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City Council |
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2013
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: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe. City Attorney Mark Gaughan was also present.
2. Approve Agenda
Gary Grefenberg, Roseville Human Rights Commission Chairperson requested removal of Consent Item 7.m entitled, “Appoint and Reappoint Youth to Human Rights Commission.
McGehee moved, Etten seconded, approval of the agenda as amended.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
3. Public Comment
Mayor Roe called for public comment by members of the audience on any non-agenda items.
a. Roger Toogood, 601 Terrace Court
At the request of Mayor Roe, Mr. Toogood was asked to defer his comments until budget discussion item 11.a was scheduled on tonight’s agenda.
b. Suzanne Noll, Roseville Resident (address not given)
Ms. Noll stated that she was an avid recycler and advocate for doing so, and had made contact with several recycling and compost sources and vendors used in Roseville, as well as Roseville Recycling Coordinator Tim Pratt. Ms. Noll noted that egg cartons and toilet paper tubes were not accepted in curbside recycling materials, but were compostable with household organics. Ms. Noll sought a resource for residents to use in recycling these materials; specifically asking if the City of Roseville’s compost location was viable for these materials; and if not, how such a facility could be provided in Roseville. Ms. Noll expressed concern that Roseville was not currently providing such an opportunity for these materials to further reduce landfill use; and offered to serve as a volunteer in helping to organize such an effort.
Mayor Roe advised that staff would be requested to investigate the situation and report back to the community at a later date.
Councilmember McGehee noted several cooperatives and farmers markets in the area where egg cartons were accepted for re-use.
Recycling Coordinator Tim Pratt advised, as he and Ms. Noll had discussed by phone, that egg cartons were not accepted for curbside collection due to their construction of shorter fibers to cushion the eggs, and therefore not suitable for current available paper mill markets who needed longer fibers to make their paper products. Mr. Pratt noted that the cartons and toilet paper tubes would decompose in backyard compost, but would take longer than typical organic matter. Mr. Pratt concurred with Councilmember McGehee that cooperatives and farmers markets were a good source for re-use options for egg cartons.
At the request of Ms. Noll, Mr. Pratt suggested this information would be a good addition to the NextDoor.com website; with Mayor Roe suggested further discussion offline to find a resolution. Ms. Noll provided Mr. Pratt with several websites for additional information on egg cartons and toilet paper tube recycling resources.
Mr. Pratt noted, for the benefit of the public and City Council, that the latest Ramsey County Solid Waste Master Plan required all communities within the county to have a plan in place for collection of curbside organic by 2016.
c. Gary Grefenberg, Human Rights Commission Chair
Mr. Grefenberg, in his role as Human Rights Commission Chairperson, announced and invited members of the public and the City Council to attend and observe the second community dialogue entitled, “Creating a Safe and Connected Community;” that would supplement ideas already brought forward from Roseville residents at the first dialogue. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 14 at the Roseville Skating Center, Rose Room from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.
4. Council Communications, Reports and Announcements
Mayor Roe announced an upcoming benefit concert for troops and fallen heroes educational fund on Sunday, June 23, 2013 from 5:00 – 6:30 pm at the North Heights Lutheran Church in Arden Hills, sponsored by the area Beyond the Yellow Ribbon group.
Mayor Roe announced ongoing meetings, hosted by the Roseville Housing and Redevelopment Authority to develop a set of viable options for redevelopment of the former Roseville Fire Station No. 3 site and adjacent properties, with the next workshop scheduled for Tuesday, May 14, 2013 at King of Kings Lutheran Church on N Dale Street. Mayor Roe noted that all residents were invited to attend and participate, not just those in the immediate neighborhood.
On behalf of the community, staff and City Council, Mayor Roe offered congratulations to Nicholas Behrens, a student at Parkview with his instructor Mr. Lucas Ebert, for winning the statewide Human Rights Essay competition, placing first statewide, as well as having been in first place in the City of Roseville’s competition as well. Mayor Roe expressed his hope that Nicholas could attend a future meeting for a more formal recognition.
Mayor Roe announced that the Roseville Police Department would be hosting the second annual Suburban Ramsey County Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony at the Oval on May 16, 2013 at noon.
Mayor Roe noted that he had attended last Saturday’s New American Forum sponsored by the Roseville Police Department, to educate members of new immigrants to the Roseville community from the Karen community, with 80-100 in attendance, and asking good questions on how to be safe and to participate in local community and society. Mayor Roe congratulated the Police Department on their good and informative presentation and the overall event.
Mayor Roe further noted that he had been the featured speaker at today’s Roseville Rotary meeting, providing an updated State of the City Address, with the audience receptive and seeming appreciative. In their gratitude for the City’s participation in Rotary and cooperative working relationship with the Rotary Club, Mayor Roe advised that they had donated $1,200.00 to the City of Roseville. Mayor Roe, with concurrence of the body, expressed the City of Roseville’s gratitude to the Rotary Club for that donation.
5. Recognitions, Donations, Communications
a. Proclaim May Older American’s Month
Mayor Roe read the proclamation declaring May 2013 to be Older Americans Month in the City of Roseville.
Willmus moved, Etten seconded, proclaiming May 2013 as Older American’s Month in the City of Roseville.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
6. Approve Minutes
a. Approve Minutes of April 15, 2013 Meeting
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.
Etten moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the minutes of the April 15, 2013, meeting as presented.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
b. Approve Minutes of April 22, 2013 Meeting
Mayor Roe thanked Councilmember Willmus for serving as Acting Mayor during his absences at the April 8 and April 22, 2013 meetings.
Laliberte moved, Etten seconded, approval of the minutes of the April 22, 2013, meeting as presented.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; and McGehee.
Nays: None.
Abstentions: Roe
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
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the following claims and payments as presented.
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ACH Payments |
$561,517.24 |
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69725 – 69897 |
1,136,802.41 |
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Total |
$1,698,319.65 |
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
b. Approve Business & Other Licenses & Permits
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, approval of business license applications for the period of one (1) year, for the following applicants:
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Applicant/Location |
Type of License |
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Matthew Silber at Massage Envy Roseville 2480 Fairview Avenue, Suite 120 |
Massage Therapist |
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Valier Headrick at Mind & Body Chiropractic 3101 Old Highway 8, Suite 106 |
Massage Therapist |
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Anita Teigen at Red Clover Clinic 2233 N Hamline Avenue, Suite 301 |
Massage Therapist |
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Red Clover Clinic 2233 N Hamline Avenue, Suite 301 |
Massage Therapy Establishment |
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Children’s Hospital Association of St. Paul at Midland Hills Country Club 2001 Fulham Street, Roseville (for raffle on August 7, 2013) |
Exempt Gambling Permit |
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
Councilmember Laliberte asked for clarification when listing purchases for vehicles and/or equipment, as recently requested by the City Council, that they indicate whether the purchase amount was before or after the trade-in value.
At the request of Mayor Roe, and specific to the dump truck purchase and trade-in, Public Works Director Duane Schwartz advised that the prices listed was the total price for purchase of a cab and chassis, and was prior to the estimated trade-in.
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the submitted list of general purchases and contracts for services presented as follows:
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Department |
Vendor |
Description |
Amount |
Budget / CIP |
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Streetscape |
Advanced Coating Systems |
Fence restoration (Larpenteur Avenue wrought iron fence) |
$15,945.00 |
Budget |
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Utilities |
Ferguson Waterworks |
Radio equipment for AMR system |
6.090.24 |
CIP |
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Utilities |
Ferguson Waterworks |
Water meters for AMR System |
25,880.54 |
Budget |
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Streets |
Boyer Trucks |
Dump truck purchase (State Bid Contract) |
88,204.00 |
CIP |
|
Streets |
Upper Cut Tree Service |
Blanket Purchase Order – Boulevard tree removal |
25,000.00 |
Budget |
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the trade-in/sale of surplus equipment as follows:
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Department |
Item / Description |
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Streets |
2000 Sterling single axle vehicle - $42,500 trade-in |
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
d. Approve Comprehensive Surface Water Management Plan Update
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the Comprehensive Surface Water Management Plan Update, date May 2013, as presented (Attachment A).
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
e. Certify Unpaid Utility and Other Charges to the Property Tax Rolls
Councilmember Laliberte noted the April 2013 date of the property tax listings and tonight’s meeting date of May 13, 2013, and requested that in the future the listing be brought up-to-date prior to requested action.
Councilmember Etten noted that, given the last meeting on April 22, 2013 to tonight’s meeting date, there was little turnaround time.
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, adoption of Resolution No. 11068 (Attachment A) entitled, “Resolution Directing the County Auditor to Levy Unpaid Water, Sewer and Other City Charges for Payable 2014 or Beyond.”
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
f. Establish a New Position Within the Information Technology Division
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the establishment of a Records Management Analyst position in the Information Technology Division.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
g. Request by Meritex Enterprises, Inc. for Approval of a Final Plat at 2305 Walnut Street
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the proposed Highcrest Park 5th Addition FINAL PLAT, based on the comments and findings of Sections 4-6 and the recommendation of Section 7 of the Request for Council Action dated May 13, 2013.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
h. Request by Planning Division for Approval of a ZONING TEXT CHANGE to several sections of City Code, Title 10 (Zoning) for the Correction of Typographical and punctuation errors
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, enactment of Ordinance No. 1436 entitled, “An Ordinance Amending Selected Text of Chapter 1001 (Introduction) and 1011 (Property Performance Standards) of Title 10 ‘Zoning Code’ of the Roseville City Code;” based on Sections 4-6 of the RCA dated May 13, 2013.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
i. Approve Joint Powers Agreement with the State of MN Permitting the City’s Prosecuting Authority to Participate in eCharging
Councilmember Laliberte noted, in her review of the various Joint Powers Agreements, there was no specific dollar amount, such as had been estimated for the equipment connection fee of between $100.00 to $700.00 and the $15.00 monthly access fee. Councilmember Laliberte questioned if there was any limit to the number of transactions or for access based on those costs.
City Attorney Mark Gaughan advised that, to his knowledge, there was no limit to the number of transactions available for the $15.00 monthly access fee for the Prosecuting Attorney’s firm. Regarding the differential in the equipment connection fee, Mr. Gaughan advised that this amount was pending until his firm determined if they wanted one or all four of their prosecuting attorneys and/or three paralegals to have access from their computer stations. Mr. Gaughan advised that his firm prosecuted for four different municipalities, which resulted in significant cost savings for the City of Roseville.
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, adoption of Resolution No. 11069 entitled, “Resolution Approving State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreements with the City of Roseville on Behalf of its Prosecuting City Attorney; and authorizing the Mayor and City Manager to execute the document(s).
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
j. Approve Joint Powers Agreement with the City of St. Paul for a Connection to their Records Management System
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, authorizing the City of Roseville to enter into an updated Joint Powers Agreement with the City of St. Paul, to provide wireless field reporting and a records management system for the Roseville Police Department.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
k. Approve a Resolution Concurring with the Award of Bid for County Road D and Cottage Place Reconstruction, Shoreview City Projects 13-01A & B, Roseville City Project 130-20
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, adoption of Resolution No. 11070 (Attachment A) entitled, “Resolution Concurring with the Award of Bids for County Road D & Cottage Place Reconstruction, Shoreview City Projects 13-01A & B, Roseville Project 13-02;” awarding bid to Arnt Construction Company, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $2,074,519.50.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
l. Consider Participation on Snelling Avenue Bus Rapid Transit Citizen Advisory Committee
McGehee moved, Willmus seconded, appointment of Councilmember Laliberte to the Snelling Avenue Bus Rapid Transit Citizen Advisory Committee.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
m. Appoint and Reappoint Youth to Human Rights Commission
At the request of Mayor Roe, City Manager Malinen briefly reviewed the Request for Council Action (RCA) dated May 13, 2013. City Manager Malinen noted a correction on line 11 of the report with Ms. Julia Laden the correct youth representative referenced, along with Ms. Dao.
Gary Grefenberg, Human Rights Commission Chairperson, advised that his request for removal of this item from the consent agenda was to correct the reference on line 11 of the RCA, as City Manager Malinen had corrected; and expressed his support of the appointment and reappointment as noted.
Given the cycle for these appointments and the school year schedules for youth commissioners, Mr. Grefenberg asked that the City Council consider extending the terms to expire on August 31 versus the current July 31expiration, in order to avoid any voids in having advice available from youth commissioners.
City Attorney Gaughan cautioned Councilmembers that he was not sure if the term dates were not addressed by City Ordinance, and if so, it would not be appropriate to deviate from that provision by motion at tonight’s meeting without seeking to amend the motion accordingly.
Mayor Roe concurred, suggesting that staff and the City Attorney review ordinance language, and if amendment was indicated, return at a later date, based on their further research on extending youth commissioner terms.
Willmus moved, Etten seconded, reappointment of Youth Commissioner Joan Dao and appointment of Ms. Julia Laden as Youth Commissioner to the Human Rights Commission for terms expiring July 31, 2014.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
a. Joint Meeting with Planning Commission
Mayor Roe welcomed Planning Commissioners John Gisselquist, Michael Boguszewski, Gerald Olsen, Shannon Cunningham, Robert Murphy, Robert Stellmach and James Daire to this joint meeting; and expressed his appreciation that all Commissioners were in attendance.
Chair Gisselquist introduced himself and thanked Mayor Roe and Councilmembers for providing this joint meeting opportunity each year; and introduced Vice Chair Boguszewski, with fellow Commissioners introducing themselves. Chair Gisselquist noted that there had been a significant change in membership over the last year, with the departure of one member due to expiration of that term, and two other members moving outside of Roseville; and expressed appreciation in having “new blood” and new viewpoints for discussions at meetings.
Chair Gisselquist referenced the RCA date May 13, 2013, with an overview of the Commission’s accomplishments, and several questions or concerns for discussion between the bodies.
Chair Gisselquist noted one area of concern, in addition to the Commission’s standard role in the land use public hearing process, was previous comments of Councilmember McGehee that the Commission should play a more active role in land use, planning and zoning processes. Chair Gisselquist noted that this had created some confusion and concern of the Commission as to their role and responsibility in initiating such issues, and if so, what that role should be.
Councilmember McGehee advised that her intent was to reaffirm for the Commission their authority to bring things forward to the City Council, since they see things at their public hearing level before they came to the City Council, and may be aware of issues to allow the City to be more proactive versus reactive in potential resolution.
Councilmember Laliberte concurred, noting that if concerns came to the attention of the Commission, the City Council wanted them to bring them forward, and not have the Commission held to a reactive position only, but at liberty to send things to the City Council if they determined something needed their attention.
Mayor Roe concurred, opining that Planning Commissioners were in the front lines, and were aware of those things that were working as well as those that weren’t working; and should feel free to suggest potential changes that might help the process, whether through amendments to the zoning code, or the approval process itself.
Councilmember Laliberte noted, as an example, during recent budget discussions, more emphasis was indicated for economic development and redevelopment efforts in the community; and asked how comfortable the Commission was as individuals and as a corporate body, in assisting with those efforts.
Vice Chair Boguszewski sought more clarification, noting that each Commissioner as a citizen of Roseville, were able to bring ideas or projects to the attention of the City Council; and questioned the context of items being considered by the City Council, and if they were intended as part of the approval process or other areas. Vice Chair Boguszewski opined that he didn’t feel any lack or wanting or constraints in his role as a private citizen in bringing items forward to the City Council. Other than any suggestions the Commission may have for streamlining the process or brining additional clarity to that process, Vice Chair Boguszewski sought further examples from Councilmember McGehee of something in which she thought the Commission should have been more involved, or specifics of what was behind her comments.
Councilmember McGehee clarified that she was not addressing things during public comments during hearings, but items that could be addressed by the Commission as a consultative body in getting information to the City Council. Councilmember McGehee noted that often no one showed up at the public hearings, and questioned the reason for that lack of interest and whether it was due to notification issues. Also, Councilmember McGehee sought the level of comfort of the Commission in process pieces as it more aggressively pursued redevelopment and potential revenue streams as they were identified; and if the Commission might see fit to recommend how to enhance that evaluation process and how they fit into that process.
Councilmember Willmus expressed his concern that what Councilmember McGehee was advocating and what guidance the Commission was seeking were comparable. In his observation of the statutory authority of the Commission compared to other citizen advisory commissions to the City Council, Councilmember Willmus opined that their main focus needed to remain hearing land use issues. Councilmember Willmus thanked Commissioners for their current proactive stance in personally visiting sites for land use issues coming before them, and for using that outreach opportunity with applicants, property owners, and the broader community. Councilmember Willmus opined that he saw an expanded role for the Commission when the community was going through a visioning process, or when the Comprehensive Plan was being updated; but remained uncertain of what additional role was being suggested to the Commission based on this discussion. Councilmember Willmus noted that amount of time volunteer Commissioners were currently committing to for their research, analysis, site visits, and meeting time, and expressed his concern in overloading the body further. Councilmember Willmus opined that he was lost in the direction being suggested by Councilmember McGehee, and questioned whether the Commission did also not fully understand that direction as well.
Mayor Roe concurred with Councilmember McGehee’s suggestion, citing the recent asphalt plant application as an example, noting the initial discomfort of some of the Planning Commissioners in recommending approval of the application, and their observation at that time that there may be a broader issue to address in permitted uses. As a first line of defense, and if the Commission was uncomfortable with a particular application, Mayor Roe suggested it may serve as an indication that further or more detailed review was needed, or code changes recommended, or a larger notification area considered as a recommended policy question for the City Council. However, Mayor Roe noted that obviously, considering a change in the notification distance was not appropriate in the midst of considering a specific use application, but anytime the Commission observed a current procedure that needed attention, it could initiate such a recommendation to the City Council for their review and taking a closer look. From his perspective, Mayor Roe suggested that, if the Commission felt there was a problem in the process itself, or if they were uncomfortable with their specific role, that they should bring it to the City Council’s attention.
Councilmember McGehee opined that, over the whole asphalt plant process, the lesson learned was that, from a legal standpoint, the City Code needed to specifically and clearly exclude an undesirable use, putting further burden on the Commission and City Council. If the Commission became aware of similar situations, Councilmember McGehee opined that they should make it known to the City Council.
Mayor Roe opined, on that particular issue, the time of application was inappropriate for considering code changes or excluding uses; and was an example of the need for proactive versus reactive measures before such a use was requested.
Councilmember Laliberte suggested that the City Council was seeking more dialogue from the Commission, and anytime they could carry something from their body to the City Council, it would be great, even though the Commission’s discussions were on public record. Councilmember Laliberte suggested that the Chair or Vice Chair attend City Council meetings to present land use requests as it moved forward; to provide key discussion points and keep the dialogue open between the bodies and to allow the public to be aware of the extent of consideration and analysis given by the Commission before it reached the City Council level.
Chair Gisselquist, using the asphalt plant as an example, noted the Commission’s statutory role for analysis, and parameters from which it worked under, using the four corners of law, including the zoning code that indicated the plant was permissible. Chair Gisselquist advised that deviating from current municipal code and law put the Commission in a quandary, no matter their individual or personal perspective on asphalt plans. Chair Gisselquist noted that the Commission’s role was to administer law as currently written; and bigger policy decisions naturally rested with the City Council. While the Commission’s role was clearly defined in that instance, Chair Gisselquist stated that he would be intrigued as to how they could have provided more input into that situation, even from the notice provisions and ramifications and other discussions held around that specific decision.
Councilmember McGehee noted that, while that was a policy item, another consideration of the Commission was the health, safety and welfare issues with that application that were not clearly spelled out in the Commission’s statutory boundaries.
Discussion ensued among the bodies on the Commission’s expertise on issues; those items tabled or not proceeding from the Commission to the City Council by recommendation of the Commission for additional analysis; and suspension of the hearing process itself by the Commission.
Vice Chair Boguszewski noted that he was aware that many of the Councilmembers read the meeting minutes of the Commission and/or watched meeting video rather thoroughly; and questioned if there was a suggested format for the Chair or other representative of the Commission to bring items to the City Council that would avoid duplication of what they could glean from those sources. Vice Chair Boguszewski noted that those suggestions could provide input for the Commission to consider and discuss at their next meeting; even though it would mean additional time commitments for individual Planning Commissioners beyond that already being spent.
As part of her rationale in requesting a member of the Planning Commission make the presentation to the City Council, Councilmember Laliberte noted that the public was often not present at the Commission meetings to witness that dialogue, and if a summary of that dialogue could be provided when the public was viewing the City Council meeting, it would make them more cognizant of the extent of the discussion considered and analysis done at the Planning Commission level.
Mayor Roe noted that this could summarize those discussions and provide rationale for the Commission’s recommendation for approval or denial.
As a frequent attendee at Planning Commission meetings and/or in viewing the videos, Councilmember Willmus opined that he didn’t think there was a large enough notice of the meetings, even though historic practice of the City of Roseville was one of redundancy at the Planning Commission and City Council levels, he didn’t want to diminish or minimalize the work or the Commission because of that redundancy. Councilmember Willmus opined that it was a good thing, and often addressed issues that came forward between the Commission and City Council meetings; and assured Commissioners that the City Council valued their work.
As a new member, Commissioner Murphy, suggested that staff, the public or the City Council bring specific items forward to the Commission in areas they wanted the body to be more proactive, so that those items could be included on a meeting agenda for consideration.
Mayor Roe opined that this was a good point, and similar to the process done with other advisory commissions.
Chair Gisselquist noted cautions expressed previously by City Attorney Gaughan regarding Open Meeting Law and public hearing processes. Chair Gisselquist expressed concern in an individual Commissioner, whether him or another member, representing issues to the City Council, and whether they would stand within the confines of those publically recorded discussions, or whether they might be prone to interpret those discussions based on their own perspective. Chair Gisselquist noted the dynamics of the Commission and individual opinions and perspectives versus that of the majority decisions.
Commissioner Cunningham concurred with Chair Gisselquist, noting recent discussion at the last Planning Commission meeting, and her similar concerns that whoever was representing the Commission at the City Council meeting on a particular item, may not do due diligence to both sides of the argument. However, Commissioner Cunningham suggested additional discussion may be advisable at the next Commission meeting specific to this consideration.
Councilmember Laliberte suggested that it may not necessarily be one person coming forward to speak in summary fashion when a topic comes forward for City Council action, since the Commission’s findings and minutes would be available. However, Councilmember Laliberte suggested it would be helpful if questions arose, to have someone available from the Commission to clarify any of those discussions, in addition to staff, recognizing the valuable role the Commission played in the decision-making.
Mayor Roe suggested an “after incident” analysis of an issue: what went well, what didn’t, and any recommended policy changes. Mayor Roe suggested that it might make sense to institutionalize that with the Planning Commission once an item had evolved through the process and City Council action taken; to provide a brief recap at the next Commission meeting and what was learned through the process for future reference. Mayor Roe suggested such a report could come back to the City Council in written form through Commission meeting minutes of that discussion.
Related to an annual work plan suggested for the Commission, Chair Gisselquist questioned if the City Council had a proposed agenda or items for the body when not tied down with land use cases.
Councilmember Laliberte spoke in support of an annual work plan, suggesting as an example the whole issue of garages that frequently came forward.
Mayor Roe concurred, noting that recreational vehicles was another ongoing issue; and suggested guidance from the City Council to the Commission on what would be strategies or through use of the City Council’s annual City Council strategies and work plan, and what particular aspects fed into the activities of the advisory commissions, including the Planning Commission.
Other suggestions for issues needing further research and analysis and ultimate recommendation to the City Council, some of which were already on staff’s radar, but not yet ready for the City Council yet, included outside boat storage; “live person” boulevard advertising; shoreland ordinance; nuisance code; garages; and recreational vehicles.
Mayor Roe thanked the Commission for tonight’s discussion; and Chair Gisselquist thanked the City Council for this opportunity.
b. Audit Presentation
Finance Director Chris Miller introduced Matt Mayer from the audit firm KDV, serving as the City of Roseville’s external independent auditor for 2012 annual financial reports. Bench handouts included: “Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2012;” “Reports on Compliance with Government Auditing Standards OMB Circular A-133 Single Audit and Legal Compliance;” and “Communications Letter for the Year Ended December 31, 2012;”
Mr. Mayer reported only one finding, a housekeeping issue, in the timeliness of invoices submitted to the Finance Department within thirty-five (35) days of recent. Mr. Mayer noted several other minor items, with subsequent correction actions already taken, and including the inability to locate broker acknowledgement certification form could not be located for one of City’s investment brokers for the 2011 fiscal year; and one of the city’s collateral agreements didn’t require the release of collateral upon demand, with an updated collateral assignment agreement for 2012 now available.
Mr. Mayer reviewed various components of the audit, including a review of Enterprise Funds, with the majority finally providing higher revenue in 2012 than anticipated, for the first time in several years, and as a result of increased user fees addressing new and replacement infrastructure costs. Mr. Mayor noted that this was a good move on the City’s part in addressing these ongoing deficits and shortfalls in these funds, and cautioned that they ensure depreciation continues to be included in future budgets. Mr. Mayer referenced the former four (4) years that had posted various deficits, but with the new rate structure, providing for a modest increase in 2012 that would hopefully continue to trend on a more positive note. Mr. Mayer called attention to the Golf Course Fund and the need to make long-term adjustments to ensure this became self-supporting. Mr. Mayor also noted the Solid Waste Recycling Fund was off this year, having experienced an operating loss for the first time in three (3) years, but that loss absorbed by the relatively healthy Fund balance available. Mr. Mayor specifically noted the advances being made in the other infrastructure funds due to changes implemented in the rate structure; however, he cautioned that there remained a significant number of costs for those Funds, and recommended that the City Council continue to build them up as prudent, and to continue watching them carefully for positive trending.
Councilmember Laliberte thanked Mr. Mayer for his presentation, and asked that the summary presentation by Mr. Mayer be provided to Councilmembers as well, and duly noted by Finance Director Miller for follow-up.
Councilmember McGehee also thanked Mr. Mayer for his informative presentation and thanked Mr. Miller for his advance planning and encouraging the City Council of the need to improve infrastructure fund balances, even though it had been difficult, but necessary and long overdue.
Mr. Mayer noted that those adjustments were very much needed, and were already providing good results in those funds, as evidenced.
Mayor Roe thanked Mr. Mayer for his presentation.
a. Budget Hearing
Finance Director Miller introduced the public hearing to allow input from the public on the 2014/2015 biennial budget, and to provide an open forum to solicit those comments prior to crafting the City Manager-recommended budget over the next six (6) weeks for City Council consideration. Mr. Miller advised that the hope was to receive community input earlier in the budgeting process than done in the past.
Mayor Roe reviewed the protocol for public comment at hearings, and opened the Public Hearing at approximately 7:30 p.m. Mayor Roe reviewed the biennial budget process and priority ranking for services and programs across departments city-wide; and advised that those individual and composite rankings had been completed and were available to the public on line or by request to City Hall. Mayor Roe noted that some legislative impacts remained pending, as well as several other potential impacts, including property value changes in Roseville, all of which would also affect taxpayers. Mayor Roe invited public input early in this process so the City Council would be aware of any specific areas of concern, areas they agreed or disagreed with, or any questions they had on finances or the budget. Mayor Roe advised that, if possible, questions would receive a response tonight, or at a future meeting depending on information readily available.
Public Comment
Roger Toogood, 601 Terrace Court
Even though coming from a career dedicated to youth, children, and families, Mr. Toogood advised that he had been approached some time ago by former Councilmember Tammy Pust, to serve on the Board of Directors of the North Suburban Senior Council. Mr. Toogood noted that this had resulted in a real education over the last two years and what was happening with seniors in the area, and specifically in Roseville. Mr. Toogood expressed community pride in the continued leadership of the Roseville School District in services provide over the last thirty years, and the operation of the Fairview Community Center, and it’s programs, transportation, meals, and educational efforts during that time.
At the same time, as a Board member of the NSSC, Mr. Toogood cautioned the City Council of the tsunami created by the Baby Boomers generation coming into senior citizen status, and displayed Ramsey County population comparisons between 2010 and 2020 sourced from the MN State Demographic Center in 2007, with a projected 40% increase.
In his overall review of the budget, Mr. Toogood opined that the City had done a fantastic job of planning, including the Parks & Recreation Renewal Program, which was an important aspect of living in Roseville for seniors as well as younger families. However, Mr. Toogood asked that the City Council remember asked that the City Council consider those seniors in infrastructure planning to meet the tremendous challenges ahead as a community.
Councilmember McGehee sought Mr. Toogood’s perspective for not only housing stock design to accommodate this demographic, but also in planning roads (e.g. turn lanes) and safe pathways to ensure seniors could get around easily and have services readily available to them.
Given the City Council’s desire to allow sufficient time for public comment, Mayor Roe asked that Councilmember McGehee follow-up with Mr. Toogood offline on other issues of interest, with the possibility of bringing that information back to the City Council at a later date.
Mr. Toogood expressed the NSCC’s gratitude to the City for its annual $6,000.00 gift to improve the life of its seniors. Mr. Toogood also asked that, while preparing for the needs of this senior population, that the City Council also recognize the considerable and extensive talent of those seniors as a resource to tap and provide assistance to the City.
Zoe Jenkins, 2030 Fernwood Street
Ms. Jenkins echoed the comments of Mr. Toogood, and asked that the City Council’s budget considerations included needed services related to its aging population and the rest of the community, and specifically in the area of safety addressed by the Police Department. Ms. Jenkins, as a member of the Police Civil Service Commission and a member of the Park Patrol, opined that the City’s Police Department was absolutely fabulous, but as the population continued to increase, so did their budget in terms of police staffing through additional officers. As a resident living on the edge of the new Josephine Woods development, Ms. Jenkins noted the number of young people and little children, and additional vehicle traffic from that development and while it added to the tax base and was a wonderful addition to the community, it also created a need to ensure police services were sufficient to grow with the community.
Bruce Branigan, 2082 Cohanssey Blvd.
Mr. Branigan, as a long-time resident of Roseville, along with extended family, expressed his pride in living in Roseville. As a citizen involved in his Neighborhood Watch, Mr. Branigan expressed his support for the addition of two (2) full-time officer positions to the Police Department. Mr. Branigan noted that one of the basic aspects of neighborhood infrastructure is police support and the safety of its citizens; and opined that the Roseville Police Department was very professional, well-trained, and supportive of neighborhoods and their watch programs, especially under the leadership of Chief Rick Mathwig. Mr. Branigan opined that citizens valued their safety, their ability to safely walk in parks, while shopping, and other activities. Specific to commercial and retail services provided by the Police Department, Mr. Branigan suggested that it created a complex aspect for policing above and beyond the demands on individual officers for training and communication between and among departments. Mr. Branigan opined that this created a critical need for adequate staffing; and spoke in support of the Department’s request for two additional full-time officers to maintain the current level of neighborhood enforcement to make residents feel safe and continue building bonds between the department and those neighborhoods and their inter-dependence on each other. Mr. Branigan noted the additional demands on the Police Department due to the new WalMart store being built in the Twin Lakes area above and beyond their normal work load, in addition to other potential development in that area requiring more calls for service; and the positive of an improving community that meant more business for Roseville commercial and retail areas. Mr. Branigan referenced recent traffic studies along Highway 36 and the number of vehicles traveling through Roseville on a given day; and again opined that this created a reasonable expectation for the need of these two additional full-time positions based on this growth and improving economic base. Having worked in the railroad industry, Mr. Branigan noted that it was all about safety with an emphasis on training, providing little margin for error; and likened it to the Roseville and all urban Police Departments having to deal with complex law enforcement environments, and emphasizing the need for sufficient equipment and training in performing their duties. Mr. Branigan stated that he could not say enough about the Police Department and the strong bonds between the Department and Roseville neighborhoods.
Mr. Branigan thanked each individual Councilmember for their service to the community, their hard work and dedication and commitment to the wellbeing of the community; and thanked them for their vision of the City and its exciting future.
Katy Engman, 1413 Eldridge Avenue W
As an eight year resident of Roseville, and a block Club leader, Ms. Engman noted her reasons for moving into Roseville, and the importance of maintaining the community’s health and safety. As a citizen, Ms. Engman stated that she was here to advocate for the Roseville Police Department and their need for additional officers within the department. While not originally supportive of a Wal-Mart as an adjacent neighbor to Har Mar Mall and ongoing lack of interest by its owners in working cooperatively with the neighborhood and community, Ms. Engman advised that she realized the additional policing burden on the department with its construction and operation. Ms. Engman opined that the Police Department cared about their neighborhood; and asked that the City Council consider the community’s health and safety in their budget decisions.
Gary Grefenberg, 91 Mid Oaks Lane
Mr. Grefenberg clarified that he was speaking only for himself and his family, and their own budget.
While not present to discuss the Police Department budget, Mr. Grefenberg reminded everyone of the agreement with WalMart if an additional police presence was needed, it would be paid for by WalMart. Mr. Grefenberg assured all that he was supportive of the Police Department; however, he wasn’t sure if he was willing to pay for more retail protection in Roseville, since residents were already paying through crowded streets, a tacky atmosphere in those retail/commercial areas (e.g. Snelling Avenue), and other related issues; and opined that other ways to fund those areas were needed. Mr. Grefenberg further opined that Wal-Mart’s didn’t provide livable wages for its employees, which shifted the burden to property owners, many of whom were seniors; and he found that unfair.
Mr. Grefenberg spoke specifically to the staff compensation study, and proposed increases to City budget based on staff’s recommendations. Mr. Grefenberg questioned whether taxpayers could afford more city employee raises in wages in compensation; and whether other suburban communities were engaging in the typical high property taxes increases experienced by Roseville residents on an annual basis. Mr. Grefenberg referenced average household income statistics; and questioned how the private sector and Roseville taxpayers were protected from economic downturns as public employees appeared to be with their generous medical benefits, fairly good working conditions, and pension guarantees; and whether that was equitable for taxpayers. Mr. Grefenberg suggested there may be a perceived conflict of interest in staff’s recommendations; while average household income continued to shrink over the last ten years and how that compared to the ongoing increases received by employees in the public sector. In the outside consultant’s comparables to other communities, Mr. Grefenberg asked that he not be asked to pay City of Edina salaries without being cognizant of his shrinking income; and suggested the entire issue required more independent study, at least over the last five year period.
Mayor Roe clarified that the compensation study referenced by Mr. Grefenberg was not included on tonight’s agenda, but deferred to a future agenda based on timing issues.
Diane Hildeon, 556 Bayview Drive (on edge of Reservoir Woods)
As a twenty-year resident of Roseville, Ms. Hildeon spoke in support of additional staffing for the Police Department. In her work with the St. Paul Police Department’s community policing area, Ms. Hildeon expressed her appreciation in the Roseville Police Department’s move toward community policing. Ms. Hildeon addressed her observed improvements within the department and relationships in the community in becoming more user-friendly.
Ms. Hildeon referenced her statistical data research in police trends, both for Roseville and the City of St. Paul, and expressed concern with the additional policing needs of the WalMart and Twin Lakes Area developments; based on trends.
As an upcoming Baby Boomer, Ms. Hildeon noted that as population’s age, they become more dependent on police services; and this was true for the aging Roseville demographic model, and needs for community policing and solving problems as they arise.
Ms. Hildeon thanked the City Council for everything they did, and expressed her appreciation for their service to the community.
Mayor Roe closed the Public Hearing at approximately 8:05 p.m. and thanked everyone for their comments.
Mayor Roe clarified, and Chief Mathwig confirmed, that the final agreement with WalMart and the Police Department was that they would pay for off-duty police officers during certain times of the week to help deal with potential issues; but that while initially discussed, there was not agreement for any certain call volume.
Councilmember Laliberte sought clarification that the signed WalMart agreement provided that off-duty officers would be hired until such time as a new retail officer was hired, and then that agreement would dissolve; with Mayor Roe concurring with that recollection.
b. Xcel/Noise Variance
Mayor Roe opened the Public Hearing at approximately 8:06 p.m. for the purpose of considering a variance request by Xcel Energy to complete portions of gas main replacement work on the Rice Street Corridor between County Road B and Larpenteur Avenue
Public Works Director Duane Schwartz briefly summarized this item, as detailed in the RCA dated May 13, 2013; and advised Mayor Roe that representatives of Xcel Energy were present to respond to any questions or comments of the public and/or City Council.
At the request of Councilmember Etten, Mr. Schwartz advised that the temporary pathway would be relocated to the east side of Rice Street, as the west side would see a disruption of service during the construction.
Mayor Roe sought clarification on types and frequency of noise levels for a better understanding of potential noise impacts.
Cody Chelson, Project Manager with Xcel Energy
Mr. Chelson reviewed the intent to drop pipe from a flatbead trailer on site whenever possible during normal working hours; but in places where there was no site available for the trailer and where the contractor needed to remove pipe from the truck, then the pipe would need to be strung out, creating some back-up alarms from trucks and equipment. Mr. Chelson advised that this was not the preference unless they encountered limited space, but further advised that they didn’t anticipate that for the majority of the corridor.
Mayor Roe clarified that, if there was no space for a flatbead truck on site and offloading during normal working hours, there may be back-up alarms from forklifts or backhoes at some times, and potentially during other than normal work hours.
Mr. Chelson concurred with Mayor Roe’s clarification.
Public Comment
Neal Johnson, 2098 Albemarle Court
As the Vice President of the Homeowners Association at this location, representing 32 units on that corner, Mr. Johnson advised that he was seeking additional information from Xcel other than what was included in the letter from the City of Roseville, regarding the number of nights they would experience disruption. Mr. Johnson noted that this was the fourth year in a row with some type of construction activity in this area: the Highway 36/Rice Street construction; Little Canada building of the Park and Ride facility; and now this project. Mr. Johnson noted that this prevented residents from opening their windows and limited their outside activities due to dust and noise. Mr. Johnson asked that future consideration be given in the planning process by the cities and other jurisdictions regarding these continual interruptions being experienced, and causing a number of people to move out of their complex.
Regarding the type of noise, Mr. Johnson noted that today was a good example of an unending hum on the construction site; noting that this was very irritating and could interrupt sleep as much as a back-up alarm.
With no one else appearing to speak, Mayor Roe closed the Public Hearing at approximately 8:14 p.m.; and asked Xcel Energy representatives for their response.
Mr. Chelson
Regarding the continuous humming noise, Mr. Chelson advised that this was due to a tie-in procedure, but was not typically done outside normal working hours. Given the requested fifteen day period being requested, Mr. Chelson advised that Xcel owns that property, and there would be a significant amount of work, including pipe installation, at that location probably through the end of July, having been initiated over the last few days.
As for planning, Mr. Chelson advised that, from Xcel Energy’s perspective, this is the first of a four-year project, with work adjusted to working within the Ramsey County projected work schedule, requiring that Xcel meet that schedule and delaying the project initially. Mr. Chelson advised that overall they would be laying down 11.5 miles of pipe, but only 2.5 miles of that was in the Roseville area, and the remainder would be in St. Paul. Mr. Chelson noted that the rationale in pursuing this section at this time was to get the installation completed prior to future detours onto Rice Street during the I-35E construction project, and anticipated heavier traffic along that corridor.
At the request of Mayor Roe, Mr. Chelson addressed the work at County Road B, and whether most could be completed during normal daytime hours versus off hours. Mr. Chelson advised that there would be a few tie-in’s beginning next week, and again at the end of the project, with plans to do the work during normal working hours as much as possible. However, Mr. Chelson advised that, when they were cutting open a pipeline, the tie-in and welding needed to be completed inspections passed before backfilling, as they couldn’t leave the trench open to complete in the morning without posting a guard.
Given the fifteen nights available during this variance window, Councilmember Willmus questioned if there was any better way to delineate when those off hour nights might occur; and further questioned how the number of variances were tracked or monitored.
Mr. Schwartz advised that, in staff’s consultations with Xcel staff, Xcel was to notify city staff so the Police Department could be notified if necessary of the after-hours work; with Xcel working on how best to minimize and identify those variance windows.
Mr. Chelson advised that they would able to better identify the initial cases next week; however, he noted that the remaining schedule depending on construction, weather, and other variables affecting removal of the existing pipe and at what point tie-in’s could be accomplished.
Xcel Energy Community Relations Coordinator Collette Jurek
Ms. Jurek assured the public and Councilmembers that Xcel was trying to anticipate the schedule, and did not expect to require the entire fifteen days, but sought to provide a conservative estimate.
Regarding notification to city staff, Ms. Jurek advised that once it was determined how to proceed, if there were any timing problems or if Ramsey County delayed a request to shut down an intersection for a procedure or tie-in, she would notify city staff as much in advance as possible. Ms. Jurek advised that it was in their best interest, as well as for all parties, to streamline this project for as little disruption and completion in the most efficient manner possible.
At the request of Councilmember Willmus, Ms. Jurek advised that some of the disruptions would be back to back.
At the request of Councilmember Laliberte, Mr. Chelson advised that the first portion of the project would be at County Road B and Larpenteur, and would then progress north to south along the Rice Street Corridor, with work also being coordinated between the July 4th holiday and the Minnesota State Fair. Once pipe installation was completed, Mr. Chelson advised that landscape restoration would follow closely. Mr. Chelson anticipated completion of the County Road B and Rice Street area to be completed by end of July 2013.
As previously noted and at the request of Councilmember McGehee, Mr. Chelson reviewed the projected schedule for replacement of the 2.5 miles of pipe in this area, followed by construction of a building over that area, with the remaining project in the St. Paul city limits. Mr. Chelson advised that Xcel anticipated completion of the work all this year, including additional safety features for the natural gas system.
McGehee moved, Etten seconded, approval of a variance to extend the working hours for the Xcel Energy Gas Main Replacement on Rice Street between County Road B and Larpenteur Avenue; for work from 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. for up to fifteen (15) nights during the project schedule, May 20 – October 31, 2013.
Ms. Jurek advised that she spoke to Mr. Schwartz regarding Xcel updating them on a weekly basis, so current information could be provided by city staff to residents, allowing them to know how the work was progressing. Ms. Jurek advised that work would be completed in two-block segments, with construction work followed by restoration, cycled intentionally to minimize impacts.
Mr. Schwartz suggested work could be provided to the public via NextDoor.com; supported by Mayor Roe.
Mr. Schwartz advised that, during construction meetings for the project over the last few weeks, the contractor anticipated normal working hours from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and expressed his hope that the majority of the work would occur during that time.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
a. Adopt Financial Policies
Finance Director Chris Miller briefly summarized the RCA dated May 13, 2013, seeking formal review and adoption of the existing and applicable financial and budget-related policies of the City Council in conjunction with the budget process. Mr. Miller advised that this had been done by the City Council for the 2012/2013 biennial budget, and affirmation was again sought for the 2014/2015 biennial budget. Mr. Miller advised that staff had reviewed the policies, and thought they were sufficient and required no deviation unless determined preferable by the City Council.
At the request of Mayor Roe, Mr. Miller advised that the policies remained in effect, whether or not adopted annually, unless or until the City Council changed them. However, as a formal part of the budget process, Mr. Miller advised that staff simply asked that the City Council review and affirm its policies to provide guidance for staff as they develop the upcoming City Manager-recommended budget to be presented in the near future.
Councilmember Laliberte noted that she found no reference to the biennial budget in her review of the policies.
Mayor Roe advised that this had been a separate action of a previous City Council majority, but was something that should be considered for incorporation with these policies as well.
Councilmember McGehee sought additional time for City Council review and discussion of these policies; with which she had some issues. Noting that the City now had a twenty-year CIP, Councilmember McGehee opined that another piece needed to be added to the policies for the future; and suggested that one of those pieces of concern to her was the Department Vehicle Replacement Program (page 8 of 12), and suggested that a General Vehicle Replacement Program be put in place, similar to that for building and plant replacements. Councilmember McGehee asked that this could be discussed at a future meeting.
Laliberte moved, Willmus seconded, TABLING action on affirmation of various financial and budget-related policies of the City until a future date uncertain.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
b. Receive Preliminary Report on the 2013 Budget & Tax Levy Impact
Finance Director Miller advised that this staff report was intended for informational purpose only, as previously requested by the City Council as one of the steps in development of and in addressing major impacts for property tax-supported programs for the 2014/2015 biennial budget. Mr. Miller advised that this advance look should provide additional information for the City Council to determine their comfort level for those spending impacts and property tax levy ramifications.
At the request of Mayor Roe, Mr. Miller reviewed each specific budget impact item shown on the table in the staff report date dated May 13, 2013; and specifically addressed 2014 as the final year of debt obligations for the Park Renewal Bonds; additional capital replacements based on adopted CIP recommendations; and highlighted several items based on pending legislative action and mandates based on the Affordable Care Act affecting employee healthcare costs for additional employee groups (e.g. working 30 hours per week or more).
At the request of Councilmember Willmus, Mr. Miller addressed the compensation study employee wage adjustments as referenced by Mr. Grefenberg earlier in the meeting, and differentials of the study based on an outside consultant, not by Mr. Miller himself.
Councilmember Laliberte thanked Mr. Miller for the additional information, noting that some were unavoidable impacts; and noted other impacts to services and programs based on minimum wage increases, and other legislative actions over the next ten days.
Mayor Roe noted another impact was whether municipalities would be exempted from sales tax, which could lower impacts; and the potential reformulation of local government aid, even though City of Roseville policy had been adopted not to fund general operations with LGA funds.
Based on a request of former Councilmember Pust for the information, Mayor Roe noted staff’s provision of information on items not being carried forward as part of the base budget or savings realized in 2012 or 2013 and not going forward. Mayor Roe observed that at this time, approximately $20,000 would not move forward, and questioned if the HRIS software would be carried forward as a savings.
Mr. Miller advised that the savings would not be shown for 2013 at this time, as it was too early to make those projections at this time, and would be premature to of him at this time to forecast where final dollar amounts would land.
c. Accept Audit
Willmus moved, McGehee seconded, acceptance of the 2012 Annual Financial Report and Financial Statements as presented by the fire of Kern, DeWenter, Viere (KDV).
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
a. Approve (First Set) Preliminary Park Plans
Parks & Recreation Director Lonnie Brokke and Parks Superintendent Jeff Evenson were present to review individual preliminary park plans for twelve (12) specific parks, as detailed in the RCA dated May 13, 2013.
Questions or discussion on specific parks were as follows.
Bruce Russell Park
At the request of Councilmember Willmus, Mr. Brokke advised that there was only a handshake agreement versus any long-term written formal agreement that he had uncovered between the City and the church for this park, with the city allowed initial use of the court on a portion of church property; and past use of ballfield areas.
Mayor Roe noted this as a follow-up item for staff; with concurrence by Councilmember McGehee that the City needed to ensure there were no more handshake contracts for the City.
At the request of Mayor Roe, Mr. Evenson confirmed that shade structures and/or benches were being considered at each of the parks, wherever there was leverage for available funding possible; and advised that staff had alerted their playground vendors of that as well, and would use any value engineering available to accomplish that desired goal.
Mayor Roe opined that it made sense on a policy level, since benches and shade structures were amenities, and also worked into the senior population aspect as well.
Mr. Evenson advised that throughout the community planning process, they had been seen as highly desirable amenities city-wide.
Central Park Victoria West
At the request of Councilmember McGehee, Mr. Evenson advised that all replacement shelters/structures would have restrooms and be open during normal park hours. Mr. Evenson addressed those parks with rental facilities, such as this one, and how hours for rental and hours the facility would be open needed to be worked out, with the desire to keep them open as much as possible. Mr. Evenson noted that the basic idea was to maintain the current capacity of use, and expand it where possible and as the budgets allow.
Central Park Legion Field
At the suggestion of Councilmember Willmus, Mr. Evenson clarified fields as multi-use and not specific to a particular sport.
Regarding parking at this park, Councilmember Willmus noted the need for more parking, especially when games were scheduled back to back by the Roseville Youth Football Association on Saturdays, creating traffic issues on Dale Street; and suggested that it may be beneficial to review that situation as well.
Mr. Evenson concurred, noting that it made more sense to add additional parking versus a drive-thru, especially since it was not reducing green space, and cars were currently parking on the area, as noted by Councilmember Willmus. Mr. Evenson noted that the additional parking was not part of the project or budget, but a minimal extra planning effort was being made at all parks to make sure what was being done didn’t prevent future desirable efforts.
HANC
Mr. Evenson reviewed this quite involved but very interesting project to transform HANC through its “Treetops/Tadpoles” concept and emphasize the actual purpose of the facility, with financial donations from several park support organizations to update displays.
At the request of Councilmember Willmus, Mr. Evenson advised that there was an existing pathway in use between HANC and Central Park Elementary School.
Lexington Park
At the request of Councilmember McGehee, Mr. Evenson addressed intended pathway connections with various age groups and uses of rinks within parks; seeking to provide a rubberized and easily maintained surface on the pathway itself for walkers, and a concrete area for skaters to cross. Mr. Evenson advised that it was the intent to keep younger children in closer proximity to the buildings, while allowing everyone access through landscaping features or other areas.
Based on a similar application at Villa Park, Councilmember Etten advised that based on his experience, access and crossing paths was a non-issue, as he found everyone very respectful of each other.
Villa Park
Mr. Evenson noted that the Capitol Region Watershed District, as part of their dredging operations and site work, would demolish the shelter for the City, with work anticipated to start next week.
Councilmember Laliberte commented on the great feedback incorporated from various neighborhood meetings for each park. However, she questioned if that same consideration had been given to those items actually needed or not needed by the City from a realistic point of view and not a generic wish list.
Mr. Brokke advised that the entire Master Plan process spoke to that and would continue to be defined as the process moved forward. Some items addressed through the community meetings included addition of pickle ball areas; interest in shade structures, benches, and pathway loops; and incorporating picnic tables and spots in most areas; along with the multi-generational uses as addressed for the aging population.
Councilmember McGehee expressed her interest in receiving updated information overall in the programs and services to define how many users are Roseville residents and how many users were from beyond the city boundaries.
Etten moved, Willmus seconded, approval of the Preliminary Plans as presented and as detailed in the RCA dated May 13, 2013; as the initial process for moving toward final design, plans and specifications for subsequent City Council approval.
Councilmember Etten thanked staff and volunteers for their ongoing work on these projects.
Councilmember Laliberte noted the valued addition of walls for seating purposes; with Mayor Roe concurring with that and additional benches as well.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
City Manager Malinen distributed copies of preliminary future meeting agendas.
Mayor Roe suggested individual Councilmembers consider the possibility of adding 1-2 more meetings over the next few months, suggesting that June 3, 2013 may be one possibility, and asking staff to work with him on other potential dates to bring forward to the body at the next meeting. Mayor Roe noted several items that had recently been deferred that needed addressing in the near future.
Closed Executive Session
Mayor Roe noted that State Statutes permits City Council meetings to be closed in order to discuss performance of individuals under their authority. Mayor Roe also noted that the statute allowed the City Manager to request that the discussion be held in open session; to which City Manager Malinen responded in the negative.
Willmus moved, Etten seconded, adjourning to Closed Executive Session to at approximately 9:25 pm for the purpose of the six-month evaluation of City Manager Malinen.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.
Mayor Roe convened the City Council in Closed Executive Session at approximately 9:34 pm. In addition to the City Councilmembers, City Manager Bill Malinen, and City Attorney Mark Gaughan were present.
Etten moved, Willmus seconded to adjourn the closed executive session and return to open session at approximately 11:20 pm.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus, Laliberte, Etten, McGehee, Roe
Nays: None.
Etten moved, McGehee seconded, approval of a separation agreement as negotiated with the City Manager, which was provided as a bench handout.
Ayes: Willmus, Laliberte, Etten McGehee, Roe
Nays: None.
Motion carried.
Etten moved, Laliberte seconded, adjournment of the meeting at approximately 11:30 pm.
Roll Call
Ayes: Willmus; Laliberte; Etten; McGehee; and Roe.
Nays: None.