City Council

City Council Meeting Minutes

February 28, 2011

 

1.         Roll Call

Mayor Roe called to order the Roseville City Council regular meeting at approximately 6:00 pm and welcomed everyone. (Voting and Seating Order for February: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe).  City Attorney Mark Gaughan was also present.

 

Mayor Roe announced that the City Council would be going into Closed Executive Session.  Mayor Roe reviewed the specific statutory authority, Minnesota State Statutes, Chapter 13D.05, subd.3.c, and its provisions for closing a meeting for the purpose of confidential discussions related to land acquisition, with the specific property involved being located at 2280 Walnut Street, City of Roseville; with the proposed acquisition for the purpose of installation of a Railroad Signal.

CLOSED EXECUTIVE SESSION

Discuss Acquisition of Portions of Property located at 2280 Walnut Street, City of Roseville for a Railroad Signal

Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, recessing the meeting into Closed Executive Session, at 6:05 pm, related to attorney/client privilege and confidential discussion by the City Council, staff and legal counsel, in accordance with Minnesota Statute 13D.05, subd.3.c; and for a confidential discussion of acquisition of portions of property located at 2280 Walnut Street, City of Roseville for a railroad signal.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

Recess

Mayor Roe recessed the meeting at approximately 6:05 pm and reconvened in Executive Session at approximately 6:06 pm.

Recess

Mayor Roe recessed the Executive Session at approximately 6:14 pm and reconvened at approximately 6:14 pm in Regular Session. 

2.         Approve Agenda

Councilmember Willmus requested removal of Consent Item 7.j entitled, “Adopt an Ordinance for Minor Zoning Code Amendments.”

 

Councilmember McGehee requested removal of Consent Item 7.e entitled, “Approve Joint Powers Agreement with East Metro SWAT.”

 

Pust moved, Johnson seconded, approval of the agenda as amended.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

3.         Public Comment

Mayor Roe called for public comment by members of the audience on any non-agenda items. 

 

a.         John Kysylyczyn, 3083 N Victoria Street

Mr. Kysylyczyn congratulated Mayor Roe for establishing a budget calendar, stating that it was the first detailed working document provided in some time, and expressed his appreciation for laying out all the various portions of the budget process and identifying public comment opportunities early in the process.

 

Mr. Kysylyczyn expressed concern that there had not been additional information provided in the meeting packet or on the City’s website on the property acquisition discussion held in Closed Executive Session for 2280 Walnut Street; and requested additional public discussion prior to coming to a vote.  Mr. Kysylyczyn provided historical information from his perspective on this railroad signal and past discussions and considerations for spending taxpayer monies.  Mr. Kysylyczyn opined that it didn’t matter if it was federal or local taxpayer dollars spent on such an improvement, and whether improvements were actually needed, on this minimally used rail line, and that those dollars needed to be wisely spent.  Mr. Kysylyczyn noted that it was difficult to voice an opinion on the matter without additional public information.

 

Mayor Roe assured Mr. Kysylyczyn and the public that any formal action would be publicly addressed and voted on in regular session.

4.         Council Communications, Reports, and Announcements

 

          Mayor Roe announced the next 7-week Roseville University session, beginning on April 7, 2011 from 6:30 – 9:00 pm on Thursday evenings at Roseville City Hall.  Mayor Roe noted that the sessions were free, but pre-registration was required as space was limited; and encouraged citizens to seek additional information on the City’s website or through calling City Hall, and also for obtaining an enrollment form.

 

a.         Keystone’s Foodshelf

Eric Nyberg; President of Keystone Community Services

Mr. Nyberg reviewed this independent, non-profit serving St. Paul and northern suburbs in Ramsey County, and its previous location at the Fairview Community Center prior to this move due to outgrowing that space.  Mr. Nyberg advised that on March 3, 2011, an open house at the new location at Hamline Center would be held, and publicly invited the City Council and residents to attend from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m., with a brief program scheduled at 5:30 p.m.  Mr. Nyberg noted that this new location and additional space would provide Keystone to offer a greater response to area needs.  Mr. Nyberg reviewed statistics and trends indicating growing needs in the area with impacts being faced by families throughout the County with the current economic crises.  Mr. Nyberg noted that Keystone was a community service with hundreds of volunteers from the community, local schools and local churches; and that their participation made the program possible.

 

Christine Pulver, Director of Keystone’s Basic Needs Program

Ms. Pulver provided a more detailed review of Keystone’s food shelf services for families needing food and shelter and alarming increases in individuals served over the last few years.  Ms. Pulver reviewed the three locations operated by Keystone: Rice Street in Little Canada, University Avenue in St. Paul, and the Roseville site; and expounded on the increasing cooperative relationships and their greater presence in the suburbs versus urban and non-metropolitan areas.  Ms. Pulver echoed Mr. Nyberg’s invitation to the public and to individual City Councilmembers; and encouraged everyone to find additional information on their website: Keystone Community Services.

 

Councilmember Pust noted that she serves on the Board of this organization; and on behalf of Board members and the City Council encouraged citizens to attend and find out additional information on the services of Keystone. 

 

At the request of Councilmember Pust, Ms. Pulver announced hours of operation for service and/or to make donations at Hamline Center between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 pm; and Tuesday evenings from 5:30 – 8:30 pm.  Ms. Pulver advised that qualifications to receive services are that individuals must live within the service area and meet federal income guidelines within 200%.  Ms. Pulver advised those interested in volunteering with Keystone, whether as individuals or from faith organizations, to contact their office at 651-603-6650.

 

Councilmember McGehee questioned whether the services currently offered at Victory Celebration Church at the same location would conflict with Keystone services. 

 

Ms. Pulver advised that Victory distributed items on Wednesdays, but would be closing that operation in April and their service would no longer be offered.

 

Mr. Nyberg left copies of invitations and annual reports at the bench for interested Councilmembers and the public.

 

5.         Recognitions, Donations, Communications

a.         Human Rights Essay Contest Winners

Mayor Roe welcomed students, teachers, and parents in attendance; and introduced Human Rights Commission Chair David Singleton; with several HRC Commissioners also in attendance.  Chair Singleton noted that almost 200 essays were received and reviewed by Human Rights Commissioners this year.

         

Chair Singleton recognized and presented three (3) Honorable Mention essay contest winners: Christian Favazza taught by Mr. Lucas Ebert (8th Grade at Parkview); Tim Schnell taught by Mr. Jeff Bibeau (8th Grade at Roseville Area Middle School - RAMS); and Isabella Silverio, taught by Ms. Kerry Gamble (7th Grade at RAMS). Chair Singleton noted that Ms. Silverio was an English as Second Language (ESL) student from Brazil and that she and her family had since returned to Brazil and would obviously not be attending tonight’s meeting, but noted that her certificate had already been provided to her.

 

Third Place winner Noah Livingston, 8th Grade at RAMS, taught by Mr. Jeff Bibeau; followed by Second Place winner Aleksandar Guzina, 8th Grade at Parkview, taught by Mr. Lucas Ebert; and First Place winner Sophia Miliotis, 8th Grade at RAMS taught by Mr. Lee Thao, were each recognized and invited to read their essays.

 

Chair Singleton announced that the HRC Commissioners would be hosting a reception and serving refreshments in lower level for students, their families and anyone interested in joining them.

 

Mayor Roe thanked all students who submitted, as well as the winners; and thanked area schools, their teachers and students for participating this year. 

 

Councilmember Pust noted the timeliness of the Human Rights topics of the winning essays; and encouraged the students to become future world leaders and resolve those outstanding issues.

 

Councilmember McGehee noted that, as a former HRC Commissioner, she missed the annual essay reading and thanked students for addressing timely issues, including the current cyber-bullying issue.

 

Chair Singleton thanked the Mayor and City Council for continued support of the HRC.

 

b.         Proclaim March 2011 Women’s History Month

Mayor Roe read a Proclamation recognizing and honoring contributions of women; and recognizing the 2011 National Women’s History Month theme, Our History is Our Strength; and proclaiming March 2011 to be Women’s History Month in the City of Roseville.

 

Pust moved, McGehee seconded, proclaiming March 2011 as Women’s History Month in the City of Roseville Proclamation recognizing and honoring contributions of women; and recognizing the 2011 National Women’s History Month theme, Our History is Our Strength.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

6.         Approve Minutes

a.            Approve Minutes of February 14, 2011 Meetings

Mayor Roe and Councilmembers McGehee, Johnson, and Willmus, had submitted their comments and corrections to the draft minutes prior to tonight’s meeting; and those corrections were incorporated into the draft presented in the Council packet.

 

Pust moved, Johnson seconded, approval of the minutes of the February 14, 2011 meetings as amended.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

Discussion included the process for providing individual Councilmember corrections to the Administration Department to avoid duplication and multiple copies of those corrections.

 

For consistency purposes, and by consensus, Mayor Roe suggested that Councilmembers identify line numbers of text for proposed changes in list format by e-mail for Ms. Driscoll in Administration, and she can then provide those submitted changes as indicated and a final draft for Council review prior to the meeting.

7.         Approve Consent Agenda

There were no additional changes to the Consent Agenda than those previously noted.  At the request of Mayor Roe, City Manager Bill Malinen briefly reviewed those items being considered under the Consent Agenda.

 

a.            Approve Payments

Mayor Roe and Councilmembers Johnson and McGehee thanked staff for providing more detailed payment listings for account names on the Check Register.

 

Councilmember McGehee requested one further change in grouping the payments by department rather than as to date written.

 

Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the following claims and payments as presented.         

 

ACH Payments	$893,213.92
61549-61742	609,671.29
Total	$1,502,885.21

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

b.            Approve Business Licenses

          Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, approval of business license applications for the period of one (1) year, for the following applicants:

                            

Applicant/Location	Type of License
Linda Ilk, at Rocco Altobelli, Inc.; 1655 County Road B-2	Massage Therapist

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

c.            Approve General Purchases and Sale of Surplus Items Exceeding $5,000

Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the submitted list of general purchases and contracts for services presented as follows:

 

Dept.	Vendor	Item/Description	Amount
Public Works	North Image Apparel, Inc.	Blanket P. O. for uniforms per contract	$11,000.00

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

d.            Approve a One-Day On-Site Gambling Permit for St. Rose of Lima Church to conduct Raffles on March 26, 2011 at Midland Hills Country Club, 2001 Fulham Street

Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the request by St. Rose of Lima Church to conduct raffles on March 26, 2011 at Midland Hills Country Club, located at 2001 Fulham Street.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

f.             Approve 2011 Parks Improvement Program (PIP)

Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, authorizing the 2011 PIP projects as presented with monies to be taken from the $185,000 appropriate din the 2011 Budget for the PIP.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

g.            Approve Applewood Point of Langton Lake Public Improvement Contract and Public Improvement Easement and Maintenance Agreement (PF 08-020)

Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, approval of a Public Improvement Contract between the City of Roseville and Applewood Pointe of Roseville at Langton Lake (Attachment A).

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, approval of a Public Improvement Easement and Maintenance Contract between the City of Roseville and Applewood Pointe of Roseville at Langton Lake (Attachment B).

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

h.            Approve Annual Contract Renewals between the Roseville Housing and Redevelopment Authority (RHRA) with the City of Roseville for Fiscal Support, Support Staff, and Executive Director Services for 2011

Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, authorizing the City Manager to enter into contracts with the Roseville HRA for the City to provide fiscal services (Attachment A), administrative staff support (Attachment B), and the services of the Community Development Director (Attachment C); and charge the Roseville HRA $38,724.00 for those services.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

i.             Adopt Resolution Authorizing Cable Franchise Renewal

Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, adoption of Resolution No. 10881 (Attachment C) entitled, “A Resolution Concerning the Commencement of Formal Renewal Proceedings Under the Federal Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984, as Amended.”

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

8.         Consider Items Removed from Consent

a.            Approve Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) with East Metro SWAT (former Consent Item 7.e)

At the request of Mayor Roe, City Manager Bill Malinen briefly reviewed this item as detailed in the Request for Council Action dated February 28, 2011.

 

Councilmember McGehee sought assurance that this was not an expansion of the current SWAT program; and questioned whether any additional services or materials were required that would cause additional expense to the City under this JPA.

 

Police Chief Rick Mathwig advised that this was not an expansion of SWAT services, but due to a mandate of the federal government and Homeland Security, services of tactical response units formerly managed under Mutual Aid Agreements were being revised as JPA’s, in consultation with respective attorneys of those participating jurisdictions and agencies.  Chief Mathwig advised that the only additional cost to the City of Roseville would be for insurance costs of approximately $200 once the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC) completed equipment inventories for all five (5) jurisdictions.

 

Councilmember McGehee noted that the City of Roseville was shown as fiscal agent for the group; and questioned if there were additional staff costs as well.

 

Chief Mathwig advised that costs would be basically for supply/materials costs, the same as in the past, with the City of Roseville initially purchasing and then invoicing the other jurisdictions for reimbursement of those costs.

 

Mayor Roe clarified that the change was basically to recreate a different governance structure with Chiefs of those agencies, or their designees, serving as a Governing Board; and that each entity would no longer carry their own insurance under the terms of the JPA, rather than previously done under the Mutual Aid Agreements.

 

Chief Mathwig concurred.

 

McGehee moved, Johnson seconded, authorizing the City of Roseville Police Department to enter into a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Joint Powers Agreement (Attachment A) with the Cities of New Brighton, St. Anthony, No. St. Paul, and the University of Minnesota Police Department.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

b.            Adopt an Ordinance for Minor Zoning Code Amendments (former Consent Item 7.j)

At the request of Mayor Roe, City Manager Bill Malinen briefly introduced this item as detailed in the Request for Council Action (RCA) dated February 28, 2011.

 

Councilmember Willmus noted that in past discussions, Councilmembers had expressed their interest in addressing various issues with the new Zoning Code; and questioned whether it made sense to adopt these proposed changes now or wait until the other issues were addressed at a later date.

 

Community Development Director Patrick Trudgeon advised that this was separate from that discussion of issues at the City Council Work Plan meeting; noting that these consisted of minor inconsistency or language issues.  Mr. Trudgeon advised that these minor changes were not intended to be a part of that broader discussion, scheduled to take place in late March, and following a Public Hearing process at the Planning Commission level to address those issues, and potentially taking several months.  Mr. Trudgeon opined that these changes were simply meant to clear up any confusion in the revised code with additional references found that still referred to the old zoning districts that had been inadvertently missed in the first revision.

 

Pust moved, Johnson seconded, enactment of Ordinance No. 1405 (Attachment I) entitled, “An Ordinance Amending Selected Text of Title 10 “Zoning Code’ Including Amendments in Chapter 1001 (Introduction); Chapter 1004 (Residential Districts); Chapter 1005 (Commercial and Mixed Use Districts); Chapter 1008 (Park and Recreation Districts); Chapter 1009 (Procedures); Chapter 1017 (Shoreland, Wetland, and Storm Water Management); and Chapter 1019 (Parking Regulations) of the Roseville City Code.”

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: McGehee.

Motion carried.

 

Johnson moved, Pust seconded, enactment of Ordinance Summary No. 1405 (Attachment J) entitled, “An Ordinance Summary Amending Selected Text of Title 10 “Zoning Code’ Including Amendments in Chapter 1001 (Introduction); Chapter 1004 (Residential Districts); Chapter 1005 (Commercial and Mixed Use Districts); Chapter 1008 (Park and Recreation Districts); Chapter 1009 (Procedures); Chapter 1017 (Shoreland, Wetland, and Storm Water Management); and Chapter 1019 (Parking Regulations) of the Roseville City Code;” for publication purposes

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

Recess

Mayor Roe recessed the meeting at approximately 7:15 pm and reconvened at approximately 7:22 pm.

9.         General Ordinances for Adoption

10.      Presentations

Executive Director Jerry Hromatka, presented the annual update of the NYFS; and highlighted various aspects, highlights and trends in the work of the organization.  The NYFS presentation was included as part of the February 28, 2011 meeting agenda packet.

 

Councilmember Pust, in her service on the NYFS Board, asked that Mr. Hromatka highlight ways the Cities and individuals could know the services of NYFS.  Mr. Hromatka advised that, if NYFS was unable to provide a specific service, they could connect those seeking those services with someone who could assist them.

 

Councilmember Pust noted that the need was often for Chore Corps, and questioned whether youth were available to assist residents with code enforcement issues.

 

Mr. Hromatka advised that those services could be arranged as individuals were available.

 

At the request of Councilmember Pust, Mr. Hromatka announced an upcoming leadership lunch on May 3, 2011 at 11:30 am at Midland Hills Country Club, where the community could learn more about NYFS and determine their interest in getting involved.  Mr. Hromatka announced that keynote speaker Matt Kramer, the new President of the St. Paul Chamber of Commerce, would be addressing the future of jobs and children from his perspective.  Mr. Hromatka invited residents to visit the NYFS website for more details on the lunch and/or services of NYFS.

 

Councilmember Johnson encouraged Mr. Hromatka to talk with Community Development Director Patrick Trudgeon to connect youth with code enforcement needs; noting that the City was looking to target code enforcement issues for commercial properties as well.

 

At the request of Councilmember McGehee, Mr. Hromatka reviewed some of the types of volunteer opportunities available at NYFS for those interested, including mentoring for kids with mental health diagnoses; tutoring and other youth development; proper technology use and skills; partnering with community interest groups; and the mundane administrative volunteer opportunities.

 

Mayor Roe thanked Mr. Hromatka for his presentation; and recognized the efforts of NYFS in encouraging outreach and communication with faith-based groups and others providing services to and making connections with those in need.  Mayor Roe spoke in support of the efforts of the NYFS, and opined that the City’s annual contribution was well spent.

 

a.            Roseville Visitor’s Association (RVA) Annual Report

Executive Director Julie Larson Wearn presented the annual report of the RVA; and highlighted various 2010 and 2011 events sponsored by the organization.  The RVA presentation was included as part of the February 28, 2011 meeting agenda packet.

 

Mayor Roe thanked Ms. Wearn for the presentation and promotional work of the RVA on behalf of the City’s hospitality industry and community events.

 

Councilmember McGehee questioned how the City Council could make her job easier and more successful within the community.

 

Ms. Wearn noted that the City Council was always receptive to the RVA’s work; and encouraged additional communication with the RVA so they could provide their perspective from a visitor’s point of view, in major developments within the community, such as in Twin Lakes Redevelopment Area.  Ms. Wearn noted that those had great impact on the City’s businesses and employment, and would provide an opportunity for the RVA to include additional opportunities for visitors, such as a jogging map with distances throughout the community as part of the pathway development plan.

 

Councilmember Pust questioned whether the RVA was involved in discussions on how future development of the TCAAP site in Arden Hills would impact Roseville.

 

Ms. Wearn advised that, if a stadium should develop on the site, it would definitely impact Roseville Hotels.  Ms. Wearn noted her conversations to-date with those involved in those discussions.

 

Councilmember Johnson expressed his appreciation of the work by Ms. Wearn as Executive Director of the RVA. 

 

Councilmembers Willmus and McGehee requested to be added to the RVA e-mail recipient list.

11.      Public Hearings

 

a.    Public Hearing for the Lake Owasso Safe Boating Association’s Request for Placement of Water Ski Course and Jump on Lake Owasso

Mayor Roe opened the Public Hearing at 8:10 pm for the purpose of hearing public comment on the reconstruction of Dale Street between County Road C and South Owasso Boulevard.

 

Public Comment

Steve Youngquist, 391 S Owasso Boulevard, President of the Lake Owasso Safe Boaters Association

Mr. Youngquist provided background information on the association, in addition to that included in the agenda packet materials.  Mr. Younquist noted the involvement of the Association in the annual Courage Center event on the lake.

 

Mayor Roe closed the Public Hearing at 8:14 pm.

12.      Business Items (Action Items)

 

a.    Consider Lake Owasso Safe Boating Association’s Request for Placement of Water Ski Course and Jump on Lake Owasso

Willmus moved, McGehee seconded, authorizing staff to concur with the request and send written concurrence to the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Department of the results of tonight’s Public Hearing regarding the request of the Lake Owasso Safe Boating Association for placement of a water ski course and jump on Lake Owasso in 2011.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

b.    Consider City Abatement for Unresolved Violations of City Code at 1430 Brenner

Permit Coordinator Don Munson reviewed violations at this single-family detached home located at 1430 Brenner Avenue, currently vacant, with the older owner(s), Leo and Evelyn Rosier, living elsewhere; and as detailed in the RCA dated February 28, 2011.

 

Mr. Munson advised current complaint was brought to staff’s attention by neighbors.  Mr. Munson advised that staff had been in contact with the owner’s family, who were unable to make the repairs, but that the owner was unwilling to sell the home at this time.  Mr. Munson provided an updated status report and photos of existing violations.

 

Mr. Munson advised that, due to the significant work indicated, staff had obtained three (3) bids; and that the family was receptive to the abatement, simply asking that the cost be spread out over 4-5 years.

 

Discussion among Councilmembers and staff included the potential of much more damage to the property than apparent from the outside; and whether the proposed abatement work was not addressing all of the items; whether further investigation on the interior of the home was prudent, and whether staff could gain access to the interior of the home given the lack of Power of Attorney by the family members, and elderly status of the property owner. 

 

Mr. Munson opined that there was no indication that this building be classified as a dangerous building needing condemnation; and noted additional 10% contingency allowed in the bids received for any additional work that may be indicated once work was initiated.

Public Comment

Ms. Chase Davies, 1442 Brenner Avenue

Ms. Davies, as a neighbor to this property, advised that it had been approximately seventeen (17) years since this home had been occupied by the owner or a relative of the owner; and that for a short time someone was on site several evenings each week, but that occupancy had ended several years ago.  Ms. Davies noted that the owner’s children had been in the home and done some cleaning and removal of items in a dumpster on site, and in her opinion those items appeared wet.  Ms. Davies advised that she was aware that the downstairs bath had no fixtures; but was unaware of other circumstances on the interior of the home.  Ms. Davies advised that the owner had been quite ill last summer, and when she’d spoken to one of the children, they advised that she was now in a nursing home in the Deerwood, MN area. Ms. Davies recognized that the owner was not willing to part with her home, but that she was never there.

 

Further discussion among Councilmembers, staff and Ms. Davies included the actual condition of the home and whether it was of any value; prudence of using public dollars, even if reimbursed, for addressing this problem property; and status of the utilities for this property.

 

Mayor Roe opined that it made sense to investigate the situation further.

 

Mr. Munson advised that, when staff last checked, utilities were still on, and he noted that the family had indicated that they plan to have the home occupied in the near future.

 

Johnson moved, Willmus seconded, directing Community Development staff to pursue further communication with the property owner and her family; and based on the results of that communication, bring the issue back to the City Council for further direction; or proceed with abatement of the public nuisance violations at 1430 Brenner Avenue by hiring general contractors to perform the following repairs on both the house and garage: replace roof shingles and rotted sheathing, repair soffits and fascia, repair window and paint peeling trim and garage door; at a cost estimated at $16,000; with the actual abatement and administrative costs to be billed to the property owner; and if not paid, staff directed to recover costs as specified in City Code, Section 407.07B.

 

Councilmembers concurred that either way, staff provide a follow-up report to the City Council on their findings.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

c.    Consider City Abatement for Unresolved Violations of City Code at 1863 Fernwood

Permit Coordinator Don Munson reviewed the violation at this single-family detached home located at 1863 Fernwood Avenue, with current owners Warren and Janet Dahle, an elderly couple having lived there for many years.

 

Mr. Munson provided an update on this complaint from neighbors that a utility trailer had been parked in the front yard for an extended period of time, and repeated requests that the trailer be relocated rearward into the side yard area where it is allowed by City Code.  Mr. Munson advised that the owner had indicated to him that he would not be present at tonight’s meeting; and addressed discussions by staff with the owner and his allegations that he didn’t receive either notice; and was physically unable to move the trailer, especially now with the excessive snow.  Mr. Munson suggested that Mr. Dahle be given until April 15, 2011 to move the trailer.

 

Johnson moved, McGehee seconded, directing Community Development staff to abate the public nuisance violations at 1863 Fernwood Avenue by hiring general contractors to move the trailer rearward in to the side yard area (where it is allowed) if it is still in violation of City Code after April 15, 2011; at a cost estimated to be $250.00; with the actual abatement and administrative costs to be billed to the property owner; and if not paid, staff directed to recover costs as specified in City Code, Section 407.07B.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

d.    Consider a Resolution Approving the Acquisition of a Permanent Pathway Easement and a Temporary Construction Easement Using Eminent Domain for a portion of property located at 1595 Highway 36, City of Roseville

City Engineer Debra Bloom summarized the request as detailed in the RCA dated February 28, 2011; and apparent lack of cooperation by Macy’s in proceeding with negotiations to facilitate construction as part of the federally-funded pathway project.  Ms. Bloom advised that staff was requesting this Eminent Domain proceeding to meet the federal funding and neighborhood commitment for this project and funding in place since 2008.  Ms. Bloom reviewed the two (2) requested actions, and recommendations of the City Attorney, in accordance with State Statute, in adopting the resolution stating that acquisition of the property did not contradict the City’s Comprehensive Plan, as an alternate approach to avoid additional delays in a Public Hearing process at the Planning Commission level, and subsequent recommendation back to the City Council.

 

Ms. Bloom briefly reviewed the proposed pedestrian facility alongside Fairview Avenue, and the City’s Pathway Master Plan that included this portion.

 

Mayor Roe noted that this action would require a super majority vote.

 

Discussion among Councilmembers and staff included the lack of expeditious response from attorneys representing Macy’s; the location and configuration of the sidewalk and required additional space to make the connection to the existing pathway north of the intersection; appraisal process and the City’s work with Evergreen Land Services for the City’s appraisal; work on the project since June of 2010 with no resolution to-date; and potential incentive provided by this requested action.

 

Johnson moved, Pust seconded, adoption of Resolution No. 10882 (Attachment C) entitled, “A Resolution Regarding the Determination of the Relationship of the Acquisition of Real Property to the Comprehensive Plan.”

 

Roll Call (Super-Majority Required)

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

Johnson moved, Pust seconded, adoption of Resolution No. 10883 (Attachment D) entitled, “A Resolution for the Acquisition of a Permanent Pathway Easement and a Temporary Construction Easement Using Eminent Domain for a Portion of Property located at 1595 Highway 36, City of Roseville;”

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

e.    Consider Awarding Bid for Janitorial Services for City Facilities

Fleet and Facilities Supervisor Pat Dolan briefly summarized the requested award of bids as detailed in the RCA dated February 28, 2011.  Mr. Dolan noted that seven (7) firms had submitted proposals, using the best value practice method, recommending Linn Building Maintenance as their work plan met the various building needs and schedules for the City.

 

Councilmember McGehee questioned whether the best value process evaluated contractors as employers, whether they offered full-time jobs with benefits.

 

Mr. Dolan advised that the process did consider that, and that the wages were industry-standard full-time positions at approximately $13 per hour with benefits.

 

Willmus moved, Johnson seconded, award of the contract for janitorial services to Linn Building Maintenance in the amount of $260,313 for a three (3) year period effective in March 2011.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

f.     Consider a Sales Tax Option

City Manager Malinen reviewed this request as detailed in the RCA dated February 28, 2011, and provided as a bench handout when inadvertently omitted from the meeting packet materials, attached hereto and made a part hereof.  Mr. Malinen clarified, following his most recent discussions with the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC), that a referendum would be held in a State General Election year; and that if the City Council proceeded with a referendum, it would be in the fall of 2012, with commencement in 2013, as outlined in the draft resolution.

 

Councilmember Pust expressed her significant concerns about this, opining that the City Council had yet to discuss the possibility in any great detail, only in general terms.  Councilmember Pust recognized the timing in meeting this legislative session; however, she spoke in support of additional community discussions on the possibility.  Councilmember Pust agreed that the City needed to research and discuss additional revenue sources; but questioned why this approach rather than lobbying for removal of the levy cap and concentrate on property tax issues.  Councilmember Pust expressed concern with the potential regressivity of a local option sales tax versus property taxes, and their specific impacts on Roseville taxpayers.  Councilmember Pust questioned the possibility of Roseville succeeding in getting such a tax approved based on the unsuccessful history of other suburban communities in doing so.  Councilmember Pust advised that she was not willing to say yes at this time without further discussion.

 

Councilmember Willmus recognized that Councilmember Pust had raised valid concerns; however, he noted that this approach had come from a community-driven or generated idea, with discussion starting with the OVAL Task Force as one source of revenue encouraged by a group of Roseville citizens.

 

Councilmember Pust advised that she had followed those discussions; however, it raised yet another issue: whether the sales tax should be applied to capital versus general operating expenses.  Councilmember Pust opined that other things raised in the RCA had yet to be addressed by the City Council; and with the other issues currently before the legislative body, she didn’t think an additional bill with this request would proceed.

 

Councilmember McGehee concurred with Councilmember Pust; and while agreeing in theory with the proposed list of projects for funding, opined that additional business and residential input was needed to determine the positive and negative impacts to them.

 

City Manager Malinen noted those potential projects listed (Attachment C) were shown as examples, and recognized that the City Council may have not engaged in discussion on each item listed; however, he noted that many of them were perpetuating trust fund items identified from the Parks and Recreation Master Plan process, and were representative of the magnitude of outstanding specifics and priorities and could serve to provide direction, while allowing some flexibility.  Mr. Malinen suggested that the legislative delegation may be able to provide greater insight into how and which items would be best received and how to proceed once they received the resolution from the City.

 

Councilmember Johnson recognized the concerns expressed by Councilmember Pust; however, he opined that having specifics in place at this time was not crucial to the process at this time and the request currently before the City Council.  Councilmember Johnson noted that the most intriguing issue was the regional wear and tear on the City’s infrastructure by those using Roseville programs and services and the benefit to Roseville citizens in those people sharing in the upkeep of that infrastructure rather than it falling to City taxpayers exclusively.  Councilmember Johnson further opined that he didn’t see any resolution to that problem by attempting to get the levy cap lifted or by pursuing additional bonding referenda.  Councilmember Johnson expressed his interest in seeing the results of the two (2) pending community surveys to determine the interest of constituents in pursuing the various issues.  Councilmember Johnson suggested that the intent of the proposed local option sales tax referendum would be to allow voters to weigh in and be part of the decision-making process.

 

Councilmember Pust noted that there were many people coming to and spending money in Roseville; and opined that it would be great if Roseville citizens could collect revenue from other than Roseville citizens to address those additional infrastructure and public safety services.  However, Councilmember Pust noted the need for further analysis of the impact to Roseville citizens of such a local option sales tax and whether that was the best tax to raise.  Councilmember Pust noted that the City did not have the authority, and she didn’t anticipate the City receiving that authority.  Councilmember Pust clarified that the legislators were simply responding to a question of the City Council but did not suggest that the City proceed, even though they expressed their willingness to carry the bill forward if the City proceeded.  Based on the most recent statements by Governor Dayton, Councilmember Pust questioned if the legislature needed another issue to defend this session.  Councilmember Pust noted City Manager Malinen’s recommendation to see if the issue was well received, and then proceed to finesse it; but she suggested that the question should be what did the City want to pay for and how to do so; and didn’t need to be decided tonight and delay would allow time to ask more questions.

 

Councilmember Johnson concurred.

 

Mayor Roe shared some concerns in the process at this point; and Statute language related to the proposed resolution and how revenues were to be used.  Mayor Roe opined that he was uncomfortable with the draft resolution and attached list of proposed uses for the sales tax; and expressed his preference for more discussion following the Park and Recreation Master Plan implementation process.

 

Councilmember Johnson also noted the need to hear recommendations of the Fire Station Committee.

 

Mayor Roe also noted the need to hear recommendations of the Finance/CIP Subcommittee.

 

Councilmember McGehee advised that she had lived in other communities with a local option sales tax, and if you were a resident of that community or that county, you were exempt.

 

Mayor Roe stated that the State of Minnesota’s Statutes did not have such a provision.

 

Councilmember Pust concurred, noting that of those twenty (20) cities currently having a local sales tax, none had been exempted.

 

City Manager Malinen reviewed the deadline of March 8, 2011 for submittal of bills for this session; and questioned any interest of the City Council as a body for any of those Parks and Recreation items listed, or for the estimated cost for new fire facilities; or if they had other suggestions of items having regional significance in accordance with legislative policy and to provide direction to staff in pursuing this option and to provide an acceptable package of proposed projects for consideration by the legislature.

Councilmember Johnson expressed his preference that, if the City was to go forward, that this was an important issue for the City of Roseville and the City Council and community needed to speak unanimously.  Councilmember Johnson advised that until that consensus was achieved, he was not comfortable moving forward; and he spoke in support of receiving the additional information as addressed by Councilmember Pust.

 

Councilmember Pust referenced information on proposed bills that would be heard during this house session that she had downloaded from the LMC website earlier today; and questioned the senate schedule as well; and expressed concerns in considering submission of this proposal at the last minute.

 

Mayor Roe suggested that, if the City Council was not ready to move the resolution, that they table action pending further discussion.

 

Councilmember McGehee questioned whether City Manager Malinen had had further discussions with the legislative delegation following their appearance at a recent City Council meeting; and whether he had received anything more positive from them.

 

City Manager Malinen advised that he had held further discussion with them; but that they had not offered further encouragement other than their willingness to carry a bill forward on the house side if the City brought it to them; and recognized the realistic obstacles in the legislature to move such a measure forward.  However, Mr. Malinen further noted that the delegation also recognized that some public safety infrastructure needs were held in high regard by the legislature and usually well-received.

 

After further discussion on the timing of this legislative session and limited time for further research and meeting time to consider the ramifications of such a measure, it was the consensus to not act on the proposed resolution at this time.

 

Mayor Roe noted that there would be another legislative session next year; and suggested that this would allow for receipt of additional information as previously discussed from the Parks and Recreation Master Plan implementation process, as well as the Fire Facilities Committee and Finance/CIP Subcommittee; as well as to have a better feel for the legislative landscape.

 

Councilmember Johnson concurred, noting that by this time next year, the City would have their needs more well-defined.

 

City Manager Malinen asked that individual Councilmembers provide their specific questions to staff to include as part of the ongoing discussions.

 

Public Comment

John Kysylyczyn, 3083 N Victoria Street

Mr. Kysylyczyn encouraged Councilmembers to formally vote “no” so there was no ambiguity remaining as to whether this proposal was still under consideration.  Mr. Kysylyczyn opined that the proposed resolution did not meet the tests of statute; and strongly suggested that the City Council avoid any mixed messages being sent to the state legislature on what metropolitan suburbs may be interested in pursuing.

 

Mayor Roe expressed confidence that, by not taking any action, the position of the City was evident.

13.      Business Items – Presentations/Discussions

a.    Discuss Parks and Recreation Master Plan Implementation

Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Jill Anfang (staff lead for implementation process) and Jason Etten, Citizen Organizing Team Chair were present and referenced a bench handout outlining work of the Master Plan Implementation Team’s vision.

 

Jason Etten, Citizen Organizing Team Chair

As a bench handout, Chair Etten summarized the recent Community Meeting #1 held on February 23, 2011; and provided a communication/progress report of the Parks and Recreation Implementation process; attached hereto and made a part hereof.  Chair Etten extended an open invitation to the next meeting, scheduled for May 11, 2011; as well as encouraging public participation in any of the Citizen Organizing Team (COT) meetings.

 

Chair Etten referenced the previous discussion on the local sales tax option; and spoke in support of pursuing the option, opining that there was lots of energy and understanding in the community stemming from the Master Plan process and for those broadly-outlined projects included in the packet.  Chair Etten further opined that this may be a good time for Roseville to pursue the option, since many of the projects listed in the proposal were of a regional nature.

 

Chair Etten advised that it was the Implementation Team’s intent to provide an update to the City Council every 6-8 weeks, or more frequently if requested or indicated.

                  

Discussion among Chair Etten and Councilmembers included including language related to the sales tax option in the survey currently being finalized; desire of Councilmembers to review the survey questions prior to public distribution; potential timeline for receipt of the survey data anticipated by the end of May; use of indications from COT meetings as a microcosm of the community and the general sense that a sales tax option would have less impact on senior citizens than increased property taxes; continuing community support for any future bonding for infrastructure improvements; other potential funding mechanisms that may be available and considered; and the need to keep the City Council informed, even if and when no formal action was needed.

 

Councilmember McGehee thanked and recognized Parks and Recreation Department staff and volunteers for the way the process had gone, and offered her continued support.  Councilmember McGehee suggested the NYFS could help in addressing immediate maintenance needs of warming houses as a community service project. 

 

Mayor Roe concurred with Councilmember McGehee in thanking the group for their process and wished it continued success.

 

Ms. Anfang reminded the public that the Implementation Team is open to any new members, for as much or little involvement as their schedules allowed.  Ms. Anfang noted that this assured the public remained informed and continued learning about the various aspects of the process.  At the request of Councilmember McGehee, Ms. Anfang reviewed the current work groups: Communications/Funding Options; Constellation Representatives with the Master Plan having divided the community into fifteen (15) groups; Natural Resources Group; Community Organizations/Facilities; and Implementation Partners.

 

b.    Report on 2/3 Vote Requirement

After his review of City Manager Malinen’s research as detailed in the RCA dated February 28, 2011, Councilmember Willmus agreed to maintaining current rules and was not supportive in expanding super majority vote to affect amending the Rules.

 

Mayor Roe polled remaining Councilmembers on their preference; and by consensus, it was agreed to retain the Rules as currently adopted without further revision.

Public Comment

John Kysylyczyn, 3083 N Victoria Street

Mr. Kysylyczyn provided a hypothetical scenario that he perceived was missing from City Manager Malinen’s analysis and suggested further consideration in not having voting requirements that couldn’t be sustained by law if litigation was pursued.

 

Mayor Roe assured Mr. Kysylyczyn that the Council Rules of Procedure, as written, would suffice.

 

Due to the lateness of the hour, Johnson moved, Pust seconded, extending the meeting curfew past 10:00 p.m. to consider Item 13.c.

 

Roll Call

Ayes: Johnson; McGehee; Willmus; Pust; and Roe.

Nays: None.

 

c.    Discuss Budget Calendar Items

Councilmember Johnson suggested, as a general guideline, that the City Council not discuss budget-related items at the end of a meeting when everyone was burned out, such as at this time, allowing for lack of clarity.  Councilmember Johnson suggested budget-related items be addressed in the beginning of agendas, not at the end.

 

Mayor Roe noted that in order to have a budget, the City Council majority needed to be supportive of the basic budgeting tool; and questioned if there was a consensus for priority-based budgeting to allow further discussion at this time.

 

Councilmember Pust opined that she couldn’t have any further discussion without a more clear definition of the terms.

 

Mayor Roe advised that the intent of priority-based budgeting was to use the list of programs (Attachment B) upon which to base discussion and prioritization efforts with a breakdown of budget dollars included on whatever additional documentation was used.  Mayor Roe noted that each of those programs provided by the City Government in the community was further defined in supplemental documents to provide more clarity.

 

Councilmember Willmus questioned whether those programs included taxpayer-supported as well as non-taxpayer supported programs.

 

Mayor Roe noted that both were included and should be inclusive with the exception of capital purchases.

 

Councilmember Pust questioned where the salary breakdown discussed at last week’s meeting was included in Attachment B.

 

Mayor Roe advised that he was suggesting that salary breakdowns be based on these programs.

 

Councilmember Pust clarified that Attachment A included only the list of programs, but still needed to have the salary breakdowns incorporated.

 

Mayor Roe responded affirmatively if that list was acceptable.

 

Councilmembers Pust and McGehee concurred that the list of programs was acceptable.

 

Councilmember Willmus opined that the individual items listed and process was similar to that used prior to the 2008/2009 budget process.

 

City Manager Malinen clarified that it did not include the specificity of programs being funded.

 

Mayor Roe concurred, noting that while a Police Patrol Category was shown, it was now broken down into more specific components.

 

City Manager Malinen sought to confirm that the City Council was interested in a priority-based approach, not a programmatic approach.

 

Councilmember Pust, referencing Attachment A and the anatomy of priority-based budgeting, says the first step demands a discussion on an established levy amount, at which point the list could be prioritized; however, she opined that this was not what had been done to-date.

 

Mayor Roe noted that it was his personal intent to have the levy level discussion early in the process; since that is the intended design of priority-based budgeting process.  At the request of Councilmember Pust, Mayor Roe advised that it was his intent, as indicated on the proposed budget calendar, to first have the City Manager present a recommended budget in a vacuum and in general terms based on the list of programs in Attachment B and showing what was needed to fund those programs, with the City Council then providing further refinement and their preferred levy level, and staff returning to the City Council with a budget based on that levy level and its related implications.

 

Councilmember Pust disagreed, opining that the first step should be setting the levy level.

 

Mayor Roe advised that it had been the mutual conclusion of he and City Manager Malinen and Finance Director Miller that the levy needed to be set and the City Manager recommendation would proceed on the basis of that; however, there was a need to have the prioritization exercise done so staff was aware of City Council priorities to allow them to determine what could or could not be funded, which would need to be reduced, and which could be funded.

 

Councilmember Pust opined that it should be both a qualitative and quantitative issue, with prioritization saying the levy was established at a certain level.

 

Mayor Roe opined that prioritization tells you what it should be, and the various programs that can be funded by funding sources available.

Councilmember Pust opined that such a process had been done for several years now, and continued to get Councilmembers focused on which line items to pursue or remove.

 

Mayor Roe opined that, when doing the prioritization process, no dollar amounts should be included.

 

Councilmember Pust opined that, if Attachment A was to be relied upon, the levy limit should be set before prioritization.

 

Mayor Roe opined that they could be done either way from his perspective, that they could be done concurrent with each other, and that the City Council should be setting priorities of the things most important to provide to the community and based on available resources.

 

Councilmember Pust disagreed, opining that the levy should be set first, then services and programs prioritized.

 

Councilmember McGehee opined that the levy should be based on the minimum it would take to provide essential services, just the minimum, without any extra programs at all; what it would cost to have a zero levy.  Then after that is established, Councilmember McGehee suggested those items needing to be removed could be addressed.  Councilmember McGehee opined that the idea that every year the previous year’s levy and budget was increased with additional items applied, was not right and not getting the City where it needed to be.  Councilmember McGehee further opined that the incremental budgets over the last 8-9 years were not sustainable.

 

Councilmember Willmus opined that the proposed list was a good place to start and he was in agreement; however, he opined that each individual Councilmember would have a different answer, as well as individual staff members, on what constituted an essential service.

 

Mayor Roe opined that prioritization informed that discussion.

 

Councilmember Johnson spoke in support of Councilmember Pust’s proposed targeted levels; suggesting that by April or May, realistic scenarios could be made available; allowing time for the CIP Task Force recommendations to come forward and potentially affecting the levy and how it was approached.

 

Mayor Roe noted that the proposed calendar didn’t set the preliminary levy until the end of May; and that it may be appropriate to consider several different scenarios and impacts to the community’s programs and services with a zero percent levy; and several other scenarios.

Councilmember Johnson suggested a quick, simple exercise to determine where this type of budget would go: showing a zero budget; and a 10% differential in payroll to compensate for capital needs; and they both looked from staff’s perspective and which programs and/or services would drop off.

 

Mayor Roe suggested that in order to do that the prioritization process needed to be done to inform that staff exercise.

 

Councilmember Willmus questioned Finance Director Miller on the timing of information from Ramsey County on tax capacity for the City; and the Auditor’s Report.

 

Finance Director Miller responded that typically preliminary aggregate estimates on tax capacity rates were received from Ramsey County in mid- to late-April; and the Auditor’s Report typically by the end of March. 

 

Discussion ensued regarding when final numbers were available including legislative actions; preference to have a target established by May; allowing time in the process for public input, tentatively scheduled in July, but allowing staff sufficient time to provide information for the public to comment on; the importance of nailing down the calendar now as a guiding document while allowing flexibility to tweak items through the process; and how staff should be directed to proceed and make recommendations.

 

City Manager Malinen spoke in support of prioritization allowing staff to meet those targets, however they’re set; and working from the bottom up on those priority listings. City Manager Malinen advised that this step was really important, noting that the City Council had two (2) new Councilmembers not having previously weighed in on the current priority list, but noting that staff was seeking collective rankings to adjust priorities. 

 

Councilmember Johnson suggested that staff use last year’s priorities for their exercise on a zero or 10% reduced/increased levy to show what impacts would result.

 

Councilmember Willmus expressed his concern with the ranking methodology and categorizations uses.  However, Councilmember Willmus advised that he didn’t have a strong feeling on which budget process was used; and that he would gauge where he thought spending was too high or too low, no matter if a priority-based or line item budget was used.

 

Mayor Roe advised that the methodology used could be a discussion item.

 

At the request of Councilmember Pust, Mayor Roe confirmed that Department Heads would submit their specific department needs to inform the City Council’s prioritization.

 

Councilmember McGehee concurred with Councilmember Willmus that she had no need to reset the ranking process; and was happy to use existing priorities whether set by a previous City Council or staff.  Councilmember McGehee spoke in support of pursuing the exercises suggested by Councilmember Johnson.  Councilmember McGehee opined that the City’s past budgets and levies had moved way beyond the cost of inflation; and suggested that this was a good opportunity for staff to take a flat percent and adjust resources accordingly through internal adjustments, sharing of staff, and reconsidering services that should or shouldn’t be available.

 

Councilmember Willmus suggested that the City Council use two (2) of their three (3) meetings each month and reserve it for the budget process alone, rather than attempting these discussions so late at night.

 

Mayor Roe suggested that significant time be set aside as an agenda item on upcoming agendas for further discussion, suggesting March 28, 2011 at the soonest, since the other two meetings were filled with interviews.  Mayor Roe noted that adoption of the calendar could be delayed, but that discussion was needed in the future, and early on in the agenda.

 

Mayor Roe suggested, at the prompting of Councilmember McGehee, that individual Councilmembers submit their thoughts on methodology and other issues in writing for inclusion and discussion in that meeting packet.

 

Councilmember Willmus opined that the City Council needed to lock themselves in a room until they achieved resolution.

 

Mayor Roe advised that he would work with City Manager Malinen to achieve a minimum of one hour on a future agenda to continue this discussion.

 

City Manager Malinen sought clarification on how staff should proceed: using last year’s priorities as a tool, both for tax-supported and non-tax supported priorities, pursue an exercise on what it would take to achieve a zero percent levy and budget; as well as a minus 10% levy.

 

Mayor Roe clarified that the list of priorities were based on tax-supported programs.

 

City Manager Malinen noted that staff may be able to provide some sense of what that means, with some being inflationary and some personnel-related.

 

Councilmember Johnson noted that the exercise would be simply shifting the pie internally, and not affecting the levy at all, but should include affects on capital needs; and positive/negative annually outlays; and would provide an interesting look from staff’s perspective on where they would shift those resources with a zero percent levy.

 

Further clarification was discussed on the exercise to be followed; with Councilmember Johnson suggesting a zero levy; and one with 10% off personnel and operating costs, with Department Heads to determine what that comes out to be.  Councilmember Johnson clarified that this exercise should come from Departments, and should be kept simple based on last year’s priorities.

 

Councilmember Willmus concurred, expressing interest in an incremental breakdown at zero percent and -10%.

 

City Manager Malinen noted some inflationary costs; insurance; variables on employee costs; and reallocations and recommended adjustments to achieve zero percent.

 

Councilmember Johnson observed that, at some point, the exercise would provide a realistic impact of that document on operations, with some programs going away; and expressing his personal interest in understanding the impacts to personnel, capital and a rough understanding of how capital would be impacted as well.

 

Mayor Roe clarified that this exercise would have the assumption that there would be no COLA factor involved, just current flat salaries.

 

Further discussion included confirmation that the 2010 levy increase was at 1.9%; and clarification that there was no 2010 increase in the HRA levy, just a shift in Community Development costs.

 

City Manager Malinen sought to clarify that the “what if” exercise would indicate what staff would do differently at a zero percent and -10% levy level.

 

Councilmember Johnson clarified that the exercise would be for a zero percent budget; as well as a zero with minus 10% shift; and a zero with a shift between operating and capital.

14.       City Manager Future Agenda Review

City Manager Malinen reviewed upcoming agenda items; including adjustments based on impacts of discussions held at tonight’s meeting.

 

After discussion of scheduling issues and whether to schedule a special meeting for interviews, or delegating those interviews to Communications staff and/or Commission Chairpersons based on a standard set of questions; it was the consensus to hold interviews on March 14, and March 21, 2011 starting at 4:00 pm; and those Councilmembers available to be in attendance.

 

Mayor Roe advised that he would work with City Manager Malinen to adjust meeting agendas accordingly.

15.      Councilmember-Initiated Items for Future Meetings

Councilmember McGehee requested a future Work Session to address long-range planning with Department Heads, beyond that discussed at the recently Work Plan meetings.

 

Councilmember McGehee suggested scheduling a Work Session once per month or every six (6) weeks to discuss topics in detail, without taking formal action at that time.

 

Councilmember McGehee suggested further discussion of Home Owners Associations and a City Ordinance requiring them to maintain a certain level of reserves.

 

Councilmember Pust advised that she had spoken to the HRA about such an ordinance following the last City Council discussion, and noted that the HRA had expressed interest in researching it as a body and making a recommendation to the City Council; and had subsequently added it to their Work Plan.

 

Mayor Roe duly noted that process, and advised that it would proceed on the HRA agenda, not as a City Council agenda item at this time.

 

Councilmember Pust advised that she had been called for jury duty on March 14, 2011 and may be late in arriving at the meeting.

 

Mayor Roe advised that he would be away the week of March 7, 2011.

16.      Adjourn

Willmus moved, Johnson seconded, adjournment of the meeting at approximately 10:49 pm.