Knutson was the low bidder on the base bid and with the first two alternates.  Smith indicated that after review of the tape of the June 22nd meeting and the Council’s apparent concern over costs associated with the project, that he didn’t understand why the Council would award the bid to another bidder with an alternate that would increase costs.  Smith asked the Council to review their action related to the project cost and use of minority and women subcontractors (Disadvantaged Business Enterprises or DBE’s) by Rice Lake Construction.  Smith indicated his belief that alternate #3 (demolition of the Jefferson Plant) should either be bid separately from the plant construction or demolition could be included as a requirement of future development of the property.  Smith also indicated his belief that Rice Lake Construction did not meet the federal requirements for soliciting DBE subcontractors and therefore should not be considered for bid award. 

 

City Attorney Brandt questioned the Knutson Construction officials and asked the basis of their position that the cost to the City was an additional $105,000.  Smith responded with the explanation of that position.

 

Councilmembers also discussed inclusion of alternate #3 in the bid award and their desire to include demolition of the Jefferson plant in the project for construction of a new plant.

 

Gilbert Gibunkle, Vice President of minority owned Yaw Construction, indicated his belief that there were many minority owned businesses looking for work and it was difficult for him to believe that there were no minority contractors willing to submit quotes to Rice Lake.  Gibunkle further indicated his belief that there are ways to include minorities in Public Facility Authority (PFA) and American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funded projects including open houses and developing project scopes to help smaller contractors.  Gibunlke encouraged the Council to give high consideration to using minority contractors.

 

Wade Leonard of Rice Lake Construction also asked to address the Council regarding his company’s good faith efforts to meet all requirements of the City’s project and other projects and indicated Rice Lake meets the federal requirements and currently have four federally funded projects.  Leonard also indicated his firm tends to perform much of the work that other companies may subcontract. 

 

Bolton and Menk, Inc. Engineer Kris Swanson indicated that Rice Lake had provided documentation after the bid award of their good faith efforts to use Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) which included twenty-six (26) fax numbers and six statements from DBE owners indicating they would not be submitting a quote for the project.  Swanson indicted he was satisfied that Rice Lake made good faith efforts to contact DBE’s. 

 

Brandt paraphrased the Minnesota Public Facility Authority (PFA) “Minnesota Public Facilities Authority Clean Water Revolving Fund Drinking Water Revolving Fund – Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) – Good Faith Efforts” language which was contained in the bid package and confirmed that his file reflected Rice Lake had provided the Engineer with notice of the project to twenty-six fax numbers and six statements from DBE owners indicating they would not be submitting a quote for the project. 

 

Gibunkle indicated his belief that a good faith effort would not lead to a complete lack of minority interest in bidding the project and the scope could be modified to do so.  Gibunkle pointed out again that Knutson Construction found ways to involve minority contractors in the project.

 

Smith also pointed out that the standards are not something that Bolton and Menk, Inc. was allowed to change and expressed his belief that Bolton and Menk, Inc. engineers may have misunderstood.   He also pointed out that the Public Facilities Authority required certain documents from the borrower to show the contractor used good faith efforts.

 

A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel to rescind Resolution No. 2009-113 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Water System Improvement Project “.  With all in favor the motion carried.

 

A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann to table further discussion on the bid award.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

City Administrator Prafke asked for a recess of 15 minutes so he could discuss the issue with the City Attorney.  A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel to recess for 15 minutes.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the special meeting recessed at 6:12 p.m.

 

The meeting was called back to order at 6:32 p.m.

 

City Administrator Prafke and City Attorney Brandt suggested the Council evaluate the project scope and confirm the selection of the base bid and Alternate #3 including the reasons to demolish the Jefferson Water Treatment Plant due to the building structure, it being located in a residential zone, the certainty of the current bid compared to the risks of a bid 18-24 months in the future, and the availability of low interest PFA funds now compared with the risk of low interest funds being unavailable for future demolition of the Jefferson plant.  Prafke pointed out that if the  Council’s wish for the scope of the project was the base bid and alternate #3, the Council should proceed with Rice Lake Construction as the lowest responsible bidder and if the Council wished to change the scope of the project, then the lowest responsible bidder would be Knutson Construction.  Councilmembers discussed the benefits of including Alternate #3.

 

In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-121 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Water System Improvement Project“, was introduced awarding the bid to Rice Lake Construction.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, to adjourn at 6:47 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JUNE 22, 2009

 

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 22, 2009.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, to approve the minutes of the June 8, 2009 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 8, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the June 15, 2009 special City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.  A complete copy of the minutes of the June 15, 2009 special City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Public Hearing: Business Subsidy Request – Creation Technologies- Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on issuance of a business subsidy to Creation Technologies at 7:03 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille reviewed the proposed business subsidy as it related to the entire project and indicated that both Creation Technologies and Traverse des Sioux LLC would be receiving a subsidy from the City.  Wille also noted some conditions on the subsidy including the requirement for Creation Technologies to remain in business for at least 24 months after receipt of the business subsidy, and for them to create a minimum of 24 full-time equivalent positions within 24 months of receiving the subsidy at wages equal or higher than $10.37 per hour for salary and benefits.  John Makela, General Manager of Creation Technologies, addressed the Council to thank City staff, the City Council and members of the Economic Development Authority for their continued support of their expansion plans.  There being no further speakers was declared closed at 7:08 p.m.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-112 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. 2009-112 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Water System Improvement Project Bid Award– Public Works Director Giesking recommended award of the bid for the Water System Improvement Project (construction of a new water plant) to Rice Lake Construction in the amount of $16,845,000 which included the base bid and alternate number three (demolition of the Jefferson Water plant).  Giesking reviewed the key issues for recommending construction of a new plant which included uniform water quality, a reliable water supply and available low interest funding sources and grant funds.  Giesking indicated staff’s recommendation was to include all three reverse osmosis skids because the bids provided a good value.  Mayor Strand pointed out the Council had spent much time discussing the proposed project, had received a lot of input from the community, and had adequately addressed all questions and concerns.  Councilmember Wetherill pointed out that water hardness would be reduced once the plant is operational and chlorides would be reduced which would lessen the impact on the environment.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-113 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Water System Improvement Project “ was introduced. 

 

Councilmember Kvamme questioned the bids received which were $2.745 million higher than the engineer’s estimate and asked if the City would receive more funding and grants based on the higher bids.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the Public Facilities Authority is considering the issue as two separate projects (the new plant and an expansion to the St. Julien Water Treatment Plant), and the City won’t know until August whether the “green” elements of the project will quality for grant funds.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether State law allows the City to reduce the bid amount by up to 20%.  Prafke indicated that the law does allow that reduction, however the City must negotiate in good faith with the contractor and some components of the project cannot be easily eliminated from the contract.  Prafke suggested staff could work with the contractor to find economies in the project and report back to the Council.

 

A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, to modify the resolution by adding the following statement to the “NOW, THEREFORE….” portion of the resolution:  “Staff is directed to work with the successful bidder to reduce the overall cost by at least ten percent (10%) over the life of the project.”  After a voice vote on the motion, Councilmembers called for a roll call vote.  Upon a roll call vote of the motion, Councilmembers Schultz, Kvamme, Vogel, Eichmann and Wetherill voting aye, Councilmember Pfeifer and Mayor Strand voting nay, the motion carried. 

 

Upon roll call of the amended Resolution, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted as amended.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-113 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Broadway Avenue Water System Improvement Project Bid Award–  Public Works Director Giesking recommended award of the bid for the Broadway Avenue Water System Improvement to Holtmeier Construction in the amount of $997,142.15.  Giesking pointed out that the bid was 13% lower than the engineer’s estimate and the portion west of Sunrise Drive would be completed this fall with the portion east of Sunrise Drive being completed after school lets out in 2010.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-114 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Broadway Water System Improvements Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-114 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant Screener Project Bid Award– Public Works Director Giesking recommended award of the bid for purchase of a fine screener for the wastewater treatment plant to EnComm in the amount of $252,525.  City Administrator Prafke recommended modification to the resolution to indicate that an existing grinder at the wastewater treatment plant was being traded-in as part of the bid award.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-115 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For Wastewater Screener Replacement Project “ was introduced with the inclusion of the grinder trade-in.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-115 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Request For City Assistance:  Fourth of July– City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request by the Chamber of Commerce for City assistance for the Fourth of July community celebration.  Prafke indicated the request was the same as the request made in 2008 and included use of the park, use of the restroom facilities, mosquito spraying, and parking restrictions along the parade route.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-116 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. 2009-116 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Business Subsidy Agreement:  Creation Technologies  – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation for approval of a business subsidy request for Creation Technologies and Traverse des Sioux LLC.  Wille reviewed the proposed project which included Creation Technologies moving to a new facility which will be constructed in North Industrial Park Subdivision, the EDA purchasing the existing facility on Ritt Street, Tax Increment Financing proceeds to Traverse des Sioux LLC for purchase of the industrial park land, and leases between the City, Creation Technologies and Traverse des Sioux LLC.  Wille pointed out that the revenue bonds being issued by the EDA had been jointly purchased by all four local financial institutions and Nicollet County Bank, which will serve as the lead bank for the deal, will waive their servicing fees.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned the security position the City will hold and pointed out the note indicated default on the agreements would allow the City to seize the land and any buildings constructed on the land.  Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates indicated agreement on the security position had not yet been reached, however he expected the City to be asked to take a second position behind the primary lender.  Sweeney indicated he felt the City had adequate protections in the business subsidy agreement including a requirement for repayment of all funds if the provisions of the agreements were not met.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-117 entitled “Resolution Authorizing The Execution Of A Development Agreement And Business Subsidy Agreement Related To Creation Technologies Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-117 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Trail Bonding Request – Community Development Director Wille requested authorization to submit a capital appropriations request through Representative Terry Morrow on behalf of the Cities of Saint Peter, Mankato, and North Mankato and the Counties of Nicollet, Blue Earth and Le Sueur for $400,000 in funds for a trail study.  Wille indicated officials for each entity had been working jointly to consider development of a trail along the Minnesota River between Saint Peter and the Mankato area and the group hoped to have the appropriations request come from Representative Morrow’s district.  Wille also pointed out that there is no cost to the City for taking the action.  Councilmember Wetherill indicated the proposed trail was a tremendous opportunity for the area.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-118 entitled “Resolution Supporting Submittal Of Capital Appropriations Request To State Of Minnesota For Funds To Study Minnesota River Trail Connection Between The  City Of Saint Peter And The Greater Mankato Area“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-118 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

License Applications – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a peddler’s license and a soft drink license.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-119 entitled “Resolution Approving License Applications“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-119 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Streetlight Standards – Public Works Director Giesking recommended adoption of standards for streetlights along the non-downtown areas abutting Highway 169.  Giesking indicated LED lighting would be used and it would provide a lower level of lighting in both the residential and commercial areas on both ends of the Highway.  Giesking indicated all of the stainless steel poles would be painted black in keeping with the State Historical Preservation Office recommendations and bids would be received for purchase of the lights which would then be installed by City crews at the end of the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project.  Councilmember Kvamme questioned whether the poles were of sufficient size to handle flower baskets in the future.  Giesking indicated they could.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-120 entitled “Resolution Approving Streetlight Standards For Highway 169 Outside Of The Downtown”, was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-120 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 meetings and the Ambassador’s Blues Fest.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update – City Administrator Prafke reminded everyone of the public open house on June 25th regarding the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project.

 

City/County Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the July 8th City/County meeting.

 

Well #10 Failure – Public Works Director Giesking reported Well #10 had been pumping out green tinted water which was thought to be shale flaking off the well.  Giesking indicated staff would work with well drillers to determine a course of action and anticipated costs would be in the $10,000-$12,000 range.  Giesking pointed out the well provides twenty-five percent (25%) 0f the capacity for the St. Julien water plant and it was important to have it working.

 

South Front Street Watermain Project Update- Public Works Director Giesking reported the contractor had finished installation of the watermain on Saturday and was backfilling.  Giesking indicated the base should be installed in the next 2-3 days. 

 

Marine Corps League Welcome- Councilmember Kvamme reported he had provided a welcome to the Marine Corps League and Auxiliary which met at Gustavus Adolphus College over the weekend.  Kvamme indicated it was a privilege to address those who had given so much for their country.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 8:10 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JUNE 15, 2009

 

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 June 15, 2009.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Pfeifer, Vogel, Eichmann, Kvamme, Wetherill, Schultz, and Mayor Strand. The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke, and City Engineer Domras.

 

South Front Street Watermain Project Bid Specifications – City Administrator Prafke indicated discussion for the special meeting centered on a project to install watermain on one block of South Front Street prior to a mill and overlay project being done in conjunction with the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project.  Water Utility Superintendent Moulton, representing Public Works Director Giesking who was out of town, indicated the long range plans included installation of this section of watermain to provide for a loop in the system and that proposed development in the area led staff to a recommendation to proceed with the watermain project prior to the mill and overlay.  Moulton indicated five bids had been received for the project and staff was recommending award of the bid to Holtmeier Construction in the amount of $64,969.50.  Councilmember Pfeifer questioned whether the Council could expect to see change orders on the project in light of the huge discrepancy in the amounts bid.  City Engineer Domras reported that soil borings had been done in the project area so all the bidders were aware of the rock excavation and the low bidder was familiar with soil conditions in Saint Peter.  Councilmember Wetherill asked how much money could be saved by doing the project before the mill and overlay.  Domras indicated $20,000-30,000 was not out of the question.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-109 entitled “Resolution Approving Plans And Specifications For South Front Street Watermain Project Between Pine Street To Jefferson Avenue“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-109 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

South Front Street Watermain Project Bid Award – Staff recommended award of the bid for the South Front Street Watermain Project to Holtmeier Construction in the amount of $64,969.50.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-110 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For South Front Street Watermain Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-110 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

South Front Street Watermain Project Financing – City Administrator Prafke recommended adoption of a resolution that would provide for an interfund transfer for financing the watermain project in an amount up to $100,000 at 3.2% interest.  Prafke said the project would initially be funded by wastewater funds and when tax increments were available through the district the City fund would be paid back with interest.  Prafke also pointed out that the $100,000 amount specified in the resolution was to cover engineering and administrative costs associated with the project and only the exact amount expended would be funded.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-111 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Interfund Loan For Tax Increment Financing No. 1-17“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-111 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, to adjourn at 5:44 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

JUNE 8, 2009

 

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 8, 2009.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, to approve the minutes of the May 26, 2009 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 26, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Eichmann, seconded by Wetherill, to approve the minutes of the May 26, 2009 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 May 26, 2009 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Public Hearing: Business Subsidy Request – Creation Technology- Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on issuance of a business subsidy to Creation Technology at 7:01 p.m.  City Administrator Prafke reported the private parties involved in the project had not yet finalized the details of their negotiations and recommended the public hearing be continued once again to the June 22nd regular Council meeting.  There being no further speakers at 7:03 p.m., the hearing was declared continued to June 22nd.

 

Consent Agenda – City Administrator Prafke indicated the applicants for the excluded bingo permit wished to change their license date to August 12-August 16, 2009.  Prafke asked for latitude to change the date if State regulations allow extending it past the original three days the Knights of Columbus had applied for.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-100 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced with the understanding that staff would check the State regulations and correct the resolution as allowed.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-100 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

2009 Wastewater Fund Budget and Rates– Finance Director O'Connell recommended increases of $0.80 per thousand gallons in the wastewater rates charged to the City of Kasota and the Regional Treatment Center effective with the bills due on August 17, 2009.   O’Connell indicated there were no proposed increases in wastewater rates for City customers.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-101 entitled “Resolution Adopting Wastewater Rates“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-101 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Finance Director O'Connell reviewed the proposed 2009 wastewater budget and indicated staff was being conservative in developing the budget and not providing for large increases in consumption projections.  O’Connell also indicated the proposed budget takes into consideration the rate increases the Council had just adopted.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-102 entitled “Resolution Adopting 2009 Wastewater Fund Budget“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-102 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Capital Equipment Purchases:  River's Edge Hospital and Clinic – River's Edge Hospital and Clinic CFO Ken Cornish addressed the Council to request authorization for purchase of computer hardware and software that would allow for remote access to the Hospital computer network on a secure site at a cost of $25,816.70.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-103 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Computer Software And Hardware For River’s Edge (Community) Hospital“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-103 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Cornish also requested authorization for purchase of computer software for computerized physician order entry software that would allow physicians to input patient orders directly into the medical records eliminating the need to have an extra person involved in the charting process.  Cornish indicated the cost of the software and installation would be $47,790 and would be purchased from Healthcare Management System.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-104 entitled “Resolution Approving Purchase Of Computerized Physician Order Entry Software For River's Edge Hospital and Clinic“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-104 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Diesel Fuel Purchase Contract – Public Works Director Giesking recommended the City contract for the purchase of 15,000 gallons of #2 diesel fuel at a price of $1.805 per gallon from United Farmer’s Coop.  Giesking indicated that past contracts had saved the City approximately $40,000 compared to retail costs for diesel fuel.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-105 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Contract Purchase Of Diesel Fuel“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-105 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Trail Bench Design and Locations – Public Works Director Giesking presented the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board recommendation to adopt a style for benches along the City’s trail system and a master plan for location of the benches.  Giesking indicated the proposed action did not authorize purchase and installation of benches which would only be done if grant funding or donations were available to fund the purchase.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-106 entitled “Resolution Approving A Bench Style And The Location Of Benches On The Saint Peter Trail System“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-106 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

South Front Street Watermain Project – Public Works Director Giesking indicated that a potential development at the corner of Jefferson Avenue and South Front Street would need to connect to a water main on South Front Street.  Giesking indicated staff was recommending receipt of bids for the project so that the project could be accomplished prior to the mill and overlay of South Front Street that is part of the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project.  Giesking pointed out that doing the project before the mill and overlay could decrease project costs by as much as $40,000.  Giesking indicated rock on the south end of the community may be present and because of that, the projected cost of the project, if done before the mill and overlay, would be $50,000-$80,000.  Giesking also pointed out that if the bids that are received are too expensive, the project would be delayed and done at another time.  City Administrator Prafke indicated that projects of this type would normally be funded by assessments to benefited property owners, however staff was recommending funding for the project from Tax Increment Financing District 1-17 funds.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2009-107 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Receipt Of Bids For The Installation Of A New Watermain On South Front Street From Pine Street To Jefferson Avenue“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-107 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Nicollet Meadows Playground Agreement – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval be provided for execution of an agreement with Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership dba Nicollet Meadows Housing Group (NMHG) related to the new playground installed near the apartment complex in Nicollet Meadows Subdivision.  Prafke indicated all costs for removal of the old structure, installation of the new structure, and ongoing maintenance of the structure would be paid by assessment to the NMHG property.  Prafke outlined the “pros” of the agreement which included providing a good solid play structure meeting the construction standards of the City for the children in the area and there being no cost to the City and the “cons” which included a slight increase in insurance premiums for the City and the process being a deviation from the normal policy related to play areas.  Prafke indicated the agreement was only being recommended as the City had anticipated the play area to be open and available to public from the very beginning of the development which made the area different from other private play structures in the community.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-108 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Agreement Related To Nicollet Meadows Playground with Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership dba Nicollet Meadows Housing Group“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.   A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-108 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Reports

 

“Marine Corps League/Auxiliary Weekend” Proclamation – Mayor Strand proclaimed June 19-21, 2009 as “Marine Corps League And Auxiliary Weekend” in the community in recognition of the contributions made to our country by Marine Corps League and Auxiliary members.

 

Mayor’s Reports- Mayor Strand reported on his recent activities which included Region Nine Development Commission budget and personnel meetings and several graduation parties.

 

Council Goal Session Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the upcoming goal session on June 18th at the Community Center.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Update – Public Works Director Giesking provided an update on the projected schedule for the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project which included storm sewer work on Front Street at the intersections with Park Row and Walnut Street; the mill and overlay of Front Street; installation of temporary signal lights at Broadway and Front Street, North Highway 22 and Highway 99, and Highway 99 and 169; with closure of Highway 169 slated to begin the weekend of the Fourth of July.  Giesking indicated that all of the contractor’s crews would begin work on the main portion of the project from Jefferson to Broadway Avenue on or about July 5th.  Giesking also pointed out that there would be pedestrian access to all downtown businesses throughout most of the project.  City Administrator Prafke reported a public meeting on the project was scheduled for June 25th from 4-6 pm in the Senior Center and representatives from Minnesota Department of Transportation, Shafer Contracting and the City would be available to provide additional details on the work schedule and other items related to the project.

 

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

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 26, 2009

 

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 26, 2009.

 

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

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the May 11, 2009 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 11, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

A motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the May 12, 2009 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 May 12, 2009 Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Public Hearing: Business Subsidy Request – Creation Technology- Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on issuance of a business subsidy to Creation Technology at 7:01 p.m.  City Administrator Prafke reported the private parties involved in the project had not yet finalized the details of their negotiations and recommended the public hearing be continued once again to the June 8th regular Council meeting.  There being no further speakers at 7:03 p.m., the hearing was declared continued to June 8th.

 

Visitors – Peter Rheaume, 419 West Jefferson, addressed the Council to complain about a party which he claimed was “authorized” by City staff at rental property on the 400 block of West Wabasha Street.  Rheaume wanted to know who authorized the party and what City regulation provided that person the authority to do so.  Rheaume further expressed concerns over City liability related to students being on the roof of the rental property and the city “turning a blind eye” to youth drinking in the community.  Rheaume indicated he had walked up to the party and taken pictures which he distributed for Council review.  Rheaume also questioned when the City was going to step in and do something about the issue.  City Administrator Prafke informed Mr. Rheaume that property owners and renters don’t need City permission to have parties at their homes and the renters at these properties should be given credit for coming to the City, informing staff of the party and for contacting the neighbors to let them know a party was going to be held.  Prafke also pointed out that Saint Peter Police Officers were monitoring the situation and had stopped to talk to the party organizers on a couple of different occasions throughout the evening.  Councilmember Pfeifer indicated he had driven past the property after being contacted by Mr. Rheaume and thought the event was manageable.  Pfeifer further indicated he drove by the next morning and was pleased to see that all the party debris had been cleaned up.  Mayor Strand indicated renters and property owners have the right to have a party and the property in question had followed the rules that are currently in place. 

 

Consent Agenda –In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-88 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. 2009-88 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  

 

Executive Session:  Fiber Conduit Lawsuit – City Administrator Prafke requested the Council adjourn to closed session to meet with Special City Attorney Strommen regarding the fiber conduit lawsuit.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-89 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. 2009-89 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17. The Council adjourned to closed session at 7:29 p.m.

 

The Council returned to open session at 7:39 p.m.

 

HickoryTech Conduit Agreement Amendment – City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council authorize execution of an amendment to the HickoryTech conduit agreement which had been agreed to by both parties as settlement for the fiber conduit lawsuit.  Prafke indicated the final paperwork had not yet been completed and the proposed resolution indicated the final form of the documents must be approved by himself and the Special City Attorney.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-90 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Amendment To HickoryTech Conduit Agreement“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-90 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2008 Audit Acceptance – Auditor James Eichten of Malloy, Montague, Karnowski and Radosevich presented his findings from the audit for 2008.  Eichten explained the auditor’s role, the audit results, and reviewed the management report.  Eichten also indicated he had issued a clean opinion with only two minor findings and that the City had very positive operations and audit results.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned whether the City should be concerned about hospital supply expenditures that exceeded the budgeted amounts.  Eichten explained that the hospital’s operations were audited by a different auditor and he was not involved.  City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers they had been provided an explanation on the hospital supply expenditures by the Hospital’s auditor which indicated there was no reason for the Council to be concerned.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-91 entitled “Resolution Accepting 2008 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. 2009-91 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Water Treatment Plant Project Specifications/Bid Authorization – Engineer Kris Swanson of Bolton and Menk, Inc. presented a history of the water treatment plant project which led to the recommendation to construct a plant for reverse osmosis treatment of water located at the Broadway Water Tower site.  Swanson indicated that funding was available to the City through the Drinking Water Revolving Fund (Public Facilities Authority) in 2009 and grant funds were available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 in the amount of up to $2,000,000 and an additional 25% for “green” components of the project the total cost of which is estimated at $14,100,000.  Swanson indicated the project would have to be finalized by June 30, 2009 to be eligible for the funding.  Swanson further pointed out the project will be bid with alternates so the Council could have final decision on the actual design of the plant.  Public Works Director Giesking indicated using the three skid reverse osmosis system would allow for the entire community to have the same quality of water and the water hardness could be reduced down to 5-7 grains of hardness from the 30 plus grains of hardness level it currently is at.  City Administrator Prafke also pointed out that reverse osmosis treatment at the source of the water would help reduce the amount of calcium chloride entering the Minnesota River.   In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-92 entitled “Resolution Approving Plans And Specifications For Water Treatment Facility Improvements And Setting Date For Receipt Of Bids“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-92 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Private Water/Sewer Repair Project – City Administrator Prafke and Public Works Director Giesking recommended authorization be provided for replacement of certain private water and sewer lines along Highway 169.  Prafke pointed out that the projects can be completed for significantly less if done in conjunction with the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project and the proposed resolution authorized the projects, accepted quotes from two different contractors who would split the work (Renhelt Construction $23,812.30 and O’Brien Plumbing $125,283.30) and authorized execution of waivers of assessment and easement forms for each property.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-93 entitled “Resolution Approving Water And Sewer Line Repair Along Highway 169“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-93 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

School District Memorandum of Understanding – City Administrator Prafke recommended execution of an updated memorandum of understanding with School District #508 for provision of youth development programs by the City.  Prafke indicated the City had entered the agreement with the School since 2004 and the City was reimbursed by the School District for program expenditures.  Prafke also cautioned that should the School’s funding for the programs be eliminated, the City would be placed in a position of eliminating the programs.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-94 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. 2009-94 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Safe Routes to School Signage Force Agreement – Public Works Director Giesking recommended execution of an agreement related to the Safe Routes To School project.  Giesking indicated the Federal program administrators were now asking for a separate agreement related to some of the components of the original project.  City Administrator Prafke pointed out that should the Council fail to approve execution of the agreement, the funds would be withheld.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-95 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Agreement For Receipt Of Federal Aid Funds Associated With Safe Routes To School Program“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-95 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

License Application – City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a new soft drink license for William Tolzmann dba B & C Enterprises.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-96 entitled “Resolution Approving New Soft Drink License“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-96 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Request for City Assistance:  Blues Fest – City Administrator Prafke reviewed a request by the Saint Peter Ambassador’s for City assistance for their “Blues Fest” event to be held in Minnesota Square Park on June 13th.  Prafke indicated the event and the assistance being requested was similar to Rock Bend Folk Festival.  Prafke also noted that staff would meet with the organizers before the event to review what assistance would be provided by the City and under what conditions.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-97 entitled “Resolution Approving Request For City Assistance For ‘Blues Fest’“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-97 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Equipment Certificate Purchases – Finance Director O'Connell requested authorization to purchase 19 computers, 10 monitors, 3 printers and 1 scanner all of which would be funded by a combination of 2009 equipment certificate funds, 2005 equipment certificate funds and utility funds.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-98 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Scanner, Computers, And Printers Funded By 2009 Equipment Certificate, 2005 Equipment Certificate And Utility Funds“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-98 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Mower Purchase – Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to purchase a lawn mower for use by the water and stormwater staff.  Giesking indicated the existing mower had failed the first time it was used this year and recommended the budgeted purchase of a tractor be delayed to direct those funds towards purchase of a replacement mower.  Giesking recommended purchasing the mower from Turfwerks in the amount of $18,780.21.  Mayor Strand also pointed out that the resolution provided for declaring the existing, disabled mower as surplus property.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-99 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of Commercial Lawn Mower And Declaring Snapper 18 HP Riding Mower As Surplus Property“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-99 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 an Economic Development Initiative meeting, serving as a judge for the MRCI work skills seminar, and providing the welcome for the Memorial Day program in Minnesota Square Park.

 

City/School/Gustavus Meetings Discussion – City Administrator Prafke reported the discussion at the City/School and the City/School/Gustavus meeting included the memorandum of understanding approved earlier in the meeting, wind turbines, green communities, cooperative efforts, field lease and an update on the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project.

 

SMMPA Update – Public Works Director Giesking provided an update on issues and activities related to Southern Minnesota Municipal Power

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project  – Public Works Director Giesking reported the deadline for execution of the contract for Highway 169 Reconstruction Project was June 26th and the contractor was expected to start the first week of June with the highway closure expected to begin July 5th.  Giesking also indicated the contractor was required to have a “public relations specialist” that would work with the City and MnDOT on public relations for the project.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, to adjourn at 9:08 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

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

MAY 26, 2009

 

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 Saint Peter Community Center on May 26, 2009

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m.  The following members were present: Strand, Schultz, Pfeifer, Eichmann, Vogel and Wetherill.  Absent was Councilmember Kvamme.  County official present was:  Appraiser Michelle Wills.  Councilmembers Eichmann, Schultz, Wetherill and Mayor Strand had received Board of Appeal and Equalization training in 2009.

 

Appeal Hearing – Appraiser Wills reported she had personally re-inspected the property of Bill Weber at 601 Riverview Road which had been valued by the Assessor’s Office at $210,000.  Mr. Weber had indicated during the May 12th meeting that he had water damage on the property and Wills reported her inspection led to some recommended changes in the valuation which lowered the amount to $196,300.  Wills also indicated the property owner was aware that once repairs were made to the property the recommended valuation would increase to the original amount of $210,000.  A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, to reduce the valuation to $196,300 as recommended by the Assessor’s Office.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill to adjourn.  With all in favor the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 6:49 p.m.

 

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF APPEAL AND EQUALIZATION MEETING

MAY 12, 2009

 

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a regular meeting of the Board of Appeal and Equalization of the City of Saint Peter was conducted in the Commissioners’ Room of the Nicollet County Government Center on May 12, 2009

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  The following members were present: Strand, Schultz, Pfeifer, Kvamme, Eichmann, Vogel and Wetherill.  County officials present were:  Assessor Doreen Pehrson and Appraiser Michelle Wills.  Councilmembers Eichmann, Schultz, Wetherill and Mayor Strand had received Board of Appeal and Equalization training in 2009.

 

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.  County Assessor Pehrson reviewed changes to the schedule and indicated the Board had 20 days to render decisions on all appeals submitted.  Mayor Strand opened the floor to the property owners scheduled to present their appeals.

 

Eileen Kivi, 1009 South Front Street, appeared to appeal the valuation of $105,600 on her property.  Kivi indicated she had an appraisal from February which indicated a value of $93,000.  County Assessor Pehrson indicated the estimated market value of properties is established by the County as of January 2, 2009 and is based on sales ratio figures from sales occurring between October 1, 2007 and September 31, 2008.  She indicated the County is always slightly behind market trends because of the Statutory requirement to use sales from those dates.  Pehrson also indicated the Board was required to ensure that each property was being treated the same as similar properties and that the values were applied correctly.

 

Richard Landsteiner of 413 Cardinal Circle in Mankato, appeared to appeal the valuation of properties he purchased in Saint Peter at 1804 MacIntosh Court and 1844 MacIntosh Court.  Landsteiner indicated both properties had been purchased in foreclosure proceedings for $84,000 and $86,500 respectively.  Landsteiner provided information on other sales of the Apple Tree Village townhomes in the amounts of $110,000 and $121,000 which is lower than the $152,700 valuation that the County has on all the Apple Tree properties.  County Assessor Pehrson provided information that the townhomes were selling for up to $200,000 each in 2006 and 2007.

 

Michael Steinhaus, 215 North Third Street, appealed the valuation of $158,700 on his property.  Steinhaus expressed concerns that the housing market was overly inflated and out of line.  Steinhaus indicated he had appraisals done by an appraiser and one by a realtor which indicated the value of his property at $139,000. 

 

Bill Weber, 601 Riverview Road, appeared to appeal the valuation of $210,000 on his property.  Weber indicated he had purchased the property under foreclosure proceedings for $162,500 on April 3, 2009 and had an appraisal from March, 2009 indicating a value of $177,000.  Weber indicated he felt a valuation of $170,000 was appropriate.

 

Thomas Roggow, 518 South Washington Avenue, appeared to appeal the valuation of $209,000 on his property.  Roggow presented an appraisal from February, 2009 which indicated the value to be $172,000.  Roggow indicated the County’s valuation on the property had affected his ability to get a refinancing loan which would allow him to build a new garage.  Roggow indicated the garage had not been properly constructed by the previous owner and he had made several attempts to shore up the garage which was in danger of collapsing.  County Assessor Pehrson indicated the number of sales of properties over $200,000 was so minimal it was difficult to provide comparables for those properties.

 

James and Lynette Vavreck appeared before the board to appeal the valuation of $272,900 on their property at 507 Sioux Lane.  Mr. Vavreck indicated an appraisal last fall had established a price of $249,000 which he felt was appropriate.   Mr. Vavreck also indicated they were unable to refinance their home because of the valuation.

 

The Board also considered a faxed appeal from Anthony Kalal of 1842 MacIntosh Court appealing the valuation of $152,700 on his property which he purchased in 2006 for $170,000. 

 

The Board spent considerable time discussing the Apple Tree Village townhome properties.  County Assessor Pehrson indicated that unless the Board wished to make a change in the valuation of every property in the complex, it would be difficult to justify any individual property changes.  Board members also discussed the impact of making changes to each of the Apple Tree properties in relation to the law limiting the Board to making less than 1% overall change in valuations in the community.

 

Mayor Strand suggested the Council make decisions on each appeal.

 

·        Eileen Kivi property at 1009 South Front Street  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel to make no change to the valuation of $105,600.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Scott and Elizabeth Roesch property at 812 South Fourth (the property owners cancelled their scheduled appeal) – A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Eichmann, to make no change to the valuation of $114,900.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Richard Landsteiner property at 1804 MacIntosh Court and 1844 MacIntosh Court.  Councilmember Schultz expressed a desire to lower all the Apple Tree Village properties and in lieu of that, to reduce the properties which had been appealed at the meeting.  A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Wetherill to make no change to the valuations of $152,700 for each property.  With Board members Schultz and Vogel voting nay, Board members Wetherill, Kvamme, Pfeifer, Eichmann and Mayor Strand voting aye, the motion carried.  Board members did ask the County Assessor to reevaluate all properties in Apple Tree Village in 2010.

·        Michael Steinhaus property at 215 North Third Street.  Citing the fact that the Board had previously taken action to reduce the valuation of the property in 2008, a motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Vogel to make no change to the valuation of $158,700.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Thomas Roggow property at 518 South Washington Avenue – Board members discussed review of the unstable garage issue.  County Assessor Pehrson indicated she would make some changes to the garage to reduce the value by 50% and with other recommended changes the value would be reduced to $198,800.  A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to reduce the valuation to $198,900.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Thomas Roggow property at 445-447 South Seventh Street – Mr. Roggow had withdrawn his appeal of the properties as he was unable to compile appeal information before the meeting.  A motion was made by Schultz, seconded by Vogel to make no change to the valuation of $195,300.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Thomas Roggow property at 617 West Myrtle Street – Mr. Roggow had withdrawn his appeal of the property as he was unable to compile appeal information before the meeting.  A motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Eichmann to make no change to the valuation of $140,600.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        James/Lynette Vavreck property at 507 Sioux Lane – A motion was made by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz to make no change to the valuation of $272,900.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

·        Bill Weber property at 601 Riverview Road – As members began their deliberations on the appeal submitted for this property Mr. Weber reported he had water damage in the home.  Board members asked the County Assessor’s office to re-inspect the property and provide a recommendation on the valuation on May 26, 2009.  No further action was taken regarding the property.

 

Councilmember Pfeifer stepped out of the room at 7:44 p.m.

 

·        Anthony Kalal property at 1842 MacIntosh Court – A motion was made by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme to make no change to the valuation of $152,700.  Councilmembers Schultz, Kvamme, Vogel, Eichmann, Wetherill and Mayor Strand voting aye, the motion carried.

 

Councilmember Pfeifer returned to the meeting at 7:49 p.m.

 

A motion was made by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz to recess the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting until 6:45 p.m. on May 26, 2009 in the Governors' Room of the Community Center.  With all in favor the motion carried and the meeting was recessed at 7:47 p.m.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 11, 2009

 

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 11, 2009.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.  The following members were present:  Councilmembers Kvamme, Pfeifer, Vogel, Schultz, Wetherill and Mayor Strand.  Absent was Councilmember Eichmann.  The following officials were present: City Administrator Prafke, Assistant City Attorney Menning, and City Engineer Domras.

 

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

 

Approval of Minutes - A motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to approve the minutes of the April 27, 2009 regular City Council meeting.  With all in favor, the motion carried and the minutes were approved.    City Administrator Prafke pointed out that a reference to former Councilmember Douglas would be corrected to read “Councilmember Eichmann”.  A complete copy of the minutes of the April 27, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Public Hearing: Subdivision Regulation Modification - Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on modification to subdivision regulations at 7:03 p.m.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the Council had directed the proposed modifications to be returned to the Planning and Zoning Commission for further review on a portion of the ordinance related to density requirements and the Planning Commission would not be meeting until June.  Prafke recommended the hearing be continued to the second regular Council meeting in June.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared continued to June 22nd at 7:07 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: Business Subsidy Request – Creation Technology- Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on issuance of a business subsidy to Creation Technology at 7:07 p.m.  City Administrator Prafke reported the private parties involved in the project had not yet finalized the details of their negotiations and recommended the public hearing be continued again to the May 26th regular Council meeting.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared continued to May 26th at 7:09 p.m.

 

Consent Agenda – In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Pfeifer, Resolution No. 2009-81 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme asked Public Works Director Giesking to explain what an electric “basement” is.  Giesking indicated it was an underground fiberglass structure located beneath electrical transformers and switches that encased the wires.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-81 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17. 

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Master Utility Agreement – City Administrator Prafke and Public Works Director Giesking presented a recommendation for execution of a master utility agreement with the Minnesota Department of Transportation for utility work that will be completed as part of the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project.  Prafke indicated the agreement provided for the City to pay MnDOT $2.3 million for water, wastewater and electric work associated with the project and indicated that if the highway project was not being done, the cost for the work would have been twice as expensive.  Councilmember Wetherill expressed his belief that being able to combine the utility work with the highway work was “quite an opportunity” for the City.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-82 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Master Utility Agreement With MnDOT For Highway 169 Reconstruction Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-82 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Detour Agreement – City Administrator Prafke and Public Works Director Giesking recommended execution of an agreement with MnDOT that would specify the detour route, temporary traffic control measures, detour maintenance and payment for loss of roadway life associated with a detour of traffic during the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project.  Giesking pointed out that the formula used by MnDOT to determine loss of roadway life specified the City would be paid $19,340.75.  Giesking also indicated the contractor would crack seal the entire detour route after the project and provide for a 4” mill and overlay on Front Street.  Giesking also pointed out that signage directing drivers to local businesses would be installed along the detour route.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-83 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Execution Of Detour Agreement With MnDOT For Highway 169 Reconstruction Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-83 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

SMMPA Bond Issue – Public Works Director Giesking requested Council support for a refinancing issue being considered by Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA).  Giesking indicated SMMPA wished to refinance some short term financing into longer term debt and to refinance an existing bond at a lower rate.  Giesking indicated the total issuance would be approximately $100-110 million and the expected interest rate was 4.9%.  Giesking recommended the City’s SMMPA representative (Giesking) be directed to vote in favor of the bond issue.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-84 entitled “Resolution Authorizing City of Saint Peter Support For SMMPA Refinancing Bond Issue“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-84 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2009 Concrete Work Bid Award – Public Works Director Giesking recommended award of the bid for the 2009 Concrete Work project to Nielsen Blacktopping in the amount of $50,843.82.  Giesking reported $35,000 had been budgeted for the City’s share of costs for the work and property owners who had signed waivers of assessment would be assessed the remaining costs.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-85 entitled “Resolution Awarding Bid For 2009 Concrete Work Project“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-85 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Construction Standards Update – Public Works Director Giesking recommended adoption of additional construction standards for historic streetlights including single and double acorn lights using 400 watt metal halide lights; single acorn lights with 100 watt LED lights; and tear drop lights with 400 watt metal halide lights.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-86 entitled “Resolution Approving Updates For City Construction Standard Detail Sheets“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-86 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Trailer Attenuator Purchase – Public Works Director Giesking recommended approval of the unbudgeted purchase of a crash attenuation trailer in the amount of $18,941.25 from Highway Technologies.  Giesking indicated the trailer was a safety measure that would protect employees and equipment while working on the Highway and the technology was currently being used by the Minnesota Department of Transportation.  Giesking also pointed out that with the installation of improvements along Highway 169, staff would be required to perform maintenance work on the highway and the trailer would provide for improved safety conditions for employees.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-87 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Unbudgeted Purchase Of Trailer Attenuator“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-87 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 Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities teleconference on budget and legislative issues and serving as a judge for the Senior presentations at the High School.

 

Board of Appeal And Equalization Meeting Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting scheduled for May 12th at 6:00 p.m. at the Nicollet County Government Center. 

 

City/School/Gustavus Meetings Schedule – City Administrator Prafke reminded Councilmembers of the City/School and City/School/Gustavus meetings scheduled for May 13th at Gustavus Adolphus College.

 

Fiber Conduit Lawsuit – City Administrator Prafke reported discussion at the closed session on April 27th regarding the fiber conduit lawsuit included discussing the merits of the City’s case relative to the money received for use of the fiber conduit and strategy for the future with Special City Attorney Jim Strommen.  Prafke also indicated there would be open discussion and action related to the lawsuit in the near future.

 

ISJ/Mayo Clinic Open House – City Administrator Prafke informed Councilmembers the ISJ Clinic (St. Peter Clinic) grand opening was scheduled for Sunday, May 17th from 1-4 pm.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Wetherill, to adjourn at 7:54 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

APRIL 27, 2009

 

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 27, 2009.

 

A quorum present, Mayor Strand called the meeting to order at 7:03 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 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 Vogel, seconded by Pfeifer, to approve the minutes of the April 13, 2009 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 13, 2009 regular City Council meeting is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Proceedings 18.

 

Public Hearing: Subdivision Regulation Modification - Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on modification to subdivision regulations at 7:04 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille reviewed the proposed modifications to Chapter 12 of the City Code related to subdivision regulation.  Wille indicated the major modifications included preliminary and final plat approval and whether or not the proposed plat conforms, enhances, and promotes the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan.  Wille also pointed out proposed changes including reducing the length of cul-de-sacs, reducing the maximum block lengths and changing parkland dedication requirements.  Wille also pointed out that residential density requirements are being identified.  Wille recommended the hearing be continued to May 11th to allow the Council to discuss and review the proposed ordinance at workshop.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared continued to May 11th at 7:10 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: Rezoning Request - Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on the Planning Commission petition to rezone certain properties from R2/R3 (residential) to C-5 (business/professional) at 7:10 p.m.  Wille reported on the Planning Commission’s recommendation to rezone the Jesus Assembly of God Church, Grandview Good Samaritan, Minnesota School Board Association and Scholarship America properties to C-5.  Willed indicated each of the property owners had expressed no opposition to the rezoning and he pointed out that the existing uses will become conditional uses if the rezoning is approved.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:15 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: City Code Chapter 11 Language Modifications- Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on modifying zoning regulation language at 7:15 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille recommended modification to language contained in the zoning regulations including Visitor Habitation (Campground) added as a Conditional Use within the (C-4) Highway Service Commercial District; allowing Local Utility Services as a permitted use within the RP-1 District; “Guidance Services” defined as a use providing counseling, guidance, recuperative, vocation or similar services to persons requiring rehabilitation assistance as a result of a mental illness, alcoholism, detention, drug addiction, or similar condition, either on a residential or daytime care basis be disallowed as a Conditional Use within the (RP-1) Residential/Professional Office District; “Convalescent Services” include nursing homes, assisted living and/or congregate care facilities provided for as a conditional use within the R-2 and R-3 districts; Construction Sales and Services be considered as a conditional use within the (C-4) Highway Service Commercial District rather than a permitted use; Heritage Preservation Commission review and approval being required for structural changes/renovations to retail/commercial structures within the (CBD) Central Business District.; and establishing a definition for “Materials Recycling Center” and “Enclosed Site” and allowing materials recycling centers as a conditional use within the (I-2) General Industrial zoning district.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned what “enclosed site” meant and Wille indicated it was within a building or a fenced area.  Councilmember Eichmann questioned what type of materials would be recycled and Wille read the definition contained in the proposed ordinance. There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared closed at 7:21 p.m.

 

Public Hearing: Business Subsidy Request – Creation Technology- Mayor Strand opened the public hearing on issuance of a business subsidy to Creation Technology at 7:22 p.m.  Community Development Director Wille reported the private parties involved in the project had not yet finalized the details of their negotiations and recommended the public hearing be continued to May 11th.  There being no further speakers, the hearing was declared continued to May 11th at 7:24 p.m.

 

Consent Agenda – City Administrator Prafke requested that additional business license applications and seasonal employee appointments in the Public Works Department be added to the consent agenda.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-72 entitled “Resolution Approving Consent Agenda“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted with the additional licenses and employee appointments.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-72 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.  Councilmembers questioned the bus purchase and the actual cost to the City.  City Administrator Prafke indicated the City would be responsible for 20% of the amount indicated on the purchase authorization, but stated the entire amount was listed because the remaining 80% would be reimbursed to the City from the State.

 

Revolving Loan Payment Deferral Request:  Richard’s Restaurant and Pub – Community Development Director Wille presented the Economic Development Authority recommendation to authorize deferral of revolving loan payments for J.P. Olson, LLP dba Richard’s Restaurant and Pub through June, 2009.  Wille indicated the restaurant was delinquent with their payments to the banks and the City, but was hoping to enhance their cash flow situation by making some operational changes and beginning to provide food service for the Red Skye Lounge in Mankato.  Councilmember Schultz pointed out that the loan payments had been missed in February, March and April.  Councilmember Wetherill questioned whether the balloon date on the loan would remain the same.  Wille responded the due date would be the same, however the final amount would increase.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-73 entitled “Resolution Modifying Terms Of $320,000 Revolving Loan Previously Awarded To J.P. Olson, LLP d.b.a. Richard’s Restaurant And Pub“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-73 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Rezoning Request - Community Development Director Wille recommended approval of the rezoning petition submitted by the Planning and Zoning Commission.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Ordinance No. 404, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance  Amending Saint Peter City Code Chapter 11 By Rezoning Tracts Of Land From (R-2) One And Two Family Dwelling And (R-3) Multi-Family Dwelling To (C-5) Business/Professional Office District“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Ordinance No. 404, Second Series  is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

City Code Chapter 11 Language Modifications -  Community Development Director Wille recommended approval of the proposed language modifications related to zoning regulations.  In motion by Vogel, seconded by Kvamme, Ordinance No. 405, Second Series entitled “An Ordinance Amending Saint Peter City Code Chapter 11, Sections 11.05, 11.06, 11.08, 11.09, 11.11, 11.13, 11.15, And 11.19 Establishing Permitted And Conditional Uses Within The Various Zoning Districts And Requiring Heritage Preservation Commission Review Of New Construction Within The Central Business District (CBD) And Establishing Definitions For Materials Recycling Services And Enclosed Site 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 Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Ordinance No. 405, Second Series is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Ordinances 2.

 

Department of Justice (DOJ) Grant Application -  Police Chief Peters requested the Council accept a grant in the amount of $13,827 from the Department of Justice.  Peters indicated the program was previously known as the “Cop Block Grant” program and the City is eligible for up to $15,000 every five years.  Peters also indicated Nicollet County was required to sign a memorandum of understanding and he had visited with the Sheriff about the grant to see if the County had any funding needs.  Councilmember Kvamme asked what the grant funds would be spent on and Peters indicated the proposal was to use the funds for purchase of Drug Task Force portable radios and possibly computer hardware and software for use in a squad car.  In motion by Wetherill, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-74 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Acceptance Of Department Of Justice JAG Grant “ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-74 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Request for City Assistance:  Relay for Life Event -  City Administrator Prafke recommended approval of a request for City assistance for the American Cancer Society Relay For Life event in Minnesota Square Park.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-75 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. 2009-75 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Fire Service Contracts -  City Administrator Prafke recommended execution of fire service contracts with Oshawa, Lake Prairie and Traverse Townships.  Prafke indicated staff had met with township officials to review the contracts but a different process would be followed in the future with the townships simply being provided the proposed contracts.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Vogel, Resolution No. 2009-76 entitled “Resolution Approving 2009 Fire Service Contracts“ was introduced.  Councilmember Kvamme pointed out that the townships are only asked to share in the operational costs of the Fire Department and they pay nothing towards equipment.  Prafke indicated townships do not pay for large capital equipment nor for contributions the City makes for the Fire Relief Association.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-76 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

PFA Grant Application:  Highway 169 Watermain -  Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization for submission of a grant application for Public Facilities Authority (PFA) funding for a project to replace water mains along Highway 169 from Jefferson Avenue to approximately Union Street.  Giesking indicated the project would be completed along with the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project and the City would be responsible for $2,000,000 in costs.  Giesking cautioned that submission of the application does not guarantee funding and said the City should know if funding would occur by August.  Councilmembers expressed the belief that it made sense to complete the project at the same time the highway reconstruction occurs.  In motion by Eichmann, seconded by Schultz, Resolution No. 2009-77 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Submission Of Grant Application For Public Facility Authority (PFA) Funding For Water Mains On Trunk Highway 169“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-77 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

2009 Equipment Certificate Purchase:  Used Pickup Truck -  Public Works Director Giesking requested authorization to purchase a used pick-up truck from Kohls-Weelborg Ford in the amount of $14,999.98 to be funded by the 2009 Equipment Certificate.  Giesking indicated the truck would provide the ability to carry parts from one job to another and the existing truck would be kept for use by seasonal employees.  In motion by Schultz, seconded by Wetherill, Resolution No. 2009-78 entitled “Resolution Authorizing Purchase Of A Used Pick-Up Truck For The Parks Division Of The Public Works Department To Be Funded By 2009 Equipment Certificate Funds“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-78 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Cooperative Agreement -  City Administrator Prafke recommended execution of a cooperative agreement between the City and the Minnesota Department of Transportation that identifies the fiscal responsibility for the various components of the Highway 169 Reconstruction Project.  Prafke pointed out that a total of three agreements relating to the project will be brought before the Council with a utilities agreement and a detour agreement being presented in the near future.  In motion by Pfeifer, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-79 entitled “Resolution Approving Execution Of Highway 169 Reconstruction Project Cooperative Agreement With The Minnesota Department Of Transportation“ was introduced.  Upon roll call, with all in favor, the Resolution was declared passed and adopted.  A complete copy of Resolution No. 2009-79 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 budget, strategic planning and personnel meetings for Region Nine Development Commission; the City/School/Gustavus meeting; and the open house/ribbon cutting for the Medical Office Building (River's Edge Clinic).

 

Energy Saving Award – Public Works Director Giesking reported MGM Liquors of Saint Peter had been awarded a “Smart Energy Leader” award from the State Chamber of Commerce in recognition of the energy saving equipment and systems they installed as part of their expansion.  Giesking indicated MGM’s owners had worked with SMMPA staff to identify energy saving options.  Giesking and Councilmembers extended congratulations to MGM on the award.

 

Power Outage – Public Works Director Giesking reported a bird in the main substation had caused a brief city-wide power outage and caused damage to the substation.  Giesking indicated parts had been ordered and when the repairs are made in mid-late May another brief outage will be necessary.  Councilmembers asked if businesses will be notified of the outage for repairs.  Giesking indicated staff will do everything possible to minimize the disruption to residents and businesses.

 

City/School/Gustavus Adolphus College Meetings – Councilmember Kvamme reported discussion at the City/School and the City/School/Gustavus Adolphus College meeting included the volunteer coordinator, budget issues, Highway 169, and redirection of the Community Service Office at Gustavus Adolphus College.

 

Executive Session:  Fiber Conduit Lawsuit -  City Administrator Prafke recommended the Council adjourn to closed session to discuss the fiber conduit lawsuit with Special City Attorney Jim Strommen.  In motion by Kvamme, seconded by Eichmann, Resolution No. 2009-80 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. 2009-80 is contained in the City Administrator’s book entitled Council Resolutions 17.

 

The Council adjourned to closed session in the Traverse des Sioux room of the Community Center at 8:15 p.m.  The Council returned to open session at 9:06 p.m.

 

There being no further business, a motion was made by Pfeifer, seconded by Schultz, to adjourn at 9:07 p.m.  With all in favor, the motion carried.

 

 

MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

APRIL 27, 2009

 

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 27, 2009.