City
Council Meeting Minutes
February 13, 2017
1.
Roll Call
Mayor Roe called
the meeting to order at approximately 6:00 p.m. Voting and Seating Order:
Willmus, Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe. City Manager Trudgeon and City
Attorney Mark Gaughan were also present.
2. Pledge of
Allegiance
3. Approve Agenda
City Manager
Trudgeon requested removal of Item 9.b from the Consent Agenda for separate
consideration.
Councilmember
Etten requested removal of Item 9.h from the Consent Agenda for separate
consideration.
Etten moved,
McGehee seconded, approval of the agenda as amended
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
4. Public Comment
Mayor Roe called
for public comment by members of the audience on any non-agenda items. No one
appeared to speak.
5. Recognitions,
Donations and Communications
a.
New Firefighter Staff Introductions
Fire Chief
O'Neill introduced the three newest Roseville firefighters; Karl Strohmeier,
Battalion Chief Wes Halvorsen, and Josh Waylander; who in turn provided their
brief biographies.
Mayor Roe
welcomed them and thanked them for their service to the community.
b.
Proclaim Women's History Month
Mayor Roe read
a proclamation recognizing and honoring the role of women in both business and
the labor force; and noted the 2017 theme for National Women's History Month
was entitled "Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor and Business.
Laliberte
moved, McGehee seconded, proclaiming March 2017 as Women's History Month in
Roseville, Minnesota.
Roll Call
Ayes:
Willmus, Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays:
None.
6.
Items Removed from Consent Agenda
b.
Approve Business & Other Licenses & Permits
Subsequent to
distribution of tonight's agenda, City Manager Trudgeon reported that
additional information had been received related to the Massage Therapist
License request of Weiting Lu, Oriental Lake Massage, located at 2216 County
Road D West, Suite F. Mr. Trudgeon advised that the applicant had failed to
disclose information about holding a massage therapist license in Forest Lake
as part of their application materials; and therefore, staff was recommending
that the license be withdrawn from consideration.
McGehee moved,
Etten seconded, approval of business and other licenses and permits for terms
as noted, pending successful background checks for massage and tobacco licenses
as applicable; with the exception of the Massage Therapist License request of
Weiting Lu.
Councilmember
Willmus spoke in opposition to the motion, based on his ongoing concerns with
review procedures in place he deemed were insufficient to vet these types of
licenses. While expressing appreciation that staff caught this particular
application omission, Councilmember Willmus opined that issues remained.
Councilmember
Laliberte asked that staff address a different process to avoid the need for
the City Council to not approving these type of business licenses.
In light of a
recent incident in the city, Mayor Roe noted changes to the process; but
suggested further review was needed, especially more time between the receipt
of an application and approval to allow for performance of more due diligence.
However, for clarity, Mayor Roe noted that, with the exception of this one
particular license application, the remainder of those seeking licensure had
fulfilled their application requirements.
Roll
Call
Ayes:
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays:
Willmus.
Motion
carried.
h. Facility Space Needs Analysis
City Manager Trudgeon provided a
brief update on city facility needs as detailed in the staff report; reporting
that the considerations by staff in making this recommendation for a space
needs analysis for the current License Center, Maintenance Facility, and other
city storage needs was based on City Council direction at the December 5, 2016
City Council meeting. While recognizing that the cost may seem high, Mr.
Trudgeon advised that staff felt it was worth a more detailed and professional
review, with funds intended to come from the License Center and Building
Replacement Funds.
Especially
regarding the License Center and past City Council discussions, Councilmember
Etten asked for the value added from staff's perspective in hiring a firm
beyond staff performing that analysis and recognizing federal mandates related
to the License Center.
City Manager
Trudgeon responded that the value added was that while staff can anticipate
square footage needs to some degree, someone with more expertise was needed for
a proper layout of that space, and to address applicable state and city codes;
all toward the goal for providing better customer service efficiencies based on
that guidance. Mr. Trudgeon noted that this also included taking a hard look
at where a building might be located or relocated on a given site for the best
approach and taking into consideration parking and location of an elevator if
adding stories. While staff could draw a box, Mr. Trudgeon opined that this
analysis would provide more detail and visual preference options.
While not
disagreeing with the rationale, Council member Etten noted that the council had
identified a likely location. Given that, he thought it was unwise to have
concept plans drawn up for three locations. Despite having a likely location
the city had no final location determined and Council member Etten felt it was
probably getting the cart before the horse to have any drawings made.
Councilmember
McGehee stated that her understanding of this request was for a broader view of
space needs campus-wide and how to fit storage into the picture, recognizing
that the current arrangement at the maintenance facility may not be the best
configuration. Councilmember McGehee stated that she was very much in favor of
taking a 30,000-foot view of city space needs in general together with the
current License Center location and their needs.
City Manager
Trudgeon confirmed that this analysis was intended to take current city storage
needs scattered throughout the community into consideration as well.
Councilmember
Laliberte stated that she was also in favor of taking this broader view,
opining that there was information currently lacking. If the City Council
didn't take action on this request tonight, Councilmember Laliberte asked if
there was an expiration date for quotes.
While not
necessarily impacting the quotes, City Manager Trudgeon advised that the only
urgency was a desire on the city's part to push forward. With the next meeting
of the City Council on February 27, 2017 being taken up by commission
interviews, Mr. Trudgeon noted this created some urgency in addition to lease
negotiations with the owner of the current License Center facility.
Public Works
Director Marc Culver added that the proposal broke down pricing per task if the
City Council felt strongly not to go beyond the License Center aspect. Mr.
Culver noted that the cost was a "not to exceed" cost and could be adjusted
accordingly at the City Council's direction. Mr. Culver clarified that storage
of equipment included both that of the Public Works Department as well as the
Parks & Recreation Department.
Councilmember
Willmus stated his appreciation for and echoed those concerns raised by
Councilmember Etten; and thanked staff for providing a more detailed response
tonight. Councilmember Willmus stated that his primary concern was with the
maintenance facility as he felt that a review of the Maintenance Facility was
needed and needing to fall into place more so than the License Center portion.
Councilmember Willmus stated that his concern was with storage of equipment and
supplies rather than what was being attempted at the License Center. After his
initial review of this request, Councilmember Willmus advised that he would
have probably gone in a different direction. However, with the comments made
by City Manager Trudgeon and Public Works Director Culver, Councilmember
Willmus stated that he was now inclined to support the request.
At the request
of Councilmember Etten, Public Works Director Culver confirmed that
approximately 1/3 of the funding for the study would be for the License Center
with the remaining 2/3 related to space and storage needs. At the further
request of Councilmember Etten, Mr. Culver confirmed that the consulting firm
could be asked to focus on city concerns on any or all of the items, advising
that staff had initially asked firms to provide a range (up to four) and any
reduction in potential layouts would subsequently reduce the cost of the
analysis.
Mayor Roe noted
that the requested motion was for a "not to exceed" amount.
City Manager
Trudgeon suggested that the City Council provide clear direction in their
motion.
Etten moved,
McGehee seconded, approval of a Professional Services Agreement (Attachment A)
with Kodet Architectural group for a Facility Space Needs Analysis for the
License Center and Maintenance Facility, as outlined in the staff report as
presented focusing on a single initial option for the License Center; at a cost
not to exceed $32,600.
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus, Laliberte,
Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
7.
Business Items
a.
Consider Lake Owasso Safe Boating Association's Request for
Permit Renewal of the Water-Ski Slalom Course on Lake Owasso
Police
Lieutenant Lorne Rosand briefly summarized this 49th annual request
by the Lake Owasso Safe Boating Association as detailed in the staff report and
attachments, with staff recommending approval.
Public
Comment
Mayor
Roe recognized receipt of six emails in support of the request, provided as
bench handouts, attached hereto and made a part hereof. The emails were
submitted by Midge Mosimann, 393 S Owasso Boulevard W; Sara Lund, 381 S Owasso
Boulevard West; Andrew Walz, 3097 Sandy Hook Drive; Cynthia Walz, 389 S Owasso
Boulevard W; Richard Brown, 397 S Owasso Boulevard; and Jim Badzinski, 385 S
Owasso Boulevard W.
No
one appeared to speak for or against this request.
Laliberte
moved, Etten seconded, approving Lake Owasso Safe Boating Association's request
for a permit from the Ramsey County Sheriff for a water ski course on Lake
Owasso for the 2017 season.
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
b.
Consideration of a Community Development Department Request to
perform an Abatement for an Unresolved Violations of City Code at 2051 William
Street
Codes
Coordinator Dave Englund summarized this request and provided updated photos of
the code violations on site as of today. At the request of Mayor Roe, Mr.
Englund confirmed that notice had been provided to the owner via on-site
posting and mailed notice.
Mayor Roe
called for comment from the owner and/or from the public specific to this
request, with no one appearing for or against.
McGehee moved,
Etten seconded, directing Community Development staff to abate the public
nuisance at 2051 William Street by hiring a general contractor at a cost
estimated at $500.00 to remove the outside storage of junk between the home and
detached garage; with the property owner billed for actual and administrative
costs; and if those charges are not paid, staff will recover costs as specified
in City Code, Section 407.07B.
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
c.
Receive Update from City Council Sub-Committee on Commissions
Speaking
on behalf of Mayor Roe and herself serving as the subcommittee, Councilmember
Laliberte provided an update based on seven different meetings she and Mayor
Roe held with fourteen various past and present commissioners on the Community
Engagement Commission (CEC) and Human Rights Commission (HRC). Councilmember
Laliberte noted that both commissions had very passionate commissioners on
board who were very committed; and all agreed that more work could be
accomplished with more people. Councilmember Laliberte advised that both
commissions were very interested in working on today's community needs, as well
as in receiving more direction for that work.
Councilmember
Laliberte reported that the CEC felt good about their present work and felt
they were a blank slate now, but expressed concern that past agendas may have
jaded their current efforts, Councilmember Laliberte noted that it had been
identified and had come through loud and clear that the City Council's original
effort in creating the CEC with a hands-off approach to allow them to make the
commission their own, had failed to provide clear expectations.
Councilmember
Laliberte reported that both commissions had been asked to look at their
current code and scope of duties and charge, while also working on their
proposals for their future work as stand-alone commissions or if combined.
Councilmember
Laliberte reported that the HRC was appreciative of the additional
commissioners now on board; with several comments from them that they felt they
"did their own thing" without feeling connected to other city organizations or
advisory groups, or to the City Council itself.
With
common themes heard from and among both commissions, and great feedback from
them, Councilmember Laliberte noted their intersecting goals and points of
connection and/or crossover. Councilmember Laliberte noted that a suggestion
from the commissions had been their interest with the City Council Subcommittee
on Commissions remaining in place to allow guidance for further direction or
for initial refinement of recommendations and reporting before coming directly
to the full City Council.
In
conclusion, Councilmember Laliberte suggested that it had been obvious that the
city needed to make more effective use of both commissions; and recommended
that the subcommittee be directed to further study a better balance for the
advisory efforts of both the HRC and CEC.
Mayor
Roe agreed with Councilmember Laliberte's summary, noting especially the
positive feeling among CEC commissioners about where they were at currently in
light of past controversies, drama and confusion. Mayor Roe also recognized
the certainty expressed by the HRC based on City Council review and revision of
their scope of duties and in filling vacancies on their commission.
Mayor
Roe agreed with the possibility of continuing the subcommittee as a way to
provide better guidance of a recombined HRC/CEC going forward. While initially
having good intentions, in reality, Mayor Roe recognized the unfortunate role
the City Council had played in not providing sufficient direction to the CEC at
their inception. As a result, Mayor Roe noted the importance of that
experience going forward in the short- or long-term, whether through a City
Council subcommittee or the full City Council, While that guidance could be
provided through specific tasks and duties, Mayor Roe noted the equal
importance as to the "why" and "purpose" being made clearer and specific for
both entities. Mayor Roe opined that both the CEC and HRC were fairly unique
in their role as commissions in the community; with the Planning Commission
subject to statutory requirements; and the Public Works, Environment and
Transportation (PWETC), Parks & Recreation (PR) and Finance Commissions
(FC) each having more specific charges. With the evolution of the CEC and HRC
since their receptive inceptions, Mayor Roe suggested it may be time to again
update their scope, duties and functions with more specificity by the City
Council.
As
noted by Councilmember Laliberte, Mayor Roe advised that the recommendation by
the subcommittee at this time was for the City Council's support for the
subcommittee to pursue the first step in the process of bringing the HRC and
CEC together as one group by preparing more detail for consideration at a later
date.
Laliberte
moved, McGehee seconded, directing the City Council Subcommittee on Commissions
to work with both the CEC and HRC on the details to combine those commissions
into one broader commission and logistics to do so for further consideration by
the full City Council.
Councilmember
McGehee stated she thought both commissions were very important, especially
with changing demographics and human rights environment in the community and
need to reach out to minorities in Roseville. Stating that the Human Rights
Commission had often not had enough members to carry out all the desires of the
Council or the commission, Council member spoke in favor of merging the two
commissions into one larger commission. She said that some on the Community
Engagement Commission had initially applied for the Human Rights Commission and
had been placed on the CEC. Thus she opined that she thought that the
personalities on the commissions would be complementary and work well
together. Councilmember McGehee opined that she felt that this proposed merger
was a very positive step and appreciated the work of the Council taskforce.
Mayor Roe
reported that one detail not yet determined was a final membership number for a
combined group; but suggested starting with as many commissioners from both
commissions who remained interested in serving, followed by the normal process
of commissioners not seeking reappointment and subsequently arriving at the
ultimate number desired on the combined commission if not as many as the
current full group.
Councilmember
Willmus stated that he was in agreement with much of what he'd heard from the
subcommittee tonight; but sought their ideas as to a timeline for
implementation.
Councilmember
Laliberte responded that, while the subcommittee didn't come up with anything
proscribed until having made this initial report to the City Council, based on
feedback from the HRC and CEC, the sooner the better to the groups can get
together their separate work plans to then determine their combined focus.
Since the application process is underway with interviews and appointments
soon, Councilmember Laliberte, with concurrence by Mayor Roe, opined that if it
could happen by April 1, 2017 in conjunction with those appointments that would
be ideal.
Councilmember
Etten agreed that the City Council hadn't provided good guidance; thus his 2016
request for the Policy Priority Plan (PPP) goal for commissions that never came
to fruition. Based on his review of meeting minutes of both the CEC and HRC,
Councilmember Etten stated his concern was that both groups had robust plans
going forward and he wasn't sure how a combination of their efforts would work
out. If this motion is approved, Councilmember Etten opined that there was an
immediate need to inform that and work on the City Council's responsibility
moving forward, cautioning that if it wasn't pursued, the same situation could
develop with a combined commission.
Councilmember
Laliberte agreed that had been on the minds of she and Mayor Roe as well; and
how to get two passionate commissions on one track; recognizing that may not
happen instantly, suggesting that may be part of the subcommittees work to
complete that work in progress. However, Councilmember Laliberte noted that,
while the HRC was heavily involved in projects early in 2017, their plate will
be somewhat cleared for the remainder of the year. Councilmember Laliberte
noted that both the CEC and HRC had expressed their interest in upcoming summer
community events and how their potential involvement.
Councilmember
McGehee stated that it was her understanding that part of the work of the
subcommittee would be to ensure that smooth transition. Councilmember McGehee
expressed her confidence in both commissions and their desire to work together,
reiterating the considerable cross-over in the past that could easily continue.
As referenced
by Councilmembers Etten, Laliberte and Mayor Roe, Councilmember Willmus opined
as the "why" or "purpose" aspect of a combined commission was critical but
entirely up to the City Council.
To be clear,
Mayor Roe advised that the City Council nor the City Council Subcommittee on
Commissions was intended to set up the work plan for either group; but only to
provide guidance from the top to retain focus for both the CEC and HRC work
plans going forward. While some things may be overlapping or of lower or
higher focus, Mayor Roe opined that the City Council was not in a position to
dictate that beyond providing clear guidance.
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
Councilmember
Laliberte reported that both CEC Commissioners Chelsea Holub and Michelle Manke
had expressed their continued interest in seeking reappointment to the CEC.
Laliberte
moved, Willmus seconded, reappointment of CEC Commissioners Holub and Manke to
terms on the CEC and beyond.
Councilmember
Willmus recognized CEC Commissioners Holub and Manke in tonight's audience; and
when asked if they remained interested after this discussion; both verbally
indicated their affirmation.
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
Given
separate work plans being considered by both the CEC and HRC at their upcoming
future meetings, City Manager Trudgeon asked that the City Council Subcommittee
on Commissions attend those meetings to provide follow-up information, as well
as the follow-up information that he would provide to both commissions. Mr.
Trudgeon advised that he would begin work on a draft revision to city code and
other organizational details as indicated.
Mayor
Roe suggested that a couple of commissioners from each commission be selected
to focus on this combined commission for meeting with the City Council
Subcommittee; and asked that City Manager Trudgeon check with them accordingly.
Councilmember
Laliberte agreed that it would be helpful for the CEC and HRC to self-identify
several of their members to work with her and Mayor Roe.
Mayor
Roe opined that this had proven a good process
for meeting outside City Council chambers and off line; and allowed for frank
discussions for the benefit of all parties and the community. Mayor Roe
assured the public that less than a quorum of the City Council and the
commissions attended those meetings so no violations of Open Meeting Laws
occurred.
d.
2017 Policy Priority Plan Discussion
At the request
of Mayor Roe, City Manager Trudgeon referenced Attachments A and B to the staff
report, respectively entitled, "Adopted 2016 City Priority Plan" and " 2016 4th
Quarter Policy Priority Plan Update." Mr. Trudgeon noted the two main
priorities were "Housing and Economic Development" and "Infrastructure
Sustainability" with specific initiatives for each detailed in the Attachments.
Discussions
were initiated by individual Councilmembers sharing their personal proposals
for updating, revising the current document moving forward into 2017.
Councilmember
McGehee
Councilmember
McGehee stated her interest in a "General Connectivity" strategy as a new
proposal, especially in light of the transportation plan being undertaken as
part of the comprehensive plan update. Councilmember McGehee opined that the
plan should include benches along pathway connections to make them more user-friendly.
She opined that it was an important priortity to have connections to schools
and to businesses. Councilmember McGehee also noted the need to improve
pedestrian connectivity around larger malls and smaller satellite malls in the
community; opining that the traffic problem was significant now and would not
get any better.
Also, Councilmember McGehee referenced the three years that the Rental
Registration and Licensing Program had been operating in the city, with some of
those properties coming up for their six-month renewal later on tonight's
agenda (Consent Item 9.f). Councilmember McGehee advised that she had spoken
with staff earlier urging them to bring forward their ideas and suggestions on
the policy, after the first three years of its implementation, and how to make
the program better for the city and for those property owners.
Councilmember
Etten
Based on
tonight's previous discussion and action for guidance and purpose for a
newly-combined CEC and HRC, and review by the City Council Subcommittee for
potential additions or adjustments, Councilmember Etten stated his interest in
creating a more robust review and check-in process for all advisory commissions
beyond once per year if and as needed.
Councilmember
Etten suggested a new priority entitled "Inclusive City and Civic Life,
Activities and Governance." Councilmember Etten suggested that category could
include taking action steps on the recent Imagine Roseville community
discussion process; wrapping up some of the work in SE Roseville beyond that of
the existing working group; equity work with the League of Minnesota Cities as
they delve into more human rights and community engagement efforts and best
practices along those areas; recruitment and hiring of a diverse staff and
community leaders; and a review of policies and actions taken by the city that
may be inhibiting full inclusion for those of diverse backgrounds.
Councilmember Etten opined that this was an important priority for the city in
its leadership role moving forward.
Councilmember
Willmus
Councilmember
Willmus stated his interest in prioritizing capital needs of the city and a
more frequent and ongoing proactive review and analysis of how capital
improvement program (CIP) dollars are allocated.
Mayor Roe asked if Councilmember Willmus intended that to cover all CIP
spending or only that related to infrastructure.
Councilmember
Willmus clarified that while the heading now specified infrastructure, he
broaden the heading across the board for any and all CIP needs.
Councilmember
Laliberte
Councilmember
Laliberte stated that her thoughts were similar to those of Councilmember
Willmus, with her interest in getting a good handle on other 2016 priorities
and those carrying over. While supportive of a regular check-in on the 20-year
CIP outlook, Councilmember Laliberte stated her interest in a more realistic,
closer-in look (e.g. five years) of what could be deferred and take that beyond
staff's review up to the City Council's review.
Councilmember
Laliberte suggested refinement of "tasks" versus "priorities." Councilmember
Laliberte reviewed several of those task-related items that had been discussed
but had yet to be implemented (e.g. continuum of engagement by having visuals
at certain types of meetings) for the purpose of showing those engaged about
their involvement, how their expectations were or were not met and the city's
response. While the city continues to seek community feedback, Councilmember
Laliberte noted that various iterations had been discussed but the initiative
continued to fall off the table. Councilmember Laliberte stated her interest
in adding it back on to allow citizens to understand where a project or area of
interest was at in the process.
Councilmember
Laliberte stated her interest in a "cost benefit analysis" for all decisions
made by the City Council, as well as Councilmember McGehee's often stated
request for that analysis for projects the city is investing in, Councilmember
Laliberte noted that was another idea discussed but not yet taken hold.
Mayor Roe
To tie into the
CIP priority, Mayor Roe stated that a missing link is receiving a report on
what has changed from year to year and rationale from staff's perspective for
those annual changes.
Mayor Roe
stated his interest in looking at the city's overall infrastructure, including
pedestrian connectivity as part of the community's quality of life; an issue he
found becoming more and more important for the marketplace and where people
consider living.
Councilmember
McGehee stated that she would also like to consider sustainability as part of
that CIP review, opining that sustainability as a goal was a long way from
done. While stated in the PPP document, Councilmember McGehee opined that "a
more robust or inclusive view and listing of our assets" was still not
together. Councilmember McGehee noted that one area of concern she had was in
not having all city building or facilities listed together, but currently
listed separately, along with programs, opining that there needed to be a top
level listing available to track all city assets under one umbrella.
Specific to a
deeper look at CIP assets, Councilmember Etten suggested a better explanation
or understanding for the City Council without the City Council attempting to
micromanage departments and their respective managers. Councilmember Etten
sought clarification as to what level the City Council was looking for with its
CIP and how the City Council should review each piece.
Mayor Roe spoke
in support of more detail on streets and water/sewer assets. While talking
about them briefly at preliminary budget discussions about information desired
by the City Council for the 2018 budget, Mayor Roe suggested that instead of a
one-line item the actual streets or projects be identified so the City Council
would know from year to year how and why the CIP is changing and steps where
they may be in agreement or at least made aware.
Councilmember
Willmus agreed with Mayor Roe's observation; clarifying that he wasn't
interested in the City Council directing dollars, but was seeking a more
thorough review by staff to the City Council of where needs were or where funds
may be over-allocated in one area for repurposing to another. Councilmember
Willmus opined that this came into play if the City Council could then shift
those dollars to alleviate needs elsewhere, but noted the need for that view
and allocation level. If staff is aware of areas where the city is falling
short or exceeding, Councilmember Willmus noted that the City Council needed to
be made aware of that as well.
As an example
over the last few years when the water tower rehabilitation project was moved up
due to a number of factors, Mayor Roe noted that the process for making those
determinations isn't always known or completely understood by the City Council
until closer to year-end with CIP review and when funds don't add up. Mayor
Roe stated his agreement with his colleagues for the City Council's need to
know the how and why as soon as known by staff to help them and the public.
However, Mayor Roe also agreed that no further involvement than that was being
sought by the City Council.
In response, Councilmember
McGehee stated that in order for her to concur with her colleagues, she needed
to be assured that everything in the CIP is being adequately addressed and not
simply eliminated or left unaddressed; thus her desire for a more overarching
picture of facilities versus a view by program.
City Manager
Trudgeon responded that this discussion aligned itself well with internal staff
discussions related to budget information and how to present it. Mr. Trudgeon
agreed that the basic information should include awareness for the City Council
and public to know and for staff to comprehensively say how and why changes are
coming about. While some unexpected thing occur from year to year, Mr.
Trudgeon stated they were usually few; and agreed with the importance for
everyone to be on the same page and have a general understanding. If the City
Council chose to make this a priority, Mr. Trudgeon voiced his and staff's
wholehearted support.
While agreeing
it was important to look at the CIP on an annual and five-year basis, Mayor Roe
opined that it remained important to continue that long-term view over twenty
years (e.g. fire engines) and change the CIP accordingly as needed and as part
of annual discussions. By having shorter-term reviews in addition to the twenty-year
CIP review, Mayor Roe noted it added one more layer to the available
information and planning process.
Mayor Roe
stated his support for Councilmember Etten's new "Inclusive" priority,
especially coming off the Imagine Roseville process, possibly creating a number
of different recommendations in different areas, including but not limited to:
leadership in city government and staffing diversity and recommendations about
cit policies in other areas. While agreeing that this would be a good category
to add, Mayor Roe suggested some items currently included under "Economic
Development" could be moved into that category.
Mayor Roe also
suggested removing "move up housing" from the current list.
General
Discussion
If removing
"move up housing" from the list, Councilmember Willmus suggested replacing it
with a housing style currently lacking in the community, one-level living.
Councilmember
McGehee agreed with that comment, adding that housing was needed on small lots.
Councilmember
Etten stated his agreement in retaining the Economic Development goal and
revising it, but asked if "housing" was an actual priority of the City Council
or simply happened in the background.
Councilmember
Etten stated his agreement with Councilmember Willmus on the need for
single-level housing; but questioned if that was a City Council priority, was
the city in turn willing to fund it as a policy priority for funding or to
support developers undertaking that housing style. Councilmember Etten stated
those were different discussions for him; and noted that "move up housing" had
been desired by the city, but the market took over and the city wasn't called
upon to subsidize it. However, Councilmember Etten stated his interest in
having more discussion around that idea.
Councilmember
McGehee questioned the priority to "increase the value of existing homes,"
recognizing that the city didn't need to do anything when the market increases,
and since there were few factors the Council could control, questioned its
retention as a goal.
As an
afterthought, Councilmember McGehee revised her suggestion to consider the
review of the multi-family housing licensing program as a part of priority
planning since it was actually a task. Specific to cost benefit analyses,
Councilmember McGehee spoke in support of using them anywhere possible.
Mayor Roe
opined that "cost benefit analysis" fell into the task versus priority area as
well. Mayor Roe also questioned if other areas (e.g. rental licensing and
increased housing values) also fell under ongoing activities that could be
acknowledged but didn't necessarily need to be shown as a priority. However,
Mayor Roe stated the importance of not losing sight of those areas either;
suggesting that they be considered as part of the continuing review of
programs.
Councilmember
McGehee opined that "cost benefit analysis" should be a policy not a task. It
was a policy defining the City Council evaluated some items.
Mayor Roe noted
that, since the 2016 PPP, that analysis had already been added to several city
policy revisions in the interim.
Councilmember
Willmus recognized Councilmember Etten's comments on housing, while at the same
time and depending on the type of development and its location, stated that all
of those considerations should remain on the table. Whether or not it should
remain a goal as currently identified, Councilmember Willmus agreed probably
not; but noted that over the last year or so, some tools had been implemented
by the city to help facilitate desired development (e.g. resurrection of the
PUD process) that could help spur that type of development in the future.
Specific to cost benefit analysis, Councilmember Willmus opined that something
the City Council needed to be cognizant of was that if the group didn't define the
purpose or what constitutes benefits and costs, it could become cumbersome and
could become complicated rather quickly unless some clearly-defined parameters
were agreed upon by the City Council, community and staff.
Councilmember
Laliberte agreed with that statement; and specific to housing as a priority,
stated that she would go on record that she'd rather help fund housing stock
not currently available in Roseville versus funding housing stock already
available in the community. Councilmember Laliberte opined that if there was
some other hierarchy in or for the community, it needed further conversation.
In addition to
the continuum of available housing stock, Councilmember McGehee stated her
support for any changes that would make any and all housing accessible.
Mayor Roe noted
that a lot of these policies fell into the realm of the city's current housing
goals; and stated his interest in not putting too many priorities in place to
avoid it becoming a "to do" list with too many areas of focus.
In response,
Councilmember Etten stated that he was a huge fan of connectivity, something he
considered very important to the community's viability and quality of life.
However, since the city was paying a consultant to review the transportation and
pathway plans as part of the broader comprehensive plan review, Councilmember
Etten asked if it was needed as a priority on the PPP, since it would happen
due to those steps already in place.
While that
could be the case, Councilmember McGehee opined that some areas that she had
discussed with Public Works Director Culver didn't fall into the general
pathway scheme, opining that some areas had more difficult issues in achieving
connectivity and providing pedestrian safety. She used her side of town as an
example.
Specific to
connectivity, Councilmember Willmus noted the importance of retaining that in
the PPP. While having had pathway task forces and committees and comprehensive
plans in place for decades, Councilmember Willmus noted that while some
progress had been made, it wasn't enough. Given that, Councilmember Willmus
opined that it needed continued focus to receive more attention that it had
over the last decade or so; and by bringing it to the forefront it served to
repeatedly remind the City Council, staff and the community of its importance.
Mayor Roe
concluded that two items appeared to be rising to the level of additions to the
PPP: pedestrian connectivity and access, and Councilmember Etten's suggested
"Inclusive City and Civic Life, Activities and Governance." Mayor Roe also
noted the additional engagement piece as a task for the CEC and HRC process
currently being undertaken; and refinement of the CIP as discussed. Mayor Roe
noted tonight's discussion identifying a lot of other priorities moving to
"tasks."
With
Councilmember McGehee noting that pathway connectivity was also tied to the
CIP; Mayor Roe added that with larger retail properties, just getting from the
car to a store was sometimes difficult. However, with the focus on that type
of issue and as noted by Councilmember Willmus, Mayor Roe suggested the need to
consider whether something rose to the level to warrant being a priority for
the City Council going forward.
City Manager
Trudgeon thanked the City Council for recognizing the need to refine the
priority list, affirming that many of the things mentioned tonight were in the
works in the background. For his benefit, Mr. Trudgeon reviewed those items
addressed by the City Council during tonight's discussion and for refinement of
the PPP by staff, including but not limited to:
§
Connectivity
§
Inclusive Governance
§
CIP refinement
City Manager
Trudgeon listed some of the other ideas identified tonight, including:
§
Review of the multi-family rental licensing program is a task and
would not be included in the PPP
§
No comment on Councilmember Etten's more frequent review of
advisory commissions
§
Interest in single-level housing stock and the broader housing
issues would not be included in the PPP
§
SE Roseville remaining as an important priority but as a
subheading under the new "inclusive" priority
§
Creation of a policy for inclusivity of everything citywide
whether involving economic development or focusing on results when combined
with other areas
§
Remove "increase residential housing values" as that was achieved
by the market
§
Remove "move-up housing"
City Manager
Trudgeon advised that he would combine this information, create different
categories, and prepare a draft for review by the City Council.
Specific to
establishing a measure of effectiveness for each infrastructure component,
Mayor Roe asked if that had been accomplished or could be checked off.
In response,
Public Works Director Culver advised that with establishment of the condition
rating criteria to measure effectiveness, it would be reviewed annually and
infrastructure prioritized accordingly and therefore, could be removed as a
priority.
Without
objection, City Manager Trudgeon was directed to remove that priority.
Without
objection, Mayor Roe directed staff to provide any other areas they thought
needed to be combined or removed on the next iteration.
8.
Approve Minutes
Comments and
corrections to draft minutes had been submitted by the City Council prior to
tonight's meeting and those revisions were incorporated into the draft
presented in the Council packet.
a.
Approve City Council Minutes - January 23
McGehee moved,
Etten seconded, approval of the January 23, 2017 City Council Meeting Minutes
as amended.
Corrections:
§
Page 10 (Laliberte)
Lines 22 - 26
Correct to
read "City News" rather than "Roseville Review" in all instances
Strike the
last sentence (lines 25-26) as repetitive
§
Lines 28 - 30
Correct to read: "Depending on
the timing of the City News editions related to this process, Mayor Roe
agreed it was the vehicle that could be used for feature articles as well."
Roll Call
Ayes:
Willmus, Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays:
None.
b.
Approve City Council Minutes - January 30
McGehee moved,
Etten seconded, approval of the January 30, 2017 City Council Meeting Minutes
as presented.
Roll Call
Ayes:
Willmus, Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays:
None.
9.
Approve Consent Agenda
At the request
of Mayor Roe, City Manager Trudgeon briefly highlighted those items being
considered under the Consent Agenda as displayed for the benefit of the viewing
public; and as detailed in specific Requests for Council Action (RCA) and
related attachments dated February 13, 2017.
a.
Approve Payments
Willmus moved, Etten
seconded, approval of the following claims and payments as presented and
detailed.
|
ACH Payments
|
$1,289,800.24
|
|
84509 - 84604
|
868,527.77
|
|
TOTAL
|
$2,158,328.01
|
Roll Call
Ayes:
Willmus, Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
c.
Approve General Purchases and Sale of Surplus Items in Excess of
$5,000
Willmus moved,
Etten seconded, approval of general purchases and contracts for services as
noted in the RCA and Attachment A entitled, "2017 Summary of Scheduled CIP
Items," updated January 31, 2017.
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
Willmus moved,
Etten seconded, approval of the sale or trade-in of surplus vehicles or
equipment as detailed in the RCA.
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
d.
Certify Unpaid Utility and Other Charges to the Property Tax
Rolls
Willmus moved,
Etten seconded, adoption of Resolution No.11396 (Attachment A) entitled,
"Resolution Directing the County Auditor to Levy Unpaid Water, Sewer and Other
City Charges for Payable 2018 or Beyond."
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
e.
Approve July 4th Fireworks Display Agreement
Willmus moved,
Etten seconded, approval of an agreement with Pyrotechnic Display, Inc.
(Attachment A) to perform the 2017 July 4th fireworks display; and
authorizing the Mayor and City Manager to execute the document.
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
f.
Approval of Licenses for Multi-family Rental Dwellings with Five
or More Units
Councilmember
Etten echoed Councilmember McGehee's comments previously heard tonight
regarding rental licensing. With this six month review, Councilmember Etten
noted that several of those buildings still appeared to be making no progress
in correction violations since they were last inspected. Councilmember Etten
stated there appeared to be a need for a more effective policy to maintain safe
housing in Roseville.
Councilmember
McGehee stated that, in her earlier discussion with staff involved in this
process, and using several examples, noted that it was up to individual
property owners to comply and advised that the discussion evolved around how to
apply the program for small and large multi-family units. Councilmember McGehee
advised that, after having the program in place for three years and the
practicalities based on field realities, staff would be coming forward with
suggested revisions for City Council consideration in the near future.
Mayor Roe noted
several revisions that had already been made to the ordinance over the last few
months at staff's suggestion and since its inception; expressing his confidence
that more may be forthcoming.
If revisions
are made to that ordinance, Councilmember Laliberte asked that radon testing be
a standard implemented for Roseville, citing the higher evidence of lung cancer
as a result of that radon gas. Councilmember Laliberte noted that, especially
in multi-family buildings, tenants may have no idea of the risks they were
being subjected to.
Councilmember
McGehee agreed, suggesting that an article be placed in the City News about
information on radon and where to obtain kits at an inexpensive cost; or
perhaps having them available at City Hall.
Willmus moved,
Etten seconded, approval of licenses for multi-family rental dwellings with
five or more units, as presented.
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
g.
Adopt a Resolution to Approve 2017 Apportionment of Assessments
Willmus moved,
Etten seconded, adoption of Resolution No. 11397 (Attachment A) entitled,
"Resolution Relating to Apportionment of Assessments for the Year 2017;"
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
i.
Authorize Agreement for Park Building Custodial Services
Willmus moved, Etten seconded, approval of an agreement with
The Cleaning Authority (Attachment A) for professional cleaning services at
Autumn Grove, Lexington, Oasis, Rosebrook, Sandcastle, and Villa Park Buildings
and the Muriel Sahlin Arboretum support building for an amount not to exceed
$50,812; and authorizing the Mayor and City Manager to execute the document.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus, Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
j.
Approve Contract for City Manager Position
Willmus moved, Etten seconded, approval of the
extension of the City Manager's employment contract through February 13, 2022;
and authorizing the Mayor to execute the City Manager Employment Agreement as
presented (Attachment A).
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus, Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
k.
Adopt a Resolution Authorizing Staff to Apply for Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds to Assist with the Larpenteur Avenue
Pathway Connection
Willmus moved,
Etten seconded, adoption of Resolution No. 11398 (Attachment B) entitled,
"Resolution Authorizing City Staff to Apply for Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) Funding" to assist with the completion of the pathway along
Larpenteur Avenue.
Roll
Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.
10. Council
& City Manager Communications, Reports, and Announcements
As a follow-up to
last week's City Council meeting, and closed session for the City Manager's
performance review, Mayor Roe provided a summary of the review, stating that in
general the Council was pleased with the performance and with the job he was
doing, based on the favorable comments received on his performance, involvement
and areas of activity. Mayor Roe noted that the City Council had provided
several areas for specific focus for the coming year and discussed goals and
objectives, pending their finalization to provide guidance to City Manager
Trudgeon. As noted in the consent agenda discussion, even though one year
remained on Mr. Trudgeon's initial four-year contract, Mayor Roe noted that the
City Council had offered him a five-year contract continuing wages and benefits
with a slight change to the termination clause provision; and authorizing step
and COLA increases.
On behalf of the
community and City Council, Mayor Roe publicly thanked City Manager Trudgeon
for the good job.
City Manager
Trudgeon thanked the City Council, community and staff for their confidence and
support.
City Manager
Trudgeon provided an update to the public and City Council on the deer
reduction program authorized by the city in working with the United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA) to reduce the deer herd. Mr. Trudgeon
reported that twenty deer had been eliminated recently at three locations in
Roseville.
City Manager
Trudgeon announced that City Council pictures were planned prior to the
February 27, 2017 meeting with the group photo planned at approximately 5:30
p.m.; and individual shots arranged for if requested.
Mayor Roe
announced that the SE Roseville/Larpenteur group would be meeting later this
week to review consultant proposals to guide the engagement process for that
area; with $100,000 in funding committed by the involved municipalities.
For those
stakeholders participating in the CTV Strategic Plan process over the last few
months, with facilitation by consultant Barbara Raye who met with all member
cities and school boards, Mayor Roe invited those stakeholders and the public
to attend the upcoming meeting to hear that strategic plan and provide further
feedback for its refinement.
11.
Councilmember Initiated Future Agenda Items and Future Agenda
Review
As displayed for
the viewing public, City Manager Trudgeon noted upcoming interviews for
commission vacancies, with the deadline to apply on February 20, 2017 and
interviews scheduled for February 27, 2017.
12.
Adjourn
Etten moved,
Willmus seconded, adjournment of the meeting at approximately 7:50 p.m.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus,
Laliberte, Etten, McGehee and Roe.
Nays: None.